Audits Critical of Afton and Colesville Fire District #1

The New York State Comptroller’s office is finding issues with the finances of the Town of Afton and Colesville Fire District #1.

A recent audit released by State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli faults the Afton Town Board for going ahead with major purchases that were not included in the Town budget.

One item cited was spending $590,000 on a highway garage.

The audit covered the last five fiscal years for the Town and found a lack of tracking of income from taxes and other poor budget practices that led to operating deficits in each of the five years.

Town Supervisor John Lawrence, in his official response, called the audit a learning experience for the Board.

The comptroller’s office also took a close look at the books in Colesville Fire District #1.

Auditors said the fire department needed to adopt an investment policy and put measures in place to prove proper reporting and financial tracking procedures are in place.

The report said the fire district treasurer on a regular basis failed to verify bank accounts with actual finances but there was no indication that any money was missing or misappropriated.

The audit recommendations are due to be discussed at the January meeting of the fire district board.