Commissioners approve $1.58 million in claims amid continuing dispute over claim certification

Delaware County commissioners voted Monday to approve $1,584,157.22 in claims and to authorize payroll totaling $1,053,368.37, but the approvals were accompanied by a sharp exchange about internal controls and certification procedures.

A commissioner explained he had not signed or certified certain claims earlier in the year and said he remained concerned that some credit-card charges and other claims were not following the county’s established process. "I don't know why we continue to approve claims where we're not following our own process," he said, urging a review of the credit-card ordinance and the certification workflow.

County staff acknowledged the concern and said they would review certification procedures. Commissioners discussed the operational need to make timely payments — including a card payment due on the 15th — and said they would consider a special meeting if necessary to avoid service disruptions.

The board also approved ARP claims of $4,426.49 (including a consultant payment and software subscription) and noted the county paid property taxes on properties it holds ($36,393.40) and made other fund distributions such as EDIT disbursements of $405,629.98.

Next steps: staff will review audit and certification procedures and present any recommended changes; commissioners may schedule a special meeting if payment deadlines require immediate action.