Gov. Lamont calls for audit of CT state colleges and universities allegations of amidst lavish spending
The audit request comes after reports of lavish spending by the system's chancellor, Terrence Cheng, of using his credit card for chauffeured rides to the State Capitol, in addition to expensive dinners.
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Gov. Ned Lamont is calling for an audit of Connecticut state colleges and universities (CSCU).
It comes after reports of lavish spending by the system's chancellor, Terrence Cheng, of using his credit card for chauffeured rides to the State Capitol, in addition to expensive dinners - while public colleges are cutting courses and raising tuition.
"I think it's tone deaf, especially given all the work we're doing with the community colleges and the CSCU system, in trying to manage through a budget," said Gov. Lamont. "We're going to do a pretty strong audit to see exactly what's going on over there."
Cheng told Connecticut Hearst Media that his spending was necessary for networking purposes.
In a letter to Comptroller Sean Scanlon, Lamont requested that the audit include the following:
An itemized report of purchases made using procurement cards, identifying vendors and purposes.
A review of all expenditures for meals and entertainment, including costs for dining with stakeholders and vendors, conferences and related events.
Information on the use of state-owned vehicles by CSCU personnel, including logs of usage, fuel costs and mileage reimbursement.
Any information regarding tax reporting involving CSCU leadership.
Audit the financial practices of the entire CSCU system, including discretionary spending, travel and procurement activities.
Assess whether public funds have been managed in accordance with state financial policies and in alignment with the educational mission of the CSCU system.
