Mississippi auditor flags $5,800 TV purchases, honors purchasing manager

The Mississippi Office of the State Auditor said in a Facebook post that it has found state agencies purchasing television screens for about $5,800 each, and that some of the spending stems from purchasing managers failing to seek the best deals for taxpayers.

The auditor’s office audits state agencies and oversees public spending, a role intended to protect taxpayer dollars and promote efficient use of state resources, the post said. The office said it works to ensure taxpayers receive the best value for every dollar spent.

The post also announced that Auditor’s Office employee Kathy Perkins has been awarded Purchasing Manager of the Year. The office said taxpayers can be reassured that public servants like Perkins are working on their behalf.

State procurement rules generally aim to encourage competitive pricing and limit waste, and watchdog reviews can prompt changes in purchasing practices. Details about the purchases the office identified and any follow-up actions were not provided in the post. We will provide more information as it becomes available.