An outside auditor has issued a positive opinion on Seattle City Light financial statements, the highest assurance that can be given...At a glance, this news appears to be in sharp contrast to state auditor reports released earlier this month that concluded the utility exercised inadequate controls over its reduced-rate programs. more ›

With all the audits going on around town, it's no surprise to hear the next taxpayer rip-off comes courtesy of the Washington State Department of Transportation. A routine payroll review of overtime accrual reports uncovered a WSDOT employee jerry-rigging the payroll system for the past two years, allowing her to snag at least $67,000 in unearned overtime and compensation time. Currently, the case is undergoing an audit and investigation for potential criminal charges. In the meantime, WSDOT has decided to update their system, so that no one can adjust their own payroll records in the future. Smart move. more ›