State to audit Humansville for the first time after residents petition amid turmoil
While the Board of Alderman had previously voted to initiate a state audit themselves, the action failed when Mayor Tracy Mason broke the tie by voting against it. Residents then gathered 170 certified signatures to request the audit, above the required 135 signature threshold, according to an Auditor's Office news release.
"With the numerous issues that have occurred in the city over the last year, and with allegations of missing money, it's important that we shine the light of truth and transparency on the city's government," State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick said in the release. "We will do our best to give taxpayers a better understanding of the financial health and operational effectiveness of their city. If necessary, we will also provide recommendations to improve the performance of their government."
This is the first time, according to the release, that the city will be audited by the Missouri State Auditor's Office. Fitzpatrick asked for patience during the process and encouraged those with any information to reach out through the Whistleblower Hotline at 800-347-8597, by email at moaudit@auditor.mo.gov or by visiting www.auditor.mo.gov/hotline.
Two state investigations already have been conducted within the city government of Humansville. One, by the Missouri Secretary of State's Office, resulted in charges being filed against city employee Sophia Piper alleging election interference, although that case was dismissed right before a trial was set to begin in April due to witnesses failing to appear. The other investigation was conducted by the Missouri State Highway Patrol looking into misuse of public funds. While a representative from the MSHP confirmed in October the investigation was complete and forwarded to the Polk County Prosecutor's Office, no additional updates have emerged since.
More: Stone County Developmental Disabilities Board didn't comply with state law, audit finds
There is also plenty of other controversy involving former aldermen and city staff.
In November, the city attorney sued former alderman Ashley Albright and two other women for defamation after Albright accused the attorney of sexual harassment. Prior to that, former alderman Robert Thomas filed a lawsuit against the city for alleged Sunshine Law violations. Both lawsuits are ongoing.
Most recently, former Humansville police chief Ryan Snow filed a lawsuit against the city claiming his firing was illegal and the city still owed him wages. Snow played a role in initiating the state's investigations, which the lawsuit claims was a reason the city retaliated and dismissed him.
Marta Mieze covers local government at the News-Leader. Have feedback, tips or story ideas? Contact her at mmieze@news-leader.com.
This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Humansville to be audited amid turmoil after resident petition
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