MENDOCINO — The County of Mendocino will be working with the Office of the State Auditor over the next several months to complete a comprehensive audit of all county operations and departments, along with examining the organization’s contracts and procurements processes. It will also include an audit of the 2024 elections in Mendocino County, when incorrect ballots were mailed to the county’s 52,800 registered voters. 

“All sides agree this action is needed. The upheaval surrounding administrative operations in Mendocino County is unsustainable and this comprehensive audit of all county departments and accounts will provide some much-needed daylight and help establish a roadmap for long-term stability,” said Senate President Mike McGuire (D-North Coast).“We’ll be working with the Board of Supervisors and County leadership to ensure the findings of this audit will be implemented, and provide all involved with the facts and recommendations to make sound decisions going forward.”

Last year, County staff developed a corrective action plan to improve internal control over payroll, establish necessary policies and procedures, and file timely financial reports and statements. 

“We’re grateful to Sen. McGuire for advancing this state funding for a full and thorough audit of Mendocino County’s operations and accounts. We’ll be working hand-in-hand in the coming months to pinpoint any challenges or areas for improvement, and look forward to further strengthening the County’s position moving forward,” said Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Chair John Haschak.

The funding for the state audit was approved as part of the 2024-25 state budget signed by the Governor last year. The State Auditor is required to report their findings to the Legislature by January 1, 2026.