HomeMy WebLinkAboutR22-086 Adopting the Financial Policies Manual DocuSign Envelope ID:8CCA6127-6FE7-40C4-8A51-6B2834B98A2B
Commissioner chandler-Henry moved adoption
of the following Resolution:
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
COUNTY OF EAGLE, STATE OF COLORADO
RESOLUTION NO. 2022 - 086
RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE FLNANCIAL POLICIES MANUAL
WHEREAS,the Board of County Commissioners of the County of Eagle, State of Colorado
(hereinafter"the Board"),is empowered by Section 30-11-107 et. seq.: C.KS.,to make such orders
concerning the County's financial matters,budgetary and otherwise;
WHEREAS,Eagle County's financial policies serve as the foundation for long and short-term
planning and are intended to facilitate decision making and provide direction to staff for handling the
county's financial business.; and
WHEREAS, due to the broad and diverse nature of the county's offices and departments, it is
critical to have written and clearly defined policies that will serve to maintain and enhance the sound
fiscal condition of Eagle County Government and its affiliates; and
WHEREAS,All policies are written to ensure compliance with applicable state statutes,
generally accepted accounting principles, and Government Accounting Standards Board rules_ They
combine Government Financial Officers Association best practice recommendations with Board of
County Commissioner desires to ensure a workable financial strategy for the organization;and
WHEREAS,the Board desires to adopt a Financial Policies Manual which contains the
following financial policies:Budget Policy Financial Reporting Policy,Business Expense Policy,
Purchasing Card Policy, Procurement Policy,Payroll Policy,Employee Gifts Polices,Fund Balance Policy,
Grants Policy,Capital Improvements Fund Policy, Signature Authorization Policy, Emergency Spending
Authorization Policy;Emergency Incident Funding Policy,Risk Management Policy,and Debt Policy;
and
WHEREAS, individual policies may be updated from time to time and added to the manual upon
approval by the BoCC.
NOW THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF THE COUNTY OF EAGLE, STATE OF COLORADO:
THAT,the Financial Policies Manual, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit"A",be and
is hereby adopted as of the date of this Resolution.
THAT,the previous financial policies as outlined in the Financial Policy Version Control Section
of the Manual be and are hereby repealed as of the date of this Resolution.
THAT,the Board hereby finds,determines and declares that this Resolution is necessary for the
public health, safety and welfare of the residents of the County of Eagle, State of Colorado.
DocuSign Envelope ID:8CCA6127-6FE7-40C4-8A51-6B2834B98A2B
MOVED,READ AND ADOPTED by the Board of County Commissioners of the County of
Eagle: State of Colorado; at its regular meeting held the 1st day of November, 2022
DocuSigned by:
Al thST: ``�"``°°y3 COUNTY OF EAGLE, STATE OF
COLOR-ADO,By and Through Its
�a°Ra/ BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
DocuSigned by: \ r—DocuSigned by:
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ClerhaectloA9Board of 5eannecMtQweeney
County Commissioners Chair
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h ia-Henry
Commissioner
DocuSigned by:
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Commissioner
Commissioner Scherr seconded adoption of the foregoing resolution_ The roll having
been called, the vote was as follows:
Commissioner McQueeney Aye
Commissioner Chandler-Henry Aye
Commissioner Scherr Aye
This resolution passed by 3/0 vote of the Board of County Commissioners of
the County of Eagle. State of Colorado.
2
DocuSign Envelope ID:8CCA6127-6FE7-40C4-8A51-6B2834B98A2B
EAGLE COU NTY
EAGLE COUNTY GOVERNMENT
FINANCIAL POLICIES
DocuSign Envelope ID:8CCA6127-6FE7-40C4-8A51-6B2834B98A2B
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE
TABLE OF CONTENTS 2
EAGLE COUNTY FINANCIAL POLICIES INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE 5
BUDGET POLICY 6
Budget Timelines 6
Relationship to Goals and Objectives 6
Budget Basis 6
Balanced Budget 6
Budget Control Level 6
Supplemental Budget Requests 6
Managing Budgets 7
Revenue and Expenditures 7
Long-Term Financial Planning 7
Responsibilities Summary 8
FINANCIAL REPORTING POLICY 9
Independent Audit 9
Fund Accounting 9
Basis of Accounting 9
Capital Assets 9
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Investments 9
Revenue/Accounts Receivable 9
Expenditures/Accounts Payable 10
Leases 10
Interfund Transactions 10
Fund Equity Classifications 10
End of Year Processes 10
Internal Controls 10
Responsibilities Summary 11
BUSINESS EXPENSE POLICY 12
Eligibility for Business Expenses 12
Allowable Costs 12
Non-Allowable Costs 12
Receipts 12
Failure to Follow Policy 12
Responsibilities Summary 13
PURCHASING CARD POLICY 14
Eligibility for a Purchasing Card 14
Allowable Use 14
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Non-Allowable Use 14
Receipts 14
Responsibilities Summary 15
PROCUREMENT POLICY 16
Purchasing 16
Selection Criteria 16
Exceptions 16
Contracts 17
Responsibilities Summary 17
PAYROLL POLICY 18
Human Resources and Finance Roles 18
Payroll Schedule and Approvals 18
Payroll Discrepancies 18
Non-Wage Payments to Employees 18
Payments to Elected Officials 18
Severance Agreements 18
Responsibilities Summary 19
EMPLOYEE GIFTS POLICIES 20
Gifts to Employees from Eagle County Government 20
Gifts from other entities/outside individuals 21
Responsibilities Summary 21
FUND BALANCE POLICY 22
Background and Definitions 22
Fund Balance Analysis and Reporting 22
Minimum Fund Balance 22
Excess Fund Balance 23
Use and Replenishment of Funds 23
Responsibilities Summary 23
GRANTS POLICY 24
Grants Identification and Application 24
Budgeting and Recording Grants 24
Managing Grant Compliance Requirements 24
Failure to Follow Policy 24
Responsibilities Summary 25
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND POLICY 26
Eligible Expenditures 26
CIP Committee 26
Long Range Capital Planning 26
Responsibilities Summary 26
SIGNATURE AUTHORITY POLICY 27
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Signature Authority 27
Other Board Authority 27
Approval and Reporting 27
Responsibilities Summary 27
EMERGENCY SPENDING AUTHORIZATION POLICY 28
Emergency Spending Authorization 28
Notification and Appropriation 28
Responsibilities Summary 29
EMERGENCY INCIDENT FUNDING POLICY 30
Emergency Incident Budget 30
Eligibility For Emergency Incident Funding 30
Responsibilities Summary 30
RISK MANAGEMENT POLICY 31
Goal and Function 31
Enterprise Risk Management 31
Insurance 31
Responsibilities Summary 32
DEBT POLICY 33
Use of Financing Tools 33
Types of Financing 33
Debt Limits 33
Debt Structuring and Issuance Practices 33
Debt Compliance and Reporting 34
Responsibilities Summary 34
FINANCIAL POLICY VERSION CONTROL 35
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EAGLE COUNTY FINANCIAL POLICIES
INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE
EFFECTIVE DATE: 11/01/2022
EAGLE COUNTY POLICY STATEMENT: Eagle County's financial policies serve as the foundation
for long-and short-term planning,facilitate decision making, and provide
direction to staff for handling the county's financial business.
