RIVERSIDE – (INT) - City Manager John A. Russo is proposing to systematically audit all city departments on a rotating basis as part of a program headed to the City Council for its endorsement on Tuesday.

The Financial and Performance Audit Program would audit three departments each year, ensuring that each of the city’s 15 departments are audited at least every five years to ensure they are delivering services in the most effective and efficient way.

“A well-run city recognizes that change is constant and that there is always room for improvement,” Russo said. “A regular review of each department by qualified experts from outside our organization will identify where we can do better and how we can deliver services in the most cost-effective manner.”

Russo proposes to start with the city’s largest department, Riverside Public Utilities, and two others, Finance and Human Resources, which interact with all other city departments.

The audits will complement the important work already being done by the city’s Internal Audit division.

“City Manager Russo’s commitment to self-examination across all departments is commendable,” Mayor Rusty Bailey said. “His eagerness to bring a set of ‘fresh eyes’ to City Hall will ensure Riverside stays at the leading edge in delivering high-quality municipal services.”

Story Date: July 26, 2015