MTAS was asked whether the grant of a franchise to a water utility is necessary for the utility to operate within the municipality.

The process of closing the books for the year is just that, a process. It is an ongoing process. To efficiently close the books by the end of August, the books should be kept current and accurate. In other words, monthly reconciliations are a crucial part of the year-end close, because much less research and work will be required if errors, adjustments and routine items are reconciled monthly. It makes the year-end process much less time consuming.

This document should be a general guideline as every city will have different processes and general ledger accounts. This guide is simply a tool to facilitate the process and provide a systematic approach. The process must be repeated for every fund.

This guide also includes an accompanying “Fiscal Year-End Checklist for Closing and Annual Audit” spreadsheet linked below. 

MTAS was asked to prepare an opinion on conflict of interests and property purchase.

MTAS was asked whether the city's governing body could rescind an appointment to the utility board.

MTAS was asked whether members of the city's utility board are required to be residents of the city.

MTAS was asked whether the City can charge different, higher sewer and water rates to certain areas of the City and charge a twenty-five percent surcharge to connect to the municipal water and sewer system in this same area.

MTAS was asked whether municipalities can mandate certain utility (sewer, water, electric, gas) hookups.

MTAS was asked to research the power of the city to require an electric cooperative to pay franchise fees.

MTAS was asked whether the mayor's business should be prohibited from doing any work for the city.

MTAS was asked under what authority municipalities charge sewer tap fees.