Town asks for investigation into its finances

EAST SPENCER, N.C. — City leaders said several checks written by East Spencer nearly bounced.

The town is now asking for an investigation into its own finances.

There was a unanimous decision to request a forensic investigation and audit.

A new council member made the motion and all board members agreed.

East Spencer town administrator says checks did not bounce

Some officials said there have been financial red flags making them question how tax dollars are being spent.

“The citizens elected me and I want to make sure I do my due diligence,” Alderman Tony Hillian said.

Hilllian said he and other leaders developed questions about the town's finances recently.

They said two checks nearly bounced this fiscal year.

The town administrator said there was a delay transferring funds to cover the checks.

"This is a municipality and we're running a business,” Hilllian said. “We should conduct things in a timely manner."

There is a common question Hillian said and that is, “Why the town waited so long to replace a 25-year old fire truck?”

Last year, Channel 9 reported citizens criticized town leaders for not using tax dollars to replace the old truck.

The town voted to purchase a new fire truck early this year.

"We just want to get clarification on things," Hillian said.

Leaders want to make sure the town distances itself from a rocky financial past.

In 2001, the state stepped into takeover East Spencer's finances.

The Treasurer's Office said the town failed to properly maintain accounts.

Mayor Barbara Mallett said that is all in the past.

"This is a process and we will come through with flying colors," Mallett said.

The league of municipalities will select an auditor for the investigation.

The findings will be given over the State Bureau of Investigation.

Statement from the East Spencer Board of Aldermen:

"This communication shall serve as an official response to the Mayor and Board of Aldermen's request to conduct a forensic audit for the Tow of East Spencer. As newly elected officials, let us first say that we are extremely happy to serve in the capacity of Aldermen, and take those positions seriously. We thank our citizens for electing us and asking that we be good stewards on their behalf. We are also proud of the progress the town has shown over the last few years and desire to continue to build on those accomplishments. However, moving forward demands that there is a solid accounting of monies, in order to ensure that budgeting for future expenditures is appropriate, and that we are operating using sound financial principles. Again, we are happy to serve our citizens, and, have promised to be accountable to them. During our last Town meeting, the Aldermen, to conduct a forensic audit for the purpose of obtaining a deeper understanding of the Town's finances, unanimously approved a motion. We are sure that this action will lead to our being a more progressive Board, maintaining respect and good stewardship for our citizenry. We will keep you informed as we make progress. Thank you so much for your inquiries."

Cox Media Group