Grafton says state auditors will help reconcile books after missing 2025 report

Mayor Duke told the Village of Grafton council on March 17 that state auditors will consult with village staff to reconcile the town's accounts after payroll and unpaid-bill problems came to light.

Village Administrator Andrew Lipian said the village is currently in violation because an end-of-year report for 2025 was not prepared and that an extension filing was missed by the previous treasurer. Lipian said the village is pursuing a late extension and estimated roughly a 50% chance of success.

Until the auditors complete reconciliation, officials said the exact balance in the contingency fund cannot be confirmed; the council reported a working figure of $2.9 million but indicated that is provisional pending audit adjustments. Lipian also said the auditor consulting team will assist staff in reconciling outstanding accounts and payroll issues.

During public comment, resident Leo Guggenbiller asked whether the village would face fines for the late filing. The transcript records that those late fees will be taken from the responsible official's pocket; the remark is recorded without a named speaker providing that assurance.

Lipian said staff will meet after spring break with Midview's interim supervisor to discuss creating a path or trailhead from Grafton to the school as a separate, non‑financial item. The council did not take any formal financial action at the meeting beyond approving routine measures and referring reconciliation work to the auditors.