Operation Heatwave Program at Gaston Community Action, Inc.

Questions were answered relating to the Operation Heatwave Program operated by Gaston Community Action, Inc., in North Carolina to provide assistance to low-income people in meeting fuel needs and reducing energy consumption. Questions related to administrative expenses, personnel activities and qualifications, agency representation, eligibility criteria, and alleged theft of fuel.

Administrative portions of the program budget for fiscal years 1976 and 1977 were relatively high, but reclassification of some program items reduced the percentages of these costs. No evidence was found of illegal actions or misappropriated funds. However, there were some weaknesses in administrative procedures related to fuel supply controls and in accounting classifications for salaries. These weaknesses were corrected by Gaston Community Action, Inc.