ADRIAN — Officials explained this week that Lenawee County’s accounts payable process follows a strict, multi-layered review system to ensure taxpayer money is properly spent. The process is designed to track every dollar from department budgets to final payments.
County Administrator Kim Murphy said the system begins with each department entering invoices for goods and services tied to their budgets. The accounts payable department and the finance director review those entries, and Murphy personally reviews all invoices each week.
The accounts payable committee, which includes the Board of Commissioners chair, the Ways and Means chair, and Murphy, meets bi-weekly to examine all payments. To verify accuracy, the committee reviews detailed vendor listings, including credit card charges. Final approvals are reported at the monthly Board of Commissioners meeting.
Reports to the Board include a breakdown of general fund spending and all other accounts.
Murphy emphasized that the budgeting process is dynamic, with regular checks against allocations and adjustments for unexpected revenues or expenses. The system is structured to maintain public trust and fiscal stability throughout the year.