Eagle County's financial policies serve as the foundation for long-and short-term planning and are intended to
facilitate decision making and provide direction to staff for handling the county's financial business. Due to the
broad and diverse nature of the county's offices and departments, it is critical to have written and clearly defined
policies that will serve to maintain and enhance the sound fiscal condition of Eagle County Government and its
affiliates.All policies are written to ensure compliance with applicable state statutes,generally accepted
accounting principles, and Government Accounting Standards Board rules. They combine Government Financial
Officers Association best practice recommendations with Board of County Commissioner desires to ensure a
workable financial strategy for the organization.
The policies within this manual formalize the Board of County Commissioners("BoCC")direction regarding financial
management of the Eagle County organization. No set of policies can anticipate every circumstance or question.
Deviation from these policies should be done only when there is good cause and after consultation with the County
Manager.These policies may be amended by the Board of County Commissioners from time to time.
Knowingly and willfully failing to adhere to these policies is a serious matter that may result in disciplinary action up
to and including termination of employment.
This policy manual is intended to give high level guidance about how Eagle County Government operates, and
should be read in conjunction with the Eagle County Financial Procedures Manual.The procedures manual gives
step by step detail about how to implement these financial policies.The procedures manual will be updated from
time to time by the Chief Financial Officer with input from the County Manager's office. No BoCC approval is
necessary to modify, add to, or delete items from the procedures manual.
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BUDGET POLICY
EFFECTIVE DATE: 11/01/2022
POLICY STATEMENT: Eagle County's budget policy sets direction for the proper
budgeting of county funds. In compliance with Colorado state statutes, Eagle
EAGLE COUNTY County will adopt an annual balanced budget for all of its related funds and
entities.The policy requires that budgets are prepared, approved, recorded,
and adjusted with proper authorization.
Budget Timelines
Eagle County's fiscal and budget year runs from January 1 to December 31. December 15 is the statutory
deadline for adoption of the county's annual budget. December 22 is the statutory deadline for the BoCC to
certify all mill levies.
Relationship to Goals and Objectives
Department budgets should be developed with the purpose of furthering the goals and objectives of a BoCC
adopted strategic plan and/or elected office priorities.
Budget Basis
The budget is developed using the modified accrual basis. In this budget method, revenues are budgeted when we
believe the cash will be received and expenditures are budgeted when the disbursements are made. The receipt of
long-term debt proceeds, capital outlays, and debt service principal payments are shown in these budget
documents, however no allocations are made for depreciation or amortization expenses.Any items that may be
reported as"other financing sources"and"other financing uses" under the GAAP basis of accounting are classified
as revenues and expenditures under the budgetary basis of accounting.The modified accrual method of accounting
differs from the generally accepted accounting principles(GAAP) method which is used to prepare the county's
annual comprehensive financial report, so each year we make a reconciliation between full and modified accrual
within the annual comprehensive financial report document.
Balanced Budget
Each of the county funds and entities must present a balanced budget to the finance department for adoption by
the BoCC.This means that budgeted expenditures cannot exceed available resources plus beginning fund balance.
The use of fund balance should only be proposed as a resource if the ending fund balance target is met, and then
only for supporting non-recurring expenditures.The use of debt for major capital projects may be considered by the
BoCC. Interfund borrowings may occur for temporary cash flow reasons and are generally not intended to result in
a transfer of financial resources.Any interfund borrowings from one fund to another must be approved by the
BoCC by resolution.
Budget Control Level
The BoCC appropriates expenditures by fund. No fund may expend, or contract to expend, any monies in excess of
the amount appropriated in the budget resolution.To assist leaders in complying with this restriction, budget
software is set to control spending at the account classification level. Departments may request a budget transfer to
move spending authority from one account to another without increasing overall fund expenditures. Budget
transfers can be approved by the Chief Financial Officer(or designee)without further BoCC approval. Budget
transfers cannot be made between funds, only within a particular fund.
Supplemental Budget Requests
Supplemental requests for funding will be heard by the BoCC on an as needed basis. The purpose of a
supplemental request is to increase a fund's overall spending authority. Supplemental requests should be made
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when unanticipated spending needs have arisen after the annual budget was adopted and the requesting
department cannot reasonably accommodate the request within its current appropriation. Unanticipated revenue
may be added to a supplemental budget request. Significant known decreases in revenue(ie. anticipated grant
revenue that will not be received, changes in economic conditions that indicate lower than expected revenue, etc.)
may be added to a supplemental budget request.
All unspent appropriations lapse at year end. Unspent funds for capital and other significant projects may be
carried forward into the subsequent year's budget through the supplemental budget request process.
Managing Budgets
Department heads and elected officials are responsible for managing their expenditures at the classification
level within the appropriation authorized. Departments/offices should be prudent and strive to stay within
budget,while being allowed the flexibility to deploy the appropriate resources to meet changing environments
and client and/or commissioner needs through the supplemental budget request process.
Periodic financial reports may be submitted to the BoCC to inform them of actual to budget performance of any
departments or funds.
Revenue and Expenditures
Eagle County endeavors to maintain a diversified and stable revenue base to shelter it from short-term fluctuations
in any one revenue source. Departments and offices should review fees and charges to assure the cost of providing
service is analyzed and appropriate fees are charged. In cases where fees do not cover the cost of the service,
departments and offices should consult with the Chief Financial Officer to determine appropriate fees. One-time
revenue should not be used for continuing expenses.
Expenditures should be budgeted at a level that will balance available revenue sources with meeting the BoCC's
strategic plan or elected official priority. Competing interests may need to be prioritized to meet long-term financial
plans and balanced budget policies. Expenditures and related programs should be reviewed from time to time to
determine whether they continue to provide the desired level of impact to the organization or community and to
ensure they are being offered in the most cost effective manner.
Long-Term Financial Planning
Long-term financial plans should be established and updated from time to time.The intent of these plans is to allow
decision makers to focus on long-term objectives, to encourage strategic thinking, and to provide a guide for
decision making. Long-term plans should project revenues, expenses,financial position, and external factors for all
key funds and government operations at least five years into the future. Capital projects should be considered as
part of the long-term financial planning for all county operations.
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Responsibilities Summary
BoCC • Appropriate budgets by fund.
