The program will include: • One-on-one mentorship, both in-person and virtually • Comprehensive training manual including checklists, templates, and other practical tools for finance staff • On-demand training videos and written guidance via blog posts and other publications • Small group training when possible • Catch-up bookkeeping services, if needed • Auditor procurement, if needed The League has seen how towns across the state have struggled in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters and competing in an economy where costs have continued to increase. In addition to frequent staff turnover, which can contribute to a town getting behind with its bookkeeping and audits, finding auditors who can complete its annual audits has proved difficult for many small-town governments. These factors can play into towns falling behind on the required audits and then needing to put in additional work to get caught up and remain on target. In preparation for this program’s launch, the League hosted dinners across the state to introduce the AIM program to towns, receive feedback and allow attendees to ask questions. The Town of Bailey was at one of these dinners. Bailey’s town clerk, Joel Killion, shared his initial impression of the program. “AIM, it seems, will be a one-stop shop for all your needs, no matter what they are ... I do not know that there is anything I can ask them that they cannot find me an answer for, which is really nice,” Killion said. “I wish this had been in place two years ago.” The Town of Newport also attended one of the AIM program dinners and Newport Mayor Dennis Barber emphasized his staff’s excitement over being a part of the launch of this program. ARP Corner AIM, it seems, will be a one-stop shop for all your needs, no matter what they are ... I do not know that there is anything I can ask them that they cannot find me an answer for, which is really nice. I wish this had been in place two years ago. » Joel Killion, Town Clerk, Bailey continues on page 17 NCLM Deputy Director for Municipal Accounting Services, Diane Seaford NCLM.ORG 15
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Nzc3ODM=