AUDITOR SERVICES AGREEMENT Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT, made and entered into this 21 st day of August, 2025 by and
between the CITY OF CLEARWATER, FLORIDA, a municipal corporation of the State of
Florida,located at 600 Cleveland Street, Suite 600, Clearwater, Florida 33755,hereinafter referred
to as "City", and Cherry Bekaert, LLP, a firm of Certified Public Accountants, located at 401 East
Jackson Street, Suite 1200, Tampa, Florida, 33602, hereinafter referred to as "Contractor";
WHEREAS, the City is required by Article II, Section 2.01(c)(3) of the City Charter to
provide for an annual audit of its financial accounts; and
WHEREAS, the City participates in various Federal, State and County Assistance
programs which require independent financial and compliance audits in accordance with rules
established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Florida Auditor General,
and other agencies; and
WHEREAS, the Contractor is in the business of public accounting, is fully qualified to
meet the requirements of applicable City, State and Federal law, and desires to perform the
necessary services:
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties agree as follows:
1. The foregoing recitals are true and correct and are incorporated in and form a part of
this Agreement.
2. The "Auditor Services Documents" form the Auditor Services Agreement. The
Auditor Services Documents consist of this Agreement between the City and the
Contractor (hereinafter "Agreement") and its attached Exhibits: City of Clearwater
Request for Proposal for Professional Auditing Services, ("RFP 32-25") issued April
231 2025 (Exhibit"A"); Proposal to provide Professional Auditing Services to the City
of Clearwater, Florida ("Proposal") submitted May 28, 2025 (Exhibit "B");
Engagement Letters from Contractor to City confirming understanding of the services
to be provided under the Agreement("Engagement Letter")(Exhibit"C"). The Auditor
Services Documents shall not be construed to create a contractual relationship of any
kind with any third party, including any third-party service provider used by the
Contractor in the fulfillment of its obligations under the Agreement. Any conflict or
inconsistency in documents relating to this Agreement shall be resolved by giving
precedent in the following order: (1) this Agreement and subsequent Amendments; (11)
Exhibit A, (111) Exhibit B, and (iv) Exhibit C.
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3. This Agreement relates specifically to the City's fiscal years ending September 30,
2025 thru 2029. City Charter Section 2.01(c)(3) currently prohibits any single audit
firm from being employed for more than five consecutive years. The fees for
subsequent years are fixed per this Agreement and not expected to deviate from the
amounts stated herein except for unanticipated significant changes in the scope of
auditing services required by the City.
4. The Contractor shall review the City's annual comprehensive financial report for
compliance with GAAP and the applicable requirements of the Certificate of
Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting program of the Government
Finance Officers Association and assist the City in complying with new or existing
requirements. The Contractor shall, subject to the terms and conditions of the
engagement letter, render a report on the fair presentation of the City's basic financial
statements and all individual non-ma.or fund financial statements, in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles, for the fiscal years ending September 30,
2025 thru 2029. The Contractor shall, subject to the terms and conditions of the
engagement letter, render a report on the fair presentation of the City's combining and
individual fund financial statements and schedules in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles. The Contractor is not required to audit the
supplementary information contained in the comprehensive annual financial report,
however, the Contractor shall provide an "in-relation-to" report on the supplementary
information based on the audit procedures applied during the audit of the basic financial
statements and the combining and individual fund financial statements and schedules.
The Contractor is not required to audit the introductory or statistical sections of the
report.
The Contractor shall also perform the required financial and compliance audits
associated with Federal, State, and County Assistance programs in accordance with
Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative
Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements of Federal Awards (Uniform
Guidance); the provisions of the Florida Single Audit Act (Section 215.97 Florida
Statutes); and rules of other agencies.
5. Following completion of the audit, the Contractor shall, subject to the terms and
conditions of the engagement letter, render the following reports:
° Express an opinion or issue a report as appropriate on the fair presentation of
the City's basic financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted
accounting principles no later than March 15th annually.
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° Express an opinion or issue a report as appropriate on the fair presentation of
City's individual non-major governmental, non-major enterprise, internal
service and fiduciary funds financial statements, including any budgetary
comparisons presented as basic financial statements, in conformity with U.S.
generally accepted accounting principles, no later than March 15th annually.
° Provide an "in-relation-to" opinion or report as appropriate on the supporting
schedules of federal and state financial assistance, as well as all statements and
schedules included within the financial section of the Annual Comprehensive
Financial Report(ACFR).
° Perform certain limited procedures involving required supplementary
information as mandated by generally accepted auditing standards.
° Provide a report on internal controls over financial reporting and on compliance
and other matters based on an audit of financial statements performed in
accordance with government auditing standards.
° Provide a report on compliance with requirements applicable to each major
Federal program and state project and on internal control over compliance
required by Title 2, U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform
Administrative Requirements, Cost Principals and Audit Requirements for
Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance).
° Provide a schedule of findings and questioned costs as mandated by Title 2,
U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative
Requirements, Cost Principals and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards
(Uniform Guidance), and the Florida Single Audit Act.
° Provide any other reports required by the Uniform Guidance and the Florida
Single Audit Act.
• Provide a Management Letter as required by Section 10.554(1)(1) of the Rules
of the Auditor General of the State of Florida including all required disclosures.
° Provide an Independent Accountant's Report as required by the Florida Auditor
General.
° Audit the special purpose Schedule of Revenues and Expenditures of
Emergency Medical Services and express an opinion or issue a report as
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appropriate as to whether the Schedule presents fairly, in all material respects,
the revenues and expenditures related to the Emergency Medical Services
(EMS) of the City in accordance with the ALS First Responder Agreement.
° Audit the Community Redevelopment Agency financial statements in
accordance with Section 163.387(8), Florida Statutes, and Rule 10.556, Rules
of the Auditor General.
° Complete the appropriate section of and sign the Data Collection Form.
6. The Contractor, at the end of the audit at no additional cost to the City, will provide a
report on the liftable portion of the financial statements that would be suitable to
include with the financial statements included in a debt issuance. When this report is
used, the City will include in their offering statement the following: "Cherry Bekaert,
LLP our independent auditor, has not been engaged to perform and has not performed,
since the date of its report included herein, any procedures on the financial statements
addressed in that report. Cherry Bekaert, LLP also has not performed any procedures
relating to this official statement."
7. The Contractor shall assist the City in scheduling the Annual Comprehensive Financial
Report to be completed and issued no later than March 15th, succeeding each fiscal
year. Contractor/City meetings will be held at least once per month until completion
of this Agreement. Weekly status meetings shall be held while the Contractor is
working at the City. The Contractor shall complete performance under this Agreement
by March 31 st succeeding each fiscal year.
8. The Contractor shall bill the City and the City shall pay the Contractor for the
performance of the services under this Agreement on the basis of the Contractor's
normal and customary charges for such services, plus ordinary out-of-pocket expenses
customarily stated separately by the Contractor in their general practice. The total
amount of this Agreement, including out-of-pocket expenses, shall not exceed:
Fiscal 2025 $1501000
Fiscal 2026 $1531750
Fiscal 2027 $157,595
Fiscal 2028 $1611535
Fiscal 2029 $1651570
The City may, by amendment of this Agreement, increase this maximum fee and/or
extend the completion date upon the Contractor's showing evidence of conditions
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which require substantially more time than would generally be required to perform
the prescribed services. Progress payments will be made periodically for work
completed to date based on invoices submitted by the Contractor. The sum of such
progress payments shall not exceed ninety percent(90%) of the maximum specified
above. The final payment will be made within thirty(30) days of receipt of the final
audit reports.
9. Notices.
All notices, requests, demands, or other communications required by law, or this
Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been served as of the
delivery date appearing upon the return receipt if sent by certified mail,postage prepaid
with return receipt requested, to:
Jay Ravins, Finance Director
City of Clearwater
100 South Myrtle Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33756
Lauren S trope, Partner
Cherry B ekaert, LLP
401 East Jackson Street, Suite 1200
Tampa, FL 33602
10. It is expressly understood that the relationship of Contractor to the City will be that of
an independent contractor. Contractor and all persons employed by Contractor, either
directly or indirectly, are Contractor's employees, not City employees. Accordingly,
Contractor and Contractor's employees are not entitled to any benefits provided to City
employees including, but not limited to, health benefits, enrollment in a retirement
system, paid time off or other rights afforded City employees. Contractor employees
will not be regarded as City employees or agents for any purpose, including the
payment of unemployment or workers' compensation. If any Contractor employees or
subcontractors assert a claim for wages or other employment benefits against the City,
Contractor will defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City from all such claims.
11. Contractor may not subcontract work under this Agreement without the express written
permission of the City. If Contractor has received authorization to subcontract work,
it is agreed that all subcontractors performing work under the Agreement must comply
with its provisions. Further, all agreements between Contractor and its subcontractors
must provide that the terms and conditions of this Agreement be incorporated therein.
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12. This Agreement may not be assigned either in whole or in part without first receiving
the City's written consent. Any attempted assignment, either in whole or in part,
without such consent will be null and void and in such event the City will have the right
at its option to terminate the Agreement. No granting of consent to any assignment
will relieve Contractor from any of its obligations and liabilities under the Agreement.
13. This Agreement will be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and their
respective permitted successors and assigns.
14. This Agreement is intended for the exclusive benefit of the parties. Nothing set forth
in this Agreement is intended to create, or will create, any benefits, rights, or
responsibilities in any third parties.
15. There will be no oral changes to this Agreement. This Agreement can only be modified
in a writing signed by both parties. No charge for extra work or material will be allowed
unless approved in writing, in advance, by the City and Contractor.
16. Contractor must procure all permits and licenses, and pay all charges and fees necessary
and incidental to the lawful conduct of business. Contractor must stay fully informed
of existing and future federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, executive orders, and
regulations that in any manner affect the fulfillment of this Agreement and must comply
with the same at its own expense. Contractor bears full responsibility for training,
safety, and providing necessary equipment for all Contractor personnel to achieve
throughout the term of the Agreement. Upon request, Contractor will demonstrate to
the City's satisfaction any programs, procedures, and other activities used to ensure
compliance.
17. Contractor represents and warrants that it does not discriminate against any employee
or applicant for employment or person to whom it provides services because of race,
color, religion, sex, national origin, or disability, and represents and warrants that it
complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and executive orders
regarding employment. Contractor and Contractor's personnel will comply with
applicable provisions of Title VII of the U.S. Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended,
Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act(42
U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.), and applicable rules in performance under this Agreement.
18. Contractor is responsible for the payment of all taxes including federal, state, and local
taxes related to or arising out of Contractor's services under this Agreement, including
by way of illustration but not limitation, federal and state income tax, Social Security
tax, unemployment insurance taxes, and any other taxes or business license fees as
required. If any taxing authority should deem Contractor or Contractor employees an
employee of the City or should otherwise claim the City is liable for the payment of
taxes that are Contractor's responsibility under this Agreement, Contractor will
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indemnify the City for any tax liability, interest, and penalties imposed upon the City.
The City is exempt from paying state and local sales/use taxes and certain federal excise
taxes and will furnish an exemption certificate upon request.
19. In addition to all other contract requirements as provided by law, the Contractor
executing this Agreement agrees to comply with public records law.
20. Contractor must preserve the records related to this Agreement for five (5) years after
completion of the Agreement. The City or its authorized agent reserves the right to
inspect any records related to the performance of work specified herein. In addition,
the City may inspect any and all payroll, billing or other relevant records kept by
Contractor in relation to the Agreement. Contractor will permit such inspections and
audits during normal business hours and upon reasonable notice by the City. The audit
of records may occur at Contractor's place of business or at City offices, as determined
by the City.
21. A party will be in default if that party: (i) is or becomes insolvent or is a party to any
voluntary bankruptcy or receivership proceeding, makes an assignment for a creditor,
or there is any similar action that affects Contractor's capability to perform under the
Agreement; (ii) is the subject of a petition for involuntary bankruptcy not removed
within sixty(60) calendar days; (iii) conducts business in an unethical manner or in an
illegal manner; or (iv) fails to carry out any term, promise, or condition of the
Agreement. Contractor will be in default of this Agreement if Contractor is debarred
or suspended in accordance with the Clearwater Code of Ordinances Section 2.565 or
if Contractor is debarred or suspended by another governmental entity. In the event a
party is in default then the other party may, at its option and at any time,provide written
notice to the defaulting party of the default. The defaulting party will have thirty (30)
days from receipt of the notice to cure the default; the thirty (30) day cure period may
be extended by mutual agreement of the parties, but no cure period may exceed ninety
(90)days. A default notice will be deemed to be sufficient if it is reasonably calculated
to provide notice of the nature and extent of such default. Failure of the non-defaulting
party to provide notice of the default does not waive any rights under the Agreement.
Whenever the City in good faith has reason to question Contractor's intent or ability to
perform,the City may demand that Contractor give a written assurance of its intent and
ability to perform. In the event that the demand is made and no written assurance is
given within five (5) calendar days, the City may treat this failure as an anticipatory
repudiation of the Agreement.
