Columbus – As much as $628,000 could be saved every year by the City of Massillon through the implementation of 13 recommendations outlined in a performance audit released today by Auditor of State Dave Yost. 

“They saw the writing on the wall and sought our help,” Auditor Yost said. “With the implementation of these recommendations the city will be on its way back to fiscal health.” 

According to the audit, the city’s police department could save approximately $244,800 by bringing sick leave usage closer to the state average and by reducing reliance on the use of overtime. Renegotiating provisions in the city’s bargaining agreements could also result in savings of $56,000. 

The report recommends that the city reduce its maintained park acreage to a level comparable to the peer average, which could save $40,900 in labor expenses. Additionally, the city could realize administrative cost savings of $198,300 by outsourcing management of the Legends Golf Course. 

“We appreciate the work of your office and audit team to assess our city’s selected areas of operation,” Mayor Kathy Catazaro-Perry said. “We look forward to using the report to help improve the quality and value of services we provide to our citizens.”

The Auditor of State’s Ohio Performance Team conducts performance audits by request and may also elect to exercise statutory authority to conduct a performance audit of an organization.  This performance audit of the City of Massillon was requested by city officials. Data for the performance audit was drawn from fiscal years 2010, 2011 and 2012.