Catawba County News
Catawba County 101
Published: January 30, 2026
MAKING. LIVING. BETTER: Finance
Briefly describe the area you are spotlighting. What is its mission/purpose?
Cash Management, Financial Reporting, & Internal Audit
Cash Management, Financial Reporting, and Internal Audit are critical functions of the County’s Finance Department. The goal is to ensure these services are provided in a timely and accurate manner, in full compliance with applicable regulations. These functions support the responsible management of public funds while maintaining transparency and accountability in financial transactions and reporting.
How do you achieve your mission – what services are offered?
Cash Management
A primary responsibility of the Finance Department is the effective management of County cash resources. Cash management ensures that sufficient funds are available to meet operational needs and support the timely delivery of public services. To maximize fiscal resources, Finance staff invest idle funds through the purchase of investment securities. NC General Statute 159-30 restricts the types of investment securities in which local governments may invest. Local governments cannot invest in the stock market. In compliance with NC requirements, Catawba County’s investment portfolio includes U.S. Treasury securities, U.S. Government agency securities, certificates of deposit, investments in the NC Capital Management Trust, and state authorized local government investment pools. Finance staff currently manage approximately $240 million in investments.
Financial Reporting
Finance staff prepare regular financial reports to monitor the use of public funds and ensure fiscal responsibility as well as to meet required financial reporting to a number of federal and state agencies. Some examples include the State Treasurer, federal grantor agencies, and the Securities and Exchange Commission. NC statute requires an annual audit of financial statements and completion of an annual financial report. The Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) provides a comprehensive overview of the County’s financial position. This report supports informed decision-making related to budgeting, financial planning, and provision of public services, while also promoting transparency and accountability. The ACFR is prepared in accordance with Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) requirements and is audited by an independent auditing firm. To further enhance public understanding, Finance staff also produce a Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR). This report presents a simplified and accessible summary of the County’s financial information for residents without specialized knowledge of government finance. Catawba County is among a limited number of governments in North Carolina that publish a PAFR.
Internal Audit
In addition to the annual independent external audit, Finance staff conduct internal audits on a periodic basis. These internal reviews evaluate compliance with established financial policies, procedures, and internal controls. The internal audit function plays an important role in protecting public resources by identifying potential instances of fraud, waste, or misuse. It also assesses operational efficiency and recommends improvements across County departments, supporting effective and accountable government operations.
Who does this department/service area/program serve?
These areas serve both County leadership as well as the citizenry by providing clear and accurate financial information. Through the preparation and distribution of financial reports, citizens are able to see how public funds are managed, ensuring transparency, and accountability.
How many staff members are involved in delivering services?
5 Employees