22. The remedies set forth in this Agreement are not exclusive. Election of one remedy will
not preclude the use of other remedies. In the event of default: (A) The non-defaulting
party may terminate the Agreement, and the termination will be effective immediately
or at such other date as specified by the terminating party; (B) The City may purchase
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the services required under the Agreement from the open market, complete required
work itself, or have it completed at the expense of Contractor. If the cost of obtaining
substitute services exceeds the contract price, the City may recover the reasonable
excess cost by: (1) requiring immediate reimbursement to the City; (ii) deduction from
an unpaid balance due to Contractor; (111) collection against the proposal and/or
performance security, if any; (iv) collection against liquidated damages (if applicable);
or(v) a combination of the aforementioned remedies or other remedies as provided by
law. Costs includes any and all, fees, and expenses incurred in obtaining substitute
services and expended in obtaining reimbursement, including, but not limited to,
administrative expenses, attorneys' fees, and costs; (C) The non-defaulting party will
have all other rights granted under this Agreement and all rights at law or in equity that
may be available to it; (D) Neither party will be liable for incidental, special, or
consequential damages.
23. Contractor agrees that during any dispute between the parties, Contractor will continue
to perform its obligations until the dispute is settled, instructed to cease performance
by the City, enjoined or prohibited judicial action, or otherwise required or obligated
to cease performance by other provisions in this Agreement.
24. Each party reserves the right to terminate this Agreement at its convenience, in part or
in whole, upon thirty (30) calendar days' written notice.
25. The City is a governmental agency which relies upon the appropriation of funds by its
governing body to satisfy its obligations. If the City reasonably determines, in its sole
discretion, that it does not have funds to meet its obligations under this Agreement, the
City will have the right to terminate the Agreement without penalty on the last day of
the fiscal period for which funds were legally available. In the event of such
termination, the City agrees to provide written notice of its intent to terminate thirty
(30) calendar days prior to the stated termination date.
26. Upon termination of this Agreement, Contractor will be entitled only to payment for
those services performed up to the date of termination, and any authorized expenses
already incurred up to such date of termination. The City will make final payment
within thirty (30) calendar days after the City has both completed its appraisal of the
materials and services provided and received Contractor's properly prepared final
invoice.
27. There will be no waiver of any provision of this Agreement unless approved in writing
and signed by the waiving party. Failure or delay to exercise any rights or remedies
provided herein or by law or in equity, or the acceptance of, or payment for, any
services hereunder, will not release the other party of any of the warranties or other
obligations of the Agreement and will not be deemed a waiver of any such rights or
remedies.
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28. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Contractor agrees to defend,indemnify, and hold
the City, its officers, agents, and employees, harmless from and against any and all
third party liabilities, demands, claims, suits, losses, damages, causes of action, fines
or judgments, including reasonable costs, attorneys', witnesses', and expert witnesses'
fees, and expenses incident thereto, relating to, arising out of, or resulting from: (i) the
services provided by Contractor personnel under this Agreement; (ii) any negligent
acts, errors, mistakes or omissions by Contractor or Contractor personnel; and (iii)
Contractor or Contractor personnel's breach of this Agreement. Provided, however,
that the maximum aggregate liability of Contractor with respect to its liability
obligations under the Agreement shall not exceed the sum of five million dollars
($5,000,000.00). Contractor will update the City during the course of the litigation to
timely notify the City of any issues that may involve the independent negligence of the
City that is not covered by this indemnification. The City assumes no liability for
actions of Contractor and will not indemnify or hold Contractor or any third party
harmless for claims based on this Agreement or use of Contractor-provided supplies or
services. Nothing contained herein in intended to serve as a waiver by the City of its
sovereign immunity, to extend the liability of the City beyond the limits set forth in
Section 768.28, Florida Statutes, or be construed as consent by the City to be sued by
third parties.
29. This Agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Florida. The exclusive venue
selected for any proceeding or suit in law or equity arising from or incident to this
Agreement will be Pinellas County, Florida.
30. If any provision of this Agreement is declared void or unenforceable, such provision
will be severed from this Agreement, which will otherwise remain in full force and
effect. The parties will negotiate diligently in good faith for such amendment(s) of this
Agreement as may be necessary to achieve the original intent of this Agreement,
notwithstanding such invalidity or unenforceability.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this agreement to be executed the day
and year first above written:
CHERRY BEKAERT, LLP
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Lauren Strope
Engagement Partner
CITY OF CLEARWATER, FLORIDA
Signed by: Signed by:
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Bruce Rector Jennifer Poirrier
Mayor City Manager
Approved as to form: Attest: DS
Signed by: DocuSigned by: f
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Owen Kohler Rosemarie Call
Lead Assistant City Attorney City Clerk
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REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
32_25
PROFESSIONALAUDITING SERVICES
NOTICE
Wednesday, April 23. 2O25
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that sealed proposals will be received by the City of Clearwater(City) until
10:00 am, Local Time, on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 to provide:
The City of Clearwater is seeking proposals from qualified firms of certified public accountants to audit the
financial statements of the City of Clearwater, Florida, and the Clearwater Community Redevelopment
Agency (CRA)for the fiscal years ending September 3O. 2O2S. 2O20. 2O27. 2O28. and 2O2Q.
Proposals must be in 0000rdonoa with the provioions, specifications and instructions set forth herein and
will be nauoivad by the Procurement Division until the above noted time, when they will be publicly
acknowledged and accepted.
Proposal packets, any attachments and addenda are evei|eb|a for download
at: .
Please reed the entire solicitation package and submit the bid in accordance with the instructions. This
document (less this invitation and the instructions) and any required response dooumenta, etbachmento,
and submissions will constitute the bid.
Genensl. Pn:cemm. or Technical Questions concerning this solicitation shall be submitted through
the City's m-Pnmcunemment Portal located at.
All answers to inquiries will be posted on the City's o-Procurement Portal. Bidders may also click"Follow"
on this bid to receive an email notification when answers are posted. It is the responsibility of the bidder to
ohanh the website for answers to inquiries.
This Request for Proposals ieissued by:
Lori Vogel, CPP13
Procurement YNsnsge
v.7.2024 Procurement Division
PoBox 4740007oe'474e
Clearwater FL
727'562'4e30
oocunignEnvelope ID: eom4000s-B2mE-4g4E-oFFE-soono400rruu
INSTRUCTIONS
2.1 Vendor Questions
All questions regarding the contents of this solicitation, and solicitation process (including requests for ADA
a000mmodcdiono), shall be submitted through the City's o-Procurement Portal, located at
http . Please note the deadline for submitting inquiries.
All answers to inquiries will be posted on the City's o-Procurement Portal. Bidders may also click "Follow"
on this bid to receive an email notification when answers are posted. It is the responsibility of the bidder to
check the website for answers toinquiries.
2.2 Addenda/Clarifications
Any changes to the specifications will be in the form of an addendum. Vendors are required to register for
an account via the City's o-Procurement Portal hosted by OpanGov. Once the bidder has completed
regiotmotion, they will receive addenda notifications to their email by clicking "Follow" on this project.
U|timata|y, it is the oo|a responsibility of each bidder to periodically check the site for any addenda at
.
The City cannot be held responsible if a vendor fails to receive any addenda issued. The City shall not bo
responsible for any oral changes to these specifications made by any employees or officer of the
City. Failure to acknowledge receipt of an addendum may result in disqualification of proposal.
2.3 Due Date &Time for Submission and Opening
Date: Wednesday, May 28. 2025
Time: 10:00 am
The City will open all proposals properly and timely submitted and will record the names and other
information specified bylaw and rule. All proposals become the property ofthe City and will not bareturned
except inthe case ofelate submission. Respondent names, oaread etthe bid opening, will baposted on
the Qty website. (]nma a notice of intent to award is posted or 30 days from day of opening e|opoao.
whichever occurs earlier, proposals are available for inspection by contacting the Procurement Division.
2.4 Proposal Firm Time
Proposal oho|| remain firm and unaltered after opening for 120 days. The City may accept the proposal,
subject to successful contract negotiations, at any time during this time.
2.5 Proposal Submittals
It is recommended that proposals are submitted electronically through the City's e-Procurement Portal
located at . By way of the e-Procurement Portal,
responses will be locked and digitally encrypted until the submission deadline passes.
E-mail or fax submissions will not be acc
No responsibility will attach to the City of Clearwater, its employees or eganba for premature opening of
proposal that ionot properly addressed and identified.
2.6 Late Proposals
The proposer assumes responsibility for having the proposal delivered on time at the place specified. All
proposals received after the date and time specified shall not be considered and will be returned unopened
to the proposer. The proposer assumes the risk ofany delay in the mail or in handling of the mail by
employees of the City of C|aenwotar, or any private oourier, regardless whether sent by mail or by means
of personal delivery. It shall not be sufficient to show that you mailed or commenced delivery before the
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due date and time. All times are Clearwater, Florida local times. The proposer agrees to accept the time
stamp in the City's Procurement Office as the official time.
2.7 Lobbying; Lobbying No-Contact Period; Questions Regarding Solicitation
From the time a competitive solicitation is posted until such time as the contract is awarded by the city or
the solicitation is cancelled, all bidders, offerors, respondents, including their employees, representatives,
and other individuals acting on their behalf, shall be prohibited from lobbying city officers, city employees,
and evaluation committee members.
Violation of this section may result in rejection/disqualification from award of the contract arising out of the
competitive solicitation.
All questions regarding the competitive solicitation must be submitted through the City's e-Procurement
Portal,who will respond in writing and post such response to ensure that all respondents receive the same
information during the No-Contact Period.
The penalty for violating the No-Contact Period may include suspension or debarment.
2.8 Commencement of Work
If proposer begins any billable work prior to the City's final approval and execution of the contract, proposer
does so at its own risk.
2.9 Responsibility to Read and Understand
Failure to read, examine and understand the solicitation will not excuse any failure to comply with the
requirements of the solicitation or any resulting contract, nor shall such failure be a basis for claiming
additional compensation. If a vendor suspects an error, omission or discrepancy in this solicitation, the
vendor must immediately and in any case not later than seven (7) business days in advance of the due
date notify the contact listed on this solicitation The City is not responsible for and will not pay any costs
associated with the preparation and submission of the proposal. Proposers are cautioned to verify their
proposals before submission, as amendments to or withdrawal of proposals submitted after time specified
for opening of proposals may not be considered. The City will not be responsible for any proposer errors
or omissions.
2.10 Form and Content of Proposals
Proposals, including modifications, must be certified by an authorized representative and submitted
electronically. In the event of a disparity between the unit price and the extended price, the unit price shall
prevail unless obviously in error, as determined by the City. The City requires that an electronic copy of the
proposal be submitted through the City's e-Procurement portal located at
The proposal must provide all information
requested and must address all points. The City does not encourage exceptions. The City is not required
to grant exceptions and depending on the exception, the City may reject the proposal.
2.11 Specifications
Technical specifications define the minimum acceptable standard. When the specification calls for"Brand
Name or Equal," the brand name product is acceptable. Other products will be considered upon showing
the other product meets stated specifications and is equivalent to the brand product in terms of quality,
performance and desired characteristics.
Minor differences that do not affect the suitability of the supply or service for the City's needs may be
accepted. Burden of proof that the product meets the minimum standards or is equal to the brand name
product is on the proposer. The City reserves the right to reject proposals that the City deems
unacceptable.
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2.12 Modification/Withdrawal of Proposal
For proposals submitted electronically, vendors may use the "Unsubmit Response" button located on the
Response Details page of their submission. Responses may be resubmitted once they have been edited
or modified as needed.
For mailed in or hand delivered proposals, written requests to modify or withdraw the proposal received by
the City prior to the scheduled opening time will be accepted and will be corrected after opening. Written
requests must be addressed and labeled in the same manner as the proposal and marked as a
MODIFICATION or WITHDRAWAL of the proposal.
No oral requests will be allowed.
Requests for withdrawal after the bid opening will only be granted upon proof of undue hardship and may
result in the forfeiture of any proposal security. Any withdrawal after the bid opening shall be allowed solely
at the City's discretion.
2.13 Debarment Disclosure
If the vendor submitting a proposal has been debarred, suspended, or otherwise lawfully precluded from
participating in any public procurement activity, including being disapproved as a subcontractor with any
federal, state, or local government, or if any such preclusion from participation from any public procurement
activity is currently pending, the proposer shall include a letter with its proposal identifying the name and
address of the governmental unit, the effective date of this suspension or debarment, the duration of the
suspension or debarment, and the relevant circumstances relating to the suspension or debarment. If
suspension or debarment is currently pending, a detailed description of all relevant circumstances including
the details enumerated above must be provided. A proposal from a proposer who is currently debarred,
suspended or otherwise lawfully prohibited from any public procurement activity may be rejected.
2.14 Reservations
The City reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or any part thereof; to rebid the solicitation;to reject
non-responsive or non-responsible proposals; to reject unbalanced proposals; to reject proposals where
the terms, prices, and/or awards are conditioned upon another event; to reject individual proposals for
failure to meet any requirement; to award by item, part or portion of an item, group of items, or total; to
make multiple awards; to waive minor irregularities, defects, omissions, technicalities or form errors in any
proposal. The City may seek clarification of the proposal from proposer at any time, and failure to respond
is cause for rejection. Submission of a proposal confers on proposer no right to an award orto a subsequent
contract. The City is responsible to make an award that is in the best interest of the City. All decisions on
compliance, evaluation, terms and conditions shall be made solely at the City's discretion and made to
favor the City. No binding contract will exist between the proposer and the City until the City executes a
written contract or purchase order.
