Results from an independent audit for the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2025 showed that Sterling Heights continues to maintain a strong financial position.
Sterling Heights Assistant Finance & Budget Director Nick Makie presented the audit to the Mayor and City Council Tuesday. Makie said independent auditors once again issued the City an “unmodified” opinion as part of its audit process - the highest rating possible. In addition, the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) recognized the City for its excellence in financial reporting and budgeting for the 37th consecutive year.
Rehmann Robson LLC commended the City finance staff for their high degree of accuracy in maintaining records and financial reporting. Principal Dan Merritt from Rehmann Robson LLC expressed his appreciation for the continued partnership with the City of Sterling Heights in their second year as the City’s Independent Auditor.
“Once a baseline has been established, the second year with an audit firm offers an opportunity to build on that foundation, which the City has done by completing the financial statement audit approximately two weeks earlier than in the previous year,” said Merritt. “The finance team once again demonstrated exceptional professionalism and collaboration, making the process efficient and effective. Their commitment to accuracy and transparency helped ensure another unmodified ‘clean’ opinion on the City’s financial statements, and we truly value their ongoing dedication and partnership.”
“In the past fiscal year, the City was able to continue to invest in the community through major road reconstruction efforts, neighborhood road improvements, and upgrades to recreational assets and place making amenities. Continued long-term planning also allowed for the replacement of capital equipment, upgrades and repairs to City facilities; as well as investments in employees by continuing to offer competitive wages and benefits and fully fund long-term retirement liabilities. This has all been accomplished while maintaining a healthy fund balance, a City tax rate that remains one of the lowest of any city in Macomb County and an excellent AA credit rating from Standard & Poor,” said Sterling Heights Finance & Budget Director Jennifer Varney.
“I commend our entire Finance team for their diligent work throughout the year resulting in this A+ audit score,” said Sterling Heights City Manager Mark Vanderpool. “They continue to do excellent work and are among the best in the business.”
A copy of the complete audit is available online at sterlingheights.gov.