An investigation of the City of Richmond's gift card purchase records has found more than $290,000 of gift card purchases remain unaccounted for.
The city found "inconsistencies" during a comprehensive review of its long-standing employee recognition program, specifically relating to the use of gift cards.
Between Jan. 1, 2022, and Dec. 31, 2024, an approximate total of $446,000 in gift cards were purchased.
Of that total, $151,000 was bought in the past three years, with $120,000 distributed for long service/retirement, staff recognition, volunteer appreciation, and employee fundraising programs.
While around $31,000 of the remaining gift cards have been accounted for and are in the city's Human Resources department, $295,000 of gift card costs "remain unreconciled," according to Clay Adams, spokesperson for the City of Richmond.
"As a result, the city is continuing to conduct a forensic audit of gift card purchases and has referred the matter to the RCMP," said Adams.
He added that one individual's employment with the city "has concluded," following a number of investigations that have, and continue, to take place in the city.
A program to recognize staff
The City of Richmond has a long-time employee recognition program for long service and staff appreciation.
One aspect of the program includes the use of gift cards to acknowledge commitment and performance, according to Adams.
In the fall of 2024 the city stopped the use of gift cards for individual employee excellence. That was followed by the termination of giving gift cards for long service and retirement recognition this spring.
"Recognizing and celebrating the contributions and achievements of individuals and teams remains an important part of the City’s employee recognition program," said Adams.
"However, recognition programs for long service and retiring employees are being restructured and will no longer involve the use of gift cards."
An ongoing investigation is taking place, with no further details to be shared by the city at this time.
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