Garner officials to discuss missing fire department money

Department officials informed town officials last week of the missing money, which was uncovered during an outside audit of the department's books from July 2008 to June 2009.

The employee alleged to be involved in the money's disappearance has resigned. The person's name wasn't released.

Also, the department's bookkeeping and check-writing functions have been taken over by an independent accounting firm.

Williams declined to comment further, calling it a personnel matter.

Although the department is overseen by a private board, Garner provides it with about $2.5 million a year. Williams said the meeting will help officials determine who has authority to handle recovery of the missing money and to order a more complete audit.