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Owner’s Representative
City of Tifton, Georgia

Location
30 East 1st Street
Tifton, Georgia

Duration
May – September 2019

Reference
Pete Pyrzenski
City Manager
Phone: 229.391.3937
ppyrzenski@tifton.net

Financial Management Support Services
City of Tifton, Georgia

 JAT developed a thorough framework of internal accounting controls, including an Accounting Policies and Procedures Manual, to enhance accountability and consistency and achieve sustainable efficiencies for the city. The process involved review of existing policies, procedures, and documents, as well as observation and interviews of accounting staff. JAT also assisted the city by completing a backlog of accounting reconciliations and provided consultation on hiring to fill vacant positions and reorganizing finance staff/positions.

JAT compiled a comprehensive set of formal and appropriately communicated accounting policies. These policies were coupled with current, complete, and well documented procedures to help ensure an effective system of internal controls for the City of Tifton. The policy format followed GFOA recommended best practices and incorporated relevant existing documentation. 

In development of an Accounting Policies and Procedures Manual, JAT detailed the "what,'' "who," "why," and "how" of accounting process cycles, including accounts payable/ purchasing and cash disbursements, accounts receivable and cash receipting, payroll and benefits, capital assets and property, investments, debt, and reporting. The manual serves as a training tool for staff.

JAT tasks included:

  • Review of existing accounting policies and procedures provided by the city

  • On-site staff observation and interviews

  • Review of documents used in accounting processes

  • Documentation of procedures and work instructions to support policies

  • Compilation of recommendations for streamlining and improving accounting processes

  • Development/production of an Accounting Policies and Procedures Manual

  • Completed a backlog of accounting reconciliations

  • Guidance on hiring to fill vacant positions and reorganizing finance staff/positions