Coconino County’s Finance Department plays a critical role in the fiscal health and operational efficiency of the county government. It is responsible for managing and safeguarding the county’s financial resources, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and providing accurate and timely financial information to decision-makers and the public.
The department encompasses several key functions, including accounting, budgeting, payroll, accounts payable and receivable, procurement, and risk management. The accounting division maintains the county’s general ledger, prepares financial statements, and ensures accurate record-keeping of all financial transactions. It also oversees grant accounting and reporting to comply with federal and state regulations.
Budgeting is a central function, involving the development and monitoring of the county’s annual budget. The Finance Department works collaboratively with all county departments to develop a comprehensive budget that reflects the county’s priorities and available resources. This includes analyzing departmental budget requests, projecting revenues, and ensuring alignment with the county’s strategic plan. The department also monitors budget performance throughout the year, providing regular reports to the Board of Supervisors on budget variances and potential issues.
Payroll is another critical function, ensuring timely and accurate payment of salaries and wages to all county employees. This includes managing employee benefits, processing payroll taxes, and complying with labor laws and regulations. Accounts payable and receivable are responsible for processing invoices from vendors and collecting payments owed to the county, ensuring timely and accurate payments and collections.
Procurement is a key function that ensures the county obtains goods and services in a cost-effective and transparent manner. The Finance Department oversees the procurement process, including developing and issuing requests for proposals (RFPs), evaluating bids, and awarding contracts. This ensures compliance with procurement policies and procedures and maximizes the value of taxpayer dollars.
Risk management aims to identify, assess, and mitigate potential risks to the county’s financial resources and operations. The Finance Department works to implement strategies to minimize financial losses, protect county assets, and ensure the continuity of county services. This includes managing insurance coverage, implementing internal controls, and conducting risk assessments.
Transparency and accountability are paramount. The Finance Department strives to provide accessible financial information to the public through the county’s website and public meetings. They prepare and present the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR), which provides a detailed overview of the county’s financial performance and position. They also work closely with external auditors to ensure the integrity of the county’s financial statements.
Overall, the Coconino County Finance Department serves as a cornerstone of responsible financial management, contributing to the effective and efficient delivery of services to the residents of Coconino County. Their commitment to accuracy, transparency, and accountability helps ensure the long-term financial stability of the county.