Columbus – A state audit released today holds the director of the Morgan County Community Improvement Corporation accountable for almost $700 in improper alcohol purchases.

The report cites four separate occasions during 2015 and 2016 when Director Carl Raines authorized or was reimbursed for the purchase of alcoholic beverages. Each of the expenditures was in excess of $130:

• Dec. 10, 2015: $133.50
• April 12, 2016: $133.50
• July 7, 2016: $175.00
• Dec. 15, 2016: $246.25
• Total: $688.25

“Public funds have to serve a public purpose,” Auditor Yost said. “These purchases delivered zero value to taxpayers.”

Auditors issued a finding for recovery against Raines for the full amount, which he repaid to the corporation on Oct. 2, 2017. 

A full copy of this report is available online. 

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The Auditor of State’s office, one of five independently elected statewide offices in Ohio, is responsible for auditing more than 5,900 state and local government agencies.  Under the direction of Auditor Dave Yost, the office also provides financial services to local governments, investigates and prevents fraud in public agencies and promotes transparency in government.

Contact:
Beth Gianforcaro
Press Secretary
614-644-1111