News Summary
A recent audit has revealed spending irregularities within Lexington’s One Lexington youth violence intervention program. Findings include personal charges on city credit cards, inadequate documentation for several purchases, and concerns over grant allocations. Although the program claims recent tracking improvements, the report highlights a historic need for transparency and accountability in spending. Despite these challenges, the program has had positive impacts on reducing youth gun violence in the community.
Critical Audit Highlights Spending Issues in One Lexington Youth Program
In the vibrant city of Lexington, a recent city audit has put a spotlight on the youth violence intervention program, One Lexington. Released on a Thursday, the audit raises some eyebrows with its findings regarding spending irregularities and credit card usage. This development is especially significant for a program that aims to combat youth gun violence through mentoring and community support.
What’s in the Audit?
The internal audit reviewed expenditures from April 2022 to April 2024, revealing instances of personal charges on city credit cards, insufficient documentation for many purchases, and a bit of confusion surrounding grant allocations. These findings indicate a pressing need for tighter controls over how funds are being used in this important initiative.
One of the standout issues in the report points to the program’s director, who reportedly made 14 personal charges totaling $1,298 in May 2024. While the director claims these charges were unintentional and were paid back before any processing took place, the episode has spurred a call for more transparent spending practices.
Documentary Dilemmas
In terms of record-keeping, the audit revealed that out of 44 purchases under $1,000, a whopping 36 lacked adequate backup documentation. This lack of evidence has raised questions about the connection of certain transactions to the program’s intended services. For example, missing documentation included how hoodie purchases were related to specific events or recipients, as well as confirmations for payments meant for utilities and accommodations tied to gun violence victims.
Additionally, there were 16 transactions over $1,000 that similarly lacked proper documentation—though some evidence was provided later on. As the audit points out, the program apparently spent $3,420 on hoodies over just two months, splitting purchases to comply with city limits on credit card charges. These hoodies were tied to the “It Takes A Village” mentoring program aimed at at-risk teens, with a total of $8,415 allocated for this initiative.
Changes in Personnel and Policy
When One Lexington launched in January 2021, it started with just two staff members, a number that has now grown to three. To enhance accountability, the program has introduced new tracking methods for expenses in 2024—an important step given the recent scrutiny.
Grant System Scrutiny
The audit also cast a critical eye on the program’s grant distribution system. One Lexington awarded over $91,000 to 12 organizations in 2023 alone, aimed at reducing violence in the community. However, it was noted that some of these grant recipients did not have non-profit IRS status, instead receiving funds through fiscal agents with valid 501 C(3) status. In response to these concerns, the city has amended grant agreements to facilitate funding through these fiscal agents.
Positive Trends Amidst Challenges
While the audit raised red flags, it’s worth noting the positive impact One Lexington has had on community safety. The report indicated a significant decline in gun violence and homicides over the past four years, with homicides dropping from 36 in 2021 and 2022 down to 22 in 2023 and 2024. Non-fatal shootings also saw a decline, dropping from 135 in 2021 to 65 in 2024, according to the Lexington Police Department.
In summary, while the audit does highlight potential pitfalls in spending and documentation, it also underscores the importance and effectiveness of One Lexington in addressing youth violence. With the implementation of stricter controls and more effective practices, this initiative has the potential to continue making a positive difference in the community.
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Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: Fayette County News
- Lexington Chronicle: Education Forum
- Kentucky.com: Education News
- Wikipedia: Youth Violence
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Youth Violence
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