A representative from the independent auditing firm of Bergan, Kern DeWenter Viere (BerganKDV) told the Columbia Heights School Board that district business operations are well-managed and consistent with national accounting standards at the Nov. 22 School Board meeting. The results, in-line with audit reporting terminology of “Unmodified Opinion,” reflect a favorable financial audit for the year, ending June 30, 2016.

BerganKDV Assurance Partner Matt Mayer, who specializes in government audits, told the School Board that a team of independent Bergan KDV auditors examined the District’s internal control operations, including management, accounting procedures, adherence to laws and government regulations. Mayer said all of the audits met the Unmodified Opinion, also referred to as “Clean,” meaning the results were in compliance with Minnesota law and financial reporting standards.

“The audit went very smoothly throughout the entire process and there was a shared goal [between the District and auditors] in accurate and transparent financial reporting,” Mayer told the School Board. “This is a clean audit for the District with good results from the various reports.”

According to Director of Finance and Operations Bill Holmgren the audit’s findings confirm the District is wisely managing the taxpayer’s investments in our schools.

“Director Holmgren and his team are commended for their outstanding management, once again verified through an independent audit, of this District’s budget,” said Superintendent Kathy Kelly. “They are the consummate professionals when it comes to managing school district finances.”

Consolidated Annual Financial Reports (CAFR) for Columbia Heights Public Schools, from 2010 to the present, are available at www.colheights.k12.mn.us/cafr. For more information, contact Holmgren at 763-528-4520.