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~ ~ ~ Elk River Municipal Utilities <br />Apri17, 2008 <br />w~ C~ Page 13 <br />I ~~_ <br />GASB Statement No. 51 -Accounting and Financial Reporting for Intangible Assets <br />This statement was issued in June 2007 and is effective for periods beginning after June 15, 2009. <br />The new standard characterizes an intangible asset as an asset that lacks physical substance, is nonfinancial in nature, and has <br />an initial useful life extending beyond a single reporting period. Examples of intangible assets include easements, computer <br />software, water rights, timber rights, patents, and trademarks. <br />This statement requires that intangible assets be classified as capital assets (except for those explicitly excluded from the <br />scope of the new standard, such as capital leases). Relevant authoritative guidance for capital assets should be applied to these <br />intangible assets. The statement provides additional guidance that specifically addresses the unique nature of intangible assets, <br />including: <br />• Requiring that an intangible asset be recognized in the statement of net assets only if it is considered identifiable <br />• Establishing aspecified-conditions approach to recognizing intangible assets that are internally generated (for <br />example, patents and copyrights) <br />• Providing guidance on recognizing internally generated computer software <br />• Establishing specific guidance for the amortization of intangible assets. <br />***** <br />This report is intended solely for the information and use of the Public Utilities Commission, City Council, management, and the <br />Minnesota Office of the State Auditor and is not intended to be and should not be used by anyone other than these specified <br />parties. <br />Our audit would not necessarily disclose all weaknesses in the system because it was based on selected tests of the accounting <br />records and related data. The comments and recommendations in the report are purely constructive in nature, and should be read <br />in this context. <br />If you have any questions or wish to discuss any of the items contained in this letter, please feel free to contact us at your <br />convenience. We wish to thank you for the opportunity to be of service and for the courtesy and cooperation extended to us by <br />your staff. <br /> <br />Apri17, 2008 <br />Minneapolis, Minnesota <br />ABDO, EICK & MEYERS, LLP <br />Certified Public Accountants <br />952.835.9090 Fax 952.835.3261 <br />www.aemcpas.com <br />