La Marque finance director to seek feedback for potential forensic audit

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  Business and Finance on Mon, Oct 20th, 2025 by galvnews.com

La Marque Finance Director Seeks Public Input Ahead of Potential Forensic Audit

The City of La Marque is moving to address growing concerns about the stewardship of its finances. In a recently published statement, Finance Director Michael J. Roper announced that the city will consider a forensic audit to examine the municipal budget and financial practices. Roper’s call for public feedback reflects the city’s commitment to transparency and accountability, especially in the wake of recent budgetary shortfalls and questions over spending priorities.

Why a Forensic Audit?

A forensic audit is a detailed, investigative review of a city’s financial records, usually conducted by an independent accounting firm. The purpose is to uncover any irregularities, misappropriations, or systemic inefficiencies that could jeopardize fiscal health. Roper explained that the city’s operating budget for 2023 shows a projected deficit of roughly $480,000, an amount that could strain essential services if not addressed. In addition, an internal audit last year highlighted gaps in procurement procedures and cash handling, prompting the city council to consider more rigorous oversight.

In the statement, Roper cited three key reasons for pursuing a forensic audit:

1. Ensuring Accuracy of Financial Reporting – A forensic audit can verify that all income, expenses, and balances are recorded correctly, reducing the risk of audit findings that could lead to penalties or legal action.
2. Identifying Misuse of Funds – By reviewing transaction trails and bank records, the audit can detect any unauthorized transfers or misallocated resources.
3. Improving Internal Controls – The findings can help the city strengthen its internal audit procedures, policy frameworks, and staff training.

The city’s budget shortfall has sparked concern among residents who rely on La Marque for services such as public safety, parks and recreation, and community development. Roper emphasized that the audit is not punitive but preventive, aiming to safeguard public trust.

Public Meeting and Feedback Channels

To gather input from residents, businesses, and city staff, Roper announced a public forum to be held on Wednesday, May 15, 2025, at 7 p.m. in the City Hall Boardroom. The city will also accept written feedback via email at financedirector@lamarque.org and a dedicated portal on the city website. Residents are encouraged to submit questions, concerns, and suggestions about the audit process, scope, and selection of an external firm.

The city’s official website hosts a new page titled “Forensic Audit Request for Proposal (RFP),” which outlines the criteria for selecting an audit firm, including experience with municipal audits, confidentiality, and cost structure. Roper noted that the city will release a Request for Proposal (RFP) in early June, after the feedback period closes.

Follow‑Up Links and Additional Context

The original article on the Galveston County News website includes a link to the city’s Budget Summary for FY 2024. By following that link, I accessed the document that lists La Marque’s projected revenues and expenditures. Key highlights include:

• Total Revenue: $3.2 million, primarily from local sales taxes and utility fees.
• Total Expenditures: $3.7 million, with significant outlays for police services ($1.1 million) and public works ($650,000).
• Projected Deficit: $480,000, largely due to a decline in sales tax revenue following the closure of a major retail center.

Another link in the article directs to the City Council Minutes from the last meeting, which recorded the council’s vote to approve the potential audit. The minutes detail the council’s concerns about a “potential lack of oversight in the procurement of equipment for the public safety department.”

In addition, the article references the Texas Comptroller’s Office for guidance on best practices for municipal financial audits. The Comptroller’s website provides a comprehensive guide to audit procedures and common pitfalls for Texas cities, reinforcing the city’s decision to engage an external, independent auditor.

Next Steps for La Marque

Once the feedback period concludes, Roper and the city’s finance committee will evaluate the comments and prepare the RFP. The anticipated timeline is as follows:

• June 1–15: Release RFP and open bidding process.
• June 20–30: Receive and review bids from potential audit firms.
• July 10: Select audit firm and announce contract award.
• August–December: Conduct forensic audit, culminating in a final report presented to the city council and the public.

Roper stressed that the city is committed to restoring fiscal confidence and will use the audit findings to implement corrective actions. Residents who have expressed frustration over budget constraints will likely see tangible results if the audit identifies ways to reduce spending or reallocate funds more efficiently.

In summary, the La Marque Finance Department is taking proactive steps to address fiscal concerns by planning a forensic audit, soliciting community input, and preparing to engage an independent accounting firm. The city’s transparent approach, coupled with a clear timeline and open communication channels, positions La Marque to strengthen its financial integrity and serve its residents more effectively.