COLUMBUS, Ohio -- An audit of Van Wert County turned up accounting irregularities in the management of federal funds.

Ohio Auditor Mary Taylor announced the findings Thursday.

In a written statement, Taylor said money from several federal grants was commingled, improperly recorded or not documented.

“It is critical that public entities properly and accurately document each and every dollar collected and spent,” Taylor said.

In response, the county said changes were made to more closely track federal grant dollars in compliance with regulations.

The same audit found money was misspent on a gift for an employee of the county engineer.

Engineer Kyle Wendel approved a voucher for the purchase of an employee’s retirement gift. It was a watch that cost $188.50.

Auditors issued a “finding for recovery,” meaning the expenditure was not allowed under Ohio law and money must be returned to the county.

After the finding was made, the engineer repaid the county the $188.50 in question.

Jim.otte@whiotv.com