• Approve all supplemental budget requests.
County Manager • Serves as Budget Officer.
• Delegates budget compilation, supplemental request preparation and
budget transfer approvals to Chief Financial Officer.
Department Heads and • Submit annual budget proposals.
Elected Officials • Submit supplemental budget requests and budget transfer requests to the
finance department.
• Manage budget to stay within spending authority.
• Works with the finance department to establish long-term plans.
Department Fiscal Staff • Assist department heads and elected officials with responsibilities outlined
above.
Finance Department • Draft and submit annual and supplemental budgets to BoCC and Budget
Officer in accordance with state statute.
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FINANCIAL REPORTING POLICY
EFFECTIVE DATE: 11/01/2022
POLICY STATEMENT: Eagle County's financial reporting policy establishes
standards for the aggregation of fiscal information into the county's financial
EAGLE COUNTY statements in accordance with state and federal regulations.
Independent Audit
An independent audit will be performed annually in accordance with state law. The county's financial system will be
maintained in conformance with generally accepted accounting principles(GAAP),which are established by the
Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB). Each year,the county will produce an annual comprehensive
financial report(ACFR) in conformance with GAAP and Government Finance Officers Association recommendations.
In lieu of establishing an audit committee,the independent auditor will present the results of each year's annual
audit to the full Board of County Commissioners in a public meeting.
Fund Accounting
Eagle County accounts for its broad and diverse offices and departments within separate funds, each of which is a
fiscal and accounting entity.The county's financials will include the county's primary funds along with blended
component units(legally separate entities that are, in substance, part of the county's operations)and discretely
presented component units(which are presented in a manner to emphasize that they are legally separate from the
county).
Basis of Accounting
Both the governmental and business type activities in the government-wide financial statements and the
proprietary fund financial statements are presented on the full accrual basis of accounting. The basis for accounting
for governmental funds in the fund level financial statements is modified accrual.
Capital Assets
Assets acquired and owned by the county and its components having a value of$10,000 or more and a life
expectancy of greater than one year, as well as capital leases, may be considered a fixed asset by the county.The
capitalization limit is$5,000 for items purchased with federal grant dollars.A physical inventory of property is
required on an annual basis.
Cash. Cash Equivalents, and Investments
Except for cash held for third parties and cash held by separate legal entities, all cash is deposited with the county
Treasurer. The county defines cash and cash equivalents as amount in demand deposits as well as short-term,
highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less.All investments are made in accordance
with the county's Investment Policy.
Revenue/Accounts Receivable
Revenues received must be deposited on a regular basis,generally daily or weekly, depending upon volume of
receipts. Department heads are responsible for reviewing revenue collections to ensure accuracy.
Revenues from grants often need to be accounted for in a particular manner and federal grant dollars need to be
included in the county's Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards. See the Grants Policy for additional detail.
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Expenditures/Accounts Payable
All contracts for expenditures must be executed in accordance with county policies. Procurement procedures
should be followed, and all necessary supporting documents should be maintained within the appropriate financial
software prior to making payments. Payments can be made by using a purchasing card or electronically through
utilizing the county's financial software.Vendor payments are controlled and processed by the finance department.
Departments and offices should notify the Eagle County Treasurer in advance of large payments(typically over
$500,000).
Leases
Leases,whether Eagle County is the lessor or the lessee, require special accounting. Departments should inform the
finance department of the terms and conditions of any lease into which it enters.
Interfund Transactions
Interfund services provided and used are accounted for as revenues, expenditures, or expenses and recorded as
either due from other funds or due to other funds on a fund's balance sheet when it is expected to be liquidated
within a year. For receivables/payables that are not expected to be liquidated after one year, the items are classified
as advances to or from other funds.
Fund Equity Classifications
GAAP financial statements report up to five separate categories of fund balance based on the type and source of
constraints placed on how the resources can be spent. Fund balance classifications include nonspendable,
restricted, committed, assigned and unassigned. Unassigned fund balance is a residual classification within the
general fund, which is the only fund that reports a positive unassigned balance. In all other funds, unassigned fund
balance is limited to negative fund balance. Budgetary fund balance,while it is subject to the same constraints on
spending as GAAP fund balance, typically represents simply the total amount accumulated from prior years at a
given point in time.
End of Year Processes
The finance department works to ensure that all revenues and expenditures are recorded in the proper accounting
period. Revenues earned in the previous year will be recorded in that year if they are received within 60 days after
year end. Expenditure-driven grant revenues should be recorded in the same year the expenditure was incurred,
regardless of the 60-day requirement. Purchases are recorded in the year in which the product or service was
received regardless of when the payment was made. Departments should take care to enter revenues and
expenditures appropriately to ensure they are recorded in the correct year.
Internal Controls
A comprehensive framework of internal control serves as the first line of defense in safeguarding assets and
preventing and detecting errors and fraud. Management control and oversight is integral in the effective
stewardship of public resources.
The County Manager and the department heads or elected officials,with guidance from the Chief Financial
Officer, are primarily responsible for the appropriate internal control of all county assets and financial
transactions. Internal control is a major part of managing an organization and works to ensure effectiveness and
efficiency of operations, reliability of financial reporting, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.All
staff are expected to comply with auditor requests and finance staff recommendations to achieve the best
possible controls while weighing the cost of such controls.
If any employee suspects financial fraud or abuse,they should address their concerns with a supervisor,
department director, elected official, County Manager's office, or the finance or human resources department.
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Responsibilities Summary
Department Heads and • Approve revenue collections and accounts payable entries.
Elected Officials • Manage internal control processes within your department/office.
• Comply with end of year processes.
• Notify Eagle County Treasurer prior to large payment requests.
Department Fiscal Staff • Enter revenue collections and accounts payable entries. Review all backup
data for accuracy and completeness.
• Reviews and understands financial policies and procedures.
Finance Department • Final approval of revenue collections and bill payments.
• Review department level entries and make adjustments as needed.
• Make recommendations for internal control improvements.
• Train fiscal staff in financial reporting procedures.
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BUSINESS EXPENSE POLICY
EFFECTIVE DATE: 11/01/2022
POLICY STATEMENT: Eagle County's travel and business expense policy
EAGLE COUNTY establishes standards for allowing the use of purchasing cards or reimbursing
employees for business related expenditures that are incurred while
performing specific job duties. Employees should neither gain nor lose personal
funds due to a reasonable business expense.
Eligibility for Business Expenses
A county employee is eligible to use a purchasing card or to be reimbursed for legitimate business expenses that
are allowed by this policy and approved in advance by their department head or elected official.The preferred
method to pay for employees'business expenses is the use of a county purchasing card.
Employees should state the business purpose of all expenditures, either through the purchasing card or the
reimbursement process. If an employee is requesting reimbursement of expenses,that request should be made
within 90 days of when the expenses were incurred.
