Performance audit finds $1.6 million in savings for Gallipolis
Improving water treatment infrastructure and contracting out services in Gallipolis (Gallia County) are among nearly $1.6 million in potential savings identified in a performance audit report released by Auditor of State Dave Yost.
“These recommendations could save about $1 of every $7 dollars the village spends,” Auditor Yost said.
“Some of that is one-time, but a lot of it recurs each year. There are some good opportunities here for village taxpayers.”
The single largest savings was a long-term amount of $807,000 for replacing the village’s antiquated water distribution system.
Eroding pipes and aging valves in a system that was estimated to be 50 to 70 years old contribute to the loss of nearly 30 percent of the water supplied to the village, at a cost of more than $480,000 in 2011.
The report noted that upgrading the system is a significant long-term investment.
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A savings of more than $450,000 could be realized annually by contracting with the Gallia County sheriff for police services. The village’s per hour cost of police service exceeds $40, compared to about $24 for the county.
An additional $327,000 in annual savings could result from other recommendations in the report, including contracting with private firms or other government entities to operate the village swimming pool and collect income taxes.