Cheney finance department tops in state

It's not a glamorous job, but somebody has to do it and the city of Cheney's finance department does it well.

The department was honored with a State Auditor Stewardship Award by the Washington State Auditor's Office at the City Council's Dec. 12 meeting. Washington auditor Pat McCarthy was at the meeting to make the presentation in person.

The award is something relatively new and is designed to acknowledge governmental entities that reflect a high level of transparency, accountability and stewardship of public resources in their financial processes. Cheney has not had an audit with a finding since 2008, although that factor alone wasn't a main reason for the award.

"It was developed to recognize public entities that have a culture of accountability, such as strong internal controls to prevent the loss of tax dollars or commitment to the value of audits and to a professional relationship with our office," Auditor's Office representative Adam Wilson said in an email.

McCarthy said the city benefits from over 161 years of combined experience in its finance department. Director Cindy Niemeier will have 31 years this August, with treasury manager Laurie Hale and commute trip reduction and accountant Craig Wahl each 30 years.

Deputy City Clerk Keri McDonald has 21 years, accounts payable specialist Cari Boyle 18 years and payroll specialist/project accountant Greg Toler just completing 10 years.

"Our goal in the Finance Department is to provide accurate, timely and easily accessible financial information to all departments and administration," Niemeier said in a letter answering the auditor's request for information on long-term employees.

"I am fortunate to have a staff of 10 highly dedicated, energetic and capable employees to ensure our policies are consistently implemented," Niemeier added.

McCarthy said Cheney staff are always in contact with the state office to make sure they are taking the right approach to financial matters, and seek advice on how best to deal with changing requirements. The city is one of 10 entities to be recognized with a SASA this year, a list that includes Spokane School District 81 and the Spokane International Airport board of directors.

"You're right up there with getting recognized by (other) entities who are doing this body of work," McCarthy said.

Cheney Mayor Tom Trulove said the award is "a big deal" and praised the work of Niemeier and company, not only in making sure the city's books are in order but also making sure departments are aware and up to speed on proper accounting procedures.

"I don't have to worry because I know we're being reminded to take care of things in a certain set of ways," Trulove said.

John McCallum can be reached at jmac@cheneyfreepress.com.