Today, the Office of Professional Accountability (OPA) released a report highlighting problems related to overtime spending in the SPD Education and Training Section (ETS) in 2013.
While there were no sustained charges against any individuals in the SPD, serious systemic problems were highlighted.
OPA found that supervisors in ETS failed to keep overtime spending within budget, did not have tight supervisory controls and did not keep accurate records.
In response to the report and the Mayor’s directive, the SPD will continue to review the training section’s management structure, fiscal accountability measures and program outcomes.
Per OPA’s recommendation, I am also requesting that the Office of the City Auditor conduct an audit of ETS and make additional recommendations for improvements.
When I was appointed Chief in June of this year, one of my first priorities was to promote better business practices in the SPD. We have instituted a system to track overtime spending and alert command staff of concerns as they arise. Chief Operating Officer Mike Wagers and Budget Manager Greg Doss will provide updates to me and my command staff each month on the budget, including overtime spending. We’re also providing financial training to commanders to ensure they enhance their budget skills.