A state audit (see below) has found that Village of Penn Yan officials failed to properly approve, monitor, and control overtime costs at the village’s water treatment plant (WTP), potentially resulting in unnecessary costs to ratepayers.
According to the audit, WTP employees accrued $338,108 in overtime between June 1, 2021, and November 22, 2024 — representing 28 to 32 percent of the total $1.1 million in wages paid during that period. The report found that the current Chief Water Operator was responsible for 63 percent of non-weekend overtime, totaling $89,667.
Auditors also noted that the Department of Public Works Director and Deputy Director failed to approve overtime hours in advance, as required by the Village’s employee handbook.
The report includes six recommendations aimed at reducing excessive overtime and controlling pension-related costs tied to overtime earnings. Village officials agreed with the findings and indicated that corrective measures are either underway or planned.
Have all the Finger Lakes news from Finger Lakes News Radio delivered to your email every morning for FREE! Sign up by clicking here
