Assessment finds Auditor’s Office human resources internal controls in place and working effectively

We are pleased to share that the Auditor's Office's human resources internal controls were found to be in place and working effectively, according to a contracted assessment. No areas were found to be out of compliance.

City Charter Section 2-506(c) requires the Auditor to contract with outside service providers to conduct periodic organizational efficiency and compliance assessments. These assessments help ensure the Office has adequate internal controls, complies with applicable laws, and operates efficiently. This was the first organizational efficiency and compliance assessment conducted since 86% of Portland voters approved a Charter amendment in 2017 to increase the Auditor's independence.

We contracted with Government Leadership Solutions to conduct the assessment. The review took place between June and September 2025 and covered calendar years 2023, 2024, and January through June 2025.

The assessment reviewed internal controls and adherence to Auditor's Office rules and procedures in 10 areas of human resource management, including personnel files, rulemaking, recruitment and hiring, required trainings, professional development, performance management, FLSA break attestations, FMLA and ADA accommodation request processes, and manager and supervisor understanding of progressive discipline policies and procedures. Internal controls are processes used by management to help an agency achieve its objectives.

The assessment identified areas where clearer documentation, more standardized processes, and additional supervisor training would improve consistency. Operations Management generally agrees with the assessment's recommendations and will take action to address each one by June 2027.