The following was submitted by Orcas Island Fire and Rescue.

The residents of Orcas Island can be comfortable in knowing that not just their safety and emergency medical needs are well taken care of, but so are their financial contributions to Orcas Island Fire and Rescue.

The state of Washington’s Office of the State Auditor conducted a bi-annual audit that covered the period of Jan. 1, 2016 through Dec. 31, 2017 under the authority of RCW43.09.260. The intent of the audit is to obtain evidence about the district’s uses of public resources, compliance with state laws and regulations and its own policies and procedures and internal controls over such matters. The audit report can be found at http://www.sao.wa.gov.

The audit report, published Jan. 10, 2019, was presented at the Board of Fire Commissioners meeting on Jan. 22, 2019. The commissioners acknowledged the receipt of the audit report and also the exit interview conducted with the auditors. Not only did the audit demonstrate zero findings of deficiencies, but the auditors’ comments about the efficiency, responsiveness and overall performance of the department were glowing.

Commissioner Tim Fuller, who participated in the exit interview, said, “The auditors’ report and statement of the department and staff could not have been more complimentary and glowing. They have a lot to be proud of.”

The commissioners would like to recognize the chief and the staff of Orcas Island Fire and Rescue for their exceptional work.