West Lindsey District Council has “no significant weaknesses” with regards to its use of financial resources, according to an annual report produced by an independent Auditor and presented to Governance and Audit Committee today (8 March 2022).
The Auditor’s Annual Report, which summarises the work undertaken for the year ending 31 March 2021, finalised its report by concluding that the Council’s arrangements to secure economy, efficiency and effectiveness in its use of resources had no significant weaknesses and there were no recommendations arising from the Auditors work.
Work over the financial year also found that financial statements were free from material error, the Council’s financial position gave no cause for concern relating to financial stability, and there were no significant weaknesses in the Council’s arrangements in relation to governance.
Chair of the Governance and Audit Committee at West Lindsey District Council, Cllr John McNeill, said: “Audit reports such as this are further pieces of evidence demonstrating the strong levels of financial management upheld within West Lindsey District Council.
“Despite extraordinary levels of change throughout the past two-years, due to Covid lockdowns and sudden Government Grants, this report clearly shows that the Council kept its standards to an extremely high level, whilst also supporting the community with the roll-out of grants and funding. I am delighted to read the contents of this report.”
The Auditors commented on the “significant operational impact” caused by the effects of the pandemic, and the response to the policy announcements made by Central Governments which impacted local authorities such as West Lindsey.
Despite the background to the Council’s operating environment in 2020/21, Auditors concluded there were no cause for concerns relating to financial stability at the Council.
Assistant Director Finance, Business Support and Property Services, at West Lindsey District Council, Tracey Bircumshaw said: “Throughout the financial year 2020/21, our officers worked tirelessly across the council, not just quickly processing and rolling out grants including business grants and Test and Trace payments, but also maintaining our day-to-day services.
“It is testament to their work that we can demonstrate such a strong report during such a difficult, challenging Covid-19 period.”