Audit prompts review of BGS energy program; department says staffing is being filled

Members of the Appropriations Committee pressed BGS about an auditor's report on the department’s energy program and its staffing levels.

"I'm sure they're gonna ask us about the auditor's report," Manoli said, and she and deputy director Emily described the audit as identifying areas for process improvement while also highlighting program successes and legislative reporting obligations.

Committee members noted long‑running vacancies in energy project manager roles that limited project throughput. Emily said those positions had been hard to fill but reported that "we just had someone start. I'm an energy program manager project manager who I met yesterday. We're really excited to have him on board," and added the department is actively hiring to fill additional vacancies.

Manoli said the energy program files an annual legislative report with project-level numbers and revolving‑fund details; she offered to provide the committee with those reports and additional data so lawmakers could review energy savings measures and staffing implications.

The committee asked for follow‑up briefings specifically on energy metrics; BGS agreed to return with staff to discuss details. The department did not dispute the audit findings but described some differences in interpretation and said fixes are underway.