Auditor blasts management of some stimulus programs

SACRAMENTO
November 23, 2009 12:02pm

The California Department of Developmental Services has improperly managed part of federal stimulus money meant for the Early Start program and for special education, says state Auditor Elaine Howle.

The letter to the governor and leaders of the Legislature says the department falls short in five management areas, four of which had been pointed out as early as the fiscal year 2005-2006.

‘Developmental Services’ lack of sufficient documentation may jeopardize its ability to receive the full amount of funding that it might otherwise receive,” Ms. Howle says. “To decrease the risk of losing federal grant funds, we recommended that Developmental Services maintain sufficient documentation showing its adherence to federal maintenance of effort requirements.”

Ms. Howle notes that California expects to receive $85 billion in Recovery Act funding for both new and existing federal programs.

“With this increased funding comes a strong emphasis on accountability and public transparency to ensure federal funds are spent properly,” she says.