Members of the Butler County House delegation and the Butler County Board of Commissioners have called for a full audit of Community Partnership, Inc. This request follows a recent audit by Maher Duessel CPAs, revealing significant issues in the organization’s financial management and adherence to federal grant regulations.
The formal request has been made to Pennsylvania Auditor General Tim DeFoor. Representative Aaron Bernstine stated, “These findings and interactions indicate a troubling pattern of financial mismanagement and resistance to oversight. Our constituents deserve assurance public funds are being used responsibly to support vital community programs. When taxpayer dollars are at stake, there is no room for secrecy or sloppiness. A full audit is the only way to ensure accountability and restore public trust.”
The audit uncovered several concerns, including material weaknesses in financial reporting, inadequate segregation of duties, and noncompliance with federal grant requirements. From January to June 2023, the executive director had excessive control over financial processes, exposing the organization to risks.
Additional issues cited involve the organization’s transparency with elected officials. Butler County Commissioner Kim Geyer noted her denied access to Community Partnership, Inc.’s 2024 annual reports, stating, “When elected officials are denied access to basic organizational records, it undermines the trust of the residents we serve. A thorough audit is essential to restore confidence in Community Partnership, Inc.’s operations.”
A meeting between Representative Bernstine and Community Partnership, Inc. was abruptly canceled by Executive Director Sandra Curry, who indicated there was “no need to meet.” The delegation and commissioners view this as an indication of the organization’s lack of cooperation.
The joint request emphasizes the need for an audit to protect taxpayer funds and assure transparency. “This is not about politics. This is about protecting vulnerable populations and ensuring taxpayer dollars are handled with the transparency and accountability the public expects and deserves,” stated the delegation and commissioners in their communication.