2.15 Official Solicitation Document
Changes to the solicitation document made by a proposer may not be acknowledged or accepted by the
City. Award or execution of a contract does not constitute acceptance of a changed term, condition or
specification unless specifically acknowledged and agreed to by the City. The copy maintained and
published by the City shall be the official solicitation document.
2.16 Copying of Proposals
Proposer hereby grants the City permission to copy all parts of its proposal, including without limitation any
documents and/or materials copyrighted by the proposer. The City's right to copy shall be for internal use
in evaluating the proposal.
2.17 Contractor Ethics
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It is the intention of the City to promote courtesy, fairness, impartiality, integrity, service, professionalism,
economy, and government by law in the Procurement process. The responsibility for implementing this
policy rests with each individual who participates in the Procurement process, including Respondents and
Contractors.
To achieve this purpose, it is essential that Respondents and Contractors doing business with the City also
observe the ethical standards prescribed herein. It shall be a breach of ethical standards to:
A. Exert any effort to influence any City employee or agent to breach the standards of ethical conduct.
B. Intentionally invoice any amount greater than provided in Contract or to invoice for Materials or
Services not provided.
C. Intentionally offer or provide sub-standard Materials or Services or to intentionally not comply with
any term, condition, specification or other requirement of a City Contract.
2.18 Gifts
The City will accept no gifts, gratuities or advertising products from proposers or prospective proposers and
affiliates. The City may request product samples from vendors for product evaluation.
2.19 Right to Protest
Pursuant to Section 2.562(3), Clearwater Code of Ordinances, a bidder who submitted a response to a
competitive solicitation and was not selected may appeal the decision through the bid protest procedures,
a copy of which shall be available in the Procurement Division. A protesting bidder must include a fee of
one percent of the amount of the bid or proposed contract to offset the City's additional expenses related
to the protest. This fee shall not exceed $5,000.00 nor be less than $50.00. Full refund will be provided
should the protest be upheld. No partial refunds will be made.
ADDRESS PROTESTS TO:
City of Clearwater- Procurement Division
1255 Cleveland St, 3rd FL
Clearwater FL 33755
or
PO Box 4748
Clearwater FL 33758-4748
2.20 Evaluation Process
Proposals will be reviewed by a screening committee comprised of City employees. The City staff may or
may not initiate discussions with proposers for clarification purposes. Clarification is not an opportunity to
change the proposal. Proposers shall not initiate discussions with any City employee or official.
Respondent is hereby notified that Section 287.05701, Florida Statutes, requires that the City may not
request documentation of or consider a vendor's social, political, or ideological interests when determining
if the vendor is a responsible vendor.
2.21 Criteria for Evaluation and Award
The City evaluates three (3) categories of information: responsiveness, responsibility, the technical
proposal/price. All proposals must meet the following responsiveness and responsibility criteria.
A. Responsiveness. The City will determine whether the proposal complies with the instructions for
submitting proposals including completeness of proposal which encompasses the inclusion of all
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required attachments and submissions. The City must reject any proposals that are submitted
late. Failure to meet other requirements may result in rejection.
B. Responsibility. The City will determine whether the proposer is one with whom it can or should
do business. Factors that the City may evaluate to determine "responsibility" include, but are not
limited to: excessively high or low priced proposals, past performance, references (including
those found outside the proposal), compliance with applicable laws, proposer's record of
performance and integrity- e.g. has the proposer been delinquent or unfaithful to any contract with
the City, whether the proposer is qualified legally to contract with the City, financial stability and
the perceived ability to perform completely as specified. A proposer must at all times have
financial resources sufficient, in the opinion of the City, to ensure performance of the contract and
must provide proof upon request. City staff may also use Dun & Bradstreet and/or any generally
available industry information. The City reserves the right to inspect and review proposer's
facilities, equipment and personnel and those of any identified subcontractors. The City will
determine whether any failure to supply information, or the quality of the information, will result in
rejection.
C. Technical Proposal. The City will determine how well proposals meet its requirements in terms of
the response to the specifications and how well the offer addresses the needs of the project. The
City will rank offers using a point ranking system (unless otherwise specified) as an aid in
conducting the evaluation.
If less than three (3) responsive proposals are received, at the City's sole discretion, the proposals may be
evaluated using simple comparative analysis instead of any announced method of evaluation, subject to
meeting administrative and responsibility requirements.
For this RFP,see Section CRITERIA FOR EVALUATION AND AWARD for the criteria that will be evaluated
and their relative weights.
2.22 Short-Listing
The City at its sole discretion may create a short-list of the highest ranked proposals based on evaluation
against the evaluation criteria. Short-listed proposers may be invited to give presentations and/or
interviews. Upon conclusion of any presentations/interviews, the City will finalize the ranking of shortlisted
firms.
2.23 Presentations/Interviews
Presentations and/or interviews may be requested at the City's discretion. The location for these
presentations and/or interviews will be determined by the City and may be held virtually.
2.24 Best and Final Offers
The City may request best&final offers if deemed necessary, and will determine the scope and subject of
any best & final request. However, the proposer should not expect that the City will ask for best & finals
and should submit their best offer based on the terms and conditions set forth in this solicitation.
2.25 Cost Justification
In the event only one response is received, the City may require that the proposer submit a cost proposal
in sufficient detail for the City to perform a cost/price analysis to determine if the proposal price is fair and
reasonable.
2.26 Contract Negotiations and Acceptance
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Proposer must be prepared for the City to accept the proposal as submitted. If proposer fails to sign all
documents necessary to successfully execute the final contract within a reasonable time as specified, or
negotiations do not result in an acceptable agreement, the City may reject proposal or revoke the award,
and may begin negotiations with another proposer. Final contract terms must be approved or signed by
the appropriately authorized City official(s). No binding contract will exist between the proposer and the
City until the City executes a written contract or purchase order.
2.27 Notice of Intent to Award
Notices of the City's intent to award a Contract are posted to Purchasing's website. It is the proposer's
responsibility to check the City of Clearwater's website at
• to view the Procurement
https-.Lprocurement.opengov.com/porta
Division's Intent to Award postings.
2.28 RFP Timeline
Dates are tentative and subject to change.
Release - April 23, 2025
Advertise Times- April 23, 2025
Question i i Deadline- May 18, 2025, 10:00am
Due Date &Time r Submissions and Opening- May 28, 2025, 10:00am
Review r l : Week of June 30, 2025
Presentations i r Week of July 14, 2025
Award recommendation: July 23, 2025
Council Authorization: August 7, 2025
Contract Begins: August 2025
CRITERIA FOR EVALUATION AND AWARD
The City evaluates three (3) categories of information: responsiveness, responsibility, the technical
proposal/price. All proposals must meet the following responsiveness and responsibility criteria.
A. Responsiveness. The City will determine whether the proposal complies with the instructions for
submitting proposals including completeness of proposal which encompasses the inclusion of all
required attachments and submissions. The City must reject any proposals that are submitted
late. Failure to meet other requirements may result in rejection.
B. Responsibility. The City will determine whether the proposer is one with whom it can or should
do business. Factors that the City may evaluate to determine "responsibility" include, but are not
limited to: excessively high or low priced proposals, past performance, references (including
those found outside the proposal), compliance with applicable laws, proposer's record of
performance and integrity- e.g. has the proposer been delinquent or unfaithful to any contract with
the City, whether the proposer is qualified legally to contract with the City, financial stability and
the perceived ability to perform completely as specified. A proposer must at all times have
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financial resources sufficient, in the opinion of the City, to ensure performance of the contract and
must provide proof upon request. City staff may also use Dun & Bradstreet and/or any generally
available industry information. The City reserves the right to inspect and review proposer's
facilities, equipment and personnel and those of any identified subcontractors. The City will
determine whether any failure to supply information, or the quality of the information, will result in
rejection.
C. Technical Proposal. The City will determine how well proposals meet its requirements in terms of
the response to the specifications and how well the offer addresses the needs of the project. The
City will rank offers using a point ranking system (unless otherwise specified) as an aid in
conducting the evaluation.
If less than three (3) responsive proposals are received, at the City's sole discretion, the proposals may be
evaluated using simple comparative analysis instead of any announced method of evaluation, subject to
meeting administrative and responsibility requirements.
For this RFP, the criteria that will be evaluated and their relative weights are:
1. Qualifications, Experience and Project Points Based 45
Personnel Expertise (45%of Total)
2. Audit Approach Points Based 30
(30%of Total)
3. References Points Based 15
(15%of Total)
4. Cost Proposal Points Based 10
(10%of Total)
STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS
4.1 Definitions
Uses of the following terms are interchangeable as referenced: "vendor, contractor, consultant, supplier,
proposer, company, persons", "purchase order, PO, contract, agreement", "City, Clearwater", "bid,
proposal, response, quote".
4.2 Independent Contractor
It is expressly understood that the relationship of Contractor to the City will be that of an independent
contractor. Contractor and all persons employed by Contractor,either directly or indirectly, are Contractor's
employees, not City employees. Accordingly, Contractor and Contractor's employees are not entitled to
any benefits provided to City employees including, but not limited to, health benefits, enrollment in a
retirement system, paid time off or other rights afforded City employees. Contractor employees will not be
regarded as City employees or agents for any purpose, including the payment of unemployment or workers'
compensation. If any Contractor employees or subcontractors assert a claim for wages or other
employment benefits against the City, Contractor will defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City from all
such claims.
4.3 Subcontracting
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Contractor may not subcontract work under this Agreement without the express written permission of the
City. If Contractor has received authorization to subcontract work, it is agreed that all subcontractors
performing work under the Agreement must comply with its provisions. Further, all agreements between
Contractor and its subcontractors must provide that the terms and conditions of this Agreement be
incorporated therein.
4.4 Assignment
This Agreement may not be assigned either in whole or in part without first receiving the City's written
consent. Any attempted assignment, either in whole or in part, without such consent will be null and void
and in such event the City will have the right at its option to terminate the Agreement. No granting of
consent to any assignment will relieve Contractor from any of its obligations and liabilities under the
Agreement.
4.5 Successor and Assigns, Binding Effect
This Agreement will be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and their respective permitted
successors and assigns.
4.6 No Third Party Beneficiaries
This Agreement is intended for the exclusive benefit of the parties. Nothing set forth in this Agreement is
intended to create, or will create, any benefits, rights, or responsibilities in any third parties.
4.7 Non-Exclusivity
The City, in its sole discretion, reserves the right to request the materials or services set forth herein from
other sources when deemed necessary and appropriate. No exclusive rights are encompassed through
this Agreement.
4.8 Amendments
There will be no oral changes to this Agreement. This Agreement can only be modified in a writing signed
by both parties. No charge for extra work or material will be allowed unless approved in writing, in advance,
by the City and Contractor.
4.9 Time of the Essence
Time is of the essence to the performance of the parties' obligations under this Agreement.
4.10 Compliance with Applicable Laws
A. General. Contractor must procure all permits and licenses, and pay all charges and fees
necessary and incidental to the lawful conduct of business. Contractor must stay fully informed of
existing and future federal, state, and local laws, ordinances,executive orders, and regulations that
in any manner affect the fulfillment of this Agreement and must comply with the same at its own
expense. Contractor bears full responsibility for training, safety, and providing necessary
equipment for all Contractor personnel to achieve throughout the term of the Agreement. Upon
request, Contractor will demonstrate to the City's satisfaction any programs, procedures, and other
activities used to ensure compliance.
B. Drug-Free Workplace. Contractor is hereby advised that the City has adopted a policy
establishing a drug-free workplace for itself and those doing business with the City to ensure the
safety and health of all persons working on City contracts and projects. Contractor will require a
drug-free workplace for all Contractor personnel working under this Agreement. Specifically, all
Contractor personnel who are working under this Agreement must be notified in writing by
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Contractor that they are prohibited from the manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or
unlawful use of a controlled substance in the workplace. Contractor agrees to prohibit the use of
intoxicating substances by all Contractor personnel and will ensure that Contractor personnel do
not use or possess illegal drugs while in the course of performing their duties.
C. Federal and State Immigration Laws. Contractor agrees to comply with the Immigration Reform
and Control Act of 1986 (IBCA) in performance under this Agreement and to permit the City and its
agents to inspect applicable personnel records to verify such compliance as permitted by
law. Contractor will ensure and keep appropriate records to demonstrate that all Contractor
personnel have a legal right to live and work in the United States.
1. As applicable to Contractor, under this provision, Contractor hereby warrants to the City that
Contractor and each of its subcontractors will comply with, and are contractually obligated to
comply with, all federal immigration laws and regulations that relate to their employees
(hereinafter"Contractor Immigration Warranty").
2. A breach of the Contractor Immigration Warranty will constitute as a material breach of this
Agreement and will subject Contractor to penalties up to and including termination of this
Agreement at the sole discretion of the City.
3. The City retains the legal right to inspect the papers of all Contractor personnel who provide
services under this Agreement to ensure that Contractor or its subcontractors are complying
with the Contractor Immigration Warranty. Contractor agrees to assist the City in regard to
any such inspections.
4. The City may, at its sole discretion, conduct random verification of the employment records of
Contractor and any subcontractor to ensure compliance with the Contractor Immigration
Warranty. Contractor agrees to assist the City in regard to any random verification
performed.
