DOE steers a better course toward accountability
The recent audit of some of the state Department of Education's procurement practices revealed troubling problems that call out for a new course toward internal checks and improved accountability. It's a path the DOE has encouragingly embraced.
The audit, which covered fiscal year 2006-07, uncovered disturbing lapses in oversight and control that resulted in an attitude of indifference toward following procurement rules. The report zeroed in on some "alarming" practices within the Office of School Facilities that appeared to be "fraudulent and unethical" and manipulated the procurement process. Some of the findings include:
The report shows a glaring lack of accountability, and a system that reflected a culture of waste and disregard for taxpayers' dollars. Fixing that system should be a top priority — particularly where taxpayers' funds are concerned.
So far, DOE Superintendent of Schools Pat Hamamoto is on the right track. She has already sent some of the audit's findings to the state attorney general's office to determine if criminal charges are warranted; she's also started an internal investigation of her own. And steps, she said, are already being taken to bring procurement back under the superintendent's purview — a move that would enhance accountability and help ensure the safeguards and rules in place are properly followed.
"We want to get the work done and get it done in a timely manner. But I have the expectation that it will get done legally and ethically," said Hamamoto, who had requested the audit.
State Auditor Marion Higa said Hamamoto's decision to take back oversight over procurement is a good sign.
"I hope she has the appropriate support — support from the Board of Education and from those parts of the department that believe that rules are rules when you're talking about public money."
Exactly. When it comes safeguarding precious public dollars, following the rules is not optional — it's the law.