It is the responsibility of the department head or elected official to set and enforce guidelines for their
departments/offices regarding the appropriate use of budgeted dollars for business expenses.
Allowable Costs
Actual costs of eligible business travel are allowed,with the exception of those expressly disallowed below. When a
gratuity is appropriate, no more than 20%will be allowed as a business expense. Examples of allowable costs
include: 1) meals purchased more than 50 miles of employees'home offices and not in the course of normal daily
business, 2)airline and lodging expenses when extended travel is warranted (at coach fares and mid-range hotels or
the hotel in which a training or conference is located), 3) reimbursement of mileage at the published IRS mileage
rate when an employee's personal vehicle is utilized.
Non-Allowable Costs
Alcoholic beverages, personal items, and gift card purchases are not considered eligible business expenses and
should not be reimbursed. Because parking, speeding, or other traffic tickets received by an employee, even when
on county business, are unlawful,they are considered a personal expense to be paid by the employee and are not
reimbursable.
Receipts
Itemized receipts should be maintained for all transactions. Business purpose of all expenses should be clearly
documented. IRS guidelines require the following information for business travel, meals, and entertainment:
o The amount of the purchase
o The business purpose for the purchase, and
o The names of those who participated.
Failure to Follow Policy
Fraudulent business expense reimbursement requests or misuse of an Eagle County purchasing card is a serious
matter that may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment, and may subject the
employee to legal action. It is the department head or elected official's responsibility to request reimbursement
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from the employee or deny a reimbursement request if the amount spent is considered unreasonable or proper
documentation is not submitted.
Responsibilities Summary
Department Heads and • Approve business purpose and estimated cost prior to employee incurring
Elected Officials expenses.
• Approve reimbursement requests or purchasing card charges.
Employee • Obtain approval for all business expenses.
• Maintain all itemized receipts and record all transactions either through the
purchasing card process or a reimbursement request.
Finance Department • Administer the program.
• Make payments to employees with approved reimbursement requests.
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PURCHASING CARD POLICY
EFFECTIVE DATE: 11/01/2022
POLICY STATEMENT: Eagle County utilizes a purchasing card program to
establish a more efficient method of purchasing and paying for goods and
EAGLE COUNTY services.All purchasing card transactions are available for viewing by the public.
Eligibility for a Purchasing Card
Purchasing cards will only be issued to elected officials and employees who are authorized by Eagle County to
purchase goods and services on behalf of the county. Both the name of the cardholder and the county appear on
the face of the card.The purchasing card carries corporate liability for the county but carries no liability for a
cardholder.
Allowable Use
The purchasing card provides an alternative method to pay vendors, however does not change a department or
office budget.All purchases made using a purchasing card must be properly budgeted.The total purchases for any
month shall not exceed a cardholder's authorized credit limit.
Cardholders must advise vendors that the county is exempt from paying Colorado sales and use tax.
Non-Allowable Use
The following items may not be purchased with a county purchasing card:
• Alcoholic beverages
• Personal items
• Cash advances
• Gift cards.As gift cards are similar to cash,you must have pre-approval from the finance department to
purchase gift cards regardless of the intended use. You must provide a clear plan describing the intended
purpose of the gift cards and a method of tracking distribution of the cards.
• Parking, speeding, or other traffic tickets received by an employee.
Receipts
Itemized receipts should be maintained for all transactions. IRS guidelines require the following information for
business travel, meals, and entertainment:
o The amount of the purchase
o The business purpose for the purchase, and
o The names of those who participated.
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Responsibilities Summary
Department Heads and • Approve business needs for an employee to have a card and associated
Elected Officials credit limit.
• Approve all transactions.This responsibility may be delegated, but the
department head or elected official is ultimately responsible for proper use
of cards by staff.
Cardholder • Keep the card secure.
• Call card servicer for lost or stolen card or to report fraudulent purchases.
• Maintain all itemized receipts and record all transactions.
Finance Department • Administer the program.
• Ensure payment is made to the card servicer.
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PROCUREMENT POLICY
EFFECTIVE DATE: 11/01/2022
POLICY STATEMENT: Eagle County utilizes this procurement policy to ensure
competitive pricing and rates are obtained for Eagle County and its affiliates.
EAGLE COUNTYPurchases and contracts should be completed in adherence to this policy.
Purchasing
The.intent of this policy is to ensure that Eagle County and its affiliates are entering into purchasing contracts at the
most competitive pricing possible and to ensure that any vendor has the opportunity to bid on Eagle County
projects. Procurement requirements vary based upon the expected cost and type of project as outlined in the table
below:
Definition Procurement Process
Small Projects- Projects less than No formal process required for obtaining quotes. Staff should consider
$25,000 multiple vendors to obtain the best pricing and quality available.
Mid-Sized Projects- Projects Staff should obtain at least three written quotes and maintain the quotes
between $25,001 and $75,000 and other information supporting the basis for selection.
Large Projects- Projects over Staff should publish an invitation to bid, request for proposal, or request
$75,000 for qualifications to seek pricing for these types of projects.These
documents should be posted on the Eagle County website and can also be
shared directly with potential vendors, posted in newspapers or trade
journals, or shared as determined necessary by staff. Staff should
maintain all responses and other information supporting the basis for
selection.
Any work on county highways A description of the work to be done and its location, and a reference to
valued at$50,000 or more the location holding plans and specifications for the work must be
advertised in a legal newspaper.The award is required to be made to the
lowest responsible bidder per CRS 43-2-209.
Selection Criteria
Unless otherwise required, departments have flexibility to select vendors based upon any or all of the following
criteria (this list is not an exhaustive list): local preference and experience in Eagle County, previous experience with
the vendor, minority owned business status, environmental sustainability, quality comparisons and life cycle costs,
and any other information deemed relevant by Eagle County.The lowest responsible bidder does not need to be
selected in all cases.
Exceptions
The County Manager, or their designee, can approve any exceptions to this policy for a valid business reason and
documented justification or when the process is impractical due to an emergency situation.When a single supplier
or provider has unique qualifications to provide a product or service,the County Manager, or their designee, may
approve a sole source procurement request.
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Procurement or bidding processes for State, Federal or other government contracts may be different from Eagle
County's policy. Matters that have other bidding requirements or that may be funded with state or federal funds
should follow the most restrictive process to ensure compliance.
Contracts
When practical, purchases should be documented with an Eagle County contract.All contracts entered into by Eagle
County or its affiliates must be reviewed by the Eagle County Attorney's Office prior to execution. Fully executed
contracts will be maintained by the Eagle County Attorney's Office.All contracts are executed by the Board of
County Commissioners in a public meeting unless they meet delegated limits passed by resolutions which allow for
signature by the County Manager, Executive Director of the Eagle County Housing and Development Authority, or
Aviation Director.All executed contracts are available for review by the public.
