While there’s still a long road ahead, the city of Cortez moved one step closer to financial order by moving past its 2016 financial audit.
The final step was to sign a representation letter from the firm hired to do the 2016 audit, Mayberry and Co., absolving them from any liability for any wrongdoing in the performance of the audit. Though City Manager John Dougherty was initially uncomfortable signing the document, councilors authorized Mayor Mike Lavey to sign it in a 5-2 vote.
The audit can now be filed with the state and other creditors, and the city can move on to its 2017 financial audit. The city is looking for a new company to complete the rest of its audits. Cortez has been unable to apply for state grants or receive its property taxes for roughly 1½ years.
“My recommendation is that we approve the thing and move forward,” said City Attorney Mike Green as the Cortez City Council discussed the letter on Tuesday, Jan 26. “I think it’s time to move on.”
Mayor Lavey was in agreement.
“We’d like to have this audit completed and signed off on so we can apply for grants,” Lavey said. “We’d like to get it done as soon as possible.”
anicotera@the-journal.com
