By Trey Davis

Posted: October 17, 2012

Office of Oklahoma State Auditor and Inspector

OKLAHOMA CITY - State Auditor Gary Jones released the performance audit requested by Governor Mary Fallin of the Native American Cultural and Education Authority (NACEA) today.

“The purpose of a performance audit is to provide a tool to improve efficiencies and correct ineffective practices,” said State Auditor Gary Jones. “While the audit may be critical in nature, the end result is to propose solutions to put the entity on solid ground with recommendations to enhance its operations.”

The audit report noted the NACEA Board had a vision of the American Indian Cultural Center and Museum (AICCM) as a world-class facility based on unrealistic expectations from both the board and the legislature.

“The board chose the most expensive of six proposals presented by its architect,” Jones said. “They decided to build a $169 million facility when only $5 million in funding had been secured. Throughout the years, although additional funding was not forthcoming, the board maintained its commitment to the most expensive plan.”

“Our lawmakers need to play a greater role in its oversight by first making the NACEA an independent agency instead of an entity receiving pass-through funding through the Department of Commerce. Operational independence by NACEA will lead to enhanced accountability. Legislative involvement could lead to increased interest in the AICCM and, ultimately, its completion and operation.”

The full report is available on the State Auditor’s web site at www.sai.ok.gov.