Nebraska State Auditor Mike Foley says the Omaha Fire Department has a year to rectify the shortcomings before a full audit is conducted.
A partial check by his office found sloppy financial and payroll records kept by the Omaha Fire Department. According to a report released Thursday, a complete audit couldn't be completed because the department's records were in such bad shape.
Auditors found "inadequate and unreliable" payroll records that didn't make clear whether staffers were showing up and working the hours required. No one was reviewing or reconciling the books. Neither the shift assistant chief nor any other fire department supervisors reviewed or approved firefighters' time entered into the payroll system.
Among the details outlined in a letter Foley sent to Omaha Mayor Jim Suttle:
The auditor's office is aware the city is implementing new procedures regarding the department and plans to monitor the situation. Foley also said he regrets the lack of cooperation from two key union department personnel who compromised the auditor's office ability to determine the accuracy and validity of all payroll expenditures.
Fire Chief Mike McDonnell said his firefighters are working assigned hours.
