King County DCHS strengthens financial oversight with new policies, launches Provider Training Series

King County Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS) has officially implemented several new policies and procedures to strengthen financial stewardship and oversight of public dollars. 

The department is launching a Provider Trainings Series to better prepare and support small community-based providers.

“DCHS is taking action to be stronger stewards of public dollars,” said Acting DCHS Director Dr. Susan McLaughlin. “We’re creating a blueprint for King County, and I couldn’t be prouder of all the progress we’ve made over the last several months.”

The new policies and procedures are in direct response to the King County Auditor’s Recommendations 7 and 8, and include: 

• Enforcement of current Terms and Conditions involving subcontract review and approval 
• General invoice verification and processing 
• When contract amendments are required 
• Managing stipend, incentive, and cash value cards 
• Addressing over or underspend for contracts using the hybrid payment model 
• Contract termination process 
• Eligibility standards and minimum requirements for contractors 
• Managing documentation related to contracts and invoices 

The department’s provider training series aims to give contracted providers the foundational knowledge needed to effectively manage public dollars. The trainings include: 

• Financial Management & Best Practices (Required for all contractors that hold a multiyear contract—18 months or longer—per King County Ordinance 19978) 
• DCHS Contracting Overview 
• DCHS Fiscal Contract Compliance

These latest efforts build off the work the department has undertaken over the last several months. To learn more, visit the King County DCHS Fiscal Stewardship Webpage.