The San Joaquin County Grand Jury has examined the City of Stockton's financial operations.
While there has been some improvement, there are still long-term financial concerns.
The title of the grand jury's 23-page report offers both a description and a warning: "Recovering from Stockton's Financial Sinkhole - Don't Fall Back In."
The report finds a number of problem areas which raise concerns about repeating past mistakes.
Grand Jury Foreman Gary Spaugh says one of the city's biggest problems is reliance on a computer system that was outdated 20 years ago.
"It uses DOS software and it's very difficult for the staff to obtain accurate and timely information and to develop reports from it that help the city to know how it stands in terms of financial performance,” said Spaugh.
The report also criticizes the city's Budget and Audit Committees, a lack of communication between the City Manager and the Council, and the limited grasp of municipal finances among council members.
The grand jury concludes unless changes are made, another investigation may be necessary.
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