State audit finds no fraud in Willard, but flags major water losses
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A state audit found no evidence of fraud or misuse of taxpayer money in Willard, Missouri, but it did uncover major problems with the city’s water system and financial management.
The citizen-requested audit was launched after 406 residents signed a petition. Concerns centered in part on former Mayor and Alderman Corey Hendrickson, who was convicted in an unrelated $300,000 fraud scheme involving his private employer.
However, the city received an overall “fair” rating.
One of the biggest findings involves Willard’s water system. The city lost nearly 82 million gallons of water in 2025 — about 26% of everything it pumped. Missouri’s acceptable water-loss standard is 10%.
The audit also found 324 disconnected utility accounts owed the city more than $41,000 in past-due bills. Auditors flagged additional problems with employee leave, taxes, outdated ordinances, financial controls and Sunshine Law compliance.
Willard officials said many improvements were already underway before the audit was completed.
Mayor Troy Smith said the city welcomed the recommendations and emphasized that auditors found no fraud or misuse of public money.
The city says reducing water loss is now a priority, with future funding planned for leak detection and infrastructure improvements.
The special audit is expected to cost Willard about $100,000. City officials say money to cover the expense is already in the budget.
