SOLID WASTE IMPROVES CASH-HANDLING PROCESSES FOLLOWING CLERK’S AUDIT

MONROE COUNTY, FL – Monroe County Solid Waste is completing significant improvements to strengthen financial accountability and customer service across its transfer stations in response to a Clerk of the Court audit of its cash-handling processes.
 
The audit, covering operations from 2021 to 2024, reviewed a sampling of more than 164,000 transactions and identified opportunities to enhance controls, employee training, and security measures. The department acted on the recommendations, including updating its policies and procedures manual, training staff, and implementing new safeguards such as additional cameras, blind deposit protocols, and tighter ticket tracking software.
 
“We take financial transparency and operational integrity very seriously,” said Monroe County Administrator Christine Hurley. “The improvements implemented by Solid Waste demonstrate our ongoing commitment to accountability and the responsible stewardship of public resources.”
 
Key improvements include new locking cash drawers, enhanced ticket issuance procedures to prevent errors, and strengthened training requirements for all scale operators. The department also improved oversight of voided and held tickets, customer communication practices, and improved current signage to reduce potential misunderstandings at transfer stations.
 
“Our team is dedicated to continuous improvement, and we appreciate a thorough review,” said Monroe County Solid Waste Director Cheryl Sullivan. “We’ve put in place numerous measures to make our operations more secure, consistent, and customer-friendly.”
 
The department will continue to monitor its processes to ensure compliance. For more information on Monroe County Solid Waste, visit www.monroecounty-fl.gov/solidwaste.

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