February 04, 2004

By: Yen Hung
Website: http://www.1st-in-cell-phones.com

Comptroller Naples says county's cellular phone usage has increased

Erie County Comptroller Nancy A. Naples today released a follow-up audit of the Erie County Division of Information and Support Services' (DISS) use and control of cellular telephones for the ten-month period ending October 31, 2000. "Our review disclosed that management of DISS has not fully implemented all recommendations made in our 1995 report when the County had 250 cellular phones," Naples said.

"The number of cellular phones has increased to 500, with cellular charges for the ten-month audit period of $134,719. DISS should immediately implement procedures to ensure that all invoices are reviewed and signed by County department personnel prior to payment." Among the findings in the audit, Comptroller Naples noted that some cell phones for the Legislature, Youth Services, Sheriff's Office and the Board of Elections are not under contract through DISS. "We found that payments totaling $8,492 were made for cell phones not listed by DISS on their inventory," Naples said. "Procedures need to be developed to ensure that DISS maintains accountability for all cellular telephones in accordance with Erie County's Policy and Procedures on cellular telephones."

In the report issued to the Erie County Executive and Legislature, Comptroller Naples stated that Arthur F. Telaak, Jr., the current Director of Information and Support Services was in full agreement with the findings and plans to take immediate steps to comply with the recommendations.

Also See: free cell phones.

Author Notes:

Yen Hung contributes and publishes news editorial to http://www.1st-in-cell-phones.com.  A cellular phone industry resource featuring articles, comparisons and reviews of cellular phone and service plans.