FREMONT- The New York State Comptroller’s Office has identified significant shortcomings in financial oversight and reporting practices in the Town of Fremont, according to a recently released audit.

The audit found that the Fremont Town Board failed to conduct an annual audit of the Town Supervisor’s financial records for 2024, as required by state law.  Auditors also reported that the town has not filed required Annual Financial Reports with the state for the past eight fiscal years.

According to the report, the supervisor did not provide the Town Board with complete and reliable monthly financial reports, including budget-to-actual reports, bank reconciliations and detailed statements of money received.  Auditors said the supervisor also failed to review bank reconciliations prepared by the town’s bookkeeper, increasing the risk that errors or irregularities could go undetected.

The comptroller’s office said the lack of oversight diminished transparency and limited the board’s ability to effectively monitor the town’s finances and make informed decisions.

Fremont, which has a population of about 1,160 residents, budgeted approximately $1.2 million in 2024 for general government and highway operations, including road maintenance, snow removal, and fire protection services.

The audit includes nine recommendations aimed at improving financial reporting and transparency.  Town officials generally agreed with the recommendations and are required to submit a corrective action plan to the comptroller’s office within 90 days.