Greenville Mayor, City Council Considering Additional Audit

The Greenville City Council reviewed its audit engagements at their August 4^th meeting and discussed the potential need for an additional audit.

The audit could be necessary due to federal grant funding exceeding required thresholds. The specialized audit would ensure that the city remains compliant with grant requirements for several funded projects. If approved, the audit would cost an estimated $6.500 and would be completed alongside the city’s annual financial audit.

Council members reviewed the proposal as part of their ongoing commitment to financial accountability and proper oversight of public funds. Following discussion, the Council approved the single audit authorization and proceeded with the recommended single-audit option now, with direction to revisit Fiscal Year 2025 pricing and negotiate where reasonable. The next step for the Council will be to have city staff schedule and coordinate audit work for Fiscal Year 2024 and ensure grant-specific records and access to designated staff are in place.

The Council reviewed the Three Rivers Senior Center contract, focusing on meal reimbursement rates and long-term program funding. Members noted that meal costs vary among providers, with Three Rivers covering $8 per meal while another vendor bills $9 per meal. This compares with the rates of $6 in previous years. The Council agreed to provide copies of last year’s agreement to all members following concerns expressed about contract negotiations and the maintenance of fair reimbursement rates. The city also plans to work with the county during the upcoming budget cycle to seek additional funding to better reflect the actual cost of serving local seniors.

The condition of the building at 1224 Terrell Street was discussed. City leaders noted the deteriorating condition of the building, and the Council discussed growing concerns over the condition of the access ramp, which is now being considered a safety hazard for seniors and visitors. Officials stressed the need to address the issue after concerns were raised about potential falls and the increase in city liability.

The Council also learned that Habitat International is unable to assist with the repairs, because the ramp is part of a government-owned public facility and the organization’s programs are limited to single-family residential projects. The City will pursue other solutions to make the ramp safe and accessible, including purchasing lumber and concrete for the project and using city staff, volunteers, or a contractor to complete the work.

City officials including Mayor Josephine Mahone-Stargell met with representatives of Greenville Bank to discuss a Tax Anticipation Note (TAN) instrument for city use. The bank representative explained that the TAN amount depends on tax revenue the city collects, and is generally good for one year. Repayment may not be immediate. The Council asked for the specific amount the city would receive, and staff noted the lender will confirm and bring the figure back.

The City Attorney advised against doing TAN notes back to back, and if the Council proceeds they should plan for next-year needs and timing. Staff was instructed to confirm the exact TAN amount available and bring those numbers to the next work session for a formal decision.

The next regular meeting of the Greenville City Council will be Tuesday, September 1, at 6 p.m. at City Hall.