2011-01-AU Limited Scope Performance Audit of the Department of Parks and Recreation’s Facilities Asset Management

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Chapter 3: OPERATIONS The Honomu Gym facility manager reports that roof repairs have not been completed prior to the conclusion of our audit fieldwork in May 2011. Repeated requests by P&R facility staff to treat termite infestation also remain unaddressed. While the FY2008-2009 Operating Budget in account number 010.500.5505.02.115 included $20,000 for Miscellaneous Contract Services for FUMIGATION, departmental records indicate that the fumigation costs for large structures can be significant. For example, tenting and fumigating of the Mountain View Gym for termites cost $10,406. Site observations and Recreational Facility Reports reviewed by the Auditors also indicate that at least 6 facilities (Yano Hall, Hale Halawai, Papa`ikou Gym, Gilbert Carvalho Park Gym, Hawaiian Beaches Park, Hilo Municipal Golf Course) have identified active termite infestation. Yet, the Department's FY2010-2011 Operating Budget included zero funds in its Miscellaneous Contract Services account 010.500.5505.02.115 for FUMIGATION. Departmental records for Yano Hall indicate that termite infestation has gone untreated for at least two years. The Department's First Quarter Evaluation Report dated October 1, 2008 stated: "The termites are getting worse. We find new piles of termite leavings all over the complex." The Department's Third Quarter Evaluation Report dated April 15, 2009 stated: "The halls and offices show signs of termite infestation." The Yano Hall facility manager reports that termite fumigation has not been completed prior to the conclusion of our audit fieldwork in May 2011. HISTORICALLY REACTIVE RATHER THAN PROACTIVE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR OPERATIONS In its report Committing to the Cost of Ownership— Maintenance and Repair of Public Buildings, the National Research Council concluded: "In its discussions of the impacts of underfunding M&R [maintenance and repair] functions, the committee observed that one of the worst consequences of long-term neglect of maintenance is the crisis management condition in which building managers and owners are put. Hasty decisions are often made, with expensive and even inappropriate products and services purchased." (Committing to the Cost of Ownership— Maintenance and Repair of Public Buildings, Building Research Board and National Research Council, National Academy Press, 1990, pp.12-13) 14