NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI) — Is the New Bedford School Department paying health insurance for employees who died? That's the attention-grabbing headline Monday from the New Bedford Light. The local news outlet reported the concern came up at a meeting earlier this month. School Department records show the district spends about $2.5 million a month on health insurance. Both the mayor and superintendent's office are remaining tightlipped on the report. But they acknowledged they're now taking a closer look at their insurance rolls. In a statement to 12 News, New Bedford Personnel Director Jose Gouveia said an audit carried out by the city found "several inaccuracies" for employee health insurance benefits "after reviewing the premiums and claims from active and former school department employees." In a separate email, school department spokesperson Arthur Motta wrote that the district is reviewing the results of the audit, which is expected to be completed in January. But when asked to confirm that the department was paying the health insurance of former or deceased employees, Motta wrote back, "I don't have that information, as it is under review." 12 News also asked Motta to provide a copy of the school's finance subcommittee meeting from Dec. 2, but Motta said the public meeting's Zoom was not recorded. Gouveia said the city is working with the school department to make "necessary corrections" and the school department will now be conducting a monthly audit. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW