Ronda’s Financial Struggles Highlighted in State Audit
Weeks after the decision to dissolve its charter, the town of Ronda is facing a bleak financial reality according to a recent state audit. The findings, from the office of State Auditor Dave Boliek, reveal significant financial mismanagement in the Wilkes County town.
The audit uncovered that Ronda consistently spent beyond its means, depleting much of its financial reserves in an effort to meet its fiscal obligations. This precarious financial situation was further complicated by overdue invoices, as well as the misuse of grant funds earmarked for water projects being diverted to cover everyday expenses.
Additionally, the investigation highlighted numerous credit card transactions that lacked adequate documentation to confirm their legitimacy for town business. Despite these irregularities, the audit did not uncover any substantial fraud.
In response to these findings, the state auditor has advised Ronda’s town leaders to adhere to state protocols for dissolution, a process they initiated last month.
