West Bonner finalizes forensic audit findings

PRIEST RIVER — Trustees unanimously voted to accept the final version of a forensic audit, which cost the district $55,000. The investigation, conducted by Eide Bailly, covered five years and $21 million of financial records. It found no financial misconduct issues.

Trustees sought the audit on advice from Durst, and amid allegations of impropriety from the community.

“Were there any documents that were withheld?” asked Margaret Hall, board chairperson.

“No, nothing was being manipulated,” responded Brandon Waldren, a senior manager in fraud and forensics.

Trustee Paul Turco, appointed after the recall election, has been quick to highlight the audit’s exonerative findings. He spoke fervently Wednesday about the lack of accountability in the local media.

“What I didn’t see were any letters of apology from individuals that spread misinformation about our district, and our current and past employees. I encourage responsibility and accountability — admit to your mistakes, apologize and begin on the path forward,” Turco told the audience. 

“With the election day quickly approaching, I would like to caution local voters to choose your source of information carefully. The credibility of the rumor spreaders, finger pointers, problem makers, no-solution providers and quitters should not be trusted,” he added.

The district’s 2023 audit is unfinished.

Idaho code requires annual independent financial audits of school districts, due each November.

The process of completing the forensic audit stopped work on the district’s annual 2023 audit, and now West Bonner is out of compliance.

Kren secured a firm to complete the audit this summer that will cost between $68,000-$89,000.

“That’s a bit of sticker shock but we need it done,” said Hall.

The state’s plan of improvement requires the district to provide evidence of an ongoing audit for 2023 and proof that this year’s audit will be done, too. 

This story was first published by Idaho Ed News on April 18, 2024.