WEST GROVE, PA — A state audit found that the West Grove Fire Company Volunteer Fireman’s Relief Association failed to formally define certain discretionary benefits in its bylaws or policies, despite otherwise complying with state laws governing the use of relief funds.
Auditor General Timothy DeFoor released the compliance audit in January, covering the period from January 1, 2021, through December 31, 2024.
The audit identified one finding: “Failure To Define Discretionary Benefits”.
According to the report, the relief association paid $6,046 in discretionary benefits during the audit period to reimburse monthly gym membership fees. While those expenditures were authorized under the Volunteer Firefighters’ Relief Association Act, the association did not have a formal, membership-approved policy outlining the types of benefits offered, allowable amounts or eligibility criteria.
Auditors stated that without a formally adopted policy, the association may have expended funds without proper authorization and members may not have been fully informed about available benefits.
The report recommends that relief association officials adopt clear definitions of discretionary benefits either within their bylaws or through a formal policy approved by membership.
Management agreed with the finding during the audit exit conference and indicated it would take action to comply with the recommendation.
Aside from the noted issue, auditors concluded that the association complied, in all significant respects, with applicable state laws and procedures related to the receipt and expenditure of state aid.
The relief association, affiliated with the West Grove Fire Company, receives state aid funded through the Foreign Fire Insurance Tax and allocated by municipalities in Chester County.
The full audit report is available at www.PaAuditor.gov.
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