Jenny Wong, City Auditor
Promoting transparency and accountability in Berkeley government.
Audit News
from the City Auditor
August 2020
Library Uses Tax Funds by the Book, But More Internal Controls Needed
We audited the Library's use of the Library Tax Fund to ensure that the Library is spending its funding appropriately as it continues to meet evolving community needs. This audit is part of an effort to audit activities funded by special taxes.

Here’s what we found: The Library’s transactions aligned with the purpose of the Library Tax Fund in fiscal year 2018. Additionally, we did not find indicators of fraud, waste, or misuse in our review of transactions. Some of the Library's internal controls can be improved to more clearly define use of the reserve. The Library currently does not have a strategic plan, though the Library has set some goals and developed budget priorities. The Library also does not consistently evaluate its programs to measure progress towards goals.

I will present this report to the Board of Library Directors at their meeting on Wednesday, September 2, and to the City Council on Tuesday, September 15. Thanks to my staff who completed this audit: Caitlin Palmer, Auditor-In-Charge; Tracy Yarlott-Davis, Team Member; and Claudette Biemeret, Former Audit Manager. 
Policing Audits Update
On August 14, we initiated two audits on the Police Department’s calls for service and budget. These audits are in response to the many recent requests I received from Berkeley residents for my office to take a closer look at Police Department activities and budget. It also responds to Council Member Bartlett’s proposal to conduct an analysis of calls for service and traffic enforcement data, and the Mayor’s omnibus item passed on July 14. I want to thank several community members for reaching out to me about your interest in these audits. Given the shortened timeline of these audits, the exact scope will depend on data access and data quality. I have assigned two experienced auditors to begin work on these projects. Our goal is to complete these audits by spring 2021.

We are currently in the process of hiring a new Auditor 1 to support these audits. Staffing and budget changes began with our Audit Manager leaving in February for a position with the BART Inspector General. Instead of hiring a new Audit Manager, in light of the current COVID-19 induced budget situation, I proposed a cost-saving approach of organizing our team to have two Senior Auditors share supervisory responsibility, and instead fill the vacant position with an Auditor 1. The number of staff remains the same, but these budget deferrals that I proposed contribute to needed savings in light of the budget situation. See our COVID-19 budget report.

I want to thank the community for their support and the Mayor and City Council for approving our proposed budget. My office looks forward to continuing to produce high quality audits to benefit the Berkeley community.
Air Quality Concerns and Resources
Although air quality levels in Berkeley have greatly improved since last week, conditions can change quickly. Multiple fires throughout the region continue to burn and may affect Berkeley in the days ahead. The most important thing you can do to prepare is to sign up for emergency notifications at acalert.org. This will ensure you can be reached in an emergency.

Use an airnow.gov interactive map, which is updated hourly, to check air quality status throughout the day. The City's air quality webpage provides information on how to understand Air Quality Index (AQI) levels.

According to the City of Berkeley, stay inside when air quality is poor:
Everyone can protect their health by reducing physical activity and staying inside with doors and windows closed. You should also:
  • Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water.
  • Set air conditioning units to re-circulate so you don't bring outside air in.
  • Don't smoke, burn candles, or use incense.
  • Don't use gas, propane, or wood burning stoves.
  • Avoid frying or broiling meat.
  • Avoid vacuuming.

Contact your health care provider if you experience the following symptoms:
  • Repeated coughing
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Wheezing
  • Chest tightness or pain
  • Palpitations
  • Nausea or unusual fatigue
  • Lightheadedness

Those at higher risk during periods of poor air quality should take particular care. This includes anyone with respiratory or cardiac issues, children, older adults, and pregnant individuals.

Keep up with City of Berkeley news via the News page, email or Twitter.
Help Your Community While Sheltering-in-Place.  

Respond to the Census online today or help spread the word and encourage your networks to “be counted”. A complete count ensures Berkeley gets its fair share of federal funding for a variety of services including public health, roads, unemployment, emergency services and much more. For more information, visit the City’s website. 
Resources For COVID-19 Information and Updates
Berkeley City Auditor | Website