Steuben County officials failed to effectively manage the county’s fund balance, a recent audit from New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli shows.
The audit showed that, as of December 31, 2024, the county held $103.4 million in unrestricted funds in the general fund—equal to 48% of the next year’s budget—and $15.5 million in the road fund, or 53% of its budget.
According to the audit, the county legislature had not adopted a clear fund balance policy or developed a comprehensive, written multiyear financial or capital plan.
Following initial discussions with the Comptroller’s office, the legislature updated its administrative code to set a maximum general fund balance goal and adopt a formal reserve fund policy. In July 2025, the county also established and funded new reserves, significantly reducing its unrestricted fund balance.
The complete report can be found below:
