Curry County pronounced on sound financial footing

CLOVIS — During Tuesday’s regular meeting the Curry County Commission granted approval of the 2016 fiscal year audit report, with an independent reviewer pronouncing the entity on sound financial footing.

“An audit takes the cooperation of the whole county and we’ve got through this one pretty good this year,” said Griego Professional Services, LLC. owner and CPA J.J. Griego, who performed the audit. “The audit is a picture in time of the financial statements and our report is a picture of June 30, 2016. The financial statements show the county being in a strong financial position, especially compared to other counties and cities that I have seen. That’s very positive and a good place to be.

“On the report for internal controls and compliance, that’s where we come up with the findings. This year we did not have any findings. I am happy to report the state auditor looked at a concern over a property transaction and they indicated to us there were no findings with regard to that. It was a great report.”

Commission Chairman Ben McDaniel said the end result is welcomed.

“It’s nice to see we’re doing well,” McDaniel said. “Good news is always nice to have. We want to commend our staff for all of their hard work throughout the process.”

In other meeting actions:

• The commission approved Resolution 2017-08 in support of House Bill 63, also known as the County and Municipal Fuels Tax Act.

“The Association of Counties executive committee has voted to support this bill, also the city of Clovis has voted to support it,” County Manager Lance Pyle said. “In reviewing the bill, I don’t feel, if this goes into law, it will impact the county. The county has, I believe, two fuel stations out in the county. Having said that, Rep. (Randy) Crowder has asked us to support the bill and it’s my recommendation we support it and the city of Clovis.”

According to the measure’s synopsis, the bill, introduced by Crowder and fellow Rep. Roberto “Bobby” Gonzales, amends, repeals and adds new sections to the County and Municipal Fuels Tax Act, previously entitled the County and Municipal Gasoline Tax Act.

Officials said one section of the Motor Vehicle Code is also amended while expanding the fuels that may be taxed by a municipality or county, dedicating the proceeds for use only for public bridge and highway projects. A county or municipality cannot implement the ordinance without voter approval.