Audit: City leaders are operating in a fiscally responsible manner
July has given the City of Russellville a couple of good reasons to celebrate other than the traditional Fourth of July Jam on Sloss Lake.
On July 2, the Fire Department received its new $2.2 million 100-foot platform fire truck. City officials promptly turned the occasion into an opportunity to show off the new truck and conduct safety demonstrations at Village Square Apartments and an apartment complex on Engle Drive.
The public relations events were a big hit with residents at both apartments. Fire Marshal Justin Green discussed evacuation procedures for apartment dwellers, stressing the importance of leaving their apartments as soon as they hear a fire alarm, and remembering to check on neighbors who may need assistance. He also talked about how to properly use a small fire extinguisher and fire safety blankets.
Council members got a chance to experience the benefits of having the platform truck as they were lifted 100 feet into the air.
Residents of the apartments got to witness the operations of the truck with Green telling them not to fear getting into the platform if the case ever arises that they must do so.
The events were a great way to introduce the public to the new truck, as well as a chance to brag a little about the department’s Advanced Life Support (ALS) training and equipment. Fire Chief Joe Mansell told residents his firefighters can deliver paramedic- level emergency care on scene while awaiting the arrival of an ambulance.
A few days later, council members received a positive report on the city’s fiscal year 2024 audit.
Certified Public Accountant Don Wallace told council members his firm found no significant deficiencies or material weaknesses while conducting the audit.
“We call that a clean opinion in accounting,” Wallace said.
“That’s what we like to see.”
He described the city’s financial health as “very good,” praising city officials for their commitment to maintaining a reserve fund and consistently retiring bond debt.
Best of all, Wallace said he saw no warning signs that could impact the city’s finances in the future.
Wallace candidly noted in his presentation to city leaders that his firm sees a lot of cities the size of Russellville that are struggling even to make payroll, much less has reserves on hand that can be used in emergency situations. And many cities our size don’t have the funds to buy a new ladder truck.
Citizens of Russellville should embrace the significance of these events and appreciate the time and effort that city officials put into operating your city in a fiscally responsible manner.
