FALLSBURG — The Town of Fallsburg is currently being audited by the Office of the New York State Comptroller, according to a statement from the Comptroller’s Press Secretary, Mark Johnson.

“Yes. I can confirm we are auditing Fallsburg’s financial operations,” Johnson told the Democrat. “I can’t offer further details until the audit is complete. Audits generally take a few months.”

Fallsburg Supervisor Michael Bensimon told the Democrat, “We’re here to help them in any way they need. I don’t look at it as anything negative. They’re here to put some fresh eyes on the town to help us strengthen our internal controls and our internal practices. The town will come out better as a result of these audits.”

The Comptroller’s office has the authority to oversee the fiscal affairs of local governments under the New York State Constitution and General Municipal Law. According to the Comptroller’s guidance on audits, the process typically begins with a risk assessment that looks at financial performance and operations. Once an audit is selected, an entrance conference is held to inform local officials of the audit’s purpose and provide an opportunity for input.

Auditors conduct an audit survey, gathering information to determine specific focus areas. The fieldwork phase, which is the most time-consuming part of the process, involves interviews with officials, reviewing documents and examining financial records. Once fieldwork is complete, auditors discuss their preliminary findings with officials before drafting a final report. The final report is then published, outlining the findings and providing recommendations for improved financial management.

Officials in Fallsburg will be expected to provide access to financial records and other relevant materials to ensure a smooth review process.

Audits of this nature are not uncommon and are part of the state’s efforts to promote fiscal responsibility in local governments.