5. Neither Contractor nor any subcontractor will be deemed to have materially breached the
Contractor Immigration Warranty if Contractor or subcontractor establishes that it has
complied with the employment verification provisions prescribed by Sections 274A and 2748
of the Federal Immigration and Nationality Act.
D. Nondiscrimination. Contractor represents and warrants that it does not discriminate against any
employee or applicant for employment or person to whom it provides services because of race,
color, religion, sex, national origin, or disability, and represents and warrants that it complies with
all applicable federal, state, and local laws and executive orders regarding employment. Contractor
and Contractor's personnel will comply with applicable provisions of Title VII of the U.S. Civil Rights
Act of 1964, as amended, Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with
Disabilities Act (42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.), and applicable rules in performance under this
Agreement.
4.11 Sales/Use Tax, Other Taxes
Contractor is responsible for the payment of all taxes including federal, state, and local taxes related to or
arising out of Contractor's services under this Agreement, including by way of illustration but not limitation,
federal and state income tax, Social Security tax, unemployment insurance taxes, and any other taxes or
business license fees as required. If any taxing authority should deem Contractor or Contractor employees
an employee of the City or should otherwise claim the City is liable for the payment of taxes that are
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Contractor's responsibility under this Agreement, Contractor will indemnify the City for any tax liability,
interest, and penalties imposed upon the City.
The City is exempt from paying state and local sales/use taxes and certain federal excise taxes and will
furnish an exemption certificate upon request.
4.12 Amounts Due the City
Contractor must be current and remain current in all obligations due to the City during the performance of
services under the Agreement. Payments to Contractor may be offset by any delinquent amounts due the
City or fees and charges owed to the City.
4.13 Public Records
In addition to all other contract requirements as provided by law, the Contractor executing this Agreement
agrees to comply with public records law.
IF THE CONTRACTOR HAS QUESTIONS REGARDING THE APPLICATION OF CHAPTER 119,
FLORIDA STATUTES, TO THE CONTRACTOR'S DUTY TO PROVIDE PUBLIC RECORDS RELATING
TO THIS CONTRACT, CONTACT THE CUSTODIAN OF PUBLIC RECORDS, Rosemarie Call, Phone:
727-444-7151 or Email: Rosemarie.Cal 1(&-myclearwater.com, 600 Cleveland Street, Suite 600,
Clearwater, FL 33755.
The Contractor agrees to comply with the following_
A. Keep and maintain public records required by the City of Clearwater(hereinafter"public agency" in
this section)to perform the service being provided by the contractor hereunder.
B. Upon request from the public agency's custodian of public records, provide the public agency with
a copy of the requested records or allow the records to be inspected or copied within a reasonable
time at a cost that does not exceed the cost provided for in Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, as may
be amended from time to time, or as otherwise provided by law.
C. Ensure that the public records that are exempt or confidential and exempt from public records
disclosure requirements are not disclosed except as authorized by law for the duration of the
contract term and following completion of the contract if the contractor does not transfer the records
to the public agency.
D. Upon completion of the contract, transfer, at no cost, to the public agency all public records in
possession of the contractor or keep and maintain public records required by the public agency to
perform the service. If the contractor transfers all public records to the public agency upon
completion of the contract,the contractor shall destroy any duplicate public records that are exempt
or confidential and exempt from public records disclosure requirements. If the contractor keeps
and maintains public records upon completion of the contract, the contractor shall meet all
applicable requirements for retaining public records. All records stored electronically must be
provided to the public agency, upon request from the public agency's custodian of public records,
in a format that is compatible with the information technology systems of the public agency.
E. A request to inspect or copy public records relating to a public agency's contract for services must
be made directly to the public agency. If the public agency does not possess the requested records,
the public agency shall immediately notify the contractor of the request and the contractor must
provide the records to the public agency or allow the records to be inspected or copied within a
reasonable time.
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F. The contractor hereby acknowledges and agrees that if the contractor does not comply with the
public agency's request for records, the public agency shall enforce the contract provisions in
accordance with the contract.
G. A contractor who fails to provide the public records to the public agency within a reasonable time
may be subject to penalties under Section 119.10, Florida Statutes.
H. If a civil action is filed against a contractor to compel production of public records relating to a public
agency's contract for services, the court shall assess and award against the contractor the
reasonable costs of enforcement, including reasonable attorney fees, if:
1. The court determines that the contractor unlawfully refused to comply with the public records
request within a reasonable time; and
2. At least eight(8) business days before filing the action, the plaintiff provided written notice of
the public records request, including a statement that the contractor has not complied with
the request, to the public agency and to the contractor.
I. A notice complies with subparagraph (h)2. if it is sent to the public agency's custodian of public
records and to the contractor at the contractor's address listed on its contract with the public agency
or to the contractor's registered agent. Such notices must be sent by common carrier delivery
service or by registered, Global Express Guaranteed, or certified mail, with postage or shipping
paid by the sender and with evidence of delivery, which may be in an electronic format.
A Contractor who complies with a public records request within eight (8) business days after the notice is
sent is not liable for the reasonable costs of enforcement.
4.14 Audits and Records
Contractor must preserve the records related to this Agreement for five (5) years after completion of the
Agreement. The City or its authorized agent reserves the right to inspect any records related to the
performance of work specified herein. In addition, the City may inspect any and all payroll, billing or other
relevant records kept by Contractor in relation to the Agreement. Contractor will permit such inspections
and audits during normal business hours and upon reasonable notice by the City. The audit of records may
occur at Contractor's place of business or at City offices, as determined by the City.
4.15 Background Check
The City may conduct criminal, driver history, and all other requested background checks of Contractor
personnel who would perform services under the Agreement or who will have access to the City's
information, data, or facilities in accordance with the City's current background check policies. Any officer,
employee, or agent that fails the background check must be replaced immediately for any reasonable cause
not prohibited by law.
4.16 Security Clearance and Removal of Contractor Personnel
The City will have final authority, based on security reasons: (i) to determine when security clearance of
Contractor personnel is required; (ii) to determine the nature of the security clearance, up to and including
fingerprinting Contractor personnel; and (iii)to determine whether or not any individual or entity may provide
services under this Agreement. If the City objects to any Contractor personnel for any reasonable cause
not prohibited by law, then Contractor will, upon notice from the City, remove any such individual from
performance of services under this Agreement.
4.17 Default
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A. A party will be in default if that party: (i) is or becomes insolvent or is a party to any voluntary
bankruptcy or receivership proceeding, makes an assignment for a creditor, or there is any similar
action that affects Contractor's capability to perform under the Agreement; (ii) is the subject of a
petition for involuntary bankruptcy not removed within sixty (60) calendar days; (iii) conducts
business in an unethical manner or in an illegal manner; or(iv)fails to carry out any term, promise,
or condition of the Agreement.
B. Contractor will be in default of this Agreement if Contractor is debarred or suspended in accordance
with the Clearwater Code of Ordinances Section 2.565 or if Contractor is debarred or suspended
by another governmental entity.
C. Notice and Opportunity to Cure. In the event a party is in default then the other party may, at its
option and at any time, provide written notice to the defaulting party of the default. The defaulting
party will have thirty(30)days from receipt of the notice to cure the default; the thirty(30)day cure
period may be extended by mutual agreement of the parties, but no cure period may exceed ninety
(90) days. A default notice will be deemed to be sufficient if it is reasonably calculated to provide
notice of the nature and extent of such default. Failure of the non-defaulting party to provide notice
of the default does not waive any rights under the Agreement.
D. Anticipatory Repudiation. Whenever the City in good faith has reason to question Contractor's
intent or ability to perform, the City may demand that Contractor give a written assurance of its
intent and ability to perform. In the event that the demand is made and no written assurance is
given within five (5) calendar days, the City may treat this failure as an anticipatory repudiation of
the Agreement.
4.18 Remedies
The remedies set forth in this Agreement are not exclusive. Election of one remedy will not preclude the
use of other remedies. In the event of default:
A. The non-defaulting party may terminate the Agreement, and the termination will be effective
immediately or at such other date as specified by the terminating party.
B. The City may purchase the services required under the Agreement from the open market,complete
required work itself, or have it completed at the expense of Contractor. If the cost of obtaining
substitute services exceeds the contract price,the City may recover the excess cost by: (i)requiring
immediate reimbursement to the City; (ii)deduction from an unpaid balance due to Contractor; (iii)
collection against the proposal and/or performance security, if any; (iv)collection against liquidated
damages (if applicable); or(v)a combination of the aforementioned remedies or other remedies as
provided by law. Costs includes any and all, fees, and expenses incurred in obtaining substitute
services and expended in obtaining reimbursement, including, but not limited to, administrative
expenses, attorneys' fees, and costs.
C. The non-defaulting party will have all other rights granted under this Agreement and all rights at
law or in equity that may be available to it.
D. Neither party will be liable for incidental, special, or consequential damages.
4.19 Continuation During Disputes
Contractor agrees that during any dispute between the parties, Contractor will continue to perform its
obligations until the dispute is settled, instructed to cease performance by the City, enjoined or prohibited
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by judicial action, or otherwise required or obligated to cease performance by other provisions in this
Agreement.
4.20 Termination for Convenience
The City reserves the right to terminate this Agreement at its convenience, in part or in whole, upon thirty
(30) calendar days'written notice.
4.21 Termination for Conflict of Interest
The City may cancel this Agreement after its execution, without penalty or further obligation, if any person
significantly involved in initiating, securing, drafting, or creating the Agreement for the City becomes an
employee or agent of Contractor.
4.22 Termination for Non-Appropriation and Modification for Budgetary Contraints
The City is a governmental agency which relies upon the appropriation of funds by its governing body to
satisfy its obligations. If the City reasonably determines, in its sole discretion, that it does not have funds
to meet its obligations under this Agreement, the City will have the right to terminate the Agreement without
penalty on the last day of the fiscal period for which funds were legally available. In the event of such
termination, the City agrees to provide written notice of its intent to terminate thirty(30)calendar days prior
to the stated termination date.
4.23 Payment to Contractor Upon Termination
Upon termination of this Agreement,Contractor will be entitled only to payment for those services performed
up to the date of termination, and any authorized expenses already incurred up to such date of
termination. The City will make final payment within thirty (30) calendar days after the City has both
completed its appraisal of the materials and services provided and received Contractor's properly prepared
final invoice.
4.24 Non-Waiver of Rights
There will be no waiver of any provision of this Agreement unless approved in writing and signed by the
waiving party. Failure or delay to exercise any rights or remedies provided herein or by law or in equity, or
the acceptance of, or payment for, any services hereunder, will not release the other party of any of the
warranties or other obligations of the Agreement and will not be deemed a waiver of any such rights or
remedies.
4.25 Indemnification/Liability
A. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Contractor agrees to defend, indemnify, and hold the City,
its officers, agents, and employees, harmless from and against any and all liabilities, demands,
claims, suits, losses, damages, causes of action, fines or judgments, including costs, attorneys',
witnesses', and expert witnesses'fees, and expenses incident thereto, relating to, arising out of, or
resulting from: (i) the services provided by Contractor personnel under this Agreement; (ii) any
negligent acts, errors, mistakes or omissions by Contractor or Contractor personnel; and (iii)
Contractor or Contractor personnel's failure to comply with or fulfill the obligations established by
this Agreement. If applicable, this paragraph shall be construed in harmony with F. S. § 725.06.
B. Contractor will update the City during the course of the litigation to timely notify the City of any
issues that may involve the independent negligence of the City that is not covered by this
indemnification.
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C. The City assumes no liability for actions of Contractor and will not indemnify or hold Contractor or
any third party harmless for claims based on this Agreement or use of Contractor-provided supplies
or services.
D. Nothing contained herein in intended to serve as a waiver by the City of its sovereign immunity, to
extend the liability of the City beyond the limits set forth in Section 768.28, Florida Statutes, or be
construed as consent by the City to be sued by third parties.
4.26 Warranty
Contractor warrants that the services and materials will conform to the requirements of the
Agreement. Additionally, Contractor warrants that all services will be performed in a good, workman-like,
and professional manner. The City's acceptance of service or materials provided by Contractor will not
relieve Contractor from its obligations under this warranty. If any materials or services are of a substandard
or unsatisfactory manner as determined by the City, Contractor, at no additional charge to the City, will
provide materials or redo such services until in accordance with this Agreement and to the City's reasonable
satisfaction. Unless otherwise agreed, Contractor warrants that materials will be new, unused, of most
current manufacture and not discontinued, will be free of defects in materials and workmanship, will be
provided in accordance with manufacturer's standard warranty for at least one (1) year unless otherwise
specified, and will perform in accordance with manufacturer's published specifications. If applicable, this
paragraph shall be construed in harmony with F. S. § 725.06.
4.27 City's Right to Recover Against Third Parties
Contractor will do nothing to prejudice the City's right to recover against third parties for any loss,
destruction, or damage to City property, and will at the City's request and expense, furnish to the City
reasonable assistance and cooperation, including assistance in the prosecution or defense of suit and the
execution of instruments of assignment in favor of the City in obtaining recovery.
4.28 No Guarantee of Work
Contractor acknowledges and agrees that it is not entitled to deliver any specific amount of materials or
services or any materials or services at all under this Agreement and acknowledges and agrees that the
materials or services will be requested by the City on an as needed basis at the sole discretion of the
City. Any document referencing quantities or performance frequencies represent the City's best estimate
of current requirements, but will not bind the City to purchase, accept, or pay for materials or services which
exceed its actual needs.