Responsibilities Summary
Department Heads and • Ensure procurement policy is followed.
Elected Officials • Provide justification for any requested exception to the County Manager.
County Manager • Approve exceptions to the policy.
• Execute contracts within signature limits.
County Attorney • Approve form of contracts.
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PAYROLL POLICY
EFFECTIVE DATE: 11/01/2022
POLICY STATEMENT: Eagle County's payroll policy establishes standards for the
compensation of county employees, including benefits. It ensures that
EAGLE COUNTY compensation and benefit payments to and for employees are properly
authorized, documented, recorded, and reported in accordance with state and
federal regulations.
Human Resources and Finance Roles
Human resources is responsible for maintaining all employee information, including personal information, benefit
selections,wage rates, and employee tax information. Finance is responsible for verification of submitted electronic
time sheets, payroll related changes and corrections from departments, and the actual processing of payroll
through the designated payroll software.
Payroll Schedule and Approvals
Payroll is processed on a biweekly basis with pay being issued on Fridays. Payroll schedules are updated at the
beginning of each year and are posted by human resources.All departments and offices must approve employee
time records and time off requests through the payroll software on a timely basis. Each department head and-
elected official may delegate the approval of time cards, however the department head or elected official is
ultimately responsible to ensure time records reflect time worked by employees.
Payroll Discrepancies
If an employee notices an error on their paycheck they should first consult their manager. If time was missing from
the check the manager will need to approve any time that should be added. If there is a problem with tax or benefit
withholdings the employee should contact the human resources department.
Non-Wage Payments to Employees
All money, gifts, and benefits paid to employees by Eagle County Government are to be included in the employee's
reported income unless otherwise excluded by the Internal Revenue Code(IRC).Any gift cards,gifts, discounts, or
benefits received by employees must be communicated to the finance department for proper review and income
reporting.
Vehicles provided to employees that are available for personal use, including commuting(ie.take-home vehicles),
require an annual analysis and potential inclusion on employees'reported income. Department heads must inform
the finance department when vehicles are available to staff for personal use.
Payments to Elected Officials
Because salaries of the county's elected officials are set by the state, no elected official may receive any additional or
non-wage payments that would cause their salary to increase over the statutorily allowed amount.
Severance Agreements
From time to time, severance agreements may be offered to employees upon separation of employment. Prior to
taking action, such agreements should be discussed with the Human Resources Director or designee.All such
agreements must be approved by the County Attorney or designee and executed by the County Manager or
designee.
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Responsibilities Summary
Department Heads and • Review and approve all time by the stated deadline.
Elected Officials
Employee • Enter all hours worked and time off requests into the payroll software.
Human Resources Department • Manage compensation and benefits programs.
• Enter and review employee information in the payroll software.
• Manage short term disability and workers compensation pay.
Finance Department • Process payroll.
• Distribute live checks.
• Ensure Internal Revenue Service rules are being followed.
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EMPLOYEE GIFTS POLICIES
EFFECTIVE DATE: 11/01/2022
POLICY STATEMENT: Eagle County's policy on employee gifts is primarily
EAGLE COUNTY meant to ensure that any gifts offered to employees are appropriately
taxed, identified, and recorded in accordance with state and federal
regulations.
Gifts to Employees from Eagle County Government
Any gifts purchased with county funds must be appropriately budgeted. Caution should be used when giving gifts,
and department heads and elected officials are discouraged from using county funds to give gifts on a regular basis.
The following table outlines the taxability of gifts that are paid for with government funds(Refer to the most recent
IRS publication Quick Reference Guide for Public Employers) :
Gift Tax Treatment Reporting Treatment
Cash (including bonus or years of Always taxed as regular income, These should be paid through
service awards) regardless of frequency or amount. regular payroll processes.
Gift cards(gift cards are considered Always taxed as regular income, The issuance of gift cards must
cash by IRS) regardless of frequency or amount. always be reported to payroll so it
gets added to employee income.
Annual/infrequent employee gift(if Not taxable No reporting is required as it is
a gift card or cash is an annual gift, considered a de minimis fringe
it is taxable per rules above) benefit as long as the value is
nominal (IRS defines de minimis as
having so little value that
accounting for it would be
unreasonable or administratively
impracticable. IRS used $100 as a
benchmark in 2001), infrequent
(annual), and not in place of
compensation.
Prizes(from drawings, etc.) Depends what the prize is. If it's If a prize has more than de minimis
cash or gift cards,then taxable. If it's value, consult with payroll to
a physical item of de minimis value, determine tax and reporting
then it is likely not taxable. treatment.
Clothing and uniforms Depends. REQUIRED uniforms such Discuss frequency,volume, and
as Sheriff's Office uniforms or value with payroll to determine
protective wear that is required taxability and reporting treatment.
such as steel toed boots are not
taxable, however other logo'd gear
may be a taxable fringe benefit.
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Gifts from other entities/outside individuals
The Constitution of Colorado Article XXIX bans public officers, local government officials, and local government
employees from accepting gifts over$65(periodically adjusted for inflation) in any calendar year. Gifts received on
special occasions from individuals that are relatives or personal friends are excluded from this ban. These officers,
officials, and employees are also prohibited from receiving any money,forbearance, or debt forgiveness without
providing the giver equal value in exchange and from receiving anything of value from professional lobbyists.
Responsibilities Summary
Department Heads and • Ensure policy is followed and any department sponsored gifts are properly
Elected Officials reported to the finance department.
Employee • Follow county, state, and IRS guidelines related to the acceptance of gifts.
Finance Department • Provide guidance to county staff in interpreting this policy.
• Properly reporting gifts on employee paychecks when appropriate.
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FUND BALANCE POLICY
EFFECTIVE DATE: 11/01/2022
POLICY STATEMENT: Eagle County's fund balance policy strives to ensure that
the county maintains adequate levels of fund balance to mitigate current and
EAGLE COUNTY future risks(e.g. revenue shortfalls and unanticipated expenditures).
Background and Definitions
The county's three largest sources of revenue are property tax, sales tax, and charges for services. Property tax has
historically been a relatively stable source of revenue and has the added bonus of predictability in that significant
changes can only happen in a reappraisal year and changes in revenue are delayed (ie. reappraisals are based upon
real estate market activity through June 30 of even years, are calculated in the following year, and impact revenue in
the year subsequent to the reappraisal year, so market conditions as of June 30, 2022, impact the 2023 reappraisal,
and generate revenue in 2024). Sales tax is less predictable as it changes when spending on taxable items changes.
Sales taxes are largely dependent upon consumer spending and are often used as an indicator of consumer
optimism. Much of the county's sales tax revenue is from locals who spend dollars in their daily lives, but a large
portion comes from visitors,which is based upon national and worldwide consumer habits. In the aggregate,
charges for Eagle County services have been relatively stable and predictable sources of revenue, however
individual revenue sources may be more volatile.
