Finance

Finance Responsibilities

The Finance Department is responsible for the overall accounting, payroll, budgeting, and auditing functions of the County as well as central County purchasing and insurance. In addition, the department coordinates capital borrowing and debt management, as well as provides technical assistance on financial management to all stakeholders of the County.

The department’s accounting responsibilities include the preparation of internal and external financial reports, which accurately reflect the financial condition of La Crosse County. Finance processes all payments to vendors and issues year end 1099’s, as well as maintains the capital asset listings for the County. The payroll function allows for the accurate and timely processing of payrolls for County employees and issuance of annual W-2’s. Within the budget function, the department supports all aspects of the development and implementation of the annual budget, as well as assisting the County Administrator and County Board in the budget process. The auditing function includes responsibility for internal controls, as well as preparation of annual financial statements and support of the annual independent audit of all County financial records.

Purchasing activities includes procuring supplies, services, and construction to support La Crosse County departmental programs. Procurement activities conform to the La Crosse County purchasing policy, Wisconsin State Statutes, Federal requirements, and others as applicable. The goal of Purchasing is to provide for effective competition in the marketplace and to support fairness to all parties involved with an emphasis on integrity and consistency.

The insurance function ensures coverage for property, professional liability, general liability, crime, boiler & machinery, auto, volunteer accident, and specialized insurance. This includes: maintaining inventory and records pertinent to insurance coverages; creating CIOs (certificates of insurance) for events and contracts; and collecting CIOs from external organizations showing evidence of insurance. In addition, this is the central point for claims management which consists of communication, information collection, investigation, and submission.