4.29 Ownership
All deliverables, services, and information provided by Contractor or the City pursuant to this Agreement
(whether electronically or manually generated) including without limitation, reports, test plans, and survey
results, graphics, and technical tables, originally prepared in the performance of this Agreement, are the
property of the City and will not be used or released by Contractor or any other person except with prior
written permission by the City.
4.30 Use of Name
Contractor will not use the name of the City of Clearwater in any advertising or publicity without obtaining
the prior written consent of the City.
4.31 FOB Destination Freight Prepaid and Allowed
All deliveries will be FOB destination freight prepaid and allowed unless otherwise agreed.
4.32 Risk of Loss
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Contractor agrees to bear all risks of loss, injury,or destruction of goods or equipment incidental to providing
these services and such loss, injury, or destruction will not release Contractor from any obligation
hereunder.
4.33 Safeguarding City Property
Contractor will be responsible for any damage to City real property or damage or loss of City personal
property when such property is the responsibility of or in the custody of Contractor or its employees.
4.34 Warranty of Rights
Contractor warrants it has title to, or the right to allow the City to use, the materials and services being
provided and that the City may use same without suit, trouble, or hindrance from Contractor or third parties.
4.35 Proprietary Rights Indemnification
Without limiting the foregoing, Contractor will without limitation, at its expense defend the City against all
claims asserted by any person that anything provided by Contractor infringes a patent, copyright, trade
secret, or other intellectual property right and must, without limitation, pay the costs, damages and
attorneys' fees awarded against the City in any such action, or pay any settlement of such action or
claim. Each party agrees to notify the other promptly of any matters to which this provision may apply and
to cooperate with each other in connection with such defense or settlement. If a preliminary or final
judgment is obtained against the City's use or operation of the items provided by Contractor hereunder or
any part thereof by reason of any alleged infringement, Contractor will, at its expense and without limitation,
either: (a) modify the item so that it becomes non-infringing; (b) procure for the City the right to continue to
use the item; (c) substitute for the infringing item other item(s) having at least equivalent capability; or (d)
refund to the City an amount equal to the price paid, less reasonable usage, from the time of installation
acceptance through cessation of use, which amount will be calculated on a useful life not less than five (5)
years, plus any additional costs the City may incur to acquire substitute supplies or services. Nothing
contained herein in intended to serve as a waiver by the City of its sovereign immunity,to extend the liability
of the City beyond the limits set forth in Section 768.28, Florida Statutes, or be construed as consent by the
City to be sued by third parties.
4.36 Contract Administration
This Agreement will be administered by the Purchasing Administrator and/or an authorized representative
from the using department. All questions regarding this Agreement will be referred to the administrator for
resolution. Supplements maybe written to this Agreement for the addition or deletion of services. Payment
will be negotiated and determined by the contract administrator(s).
4.37 Force Majeure
Failure by either party to perform its duties and obligations will be excused by unforeseeable circumstances
beyond its reasonable control, including acts of nature, acts of the public enemy, riots, fire, explosion,
legislation, and governmental regulation. The party whose performance is so affected will within five (5)
calendar days of the unforeseeable circumstance notify the other party of all pertinent facts and identify the
force majeure event. The party whose performance is so affected must also take all reasonable steps,
promptly and diligently, to prevent such causes if it is feasible to do so, or to minimize or eliminate the effect
thereof. The delivery or performance date will be extended for a period equal to the time lost by reason of
delay, plus such additional time as may be reasonably necessary to overcome the effect of the delay,
provided however, under no circumstances will delays caused by a force majeure extend beyond one
hundred-twenty(120)calendar days from the scheduled delivery or completion date of a task unless agreed
upon by the parties.
4.38 Cooperative Use of Contract
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This Agreement may be extended for use by other municipalities, counties,school districts,and government
agencies with the approval of Contractor. Any such usage by other entities must be in accordance with the
statutes,codes, ordinances, charter and/or procurement rules and regulations of the respective government
agency. Orders placed by other agencies and payment thereof will be the sole responsibility of that
agency. The City is not responsible for any disputes arising out of transactions made by others.
4.39 Fuel Charges and Price Increases
No fuel surcharges will be accepted. No price increases will be accepted without proper request by
Contractor and response by the City's Procurement Division.
4.40 Notices
All notices to be given pursuant to this Agreement must be delivered to the parties at their respective
addresses. Notices may be (i) personally delivered; (ii) sent via certified or registered mail, postage
prepaid; (iii) sent via electronic mail; (iv) sent via overnight courier; or(v) sent via facsimile. If provided by
personal delivery, receipt will be deemed effective upon delivery. If sent via certified or registered mail,
receipt will be deemed effective three (3) calendar days after being deposited in the United States mail. If
sent via electronic mail, overnight courier, or facsimile, receipt will be deemed effective two (2) calendar
days after the sending thereof.
4.41 Governing Law, Venue
This Agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Florida. The exclusive venue selected for any
proceeding or suit in law or equity arising from or incident to this Agreement will be Pinellas County, Florida.
4.42 Integration Clause
This Agreement, including all attachments and exhibits hereto, supersede all prior oral or written
agreements, if any, between the parties and constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with
respect to the work to be performed.
4.43 Provisions Required by Law
Any provision required by law to be in this Agreement is a part of this Agreement as if fully stated in it.
4.44 Severability
If any provision of this Agreement is declared void or unenforceable, such provision will be severed from
this Agreement, which will otherwise remain in full force and effect. The parties will negotiate diligently in
good faith for such amendment(s) of this Agreement as may be necessary to achieve the original intent of
this Agreement, notwithstanding such invalidity or unenforceability.
4.45 Surviving Provisions
Notwithstanding any completion, termination, or other expiration of this Agreement, all provisions which, by
the terms of reasonable interpretation thereof, set forth rights and obligations that extend beyond
completion, termination, or other expiration of this Agreement, will survive and remain in full force and
effect. Except as specifically provided in this Agreement,completion, termination, or other expiration of this
Agreement will not release any party from any liability or obligation arising prior to the date of termination.
DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS
The City of Clearwater, Florida, is seeking proposals from qualified firms for debris monitoring services post
emergency disaster.
5.1 Introduction
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The City of Clearwater (City) is a coastal community on Florida's West Coast and the third-largest city in
the Tampa Bay area with a population of approximately 118,463 residents. Clearwater Beach, a renowned
international destination in Pinellas County, attracts millions of tourists annually and most recently received
the prestigious TripAdvisor Traveler's Choice Award for 2024. It consistently ranks among the top vacation
spots in both national and international publications, offering year-round attractions such as pristine "sugar
sand" beaches, diverse dining options, and venues like the Philadelphia Phillies Spring Training and
Clearwater Threshers Minor League Baseball. The acclaimed Clearwater Marine Aquarium, nationally
recognized for its innovative work in marine rescue, rehabilitation, and release, remains a major draw for
visitors.
The City of Clearwater is committed to advancing sustainability through eco-friendly initiatives that enhance
our economy, safeguard our environment, and fortify our community.
5.2 Project Goal
The City of Clearwater is seeking proposals from qualified firms of certified public accountants to audit the
financial statements of the City of Clearwater, Florida and the Clearwater Community Redevelopment
Agency (CRA)for the five (5)fiscal years ending September 30, 2025, 20267 2027, 2028, and 2029.
5.3 Background/Description of Government
The City of Clearwater serves an area of approximately twenty-six (26) square miles with a population of
approximately 118,463. The City's fiscal year begins October 1 st and ends September 30th.
The City of Clearwater provides the following services to its citizens:
• Police and fire protection
• Construction and maintenance of streets, bridges, sidewalks, storm drainage, public parks, and
recreational facilities
• City planning, zoning, subdivision and building code regulation and enforcement
• Supervised recreation programs
• Public libraries
• Redevelopment of declining commercial and residential neighborhoods
• Refuse and trash collection
• Comprehensive recycling program
• Natural gas distribution
• Water supply and distribution
• Storm and wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal
• Parking system
• Marina, downtown boat slips, and beach fishing pier
• Executive airpark
More detailed information on the government and its finances can be found in the annual budget and
annual comprehensive financial report documents. These documents are available for review at the City's
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website:
5.4 Scope of Services
The selected firm is expected to perform the following work as tasked by the City:
SERVICE REQUIREMENTS
A. Express opinion on the fair presentation of the City's basic financial statementsinconformity with
U.S. generally accepted accounting principles no later than March 15th annually.
B. Express opinion on the fair presentation of City's governmental, non-major
enterprise, internal service and fiduciary funds financial statements, including any budgetary
comparisons presented as basic financial statements, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted
accounting principles, nolater than March 15thannually.
C. Provide an "in-relation-to" opinion on the supporting schedules of federal and state financial
assistance, as well as all statements and schedules included within the financial section of the
Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR).
D. Perform certain limited procedures involving required supplementary information as mandated by
generally accepted auditing standards.
E. Provide a report on internal controls over financial reporting and on compliance and other matters
based on an audit of financial statements performed in accordance with government auditing
standards.
F. Provide a report on compliance with requirements applicable to each major Federal program and
state financial assistance project and on internal control over compliance required by Title 2. U.S.
Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles,
and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards(Uniform Guidance) and Chapter 10.550, Rules of
the Auditor General.
G. Provide e schedule of findings and questioned costs as mandated by Title 2. U.S. Code of
Federal Regulations Part 2OO. Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit
Requirements for Federal Awards(Uniform Guidance), and the Florida Single Audit Act.
H. Provide any other reports required by the Uniform Guidance and the Florida Single Audit Act.
|. Provide a Management Letter as required by Section 10.554(l)(i) of the Rules of the Auditor
Gonare|, including all required disclosures.
J. Provide enIndependent Accountant's Report aorequired bythe Florida Auditor General.
K. Audit the special purpose Schedule of Revenues and Expenditures of Emergency Medical
8arvioao and render an opinion as to whether the Schedule presents tsidy, in all material
respects, the revenues and expenditures related to the Emergency Medical Services (EMS)of
the City inaccordance with the ALS First Responder Agreement.
L. Audit the Community Redevelopment Agency financial statements in accordance with Section
183.387(8), Florida Statutes, and Rule 10.558. Rules ofthe Auditor General.
M. Complete the appropriate sections ofand sign the Data Collection Form.
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AUDITING STANDARDS. The audit shall be performed in accordance with:
• Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GRAS) as set forth by the American Institute of Certified
Public Accountants
• Government Auditing Standards issued by the Comptroller General of the United States
• Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements,
Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance)
• Florida Single Audit Act; Section 215.97, Florida Statutes
• Rule 10.550, Rules of the Auditor General
• Section 11.45, Florida Statutes
• State of Florida Department of Banking and Finance Regulations
• Audits of State and Local Governmental Units(Revised)—AICPA
• Any other applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations, or professional guidance not
specifically listed above as well as any additional requirements which may be adopted by these
organizations in the future
ASSISTANCE TO BE PROVIDED TO THE AUDITOR
A. The City of Clearwater will prepare draft financial statements, notes, and all required
supplementary schedules and statistical data, including the Schedule of Expenditures of Federal
Awards and State Financial Assistance.
B. Finance staff and responsible management personnel will be available during the audit to assist
the firm in providing additional information, documentation, and explanations. City of Clearwater
Electronic Data Processing (EDP) personnel will be available to provide systems documentation
and explanations.
C. The preparation of confirmations shall be the responsibility of the City of Clearwater as directed
by the auditor.
D. The City's Assistant Finance Director, or designee, will act as coordinator for the audit and will be
the primary contact for assistance to be provided to the auditor by the City.
E. The City will provide reasonable workspace, tables, chairs, computer access, telephone access,
photocopying facilities, and facsimile services for the on-site audit staff, to be used solely for the
audit of the City.
F. ACFR preparation and printing shall be the responsibility of the City.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
A. The City requires that auditors opine at the fund level across all funds, including non- major
funds.
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B. The City has received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the
past forty-five consecutive years and will continue to submit its Annual Comprehensive Financial
Report (ACFR)to the Government Finance Officers Association for review via its Certificate of
Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting program. It is expected that the auditor will
assist in the review of the report for compliance with the requirements of that program prior to
submission.
C. The City currently anticipates it will prepare one or more official statements in connection with the
sale of debt securities which will contain the general-purpose financial statements and the
auditor's reports thereon. The auditor shall be required, if requested by the City, to issue a
"consent and citation of expertise" as the auditor along with any necessary"comfort letters" at no
additional cost to the City.
D. The City has determined that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)will
function as the cognizant agency in accordance with the provisions of Title 2, U.S. Code of
Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit
Requirements for Federal Awards(Uniform Guidance).
E. The Schedule of Expenditures of Federal and State Awards and the related auditor's report, as
well as the related reports on compliance and internal control, and the management letter are to
be issued as part of the ACFR.
F. The auditor will assist the City in complying with changes in reporting requirements to remain in
conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.
G. The auditors shall be required to issue an immediate written report of all irregularities and illegal
acts or indications of illegal acts of which they become aware to the City Manager, the Auditor
Selection Committee and/or the City Council, as appropriate.
H. The auditor shall submit a signed audit report on the fair presentation of the financial statements
in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles no later than March 15th annually,
along with the required reports on internal controls and compliance with laws and regulations.
