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