New report cites late audits, reporting errors, and declining fund balance as oversight concerns continue
RALEIGH, NC — A new performance audit from the North Carolina Office of the State Auditor says Columbus County continues to show “financial management issues,” including late audits, reporting errors, and unresolved internal control problems.
The report found the county’s fiscal year 2024 audit was filed late, and the fiscal year 2025 audit was not complete at the time of review. State law allows portions of sales tax revenue to be withheld if required audits are not submitted within 12 months.
The county’s available General Fund balance has dropped below the Local Government Commission’s 20% benchmark. Columbus County has been on the state’s Unit Assistance List since 2020 due to ongoing concerns about reporting timeliness and internal controls.
Board Chair and Interim County Manager Brent Watts said the county agrees with the audit findings and recommendations. He noted that the county is working to update policies, build year-end closeout procedures, and address staff retention challenges to prevent future issues.
Sources: North Carolina Office of the State Auditor
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