Notes from the Desk of Controller Zrinski
Since I was elected in 2023, I wanted to keep all citizens up to date on what I was doing. From the Norco Controller Room check here for updates and information about the Northampton County Controller's Office.
Citizen Watchdogs: Reporting Fraud, Misuse and Abuse
Have you ever thought about how County money should be used correctly? Reporting fraud, misuse, and abuse is crucial, and knowing how to do it properly can make a big impact. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you understand and get involved.
What is Fraud?
Fraud occurs when someone tries to deceive or trick others to gain something they’re not entitled to. Imagine someone sneaking extra snacks when they’re not supposed to—that’s a simple example of cheating. When it involves County funds, the stakes are much higher.
Types of Fraud to Watch For
Here’s a list of what to look out for:
- Theft of County property or cash
- Falsifying hours worked
- Submitting fake bills for payment
- Misrepresenting expenses to get more money back
- Mismanagement of tax dollars
- False medical or workers’ compensation claims
- Excessive spending
- Violating rules about gifts and purchases
- Ignoring County purchasing policies
Why Reporting Fraud Matters
Fraud is a significant issue. Organizations in the U.S. lose about 5% of their annual revenue to fraud, and governments are often targeted. If fraud isn’t addressed, it can lead to higher taxes, reduced benefits, and fewer services for everyone. Reporting fraud helps prevent these problems and ensures that County resources are used correctly.
How to Report Fraud
- Collect Information: Gather as many details as you can about where and when the fraud happened. Write down the names of anyone involved and any witnesses.
- Describe the Situation: Explain what type of fraud you’re reporting—whether it’s false reporting, theft, or something else. Is it a one-time incident or an ongoing issue? How much money is involved?
- Submit Your Report: You can report fraud by calling the Controller’s Fraud Tip Line at (610) 829 – 6616 or by submitting your information online. Your report will be kept confidential.
Why Your Report Matters
Reporting fraud helps detect problems faster—about 47% quicker, in fact. This means less financial damage and more efficient use of resources. Your tip could lead to important investigations and audits, making a real difference in how the County handles its money.
If you notice something suspicious, don’t keep it to yourself. Reporting fraud is a powerful way to contribute to a fair and transparent system. Your involvement helps ensure that County funds are spent wisely and responsibly.
Stay observant and report any issues you find. You can be a watchdog too. Together, we can make a difference!
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Controller Presses for Climate Change Mitigation
As we grapple with record-breaking heatwaves and severe flooding, the impact of climate change is more apparent than ever. Yet, amidst these challenges, there is hope through local government efforts focusing on weatherization and energy efficiency to combat these issues. By investing in these proactive measures, we are taking significant steps to improve environmental sustainability and support vulnerable communities facing the brunt of climate impacts.
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What's the point of giving back?
The opportunity to serve the public as an elected official is definitely a privilege, I will never take for granted. As County Controller, my job is primarily to oversee the office, audit staff and as fiscal watchdog, the County finances. Reaching out the public creates more visibility for the office and more visibility creates greater transparency, increases engagement and builds public trust. That outreach isn’t always at a ceremony, meeting or gala event, sometimes, it is meeting people where they are at.
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May, We Audit: Celebrating Internal Audit Month
May is Internal Audit Month, a time to recognize the vital role that internal auditing plays in ensuring the efficiency, effectiveness, and integrity of organizations worldwide. Here at the Northampton County Controller's office, led by Controller Tara Zrinski, we take great pride in the work we do as internal auditors, diligently striving to add value and improve the operations of our county government.
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New Faces in Old Spaces
Newly elected in 2023, I came into this position with no illusions that I knew everything there was to know about the Controller’s Office. In fact, I imagine that while my knowledge of the office well exceeds the average person’s, the Controller’s Office is almost as overlooked as the building that houses our staff across from the Courthouse. The unassuming building is long overdue for a maintenance makeover but first, the audit staff needed reorganization.
