New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli today announced his office completed audits of the Forestburgh Fire District, City of Glen Cove, Spencer Volunteer Fire Company and the Watervliet Housing Authority.

“In today’s fiscal climate, budget transparency and accountability for our local communities is a top priority,” said DiNapoli. “By auditing municipal finances and operations, my office continues to provide taxpayers the assurance that their money is being spent appropriately and effectively.”

Forestburgh Fire District – Financial Activities (Sullivan County)

The accounting records were not adequate and there were numerous errors in the financial reports. Also, the district’s required annual financial report has not been filed with the Comptroller’s office since 2012.

City of Glen Cove – Budget Review (Nassau County)

City officials are projecting operating surpluses for the 2015 fiscal year totaling $469,078 in the general fund and $150,449 in the water fund. The city continues to finance operating expenditures with debt when it should be funding such expenditures with operating revenues. City officials did not fully implement the recommendations in last year’s budget review. The proposed budget complies with the property tax levy limit.

Spencer Volunteer Fire Company – Apparent Misappropriation of Funds (Tioga County)

The board did not review the treasurer’s records or bank statements for the majority of the audit period. The treasurer misappropriated county funds over a nine-year period, pleaded guilty to grand larceny in the fourth degree, was sentenced to 90 days in jail and five years of probation and was ordered to pay restitution.

Watervliet Housing Authority – Timekeeping and Leave Records (Albany County)

All time sheets we reviewed were approved by the executive director and leave time was properly approved and recorded.

For access to state and local government spending and 50,000 state contracts, visit OpenBookNY. The easy-to-use website was created by Comptroller DiNapoli to promote openness in government and provide taxpayers with better access to the financial workings of government.