Elgin officials address audit findings as Rangers’ investigation looms

City officials acknowledged continued weaknesses in city accounting practices during a crowded work session Wednesday night, as council members pressed for answers about years of financial mismanagement and the city’s ongoing audit findings.

The discussion focused on the city’s 2022–2023 and 2023–2024 audits, which showed recurring weaknesses in internal controls and bookkeeping. Although staff said third-party auditors found no evidence of fraud, council members and residents continued to press for greater transparency.

“Just because we stopped doing it doesn't mean it wasn't done – it doesn't matter if we stopped doing the illegal thing, it was still done illegally,” Councilwoman Tiffany St. Pierre said. “We should have gotten ahead of this. Now we look stupid because we didn't.” 

Interim City Manager Robert Eads said many of the audit findings stem from staff shortages in the finance department. The city is still seeking a qualified finance director.

“The biggest weakness is not having that person – those people in that office for any substantial period,” Eads said. “We need to stop the bleeding – we need to hire up – that's the only way that we can move forward is to be able to do that.”

The work session came just days before the Texas Rangers are scheduled to meet with city officials about their probe into the alleged misappropriation of public funds. Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock announced that his office will assist the Rangers on the investigation.

“Texans expect honesty and accountability from every level of government,” Hancock said in a statement. “Our office will fully support the Texas Rangers and use every tool at our disposal to ensure taxpayer dollars are protected and the facts are brought to light.”

Despite the pending state investigation, city leaders said progress is being made and corrective actions are already underway. 

“We know we’ve got issues,” Eads said. “What I can tell you today, at least in my charge, is manage the city – manage it well – and get us moving forward.” 

More to come in the Courier.