KNDO/KNDU Tri-Cities, Yakima, WA | Auditor: Mabton mayor doesn't understand her job
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Associated Press - July 7, 2009 11:35 PM ET
MABTON, Wash. (AP) - The state auditor's office says the mayor of Mabton, a small town in southeastern Washington, doesn't understand her role.
The Yakima Herald-Republic reports that a state audit covering the years 2004 through 2008 found the city didn't adequately monitor revenue in its $1.5 million annual operating budget. The audit also outlined problems in how Mayor Velva Herrera was paid, her oversight of the city and delinquent payments to her water bill.
The audit said Herrera's personal water bill with the city was past due for about six months in 2006, a city code violation. Her overdue account was later paid in full.
The report also found that Herrera was paid $500 in advance each month beginning in November 2006, a city policy violation.
The state also criticized Herrera for several personnel actions.
State auditor's office spokeswoman Mindy Chambers says Mabton has indicated it is working to correct the problems. Calls to Herrera were not immediately returned Tuesday.
Information from: Yakima Herald-Republic, http://www.yakima-herald.com
Copyright 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
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