The City of Maywood is facing some tough financial challenges, but is already on the road to recovery, judging from a recent report released by the Office of the California State Auditor. The twelve-month review—which examined Maywood’s finances, operational structure, oversight, management controls and practices—placed the blame on Maywood’s former city manager, mayor and city council for a lack of oversight and a violation of fiduciary obligations.
“Specifically, the city council did not monitor the performance of a former city manager but continued to approve generous contract amendments for the individual,” the report found. “As a result, it allowed numerous financial and administrative problems, such as a failure to maximize revenues and lack of the most rudimentary internal controls, to remain uncorrected.” Consequently, the city has had to grapple with massive debt and other pressing fiscal problems.
The city manager at that that time was Lilian Myers. She was removed last year by the newly-elected city council. The former council consisted of Mayor Eduardo de la Riva and Councilmembers Oscar Magana, Veronica Guardado, Ricardo Villarreal and Thomas Martin.
City officials are now working earnestly to get Maywood back on track. The city has already begun strengthening its accounting practices and protocols, heeding the recommendations of the auditor, according to acting City Administrator Reuben Martinez.
“With the support from the city council and advice from a professional financial expert we’re moving forward to adopt and implement sound accounting and operational procedures that will bring the city back from the brink of financial ruin,” said Martinez.