Alabama Music Hall of Fame Audit Reveals Significant Financial Mismanagement
A recent audit of the Alabama Music Hall of Fame has uncovered 29 serious issues regarding its financial practices, including questionable spending, improper bonuses, and violations of state laws. The Tuscumbia museum’s executive director, Sandra Burroughs, initially faced a demand to repay $114,637 but after her clarifications, that amount was reduced to $64,719, now under the state attorney general’s scrutiny for collection.
The audit, covering fiscal activities from late 2018 until September 1, 2024, highlighted alarming expenditures. Among 576 transactions totaling over $112,000, many lacked proper documentation, leading to concerns about compliance. Specific findings include $14,709.10 on restaurants with insufficient receipts, $38,766 attributed to individuals labeled as musicians or laborers without adequate proof, and retail expenses of $2,145 for unverified items such as seasonal decorations and gift cards.
Additional issues cited were insufficient protection and insurance for artifacts, failure to remit sales tax from gift shop sales, and noncompliance with open meeting laws, including improperly notified meetings and unsigned minutes.
Board Chairwoman Judy Hood expressed the board’s commitment to resolving these issues and plans to seek legal guidance to ensure swift and appropriate resolution. The hall, which opened in 1990 and receives state funding, has an annual budget allocation of $204,382, with an additional $250,000 approved by state lawmakers this year.
Officials, including Sen. Arthur Orr and Sen. Chris Elliott, have criticized the board’s management, calling the findings “terribly disappointing.” They have emphasized the need for oversight and competent leadership to prevent such financial mismanagement in the future. The board is scheduled to meet on May 28 to address the audit’s findings.
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