For the purpose of this policy,the term fund balance is used to describe both fund balance and net position and is
intended to serve as a measure of the current financial resources available within each fund.
Fund Balance Analysis and Reporting
At least once each calendar year, the finance department will conduct an analysis of all county funds to determine
compliance with this policy and to make recommendations as needed. Results of the analysis and
recommendations will be presented to the BoCC.
Minimum Fund Balance
Given the revenue sources outlined above, all funds should have a minimum fund balance (excluding
non-spendable or restricted categories) of no less than three months(25%)of annual operating expenditures.Total
fund expenses may be reduced by the amount of capital or one-time projects to calculate operating expenditures
for the purpose of this analysis.
Eagle County will also maintain an emergency reserve fund in an amount equal to at least three percent of fiscal
year spending in accordance with the provisions of Article X, Section 20 of the State Constitution (TABOR
Amendment).
Certain Eagle County funds, because of their reliance upon the general fund for operating subsidy, can be combined
with the general fund to determine whether this fund balance policy is being met.These funds include the public
health fund, human services fund, and insurance reserve fund.
Funds that are planning for large expenditures, including capital projects or other significant projects, should have
documentation outlining the future needs of the fund. Likewise, funds that rely on revenue sources that are
different from those outlined above should be analyzed in accordance with the specific revenue sources. If these
fund specific studies indicate a higher level of fund balance is needed,that should be noted in the annual
presentation to the BoCC.
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Excess Fund Balance
In cases where fund balances exceed the minimum fund balance, a long-term plan should be considered. Excess
fund balance should not be used as a funding source for ongoing recurring expenditures.
Use and Replenishment of Funds
A budgetary request that reduces a fund balance to an amount below the minimum required amount per this policy
shall include a written plan which defines the conditions warranting the use of fund balance and outlines how the
fund balance will be replenished. Minimum fund balances should be replenished as soon as economic conditions
allow, but no longer than three years. Replenishment of fund balance may be accomplished through the control of
operating expenditures, additional revenues sources, use of excess resources in other funds where it is legally
permissible and a defensible rationale can be made, or year-end budget surpluses.
Responsibilities Summary
County Manager • Present fund balance analysis to BoCC on an annual basis.
Department Heads and • Monitor fund balance and manage revenues and expenditures accordingly.
Elected Officials • Create a long-term plan for the fund, if needed, and share with the finance
department.
• If budget requests move fund balance below minimum required per this
policy, create a written plan warranting the use of fund balance and a plan
for replenishment.
Finance Department • At least annually, prepare an analysis of fund balances to inform
management of funds that are not in compliance with this policy.
• Monitor ongoing compliance with this policy.
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GRANTS POLICY
EFFECTIVE DATE: 11/01/2022
POLICY STATEMENT: Eagle County's grants policy establishes standards for the
budgeting, receipt, recording, and compliance of all grant awards, including
EAGLE COUNTY grants passed through the county to another entity, often in cases where the
county is acting as a fiscal agent.
Grants Identification and Application
Department heads and/or elected officials must seek approval from the County Manager's office prior to applying
for grants.The purpose of this approval is to ensure that the grant is aligned with the county's strategic plan and
that a funding analysis is complete. Existing grants should be evaluated prior to renewal to ensure that the
grant-funded projects or programs are meeting the desired outcomes and any ongoing funding obligations can be
met.
Budgeting and Recording Grants
The inclusion of any grant in excess of$25,000 into the budget should be supported by either a grant agreement(if
awarded)or grant application or program description (if not yet awarded) .These grant documents should be
reviewed with the finance department to ensure the funding and related expenditures are budgeted in the
appropriate accounts.
When a grant is received, dollars must be recorded in the appropriate general ledger accounts and reference the
grant award with sufficient detail to allow for auditors to understand the associated grant agreement. (ie. contract
number, executed date, etc.) Care should be taken with all federal grants as Eagle County is required to disclose the
expenditures of all federal dollars in a separate audit schedule.
Managing Grant Compliance Requirements
The department head and/or elected official for the department receiving the grant is responsible for managing
compliance with the grant agreement. It is expected that they understand the grant agreement and have retained
sufficient documentation such that auditors or monitoring agencies can confirm that compliance requirements have
been met. For any federal grant, the department head should reference the 2 CFR Part 200 Compliance Supplement
published by the Office of Management and Budget.
Failure to Follow Policy
The failure to properly record grants may result in Eagle County's inability to apply for future state and federal
grants.There could be audit implications, including repayment of funds or the loss of current(and future)grant
funding.
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Responsibilities Summary
County Manager's Office • Support grant applications after reviewing funding requirements and
strategic alignment.
Department Heads and • Share documentation with the finance department.
Elected Officials • Ensure ongoing compliance with grant agreement, including proper
financial reporting in the county's financial software.
Finance Department • Ensure proper general ledger accounts are associated with grants.
• Accumulate information for the federal single audit schedule.
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CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND POLICY
EFFECTIVE DATE: 11/01/2022
POLICY STATEMENT: Eagle County's capital improvement fund policy establishes
standards for appropriating funds from the capital improvement fund.
EAGLE COUNTY
Eligible Expenditures
To utilize funds from the capital improvements(CIP)fund, a project must be capitalizable as an asset of Eagle
County or one of its affiliates. Generally speaking, an asset must cost more than $10,000 and have at least a
one-year useful life. Eligible items may include paying the costs of acquiring or constructing any capital
improvement; acquiring land or equipment;the costs of issuing bonds;the costs of readying property for its
intended use; and the costs of operating and maintaining the county's capital assets.
CIP Committee
The CIP Committee shall consist of representatives from the following Eagle County departments:finance, County
Manager's office, information technology, and facilities or project management.The County Manager appoints all
committee members, and may appoint additional members as they deem necessary for the fair allocation of CIP
funds. CIP Committee meetings are open to any staff member that wishes to attend.The CIP committee shall
establish a process by which it makes recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners for funding.
Long Range Capital Planning
A long-term (5 years+)capital improvements funding plan will be developed and maintained by the Chief Financial
Officer, utilized by the CIP committee when making funding recommendations, and shared with the BoCC to assist
with decision making.This plan will be updated on a regular basis and will identify capital needs versus wants and
will prioritize the items within the wants category.
Responsibilities Summary
County Manager • Appoint CIP Committee.
Chief Financial Officer • Prepare a long-term financial plan.
Department Heads and • Request funding from the CIP fund for projects that are eligible per this
Elected Officials policy and are strategically important for departments/offices.
CIP Committee • Make recommendations to BoCC for funding projects from the CIP fund.
