Maryann Hyatt didn t pursue the traditional route to a career, but it s led her to become president and CEO of Berkshire County Arc, an agency that helps people with intellectual
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On the same day she announced she won’t seek a fourth term next year, Massachusetts State Auditor Suzanne Bump released a report this morning alleging improper use of funds by Berkshire County Arc. The Pittsfield-based nonprofit provides services to people with disabilities. Bump says the organization misused almost $780,000 from the millions it receives annually from state agencies. The report examines the years between 2017 and 2019. Neither Berkshire County Arc nor the Berkshire County District Attorney’s office immediately responded to a request for comment on the report from WAMC News. WAMC spoke to Bump about the audit report, as well as her decision to not seek reelection in 2022.
PITTSFIELD â A state audit has found $777,844 of âimproper spendingâ by Berkshire County Arc during two years ending in June 2019, some at the direction of managers at the nonprofit for the intellectually and developmentally disabled.
But, the chair of the nonprofitâs board pushed back on the findings, saying that state Auditor Suzanne Bumpâs office âgrossly mischaracterizesâ the agency.
Berkshire County Arc, founded more than six decades ago, received $41.5 million from the stateâs Department of Developmental Services and $7.8 million from the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission over fiscal years 2018 and 2019, according to Bumpâs office.
The findings reflect the results of an audit of agency finances from July 1, 2017, to June 30, 2019, and were released Tuesday.