Denver's watchdog for the public purse, Auditor Timothy M. O'Brien, CPA, sets his sights on the city's burgeoning artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure and the budget's fine lines according to his 2025 Audit Plan released recently. In a move to keep Denver at the forefront of fiscal responsibility and technological innovation, the plan outlines several key focus areas, including the governance strategy for AI, the 'All InMile High' and 'House1000' initiatives, and the city's budget process.
"With the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence and the city's tight budget for 2025, Denver must be ready to address new cybersecurity risks and continue serving the needs of our residents effectively," O'Brien said, as per Denver Auditor's Office, highlighting both opportunities and challenges ahead. Reflecting concerns about cybersecurity, the performance, financial, information technology, cybersecurity, contract compliance risks, and audit analytics are all getting a closer look under the auditor's guidance.
Audit analytics techniques and a risk-based approach are said to guide this vigilant examination of Denver's financial health and risk areas. The flexibility inherent to this Audit Plan allows it to be a "living document" that adapts to unforeseen events and shifts in priorities, as detailed by the Denver Auditor's Office.
O'Brien's proactive stance is mirrored in his promise for thorough oversight of the Mayor's 'House1000' and 'All In Mile High' projects, an audit sparked directly by suggestions from community members throughout the year. "It’s important we identify efficiencies and ensure the city is acting in line with leading practices. It’s good for everyone when we keep the city accountable for its budget," O'Brien said, as noted by the Denver Auditor's Office, marking the critical juncture the city stands at with its financial health. Moreover, the ongoing audits from the previous plan will be wrapped up, including the scrutiny of services like Denver 311 and the Climate Protection Fund.
