The preaudit is a statutory internal control process to ensure that public funds are spent appropriately. If implemented properly the preaudit can be an effective tool in preventing and/or mitigating employee mistake, misappropriation, and even fraud. The problem with the … Read more

Recent high-profile examples of alleged misappropriation and embezzlement of public funds, and other fraudulent activity, by local government officials across the state should prompt all local governments to examine their internal control systems. Internal controls are processes designed to safeguard … Read more

UPDATED Spring 2021: In S.L. 2020-61, the legislature made changes to collection timing, as discussed here, and expanded the purposes for which SDFs assessed using the combination approach may be expended (see below).  UPDATED August 2018: The legislature made a … Read more

For many this is the season of giving. In that spirit, this post addresses frequently asked questions about donations to local governments.

UPDATE 4 August 2018: Overruling the court of appeals, the North Carolina Supreme Court held that the Town of Carthage’s liability to refund the unlawful impact fee revenue was subject to a 3-year statute of limitations. See Quality Built Homes … Read more

In 2015, the legislature made a few significant changes to municipal service district (MSD) authority. (Those changes are summarized here.) The legislature made additional amendments to the MSD statutes this year. See S.L. 2016-8. To summarize, the amendments first require … Read more

Municipalities and counties are authorized, but not required, to provide utility services to properties that lie beyond their territorial borders. See G.S. 160A-312; G.S. 153A-275; see also City of Randleman v. Hinshaw, 2 N.C. App. 381 (1968) (“A [local government] … Read more

A provision in the state budget, Section 7.17 of S.L. 2015-241, set new transparency requirements related to certain financial data of state agencies, counties, municipalities, and local school administrative units. The law mandates full compliance by April 1, 2016. But … Read more

UPDATED September 2017: As of October 1, 2017, the state legislature has further defined (and limited) the impact fee powers of a County Water and Sewer District. Click here for more info on the new law. An impact fee is … Read more

A federal agency contracts with a North Carolina town to provide water services to the agency’s facility in the town. The agency is routinely late in making its utility payments. The town finally decides to take action after the sixth late … Read more