Idyllwild Fire Protection District commissioners unanimously accepted the 2012 audit (fiscal year ending June 30, 2012). The San Bernardino accounting firm of Rogers, Anderson, Malody and Scott completed the audit and Scott Manno, a firm partner, presented the results to the commission during its Feb. 26 meeting.

Manno stated the district’s financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the agency and its major funds.

Unfortunately for the district, its operations continue to exceed its revenues; consequently, net assets declined $50,000 more in 2012.

The $94,000 loss in 2012 was the third consecutive year of losses, although the losses continued to be smaller each year. Last year’s deficit was about one-third of the 2010 loss and less than half of the 2011 loss.

Commissioner Dr. Charles “Chip” Schelly asked if the commission should be concerned about the streak of annual operating losses.

“Yes, that’s the reason we review the budget each month. We are in a ‘hand-to-mouth’ budget; including going to the county because of no reserves,” replied Commissioner Jerry Buchanan. “We’re running ‘hand-to-mouth’ again this year and will likely need an advance [from Riverside County] next year too.”

Revenue has fluctuated between $1.6 million and $1.8 million over the past six years. The district has cut expenses nearly $350,000 since 2010, but they are still $370,000 greater than 2007.

The long-term debt, as of July 1, 2012, was $829,000. Pension-related costs and vehicle loans and leases represent the greatest share of the long-term liabilities.