The City of Pasco places a high value on the diligence and thorough work conducted by the State Auditor's Office. We highly regard the findings concerning the Downtown Pasco Development Authority (DPDA). This independent entity has been instrumental in downtown Pasco's revitalization and economic development. The City has a long-standing partnership with DPDA, providing funding and support to foster a vibrant downtown community, recognizing the essential role DPDA has played in our community's growth.
In 2023, we took proactive steps to enhance DPDA's effectiveness and operational transparency. These steps included working closely with the DPDA, implementing prior audit recommendations, and improving financial management practices. Following the resignation of the DPDA director in June 2023, the City took a more direct role in managing the Pasco Farmers' Market and the Pasco Specialty Kitchen, ensuring these critical community assets continued to thrive and serve our residents effectively, as well as management of the popular Cinco de Mayo and Fiery Foods Festival events.
The City Council is deeply committed to ensuring the financial health and accountability of our partnerships and the entities we support. In alignment with this commitment and given the recent findings by the State Auditor's Office, the City Council will be deliberating on the future of our relationship with the DPDA. This discussion is scheduled for the upcoming City Council Workshop on February 12.
We are dedicated to transparency, accountability, and the prudent use of public resources. To that end, the City will continue to work with the State Auditor's Office and any other relevant authority for a full accounting of the DPDA's finances. The City Council's upcoming discussion will consider the Auditor's findings as a critical factor in determining the path forward for the DPDA, ensuring that our decisions reflect our commitment to Pasco's prosperity and well-being.
The City of Pasco appreciates the community's patience and support as we navigate these important decisions. We remain steadfast in enhancing the quality of life in downtown Pasco and our City, fostering economic development and community engagement in all we do.
Adam Lincoln, City Manager
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