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October 14, 2008 - The City of Springfield announced today that it has implemented a hotline that the public can use to report information about suspected fraud, waste or abuse of city resources.
Mayor Domenic J. Sarno said financial accountability is a keystone for his Administration, which has made public safety and education important priorities. The fraud hotline, he said, is one of many tools utilized to increase government efficiency.
The hotline, which operates under the auspices of the Office of Internal Audit, will serve as recourse for people who believe they have information regarding abuse of municipal funds or resources.
“My Administration is serious about accountability, efficiency and results,” said Sarno. “If there is any evidence of fraudulent behavior, it is not fair to the hard-working municipal employees who are conscientious and diligent in their daily work.”
The Finance Control Board created the Office of Internal Audit more than a year ago. “This continues and expands their good work and will help engage the public to ensure their government is fair and without waste, fraud, corruption or abuse,” said Stephen Lisauskas, Executive Director of the Springfield Finance Control Board.
City Auditor Mark Ianello said the hotline is an integral component of the success of the Internal Audit Division and will provide a venue in which to honor the public’s trust and build confidence in City government.
“We expect the fraud hotline to contribute to our assessment of the City’s internal controls, policies and procedures and compliance with laws and regulations,” said Ianello. “We welcome both the public and employee input and look forward to increasing public awareness of City practices.”
Fraud hotline reports will be investigated based on the strength of supporting information. The internal audit division will investigate sufficiently supported claims. All information will be kept confidential.
The new hotline can be accessed at 413-886-5125 or at www.springfieldcityhall.com. Written reports can be mailed to the Office of the City Auditor, Internal Audit Division, 36 Court St., Springfield, MA 01103.
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