The State Auditor’s Office says it can’t tell whether Lieutenant Governor Peter Kinder owes more than he’s already reimbursed the state for travel expenses because of the way his calendar and other documentation were kept.
The Auditor’s Office reviewed Kinder’s lodging and meal expenses from January of 2005 through April of 2011. In doing so it looked at Kinder’s electronic calendar, which does not differentiate between official and unofficial business. A printed version of the calendar that noted schedule changes was not saved, according to Kinder’s staff.
The report notes Kinder has been reimbursed $10,893.13 for meals during that period, but the lack of detail on the calendar means auditors couldn’t determine whether it meets the criteria for reimbursement.
The Auditor’s office tells Kinder it does not dispute his assumption that any meal reimbursement that may still be owed is covered by what he has called an “excessive reimbursement” of in-state lodging.
The review did find that Kinder still owed $1,888.63 for in-state lodging, which has already been repaid. This is in addition to $52,320 he reimbursed the state April 26.
Deputy State Auditor Harry Otto oversaw the audit after Auditor Tom Schweich recused himself due to political ties and previous campaign contributions between the two Republicans. Otto noted in a press conference announcing the audit report, he donated $200 to Kinder seven years ago.
