Columbus – Modernizing the antiquated operations of the Mahoning County Engineer’s Office would save money and increase efficiency, according to a performance audit released today by Auditor of State Dave Yost.

“Engineer Ginnetti saw room for improvement and asked for assistance,” Auditor Yost said. “Now the Mahoning County Engineer’s office has a plan to drive efficiency and save tax dollars.”

Office efficiency could be significantly improved by utilizing available technology.  Specific areas identified for improvement include paper-based payroll and purchasing processes, as well as broad budgeting practices. Using existing county software would eliminate data inaccuracies, reduce workloads and allow the office to make informed decisions. The use of payroll software also would reduce the need for one position and save $84,000 annually.

Other recommendations found that annual savings of $384,000 could be realized by renegotiating provisions in the office’s collective bargaining agreement.  The office also could reduce administrative overhead by $98,500 annually by eliminating one operations supervisor position. These savings would bring Mahoning County’s benefits and staffing in line with surrounding county engineer offices.

A full copy of this performance audit is available online.

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The Auditor of State’s office, one of five independently elected statewide offices in Ohio, is responsible for auditing more than 5,800 state and local government agencies.  Under the direction of Auditor Dave Yost, the office also provides financial services to local governments, investigates and prevents fraud in public agencies and promotes transparency in government.

Contact:
Carrie Bartunek
Press Secretary
614-644-1111