HomeMy WebLinkAbout13 Select Annual Audit Firm Agenda Item # 13
TRUC KEE DONNER
WORKSHOP
To: Board of Directors
From: Robert Mescher
Date: July 06, 2011
Subject: Discussion of the Process to Select an Annual Audit Firm
1. WHY THIS MATTER IS BEFORE THE BOARD
The auditors are selected by the Board of Directors and report to the Board of
Directors.
2. HISTORY
District Code requires the District to be audited annually.
Baker Tilly, formerly Virchow Krause, is the 16th largest CPA and accounting firm in
the United States, and has been performing the Districts annual financial audits since
2005.
Tom Unke and Jodi Dobson have been overseeing the audit and presenting the
results and recommendations to the Board. Tom Unke is the Engagement Partner and
has been with the firm since 1991. Jodi Dobson is the Engagement Manager and has
been with the firm since 1998. They have vast experience in utility audits and they
have an excellent working relationship with Staff and the Board.
The field auditors have been professional and knowledgeable about the utility
industry, but have typically worked only one to two audits and then have moved on to
other customer accounts or other employment opportunities. There are usually three
field auditors working during an audit and they physically review the Districts
documents, records and processes using Baker Tilly's systematic methods. Since the
field auditors change periodically, fresh eyes are constantly looking at the District.
In August 2008, the Board extended the contract with Virchow Krause/Baker Tilly to
perform the 2008, 2009, and 2010 audits.
3. NEW INFORMATION
It is prudent for utility districts to consider changing audit firms from time to time so
that new eyes can examine documents and processes. However, Baker Tilly has
regularly turned over the field audit staff so they can provide that fresh perspective,
and Baker Tilly has retained Tom Unke and Jodi Dobson so we can benefit from their
vast experience of the utility industry.
An audit firm needs to be selected for the 2011 audit. The Board can decide to extend
the contract with Baker Tilly or to advertise a request for proposal.
4. FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact associated with this workshop.
The cost of last year's audit was $60,000.
5. RECOMMENDATION
Receive this report and provide direction to Staff.
Robert Mescher Michael D. Holley
Acting Administrative Services Manager General Manager