• Regularly review long-term capital needs for the county and its affiliates.
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SIGNATURE AUTHORITY POLICY
EFFECTIVE DATE: 11/01/2022
POLICY STATEMENT:This policy allows the County Manager, or designee, to
execute agreements and documents with a value no greater than $200,000.
EAGLE COUNTY
Signature Authority
Eagle County Government enters into agreements and executes documents in the conduct of its business and
management of various projects and programs.This policy authorizes the County Manager, or designee,to execute
agreements and documents with values no greater than $200,000 so long as funds have been properly budgeted
and appropriated for such expenditures.
Other Board Authority
For the purpose of transparency,the following boards have given other Eagle County staff the following signature
authority through resolution:
• Eagle County Housing and Development Authority(ECHDA)allows the Executive Director of ECHDA to
execute agreements and documents for amounts not to exceed $20,000 per ECHDA Resolution 22-069.
• Eagle County Air Terminal Corporation (ECAT)authorizes the Aviation Director to execute agreements and
documents on behalf of ECAT with a value no greater than $75,000 per ECAT Resolution 22-001.
Approval and Reporting
Any agreements or documents to be executed through the authority of this policy shall be subject to prior approval
by the Eagle County Attorney's Office.
Any agreements or documents executed through the authority of this policy must be identified on a future Board of
County Commissioner agenda.
Responsibilities Summary
County Attorney • Approve form of agreements.
County Manager or designee • Execute agreements for amounts no greater than $200,000.
Executive Director of Eagle County • Execute agreements for amounts no greater than $20,000.
Housing and Development Authority
Aviation Director • Execute agreements for amounts no greater than $75,000.
g
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EMERGENCY SPENDING AUTHORIZATION
POLICY
EFFECTIVE DATE: 11/01/2022
EAGLE COUNTY POLICY STATEMENT:This policy outlines spending authorizations that are
outside the course of the normal budget and procurement policies and shall
only be utilized only in cases of emergencies.
Emergency Spending Authorization
Emergencies that require the immediate procurement of resources by Eagle County may happen from time to time.
This policy outlines spending authorizations that are outside the course of the normal budget and procurement
policies and shall only be utilized in cases of emergencies.
An emergency for the purpose of this policy is defined as an event or incident that compels a response or mitigating
action where there is an imminent danger to the safety and welfare of the citizens and visitors of Eagle County or
when lives or property may be compromised by the failure to act.The determination of whether an event qualifies
as an emergency shall be made by either the County Manager, Sheriff, Emergency Management Director or their
designees.
Eagle County staff or elected officials shall act swiftly to procure resources or incur costs to attempt to mitigate or
avert an emergency even if it is not practically feasible to convene a quorum of the Board of County Commissioners
or otherwise adhere to the approved budget or procurement policies.
Authorization limits are outlined in the table below:
Role Authorization Amount
County Manager or designee and any single Commissioner $1,000,000
County Manager or designee $500,000
County Sheriff or designee $100,000
Emergency Management Director or designee $100,000
Notification and Appropriation
When an emergency spending authority is exercised, the Board of County Commissioners should be notified at the
earliest opportunity. Notification should include a description of the emergency and the costs or resources that
were authorized. Documentation supporting the expenditure of resources should be provided by the party making
the authorization as soon as practical and in any event within 24 hours.
The County Manager or designee shall determine whether such emergency spending authorization should be
placed on the next available Board of County Commissioners agenda for ratification or acknowledgement. If a
spending authorization causes expenditures to exceed the amounts appropriated by the BoCC in the current
budget, the finance department shall prepare a budget supplemental to increase the approved appropriation.
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Responsibilities Summary
Board of County • A single commissioner may act with the County Manager or designee to
Commissioners exercise spending authority.
• Approve a supplemental budget, if necessary.
County Manager or designee • Determine that an event is considered an emergency.
• Exercise spending authority.
County Sheriff or designee • Determine that an event is considered an emergency.
• Exercise spending authority.
Emergency Management • Determine that an event is considered an emergency.
Director or designee • Exercise spending authority.
Finance Department • Prepare a supplemental budget, if necessary.
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EMERGENCY INCIDENT FUNDING POLICY
EFFECTIVE DATE: 11/01/2022
POLICY STATEMENT: Eagle County will maintain a funding source from which it
will expend costs associated with emergencies that occur in Eagle County.
EAGLE COUNTY
Emergency Incident Budget
The county will maintain an emergency incident response department,which is a separate department within the
county's general fund.The purpose of this department is to accurately and transparently track the cost of
emergency incidents that happen from time to time within Eagle County.
Each year, the finance department will propose an annual budget for the emergency incident department.The
budget may be made up of appropriations that are carried forward from a previous year's budget, a new
appropriation, or a combination of both. Should a large event occur, an increase in appropriations during a fiscal
year may be necessary.
Eligibility For Emergency Incident Funding
This department will be used only when the County Manager gives express direction for its use. If these funds are
not available, all costs related to any incident should be tracked within each department's budget as normal
business expenditures.The approval to utilize the emergency incident funds will be based on the circumstances of
each individual incident.The County Manager will consider such items as the expected dollars to be expended,the
expected duration of the incident,whether or not the emergency operations center has been activated,whether a
cost sharing agreement is in place, impacts to normal operations, and other factors which may be important to
determine whether county expenditures should be tracked separately within this specific department.
Expenditures should include all items that were purchased, contracted for, or utilized solely for the purpose of the
incident. Staff hours should be tracked to ensure that all staff resources can be properly accounted for.The method
by which expenditures and staff hours should be tracked will be communicated by either the emergency operations
center emergency support function 7 lead or the finance department.
Responsibilities Summary
County Manager • Give direction for use of this department.
Department Heads and • Ensure policy is followed and all related items and staff time are properly
Elected Officials tracked.
Employee • Track expenditures and hours worked on the incident.
Finance Department • Ensure the annual budget is in place.
• Assist with tracking and compiling expenditures and staff time.
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RISK MANAGEMENT POLICY
EFFECTIVE DATE: 11/01/2022
POLICY STATEMENT: Eagle County maintains a risk management program that
encompasses all county departments and offices.The primary objective of the
EAGLE COUNTY program is to protect the county's employees, its physical assets, and its ability
to serve the public against any accidental or catastrophic losses.
Goal and Function
The goal and function of the county's risk management program is to apply enterprise risk management principles
and techniques, in partnership with all departments and offices within the county, to protect the health, safety, and
welfare of Eagle County's employees; Eagle County residents and visitors; and Eagle County's property, assets, and
other resources.
These principles and techniques include exposure identification and analysis,financing alternatives such as
insurance, control and safety methods, and program evaluation.All risk management policies,guidelines, and
procedures shall be in accordance with all federal, state, and local laws.As a high performing organization, Eagle
County reviews the effectiveness and efficiency of its risk management program and makes changes or
modifications to its risk management practices as necessary.
