Following reported allegations of “controversial spending,” Gov. Lamont announced he is calling on the state comptroller to launch an independent audit of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities system.
The governor submitted a letter to Comptroller Sean Scanlon requesting that his office conduct the review.
Lamont said Friday the audit is aimed at increasing public transparency and accountability of the higher education system’s financial management practices after recent controversy over spending practices by CSCU Chancellor Terrence Cheng.
Requests for comment were sent to spokespersons for the CSCU system.
The CSCU is a system of six public colleges and universities: four CT state universities, CT State Community College, and Charter Oak State College, according to the system. Cheng was appointed chancellor in 2021.
“Recent reports of controversial spending decisions have raised serious concerns about the transparency and accountability of CSCU’s financial management,” Lamont said, referring to a story by Hearst CT that detailed expensive meals and chauffeured rides, among other things.
“As CSCU has recently implemented measures such as tuition increases and program reductions to address significant budget shortfalls, it is imperative that the public have complete transparency into how public funds are being utilized.”
The governor’s office said the audit will include an itemized report of purchases made using procurement cards that will identify vendors. In addition, all expenditures for meals and entertainment including costs for dining with stakeholders and vendors, conferences and related events will be reviewed.
Information on the use of state-owned vehicles by CSCU personnel, including logs of usage, fuel costs and mileage reimbursement will also be audited. Finally, any information regarding tax reporting involving CSCU leadership is subject to review.
Sen. Minority Leader Stephen Harding said in a statement, “The tone deaf champagne tastes of Chancellor Cheng are not a good look for the chancellor or for the CSCU system.
“It should frustrate anyone who reads about it. It smacks of arrogance and disrespect for taxpayers, students, and students’ families alike,” Harding said.
“What this reveals is what we now must view as an opportunity for comprehensive reform at CSCU. That starts with reining in this ridiculous and excessive spending. That starts with transparency and accountability,” Harding said. “That also starts with making certain that taxpayers’ dollars are going to our higher ed classrooms to educate students rather than being misdirected to wasteful government bloat.”
Stephen Underwood can be reached at [email protected]