I. The firm shall provide the City of Clearwater timely written notice of any professional relationships
involving the City or component units which the firm enters into during the period of this
agreement.
J. Engagement partners, managers, other supervisory staff and specialists may be changed if those
personnel leave the firm, are promoted, or are assigned to another office. These personnel may
also be changed for other reasons with the express prior written permission of the City of
Clearwater, which retains the right to approve or reject replacements. Other audit personnel may
be changed at the discretion of the firm provided that replacements have substantially equivalent
or better qualifications and experience.
WORKING PAPER RETENTION AND ACCESS TO WORKING PAPERS
A. All working papers and reports must be retained, at the auditor's expense, for a minimum of five
(5)years, unless the firm is notified in writing by the City of the need to extend the retention
period; except grant-related working papers will be retained for ten (10)years.
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B. The auditor will be required to make working papers available, upon request, to the following
parties or their designees:
• City of Clearwater
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
• U.S. General Accounting Office (GAO)
• Parties designated by the federal or state governments or by the City as part of an audit quality
review process
• Auditors of entities of which the City of Clearwater is a sub-recipient of grant funds
• In addition, the firm shall respond to the reasonable inquiries of successor auditors and allow
successor auditors to review working papers relating to matters of continuing accounting
significance.
MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION
Pension Plans -The City of Clearwater Participates in the following retirement plans:
Single Employer
Plan Defined Benefit Defined Contribution
Clearwater Employees' X
Clearwater Firefighters' Relief X
Firefighters' Supplemental (Ch.175) X
Police Officers' Supplemental X
(Ch.185)
Management(401 a) X
The actuarial services for the Clearwater Employees' and Clearwater Firefighters' Relief pension plans are
currently provided by Gabriel Roeder Smith & Company and Southern Actuarial Services, respectively.
Deferred Compensation Plans - The City offers its employees a deferred compensation plan adopted
under Internal Revenue Code Section 457.
Insurance - The City is self-insured within certain parameters for losses arising from claims for property
damage, general liability, auto liability and physical damage and workers' compensation. The City's current
actuary for the self-insurance program is Steven Glicksman.
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The City is also self-insured within certain parameters for employee and retiree health care coverage. A
Claim Liability Estimate is provided as of September 30th of each year. The City's current actuary is Wakely
Consulting Group.
Component Units - The Clearwater Redevelopment Agency (CRA) - a blended component unit, is
presented as a non-major special revenue fund in the City's Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. In
accordance with Chapter 163.387(8), the Clearwater CRA began issuing separate audited financial
statements beginning with the fiscal year ended September 30, 2020. These documents are available for
review at the CRA's website: httos://www.mvclearwatercra.com/About-Us/Financial-Statements-Reports
The Clearwater Downtown Development Board (DDB)—a blended component unit, is presented as a non-
major special revenue fund in the City's Annual Comprehensive Financial Report beginning with the fiscal
year ended September 30, 2024. Separate audited financial statements for the DDB are no longer
prepared.
5.5 Minimum Qualifications
At a minimum, the firm must meet the following qualifications:
A. Be a certified public accounting firm duly licensed under Section 473, Florida Statutes, and
qualified to conduct audits in accordance with government auditing standards as adopted by the
Florida Board of Accountancy.
B. Have been in business providing external auditing services as described in this RFP for at least
one year.
C. Have an engagement partner with a minimum of five years of experience in auditing
governmental entities to oversee the provision of services to the City.
D. Have passed an external quality control review within the last three years.
INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
A list of Insurance Policies that may be required.
6.1 Requirements
The Vendor shall, at its own cost and expense, acquire and maintain (and cause any subcontractors,
representatives or agents to acquire and maintain) during the term with the City, sufficient insurance to
adequately protect the respective interest of the parties. Coverage shall be obtained with a carrier having
an AM Best Rating of A-VII or better. In addition,the City has the right to review the Contractor's deductible
or self-insured retention and to require that it be reduced or eliminated.
Specifically the Vendor must carry the following minimum types and amounts of insurance on an occurrence
basis or in the case of coverage that cannot be obtained on an occurrence basis, then coverage can be
obtained on a claims-made basis with a minimum three (3) year tail following the termination or expiration
of this Agreement:
6.2 Commercial General Liability Insurance
Coverage, including but not limited to, premises operations, products/completed operations, products
liability, contractual liability, advertising injury, personal injury, death, and property damage in the minimum
amount of $1,000,000 (one million dollars) per occurrence and $2,000,000 (two million dollars) general
aggregate.
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6.3 Commercial Automobile Liability Insurance
Coverage for any owned, non-owned, hired or borrowed automobile is required in the minimum amount of
$1,000,000 (one million dollars) combined single limit.
6.4 Professional Liability/Malpractice/Errors or Omissions Insurance
Coverage appropriate for the type of business engaged in by the Respondent with minimum limits of
$2,000,000 (two million dollars) per occurrence. If a claims made form of coverage is provided, the
retroactive date of coverage shall be no later than the inception date of claims made coverage, unless the
prior policy was extended indefinitely to cover prior acts. Coverage shall be extended beyond the policy
year either by a supplemental extended reporting period (SERP) of as great a duration as available, and
with no less coverage and with reinstated aggregate limits, or by requiring that any new policy provide a
retroactive date no later than the inception date of claims made coverage.
6.5 Workers' Compensation Insurance
Unless waived by the State of Florida and proof of waiver is provided to the City, statutory Workers'
Compensation Insurance coverage in accordance with the laws of the State of Florida, and Employer's
Liability Insurance in the minimum amount of $1,000,000 (one million dollars) each employee each
accident, $1,000,000 (one million dollars) each employee by disease, and $1,000,000 (one million dollars
disease policy limit. Coverage should include Voluntary Compensation, Jones Act, and U.S.
Longshoremen's and Harbor Worker's Act coverage where applicable. Coverage must be applicable to
employees, contractors, subcontractors, and volunteers, if any.
6.6 Waiver of Subrogation
With regard to any policy of insurance that would pay third party losses, Contractor hereby grants City a
waiver of any right to subrogation which any insurer of the Contractor may acquire against the City by virtue
of the payment of any loss under such insurance. Contractor agrees to obtain any endorsement that may
be necessary to affect such waiver, but this provision shall apply to such policies regardless of whether or
not the city has received a waiver of subrogation endorsement from each insurer.
The above insurance limits may be achieved by a combination of primary and umbrella/excess liability
policies.
6.7 Other Insurance Provisions
Prior to the execution of this Agreement, and then annually upon the anniversary date(s) of the insurance
policy's renewal date(s)for as long as this Agreement remains in effect, the Vendor will furnish the City with
a Certificate of Insurance(s) (using appropriate ACORD certificate, SIGNED by the Issuer, and with
applicable endorsements) evidencing all of the coverage set forth above and naming the City as an
"Additional Insured"on the Commercial General Liability Insurance and the Commercial Automobile Liability
Insurance. In addition when requested in writing from the City, Vendor will provide the City with certified
copies of all applicable policies. The address where such certificates and certified policies shall be sent or
delivered is as follows:
City of Clearwater
Attn: Procurement Division, 32-25
P.O. Box 4748
Clearwater, FL 33758-4748
Vendor shall provide thirty (30) days written notice of any cancellation, non-renewal, termination, material
change or reduction in coverage.
Vendor's insurance as outlined above shall be primary and non-contributory coverage for Vendor's
negligence.
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Vendor reserves the right to appoint legal counsel to provide for the Vendor's defense,for any and all claims
that may arise related to Agreement, work performed under this Agreement, or to Vendor's design,
equipment, or service. Vendor agrees that the City shall not be liable to reimburse Vendor for any legal
fees or costs as a result of Vendor providing its defense as contemplated herein.
The stipulated limits of coverage above shall not be construed as a limitation of any potential
liability to the City, and City's failure to request evidence of this insurance shall not be construed
as a waiver of Vendor's(or any contractors',subcontractors', representatives'or agents')obligation
to provide the insurance coverage specified.
MILESTONES
7.1 Anticipated Beginning and End of Initial Term
The initial term is estimated to be from August 2025 through July 2030.
If the commencement of performance is delayed because the City does not execute the contract on the
start date, the City may adjust the start date, end date and milestones to reflect the delayed execution.
7.2 Extension
The City reserves the right to extend the term of this contract, provided however, that the City shall give
written notice of its intentions to extend this contract no later than thirty(30)days prior to the expiration date
of the contract.
7.3 Prices
All pricing shall be firm as proposed for the five (5) year term and include all transportation, insurance and
warranty costs. The City shall not be invoiced at prices higher than those stated in any contract resulting
from this proposal.
A. The Contractor certifies that the prices offered are no higher than the lowest price the Contractor
charges other buyers for similar quantities under similar conditions. The Contractor further
agrees that any reductions in the price of the goods or services covered by this proposal and
occurring after award will apply to the undelivered balance. The Contractor shall promptly notify
the City of such price reductions.
B. No fuel surcharges will be accepted.
RESPONSE ELEMENTS
NOTE: Every proposal received by the City will be considered a public record pursuant to
Chapter 119, Florida Statutes. Any response marked confidential may be deemed non-responsive
to this RFP.
8.1 Proposal Submission
The City prefers responses are submitted electronically through the City's e-Procurement Portal located at
w
Without exception, responses will not be accepted after the submission deadline regardless of any technical
difficulties such as poor internet connections.The City strongly recommends completing your response well
ahead of the deadline.
Bidders can get help through OpenGov Assist, located on the bottom right of the OpenGov portal.
8.2 Proposal Format
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TAB 1 - Letter of Transmittal and Independence. This section should include the following information:
A. The proposer's understanding of the work to be performed.
B. A positive commitment to perform the service within the time period specified.
C. An affirmative statement that the firm is independent of the City of Clearwater and any potential
component units as defined by generally accepted auditing standards and the U.S. General
Accounting Office's General Auditing Standards.
D. List and describe the firm's (or proposed subcontractors') professional relationships
involving the City of Clearwater or any of its actual or potential component units for the past five
(5)years, together with a statement explaining why such relationships do not constitute a conflict
of interest relative to performing the audit.
TAB 2—Qualifications, Experience and Project Personnel Expertise. The following information
should be included:
Firm Qualifications and Experience.
A. The proposal should indicate the total number of employees of the firm, the number of employees
considered to be governmental audit staff, the location of the office from which the work on this
engagement is to be performed, the number and nature of the professional staff to be employed
in this engagement on a full-time basis, and the number and nature of the staff to be employed on
a part-time basis.
B. If the proposal is submitted by a joint venture or consortium, the qualifications of each firm
comprising the joint venture or consortium should be separately identified and the firm that is to
serve as the principal auditor should be noted, if applicable.
C. The firm is also required to submit a copy of the report on its most recent external quality control
review, with a statement whether that quality control review included a review of specific
governmental engagements.
D. The firm shall also provide information on the results of any federal or state desk reviews or field
reviews of its audits during the past three (3)years. In addition, the firm shall provide information
on the circumstances and status of any disciplinary actions taken or pending against the firm
during the past three (3)years with the state regulatory bodies or professional organizations.
Partners, Supervisory, and Staff Qualifications and Experience.
A. The firm should identify the principal supervisory and management staff, including engagement
partners, managers, single audit staff, and other supervisors and specialists, who would be
assigned to the engagement and indicate whether each such person is licensed to practice as a
certified public accountant in Florida. The firm also should provide information on the
governmental auditing experience of each person, including information on relevant continuing
professional education for the past three (3)years and membership in professional organizations
relevant to the performance of this audit.
B. The firm should provide as much information as possible regarding the number, qualifications,
experience, and training, including relevant continuing professional education, of the specified
v.7.2024 26
Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
staff to be assigned to this engagement. The firm should indicate how the quality of staff over the
term of the agreement will be assured.
Engagements with Other Governmental Entities. The following information should be included:
A. The firm should list separately all engagements within the last five (5)years for other
governmental entities, by type of engagement(i.e. audit, management advisory services, other).
B. For each engagement, the firm should indicate the scope of work, date, engagement partners,
total hours, the location of the firm's office from which the engagement was performed, and the
name and current telephone number of the principal client contact.
TAB 3—Audit Approach. The proposal should set forth a general work plan, including an explanation of
the audit methodology to be followed. Firms will be required to provide the following information regarding
their audit approach:
A. Proposed segmentation of the engagement
B. Level of staff and percentage of hours to be assigned to each proposed segment of the
engagement
C. Extent of EDP software use in the engagement
D. Approach to be taken to gain and document an understanding of the City of Clearwater's internal
control structure
E. Approach to be taken in determining laws and regulations subject to audit test work
F. Sample sizes and the extent to which statistical sampling is to be used in the engagement
G. Type and extent of analytical procedures to be used in the engagement
H. Approach to be taken in drawing audit samples for purposes of tests of compliance
Identification of Potential Audit Problems. The proposal should identify and describe any potential
audit problems, the firm's approach to resolving, and any special assistance that will be requested
from the City.
TAB 4— References.A minimum of three (3) references, preferably from other public entities within the
State of Florida, for whom you have provided similar services. Include the name of entity, contact
person's names, phone numbers, e-mail addresses, mailing addresses, type of service provided, dates
these services were provided.
TAB 5—Cost Proposal. The cost portion should contain the following information:
A. Pricing information relative to performing the audit engagement as described in this request for
proposals. The total all-inclusive maximum price bid is to contain all direct and indirect costs,
including all out-of-pocket expenses.
