A pair of state audits found financial reporting gaps and procurement issues at the Middlesex Fire District, raising concerns about transparency and purchasing practices.
The audits, released by the New York State Comptroller’s Office, examined the district’s financial reporting and purchasing activity over multiple years.
Financial transparency gaps
Auditors found the district failed to file required annual financial reports (AFRs) with the state for several years, limiting public visibility into its finances.
According to the audit, AFRs for fiscal years 2019 through 2024 were not filed as of late 2025, with some reports more than 2,000 days overdue.
While the district’s treasurer did provide monthly and annual reports to the board, the missing state filings meant residents, taxpayers, and regulators lacked a complete picture of the district’s financial condition.
The comptroller’s office said the failure to file those reports diminishes transparency and accountability.
Procurement problems identified
A separate audit found the district did not consistently follow state law or its own policies when purchasing goods and services.
Auditors highlighted a $564,065 tanker truck purchase that was not competitively bid. District officials classified the purchase as an emergency, but auditors said they could not demonstrate that the situation met the legal criteria required to bypass bidding.
The report also found officials did not seek quotes for 14 purchases totaling $82,727, as required by policy. In some cases, auditors said the district could have saved thousands of dollars by using state contracts for equipment purchases.
Overall, auditors concluded the district did not ensure purchases were made in the most economical manner, increasing the risk of overspending and reducing assurances for taxpayers.
District response and next steps
District officials acknowledged some shortcomings and said they have begun taking corrective steps.
In response to the audits, officials said they are working to file overdue financial reports, update internal policies, and improve documentation of purchasing decisions. They also indicated plans to consult legal counsel on procurement matters and refine long-term equipment planning.
State officials require the district to submit a corrective action plan within 90 days outlining how it will address the findings.
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