The State of Florida’s Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) contracted with MGT Consulting Group to complete a performance audit of Broward County’s proposed Local Option Transportation Surtax Plan.
No material deficiencies discerned
The audit revealed no material deficiencies in any of the key aspects tested, and in fact, highlighted the County’s operational and performance achievements.
Broward County voters will have a chance to vote on the proposed surtax on November 6, 2018.
Purpose of surtax
The 30-year surtax is intended to provide a dedicated source of funding for countywide transportation system improvements planned well into 2049, including nearly 476 road projects and over 700 projects requested by municipalities in Broward County. The plan includes greenways, bike lanes and pedestrian amenities, improved routes and overall transit service, proposed light rail on high-ridership corridors, funding for community shuttles and on-demand transportation for persons with disabilities (Paratransit), and school zone safety improvements.
The OPPAGA audit, required by state law, examined Broward County’s programs and processes related to the planning, development, operation and maintenance of roads and bridges, bus systems, fixed guideway rapid transit systems and on-demand transportation services. The six key aspects tested and key findings were:
- Economy, Efficiency and Effectiveness – No opportunity for improvement was identified.
- Structure or Design – Organizational structures are clearly defined and administrative costs are minimized; staffing levels appear to be reasonable.
- Methods of Providing Services and Products – the projects tested were executed efficiently.
- Goals, Objectives and Performance Measures – Transportation and Public Works program goals and objectives are clearly stated, measurable, can be achieved within budget and are consistent with the County’s strategic plan; performance measures are sufficient and internal controls are in place. No opportunities for improvement were identified.
- Adequacy of Public Documents and Reports – processes are in place to ensure that program performance and cost information is provided to the public.
- Process for Ensuring Compliance with Policies, Rules and Laws – processes are in place to assess compliance with laws and regulations; contracts, grants and policies. No opportunities for improvement were identified.
The audit report suggested that Broward County include additional measures of workload and productivity to further validate staffing levels against the volume of need and improve public access to program performance and cost information for capital projects related to transportation. Broward County Administrator Bertha Henry said the constructive findings in the audit will be incorporated as part of the County’s ongoing commitment to continuous improvement.
“The audit’s conclusions offer assurances to the public and taxpayers that Broward County is a responsible steward of public funds,” said Henry.
If passed by voters on November 6, the surtax revenue will leverage up to $3 billion from federal, state and other sources, funding which has previously been awarded to other communities due to Broward County’s lack of long-term financing for transportation. It is estimated that approximately 30 percent of revenues would be paid by non-Broward residents and visitors.
