An audit shows Baldwin County, Ala. officials may have to return nearly $10.5 million in federal hurricane reimbursements dating back nearly four years.
The results of the audit by the federal Office of Inspector General were presented to county officials this week. The audit raises questions about state and Federal Emergency Management Agency reimbursements following hurricanes Ivan in September 2004 and Dennis and Katrina in July and August 2005.
The findings relate mainly to debris removal. The report indicates the county sought to increase county landfill revenue with tipping fees, the amount paid for dumping waste and debris based on cubic yards.
The report indicates county officials should have burned debris before it entered local landfills and charged tipping fees for ash instead of actual debris.
County officials contend that Baldwin County ultimately saved the federal government money and followed its FEMA-approved contracts.
Officials, including Baldwin County Commissioner Wayne Gruenloh, say federal officials now seem to be changing the rules regarding the reimbursements.
Baldwin County will respond to the preliminary findings of the audit, and FEMA will make the final determination.
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Information from: Press-Register,
http://www.al.com/mobileregister
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