Accountability in Government Oversight Committee Emphasizes Accuracy and Integrity in Release of Inspector General Reports

Albuquerque, NM - The Accountability in Government Oversight Committee (AGOC) reaffirmed today its commitment to ensuring that all reports from the Office of Inspector General (OIG) meet the highest standards of accuracy, independence, and integrity before being released to the public.

While concerns have been raised about delays in publishing six deferred reports, the record clearly demonstrates diligence and responsibility. By prioritizing thorough review over speed, the AGOC has sought to protect the credibility and reliability of these important documents.

“The people of Albuquerque deserve accountability, but they also deserve accuracy,” said City Council President Brook Bassan, District 4, who serves as a non-voting member of the committee. “Rushing reports to publication without proper review would undermine public trust and would not be good governance. The timeline shows that we are moving forward carefully and responsibly.”

AGOC Quality Assurance Timeline
March 20, 2025: OIG submitted nine reports to be heard at the March 26 meeting.
March 26, 2025: Meeting postponed to April 9 to allow more time for review.
March 31, 2025: Former Inspector General issued an “Update to Citizens of Albuquerque” that was received by the Association of Inspectors General (AIG).
April 2, 2025: Letter received from the Association of Inspectors General titled “Five Month Delay in AGOC Meeting Undermines Transparency and Oversight.”
April 3, 2025: Chair Griego issued a committee-approved response to AIG President Will Fletcher.
April 4, 2025: AIG replied, in part:
“We have carefully reviewed your letter and understand the concerns expressed by AGOC. We are encouraged to learn that the committee will convene on April 9 to review the reports.”
April 9, 2025: AGOC acted on three reports and deferred six pending external review.
April 30, 2025: REDW contracted by the Office of Internal Audit to conduct an external Quality Assurance Review (QAR).
May 1, 2025: AGOC notified OIG of the external QAR for all nine reports.
July 29, 2025: REDW submitted draft QAR of nine OIG reports.
July 30, 2025: REDW contract extended to complete the review.
August 15, 2025: REDW submitted final QAR.
September 4, 2025: Interim Inspector General provided an update with the following expectations:
•    Two reports (possibly three) are to be presented at a special meeting in late September.
•    Two additional reports to be presented at the October 29, 2025 meeting.

Commitment to Transparency
To preserve accuracy and integrity, any updates or follow-up information from the OIG will be issued as official addenda to the original reports. Reports issued by the former Inspector General will remain unchanged.

“It is my opinion, the public’s strong interest in timely access to OIG reports is recognized and shared. However, accuracy and integrity cannot be compromised, even in the face of upcoming elections,” said Bassan. “The Committee’s deliberate actions demonstrate its ongoing, professional commitment to upholding statutory responsibilities, ensuring accountability and transparency, and protecting Albuquerque from fraud, waste, and abuse.”