Overview
In 2004, the Legislature gave the Office of the State Auditor responsibility to conduct "best practice reviews" of local government services in Minnesota. Previously, the Office of the Legislative Auditor carried out this responsibility. Minnesota Statute 6.78 states, "The state auditor shall conduct best practices reviews that examine the procedures and practices used to deliver local government services, determine the methods of local government service delivery, identify variations in cost and effectiveness, and identify practices to save money or provide more effective service delivery."
Conducting best practice reviews is an initiative inspired by the British Audit Commission, which conducts national studies in England and Wales to find out "state of the art" techniques for the delivery of local services.
Best Practices Reviews Conducted by the Office of the State Auditor
- 2012 - Collaboration Part 1: Initiating, Building, and Maintaining Governmental Relationships
- 2011 - Property and Evidence Room Policies and Procedures Manuals
- 2010 - Follow-up Report to Reducing Energy Costs in Local Government
- 2008 - Reducing Energy Costs in Local Government
- 2005 - Contracting and Procurement in the Public Sector
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2004 - Cooperative Efforts in Public Service Delivery
Previous Best Practice Reviews, Conducted by the Office of Legislative Auditor
2003 -- Preserving Existing Housing Stock
2002 -- Managing Local Government Computer Systems
2002 -- Local E-Government
2000 -- Preventive Maintenance for Local Government Buildings
1999 -- Fire Services
1998 -- 9-1-1 Dispatching
1997 -- Non-Felony Prosecution
1996 -- Property Assessments: Structure and Appeals
1995 -- Snow and Ice Control