DALTON, Mass. — The Finance Committee is reviewing its audit options following recent turnover in the town's financial department. 

 

During its meeting on Wednesday, Chair William Drosehn told the board that the town's bylaw permits the Finance Committee to call for an audit and witnesses if irregularities are discovered.

 

"We're not looking for anything nefarious," he said. Rather, he said, the goal is to confirm that the town's fiscal policies and procedures are up to date and that the town is in good financial shape.

 

Dalton has a new town manager, a relatively new collector/treasurer, and will have a new town accountant so it may be helpful to have an audit to confirm its operations are up to date, Drosehn said. 

 

The cost of a comprehensive audit could range between $25,000 to $50,000 depending on the scope of work. This year, the town needs to be audited by a certified public accountant, which it is required to do every other year.

 

Before spending funds to have a comprehensive audit, it may be advantageous for the board to first look at what is done during the state required audit, said Sandra Albano, who came back from retirement until a new accountant is hired.

 

The auditors are there for three weeks, they are not just there to put together a document, she said.