The fiscal practices of Daytona Beach have recently come under intense scrutiny, after a city auditor's investigation revealed a pattern of questionable spending and possible mismanagement by city employees. In a report delivered to the city commissioners yesterday, the city auditor Abinet Belachew cited a lack of oversight and transparency, according to WFTV. Belachew's audit followed a pattern of concerns over the spending habits of city employees, including questionable charges on city credit cards. City Manager Deric Feacher has responded by suspending the use of all city credit cards and announcing the creation of a new committee to draft up-to-date spending policies.
Despite the city manager's assurances that vague policies were to blame rather than any misuse of funds, the auditor's findings pointed to deeper issues within the city's administration. Employees, reportedly, "defensive" over these financial issues, clashed with the auditor's pursuit of accountability. “Until we have a culture of transparency, accountability, a willingness to make change, we will have the same problem,” Belachew said, per WFTV. Daytona Beach City Manager took action by creating a committee aimed at addressing the revealed concerns, though when pressed by commissioners about his role in policy oversight, Feacher acknowledged his responsibility in updating policies and informing commissioners of any necessary revisions.
City Auditor Belachew, in an email to WESH, went further by criticizing the city's reaction to his findings as inadequate. He specifically called out the defensive posture of the city manager and members of his staff in response to the flagged expenditures. Belachew's findings highlighted concerns over car-allowance spending that involves over 80 employees and costs amounting to beyond $350,000 annually, without significant oversight.
Moreover, the auditor's office provided documented evidence showing some city employees were approved for car allowances as a form of compensation, not necessarily tied to job-related travel needs. Belachew lamented the city's attempt to "redirect attention, question the audit process, or create contradictory narratives," which, he believes, significantly hinders Daytona Beach's capability to install proper governance and address compliance risks. In stark contrast to these assertions, the city's public stance remains one of strong disagreement with several of the auditor's conclusions. As of yesterday afternoon, the city has declined further comments regarding the issue through the media, indicating that discussions will be held during the City Commission meeting, WESH reported.
