Audit Uncovers CRA Problems

* Re “CRA Paid $1.57 Million More Than Appraisals in 7 Deals, Audit Finds,” Nov. 28: The auditor’s report commissioned by City Controller Rick Tuttle documents the fact that the former Community Redevelopment Agency administrator did not utilize proper internal controls. Fortunately, we now have an administrator who not only recognizes the need for effective controls but also is doing something concrete about it. The Times’ article is unfortunately unbalanced in that it deals mostly with the issue of land transactions and not the overall agency administration. That is precisely what the current administrator is focusing on, sound management and effective administration.

As the independent assessment concludes, many weaknesses in the overall management of the CRA were found. The current administrator has recommended, among other improvements, annual third-party audits of agency policies and procedures and internal controls to ensure a reliable system of monitoring. While we understand certain areas of the agency’s operation may not have been closely monitored in the past, I feel certain that the current administrator has both the conviction and the vision to direct the CRA to fulfill its mission of community redevelopment for all of Los Angeles. This is a time to join our forces in support of the agency’s current leadership.

PEGGY MOORE, Chairperson

Board of Commissioners

Community Redevelopment

Agency, Los Angeles