Audit Of Metro Government Released

An audit of Louisville Metro Government by State Auditor Crit Luallen has been released and the report lists dozens of weak spots in oversight and management.The audit uncovers weaknesses in how the city oversees finances, awards contracts and handles some federal funds. It highlights a number of problems in the Corrections Department and in Metro Animal Services.The audit also says that many managers lack the proper experience or training to do their jobs. Metro Councilman Kelly Downard says that is likely the cause of many of the city's problems."There are people who are promoted to financial positions, not because of any knowledge of financial activity but because they've been around longer and it's a high-paying job," he says ."This is cronyism at its absolute worst."Downard says he doesn't think the problems stem from deliberately malicious actions, but he is counting on the next mayor to improve management practices in several city departments."There's nothing malicious in my mind, certainly not, and I wouldn't want to leave anybody with that impression, but in terms of mismanagement? Of course," he says.Mayor Jerry Abramson says he's aware of the deficiencies mentioned in the audit and is taking steps to fix them.To see the full audit, click here (PDF) and to read the summary, click here (DOC).