Enterprise Risk Management
Enterprise risk management(ERM) is a process by which organizations strategically identify, evaluate, and apply risk
mitigation techniques that are aligned with the overall risk appetite of the organization.The administration of ERM
is a function involving the entire county. The principal objective is to protect the county and all of its people and
assets at the lowest possible cost. Strategies identified by the enterprise risk management process are to be
conducted as efficiently and economically as possible with centralized control to assure uniformity of practice and
procedure across all departments. ERM is based upon the following basic goals:
• Identify internal and external exposures to loss; select and implement loss prevention or reduction
methods; and monitor results for future improvement;
• Develop a risk financing program that combines risk retention techniques with the purchase of insurance to
assure recovery from accidental loss using the most cost-effective methods possible;
• Evaluate activities and assist departments and offices in making informed decisions regarding assumption
or transfer of risk;
• Work within the county's current business operating procedures to effectively develop and continuously
reevaluate guidelines and procedures that maximize protection to the county.
Insurance
Insurance is an important tool used by Eagle County to strategically manage the transfer of its risk. Eagle County
and its affiliates use a variety of different insurance products. Experts, including external consultants and the Risk
Manager, should be consulted to determine need prior to executing an insurance policy.The criteria for procuring
insurance should include the quality and scope of service, breadth of coverage and level of deductibles, financial
stability of the insurance carrier, and cost.
When losses occur, Eagle County will seek to recover any funds possible through its insurance program. Eagle
County employees are expected to report any damages or accidents in one business day. Employees involved in the
loss will be asked to provide an account of the circumstances that led to the loss, along with any photographic,
video or testimonial evidence.
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Responsibilities Summary
Department Heads and • Participate in the risk management program to the extent required and
Elected Officials adhere to all applicable guidelines.
• Promptly report any losses within the department or office to the Risk
Manager.
Employee • Act responsibly in the conduct of duties.
• Participate in the risk management program to the extent required and
adhere to all applicable guidelines.
• Promptly report any losses to the supervisor or manager.
Risk Manager • Administer risk management program.
• File and track claims on behalf of the county.
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DEBT POLICY
EFFECTIVE DATE: 11/01/2022
POLICY STATEMENT: Eagle County will consider the issuance of debt and other
long-term financial obligations on a case-by-case basis where it makes financial
EAGLE COUNTY sense.
Use of Financing Tools
The issuance of debt or other long-term financial obligations will be considered on a case-by-case basis to fund
major capital projects. Factors that will be considered to determine how to pay for a project include:the ability to
seek grant funds,the ability to pay for the project from current revenues or budgeted resources(including excess
fund balance), Eagle County's credit rating and the impact issuing debt could have on the rating, and external
factors such as market demand and interest rates.
Any debt issued shall not have a maturity date beyond the useful life of the asset being acquired or constructed by
the debt proceeds.A plan must be in place to meet ongoing debt payments.The issuance of any long-term financial
obligation must be approved by the Board of County Commissioners at a public hearing.The obligations must be
properly budgeted and appropriated.
County staff will monitor the municipal bond market and other appropriate markets to determine whether a
prepayment or refunding of existing obligations is appropriate.This policy must be followed for the issuance of new
obligations or refunding of existing obligations.
Types of Financing
Typical financing tools that will be considered are general obligation bonds, revenue bonds, mortgage notes,
certificates of participation, conduit debt, overlapping debt, or lease/purchase agreements. Derivative debt
instruments should not be considered. In all cases, issuance will follow federal, state, and local requirements,
including the requirement of approval of Eagle County voters when applicable.
The finance department and County Attorney's office will work with external partners, including underwriters, bond
counsel,trustee, and rating agencies to effectuate debt issuance.
Debt Limits
Per Colorado Revised Statutes 30-35-201,the county's general obligation debt may not exceed 3% of the valuation
for assessment. No debt that would violate this limit should be considered.
Debt Structuring and Issuance Practices
Given Eagle County's infrequent use of debt and a dynamic capital markets environment, when debt is considered,
experts such as underwriters, bond counsel, and trustees, should be consulted to structure and issue debt in the
most effective and efficient manner to meet the needs of the project being financed. Options for structuring and
issuing debt should be considered by the Chief Financial Officer, County Manager, and County Attorney with
approval given by the Board of County Commissioners in a public hearing.
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Debt Compliance and Reporting
All debt or long-term financial obligations will have ongoing reporting requirements and the county will ensure
compliance with all ongoing disclosure requirements as appropriate, including the secondary bond market as
required by the Securities and Exchange Commission.
• Annual payments must be budgeted and transacted.
• All debt must be reported in the county's annual financial reports as appropriate.
• Annual due diligence must be completed, including adherence to any requirements by external entities such
as the trustee or lender.
• When appropriate, arbitrage analysis must be completed.
Responsibilities Summary
County Manager • Recommend appropriate financing tool for approval by the Board of County
Commissioners.
Department Heads and • Obtain approval for the capital project.
Elected Officials • Discuss appropriate funding tools with the finance department and County
Manager's office.
• Ensure annual compliance requirements are met.
Attorney's Office • Review all documentation to ensure compliance with local, state, and
federal law.
Finance Department • Lead the analysis to determine the appropriateness of the issuance of
long-term obligations.
• Work with departments to ensure ongoing annual compliance requirements
are met and properly recorded.
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Page 34- Financial Policies
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FINANCIAL POLICY VERSION CONTROL
Policy Dated Supersedes Dated
Budget Policy 11/01/2022 Financial Management Policies 06/16/2015
Financial Reporting Policy 11/01/2022 Financial Management Policies 06/16/2015
Business Expense Policy 11/01/2022 Financial Management Policies 06/16/2015
Purchasing Card Policy 11/01/2022 Financial Management Policies 06/16/2015
Procurement Policy 11/01/2022 Resolutions 14-001 and 14-003 01/21/2014
Payroll Policy 11/01/2022 Financial Management Policies 06/16/2015
Employee Gifts Policy 11/01/2022 N/A
Fund Balance Policy 11/01/2022 Financial Management Policies 06/16/2015
Grants Policy 11/01/2022 Financial Management Policies 06/16/2015
Capital Improvements Fund Policy 11/01/2022 Financial Management Policies 06/16/2015
Signature Authorization Policy 11/01/2022 Resolution 2022-068 08/16/2022
Emergency Spending Authorization Policy 11/01/2022 Resolution 18-038 05/22/2018
Emergency Incident Funding Policy 11/01/2022 N/A
Risk Management Policy 11/01/2022 Financial Management Policies 06/16/2015
Debt Policy 11/01/2022 Financial Management Policies 06/16/2015
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Page 35- Financial Policies