County Auditor Doug Jones presented the Johnson County 2026 annual audit plan Dec. 4, telling commissioners the office plans to complete seven performance audits next year and has prioritized topics based on risk, public input and the audit committee's review.

Jones said the county government — with a $1.9 billion budget, roughly 4,400 employees and about 30 departments — will pursue audits that offer potential operational and financial impact. The plan lists audits the office intends to start or continue in 2026, including workplace threats and violence protections, wildfire management, airport fees and rents, an assessment of the Community Behavioral Health Center, corrections use‑of‑force review, employee benefits termination and the tax calculation process.

Jones told the board the office used multiple inputs, including surveys, board and management suggestions, prior audits, risk assessments and AI tools applied to budget and financial statements, to refine the list. He said three audits were already underway and the audit committee recommended adding one additional topic after its Nov. 10 meeting.

Public commenter Ben Hobert urged audits of departmental compliance with charter resolutions, the 2022 RFP process for a contract termination, purchase‑card internal controls, surplus property records and county contracts with nonprofits.

Commissioner Burr moved approval of the annual audit plan; Commissioner Allen Brand seconded. A roll call produced unanimous approval. Commissioners praised the audit office’s process and said audit findings help oversight, budget planning and public accountability.

The auditor’s office attached the full audit plan to the briefing sheet and will return with scheduling details and scoping memoranda as each audit begins.