B. A total all-inclusive maximum price for each of the 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, and 2029
engagements, along with the signature of an individual empowered to represent the firm and sign
v.7.2024 27
Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
a contract with the City. The fees for the audit of the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA)
financial statements and the EMS audit as described in Section 4.A.11. of this RFP should be
identified separately for each year.
C. Progress payments will be made based on hours of work completed during the course of the
engagement in accordance with an agreement reached during contract negotiations. Interim
billings shall cover a period of not less than a calendar month. Twenty percent(20%) of the total
annual contract will be retained pending delivery and acceptance of the firm's final reports.
Other Forms. Reference Submittal Requirements
A. Scrutinized Companies Form(s)
B. Compliance with Anti-Human Trafficking Laws Form
C. Copies of licenses and or certifications. If applicable, upload with proposal.
D. W-9 Form. Include a current W-9 form. (available at.htto-Hwww.irs.qov/r)ub/irs-pdf/fw9.pdf)
SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS
1 Exceptions*
Proposers shall indicate any and all exceptions taken to the provisions or specifications in this solicitation
document. Exceptions that surface elsewhere and that do not also appear under this section shall be
considered invalid and void and of no contractual significance.
Do you have any exceptions to the provisions or specifications?
❑ Yes
❑ No
*Response required
When equals "Yes"
Exceptions Taken*
**Special Note—Any material exceptions taken to the City's Terms and Conditions may render
a Proposal non-responsive.
Upload a copy of any exceptions taken to the provisions or specifications in this solicitation.
*Response required
2 Additional Materials*
Have you included any additional materials?
❑ Yes
❑ No
*Response required
When equals "Yes"
Description of Additional Materials*
Provide a brief description of the additional materials included.
v.7.2024 28
Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
*Response required
3 Certified Business*
Are you a Certified Small Business or a Certified Minority, Woman or Disadvantaged Business
Enterprise?
❑ Yes
❑ No
*Response required
When equals "Yes"
Certified Business Type*
Pick one of the following.
❑ Certified Small Business
❑ Certified Minority, Woman, or Disadvantaged Business Enterprise
*Response required
When equals "Yes"
Certifying Agency*
List the Agency that provided your certification.
*Response required
When equals "Yes"
Certification Documentation*
Provide a copy of your certification.
*Response required
4 Vendor Certification*
By submitting this response, the Vendor hereby certifies that:
A. It is under no legal prohibition on contracting with the City of Clearwater.
B. It has read, understands, and is in compliance with the specifications, terms and conditions stated
herein, as well as its attachments, and any referenced documents.
C. It has no known, undisclosed conflicts of interest.
D. The prices offered were independently developed without consultation or collusion with any of the
other vendors or potential vendors or any other anti-competitive practices.
E. No offer of gifts, payments or other consideration were made to any City employee, officer, elected
official, or consultant who has or may have had a role in the procurement process for the
commodities or services covered by this contract. The Vendor has not influenced or attempted to
influence any City employee, officer, elected official, or consultant in connection with the award of
this contract.
F. It understands the City may copy all parts of this response, including without limitation any
documents or materials copyrighted by the Vendor,for internal use in evaluating respondent's offer,
or in response to a public records request under Florida's public records law(F.S. Chapter 119)or
v.7.2024 29
Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
other applicable law, subpoena, or other judicial process; provided that the City agrees not to
change or delete any copyright or proprietary notices.
G. It hereby warrants to the City that the Vendor and its subcontractors will comply with, and are
contractually obligated to comply with, all federal, state, and local laws, rules, regulations, and
executive orders.
H. It certifies that Vendor is not presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared
ineligible, voluntarily excluded, or disqualified from participation in this matter from any federal,
state, or local agency.
I. It will provide the commodities or services specified in compliance with all federal, state, and local
laws, rules, regulations, and executive orders if awarded by the City.
J. It is current in all obligations due to the City.
K. It will accept all terms and conditions as set forth in this solicitation if awarded by the City.
L. The signatory is an officer or duly authorized representative of the Vendor with full power and
authority to submit binding offers and enter into contracts for the commodities or services as
specified herein.
❑ Please confirm
*Response required
5 E-Verify System Certification*
PER FLORIDA STATUTE 448.095, CONTRACTORS AND SUBCONTRACTORS MUST REGISTER
WITH AND USE THE E-VERIFY SYSTEM TO VERIFY THE WORK AUTHORIZATION STATUS OF ALL
NEWLY HIRED EMPL OYEES.
The affiant, by virtue of confirming below, certifies that:
A. The Contractor and its Subcontractors are aware of the requirements of Florida Statute 448.095.
B. The Contractor and its Subcontractors are registered with and using the E-Verify system to verify
the work authorization status of newly hired employees.
C. The Contractor will not enter into a contract with any Subcontractor unless each party to the contract
registers with and uses the E-Verify system.
D. The Subcontractor will provide the Contractor with an affidavit stating that the Subcontractor does
not employ, contract with, or subcontract with unauthorized alien.
E. The Contractor must maintain a copy of such affidavit.
F. The City may terminate this Contract on the good faith belief that the Contractor or its
Subcontractors knowingly violated Florida Statutes 448.09(1) or 448.095(2)(c).
G. If this Contract is terminated pursuant to Florida Statute 448.095(2)(c), the Contractor may not be
awarded a public contract for at least 1 year after the date on which this Contract was terminated.
H. The Contractor is liable for any additional cost incurred by the City as a result of the termination of
this Contract.
❑ Please confirm
v.7.2024 30
oocunignEnvelope ID: eom4000s-B2mE-4g4E-oFFE-s0000400rruu
*Response required
6 Vendor's Proposal*
Upload o copy ofyour proposal with the information requested as detailed in the solicitation titled 32-26
Professional Auditing Services.
*Response required
7 Scrutinized Company Certification*
P|000e download the below dooumenbs, oomp|eto, and upload.
w SCRUTINIZED COMPANIES AND B...
*Response required
8 Compliance with Anti-Human Trafficking Lavxm°
Please download the below documents, complete, and upload.
w CoMp�liance with 787.06 form...
*Response required
9 W-9*
Upload your current VV-9 form. (available at
*Response required
v.7.2024 31
Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
v.7.2024 32
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Lauren Strope Brian Liffick
M Cherry Bekaert LLP
rartner
Cherry Bekaert LLP
7 Partner,
r-% Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC
Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC
7 Partner,
rP 81,31.251.1010 407.423%.7911
401 East Jackson Street, Suite 1200, Tampa, FL 33602
Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
om Cherry
%m"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Flon'da
Contract Terms for Negotmiatmion
As with any contractual relationship, Cherry Bekaert's desire to enter into a contract with the City is based
on reaching a mutually positive negotiation of terms and conditions. After reviewing the RFP, we would like
to offer some alternative language for your consideration.
INN
STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS R�Trhe ('it�i m��i n�irnh��e the �er�iine� rem iirerl i in tI I 1%�qj r%Al%,I I"WW Ll 1W W%.F1 V I %AN I%AW �he
4 Onroomont frnml e.# nmmmlo rorri lined U fnl*.18 Remedies I
itizelf nr h�� e it the evnenGe of(,nntrPntnr f
n���vi � vrrIru%%.%.I
n nh 'hct+t1itur�eTv in 96 evneerJ6. the nnntr �
III NZInrine the (-it�i m��i reGGver the evnes nnst hit• (i) raV Ini iirinrY
immerJi�in reimhi irsement "1 clind,wtinn frnm �n
i irl hp1pnne C11 ie to r_nntrPn r• (moil nnllen ' n �ryPin�t the
�"I I k I I
nrnnnc%l %RdVei: nerfnrmanG8 cer+LAI rit'i if Ansi- (0111 r+nller to
�rv�in %t limo iirJp -q (if Annlinphlel• Mr (ail
anmhonptonn nf thin Pfnrementinnerl remedminQ nr nt
remerlie� �� nrniirJerl h1A IPW (,nQtQ innli ldQQ nn1i and PII
7Z. ,
Ina Q1 I
%%nd QWnenHtQH in nhtpininrr rem IN imement innli Idonn h,it not
IlmlterJ to Admono ct� ' ttnrnevm' feef- And
III 1� .
STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS The, (Qzity Each party reserves the right to terminate this
4.20 Termination for Convenience Agreement at its convenience, in part or in whole, upon thirty
(30) calendar days' written notice.
STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS A. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Contractor agrees
® to defend, indemnify, and hold the City, its officers, agents,
and employees, harmless from and against any and all third
party liabilities, demands, claims, suits, losses, damages,
causes of action, fines or judgments, including reasonable
costs, attorneys', witnesses', and expert witnesses' fees, and
expenses incident thereto, relating to, arising out of, or
resulting from: (i) the services provided by Contractor
personnel under this Agreement; (ii) any negligent acts,
errors, mistakes or omissions by Contractor or Contractor
personnel; and (iii) Contractor or Contractor personnel's
Bili ire tn nmmnlli Wath nr f,ilfill thin nh10nnt0nngz eQtPh10QorJ by
breach of this Agreement. If applicable, this paragraph shall
be construed in harmony with F. S. § 725.06. Provided,
however, that the maximum aggregate liability of Contractor
with respect to its liability obligations under the contract shall
not exceed the sum of five million dollars ($5,000,000.00).
1
Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
om Cherry
%w"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Flon'da
STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS Contractor warrants that the services and materials will
4.26 Warranty conform to the requirements of the Agreement. Additionally,
Contractor warrants that all services will be performed in a
rInnr•I Wnrl�m�n_lil�o end nrnfzQQmenal maRRef
standards. accordance
with professional The City's acceptance of service
or materials provided by Contractor will not relieve Contractor
from its obligations under this warranty. If any materials or
services are of a substandard or unsatisfactory manner as
determined by the City, Contractor, at no additional charge to
the City, will provide materials or redo such services until in
accordance with this Agreement and to the City's reasonable
satisfaction. I lnlzQQ n 1-0&1 IN.01 �ii�r� [rY_ ZI Iroor1%.#N.0%A 5 r-nn+%.0%011&1r�r.tnr warra
N.f Ithat m:atori:alcz Well ho ntzlq, i Unum mf mnCt am 1rront
n;%.41=1 ifAP11 iro end not HiCZr ��roo rlo
i'IMH Ulm" ho frof fzatQ in
MA oriPlc :and Wnrkm=crin Ulm" ho nrn1iir�1Qd in r r+r+nrrI r nr+o
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' . If
applicable, this paragraph shall be construed in harmony with
F. S. § 725.06.
STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS Cherry Bekaert requests this clause be struck in its entirety.
4.32 Risk of Loss
STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS This Agreement, including all attachments and exhibits
4.42 Integration Clause hereto and the annual engagement letters between the
parties, supersede all prior oral or written agreements, if any,
between the parties and constitutes the entire agreement
between the parties with respect to the work to be performed.
5.4 Scope of Services In accordance with professional standards, Cherry Bekaert
WORKING PAPER RETENTION AND retains working papers for seven (7) years.
ACCESS TO WORKING PAPERS
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Lauren Strope Brian Liffick
F,artner
i
� y
Cherry Bekaert LLP
Cherry Bekaert LLP
7 Partner,
rartnerCherry Bekaert Advisory LLC
7 Partner,
Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC
@, bh.,com E
401 East Jackson Street, Suite 1200, Tampa, FL 33602
cbh•
com Cherry Bekaert
br Guide F rward
Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
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No,
Contents
TAB 1 - Letter of Transmittal and Independence.........................................................................................1
TAB 2—Qualifications, Experience and Project Personnel Expertise......................................................4
Firm Qualifications and Experience................................................................................................................4
Partners, Supervisory, and Staff Qualifications and Experience. ..................................................................9
Engagements with Other Governmental Entities.........................................................................................25
TAB3—Audit Approach...............................................................................................................................33
TAB4— References......................................................................................................................................49
TAB5—Cost Proposal.................................................................................................................................52
Appendix- Firm License..............................................................................................................................54
Docusign Envelope ID:B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
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'r•"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Florida
TAB 1 - Letter of Transmittal and
Independence
May 28, 2025
Lori Vogel, CPPB - Procurement Manager
City of Clearwater, Florida
600 Cleveland St.
Clearwater, FL 33755
Dear Lori and Selection Committee Members:
Cherry Bekaert LLP (Cherry Bekaert or the Firm) thanks you for the opportunity to submit our proposal to
serve City of Clearwater, Florida (the City) by providing Professional Audit Services. It would be our
pleasure to serve the City; as one of the largest government audit firms in Florida, we bring a deep
understanding of your needs through service to many of your peers. With Cherry Bekaert, the City will
benefit from:
1 Expertise and operational knowledge gained by serving nearly 200 public sector clients across the
country, including 50+ government entities in the state of Florida.
I� A team with the perfect combination of experience with the City of Clearwater and a fresh set of eyes on
the audit.
1 Technology solutions and process adaptations that facilitate collaboration, increase efficiency, and
improve the precision of our substantive audit procedures.
1 The scalability and capabilities of a large firm paired with an extensive Florida presence and
commitment to service.
Commitment to the City
We are fully committed to developing a trusted, mutually beneficial relationship with the City. When you
work with us, you will receive committed support from a Firm who invests the time to understand you and
deliver value added audit and attestation services. We are committed to being a trusted advisor and your
"go to" for questions and concerns as they arise. Our client base and references demonstrate our long
history of service and timeliness in meeting or exceeding client expectations. We regularly help Florida
public sector clients:
1 Implement new Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statements and maintain
compliance with new/changing guidance. Your team includes a former GASB fellow.
/ Ensure on-time and compliant report completion by incorporating robust pre-planning, significant
interim work, technology solutions and proven government auditing procedures, making our audit
process efficient and easy-to-navigate.
Assess regulatory changes through year-round discussion, offering expertise and sharing lessons
learned through compelling thought leadership and custom Continuing Professional Education (CPE)
offerings, such as our Annual Government Seminar.
1 Improve efficiency through comprehensive service plans, flexible auditing strategies, integrated
IT/technology specialists and direct access/knowledge of your financial reporting and billing systems.
We have direct experience with Tyler Munis.
/ Meet Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) certificate program award criteria through
high-quality Annual Comprehensive Financial Reports.
1
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Office'sty of Clearwater,
Depth of Local & Industry Resources You Deserve
The City will have access to all of the resources of one of the largest CPA firms in the United States, while
being served by a local team based in our Tampa and Orlando offices (Central Florida practice). Our team
offers the City an unmatched depth of practical knowledge in the effective application of current standards.
This includes the GASB, U.S. General Accounting
U.S.
Requirements,Code of Federal Reguiations Part 200, Uniform Administrative
Cost Principles, and Audit
Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform
Chapter 10.550, Rules of the Auditor General and
Guidance),
the Florida Statutes.
Our audit programs and processes are tailored specifically to your needs, streamlined through years of
experience with Florida local governments. Our approach is highly automated and focused on proper
planning. And in addition to traditional audit and compliance services, we provide bond offerings,
performance audits, agreed-upon procedures, internal control reviews, information technology reviews,
cyber security reviews and strategic management services. Furthermore, our team has helped many public
sector clients smoothly transition to a new auditor. With extensive experience serving authorities, utilities,
municipalities and state agencies throughout the state of Florida, we offer a critical mass of government
experienced auditors and advisors and our Client Promise to build a mutually-beneficial relationship. Simply
putwe are ready to start day one to provide the City an expert look to its external audit and business
a
issues
commitment and
• We strongly believe that only Cherry Bekaert brings the capacity, capability,
transition,experience to provide a positive auditor
provider,without interrupting the City's daily operations orincreasing costs. We understand that local governments are facing more challenges and opportunities than
ever. As the City Council decides whether or not to replace Duke Energy as the City's electricity
what to turn the main library into to provide citizens with a "destination experiencelf, whether or not to sell
City land, etc., we will be there. Our goal is to provide sound advice as events occur as opposed to simply
performing the audit after the year ends.
RFP Requirements
A. The s
performed.s understanding of the work to be
positiveCherry Bekaert understands this engagement includes a Financial Statement Audit for the City and the
Clearwater Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) for fiscal years ending September 30, 2025 through
2029. The audits will be performed in accordance with Government Auditing Standards, Uniform Guidance,
the Florida Single Audit Act, Chapter 10.550 Rules of the Auditor General and the Florida Statutes. We
understand the City is requesting an expression on the fair presentation of the City's individual non-major
funds. Further, we will perform procedures over the Schedule of Revenues and Expenditures of Emergency
Medical Services. We understand all of the service requirements expected in section 5.4 Scope of Services
in the City's request for proposal 32-25.
. commitment . . . . . spe
cified.
Cherry Bekaert is committed to performing the above services within the City's specified time period. We
understand that the goal to issue the auditor's reports is no later than March 15th. We will work with the City
to develop the schedule to achieve that deadline during our first meeting.
2
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0101
C. An affirmative statement that the firm
.Professional Ethics of the AICPA and
. .
s independent of the City of Clearwater and any potential
component units as defined by generally accepted auditing standards and the U.S. General
Accounting Office's General Auditing Standards.
Cherry Bekaert is independent of the City and all component units, in accordance with the Code of
r
. ,
and will comply with all
State and Local laws and regulations in the performance of this engagement. Our client
Federal,
services,independence is verified annually and monitored by our in-house counsel and our professional practices
group during the annual evaluation of continuance of client relationships. Furthermore, we are not aware of
any existing or potential relationships between Cherry Bekaert and the City or its employees that could
impair our independence and objectivity. Prior to entering into an engagement for any professional
service;including advisory services, we evaluate the implications of any proposed services to an attest client will
have on independence, in fact and in appearance. In addition, all professional staff assigned to your
engagement must reaffirm their independence prior to the conclusion of the engagement. We communicate
to our clients all conclusions with respect to independence at the beginning and end of each engagement.
Should the City engage us to perform audit services, we will always establish strict guidelines for what the
firm can and cannot do under the applicable independence rules that apply to the industry and
however,
in most cases we are able to provide the level of service desired by our clients while maintaining
strict independence.
D. List and describe the firm's (or proposed subcontractors)professional relationships involving
the City of Clearwater or any of its actual or potential component units for the past. .
ve (5) years,,
to ether with a statement. conflict
relativeng why such
s do not constitute a
9 1p
. audit.
Cherry Bekaert is currently assisting the City in implementing GASB 101, Compensated Absences. We
have ensured that all services provided do not constitute a conflict of interest under generally accepted
auditing standards or government auditing standards. We confirm that there are no impairments to
independence related to this service. Cherry Bekaert has not had any other professional relationships
involving the City or any of its component units for the past five (5) years.
Conclusion
This proposal provides detail about our approach and the team committed to serve
but more
a
resources,importantly, it illustrates the unique ways in which the City will benefit from working with Cherry Bekaert.
With your engagement team based in our Central Florida practice to serve you, paired with the deep bench
strength of dedicated industry we trust you will find Cherry Bekaert is your guide forward. Thank
information,you again for this opportunity. If you have questions about this proposal or require additional
please feel free to contact me directly as an authorized representative of the Firm.
Sincerely,
"Pt
Partner, Cherry Bekaert LLP Partner, Cherry Bekaert LLP
Partner, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC Partner, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC
P: 813.251.1010 P: 407.423.7911
E: !s,.-tr E: b I i f Li cL�0(
3
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%m"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Florida
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TAB 2 Qualmifoicatmions, Exper'ience and
Project Personnel Expert'ise
Firm Qualifications and Experience
A. The proposal should
.indicate firm,
location
employees considered to be governmental audit staff, the officeon thi's engagement .
.
part-times to be performed,. the number and nature of the professional staff to be
employed in thi's engagement on a full-time basis,, and the number and nature of the staff to be
employed on a
Firm Size
Headquartered in ® U.S.
associates.states and internationally. We have 40 offices with more than 2,500
Ranked among the largest assurance, tax and advisory firms in the
Cherry Bekaert provides guidance
• •a
services,and support that helps our clients move forward to reach their organizational goals. "Cherry Bekaert" is the
brand name under which Cherry Bekaert LLP and Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC, independently owned
entities, provide professional services in an alternative practice structure in accordance with applicable
professional standards. Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC is not a licensed CPA firm. Cherry Bekaert LLP is a
licensed CPA firm that provides attest
and Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC and its subsidiary entities
years,provide business advisory and non-attest services spanning the areas of transaction advisory, risk and
accounting advisory, digital solutions, cybersecurity and tax. We exercise a deliberate curiosity to know our
clients' industries and work collaboratively to create shared success. For more details, visit
For more than 75
clients have relied on Cherry Bekaert to guide them forward. We provide digitally
a
industry-aligned advisory, assurance and tax services, leveraging practical knowledge and provenexperience to help clients meet their financial, operational, regulatory and strategic goals and
objectives. With multidisciplinary industry practices, Cherry Bekaert offers the full range of accounting and
advisory services you would expect from a Big 4 firm, tailored to local governmental organizations. Clients
choose us because we understand the'Ir unique challenges and growth opportunities, and afford
them wmith the depth of knowledge, resources, experience and dedicatmion to service they ■
Our experienced professionals know how to apply the best practices of accounting and business to the City,
and can offer guidance through rapid growth and times of accelerated change. Let us be Your Guide
Forward by delivering on our commitments to superior client service through:
Attention to Detail and Qual'ity-. Outstanding service qualifications amplified by our commitment to
prioritize your business and provide practical and timely support
High levels of senior level involvement, continuity of service
■
professionals and expertise on a year-round basis
focused attention on your strategic, operational and financial
■ Streamlined,
objectives
4
Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
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%w"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Florida
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Size of Government Audmit Staff
Cherry Bekaert's Government & Public Sector (GPS) Group has approximately 200 professionals who focus
on providing assurance services to nearly 200 governmental entities.
Office Location
Our Contral Florida Practice with offices in Tampa and Orlando will be the primary locations serving you. As
needed, we will draw upon the resources of our other offices to best serve the City. By design, our local and
firm-wide teams work in partnership to deliver all services.
401 East Jackson Street, Suite 1200 300 S Orange Ave, Ste 1000
Tampa, FL 33602 Orlando, FL 32801
Number & Nature of Staff
Overall, we anticipate providing 2 partners (Audit &
1 senior manager, 1 manager, and 3 senior
}
associates/associates on a full-time basis, as well as 1 partner (concurring reviewer) on a part-time basis, to
complete the City's audit services. We also have assigned 3 additional resources to your proposed
engagement team, including 1 partner and 2 directors, available to help the City address a variety of
challenges as they arise.
If the proposal i's submitted by a joint venture or consortium, the qualifications of each firm
B.
■ ■ ■ ■ consortium ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
applicable. Is
comprising the
oint venture or
ed and the
rm that
to
serve as the principal auditor should be noted,, if
Cherry Bekaert is not a joint venture or consortium.
5
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%m"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Florida
. .
0101
C. The firm i's also required to submit a copy of the report on Its most recent external quality control
rev" w with a statement whether that
. quality . .
review,governmental engagements.
Cherry Bekaert has passed, without exception, 15 consecutive peer reviews conducted under the auspices
of the AICPA. A copy of our most recent peer review report as well as the acceptance letter from the AICPA
are included below. The review included a number of specific engagements for which Single Audit and
Government Auditing Standards apply (specific governmental engagements).
The Firm is a member of the AICPA's SEC Practice Section and Private Companies Practice Section
(PCPS) of the Division for CPA Firms and practices under the AICPA-recognized quality control program.
Selected Firm professionals are approved by the AICPA to perform peer
quality assurance review
and consulting review of other CPA firms' quality assurance programs. Firm leaders and partners in charge
of industry practice areas maintain vital links to policy-making bodies in public accounting. Our personnel
committee assignments and industry associations include (but are not limited to):
Accounting Standards Executive Committee
AICPA Professional Ethics Committee
AICPA Auditing Standards Organization
AICPA Accounting and Review Services Committee
AICPA Technical Issues Committee, Private Companies Practice Section
AICPA Tax Division and its Individual Taxation Subcommittee
AICPA SEC Practice Section Executive Committee
AICPA Accounting Practice Committee
6
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%m"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Flon'da
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EnerA per LLP
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P
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1 I-..elin,NJ 08830-2700
732.243.7000
732,9511400
Report on the Firm's System of Ouality Control
November 29,2022
To the Partners of Cherry BekaertLLP and the Nationale ev wee
We have reviewed the system utility control for the c untin auditing practice of Cherry Bekaert
LLP(the fir applicable to engagements not subject to PCAOB permanent inspection in effect for the year
ended April 30,2022.Our peer review s conducted in accordance with the Standards for Performing and
Reporting n peer Reviews established ed the Peer Review Boardf the American Institute of Certified
Public Accountants(Standards).
summaryf the nature, e tives scope,li it do s of,and the procedures performed in a system review
s described in the Standards may be found t www.alcpa.org/prsummary.The summary also includes n
explanation engagements i ertifie s not performed or reported on in conformity with applicable
professional standards,if any,are valuate eer reviewer to determine me er review rating.
Firm's Responsibility
The firm is responsible for designing andcomplying it s stern of quality control to provide the fir
with reasonable assurance of performing and reportingin conformity withthe requirements of applicable
professional st rds in all material respects. efirm is also responsible for evaluating ti ns to promptly
remediate engagements deemed as not performed or reported on in conformity withthe requirements ents f
applicable professional standards, when appropriate, r for remediating weaknessesin its system of
utility control,if any.
Peer Reviewer's Responsibility
Our responsibility is to express n opinion on the designf and compliance with the firm's system of quality
control based our review.
Required Selections n onsi rations
Engagements sel to for review included e is performed under Government Auditing Standards,
including compli e audits under the Single it t; audits of employee benefit plans; an audit
performed under ILIA;and an examination f service organizations engagement).
As a part of our peer review, e considered reviews by regulatory entities as communicated by the firm,if
applicable,in determining the nature and extent of our procedures.
Opinion
In our opinion,the system of quality ntrol f r the accounting and auditingpractice of Cherry Bekaert LLP
applicableto engagements not subject.to PCAOB permanent inspection n effect fort e year ended April
30,2022,has been suitably si ed and compliedwith to provide the firm with reasonable assurance of
performing and reporting in conformity with applicable professional standards in all material respects.Firrris
can receive a rating of pass,pass with defi ien ies),or fail.Cherry e cert LLP has received a peer review
rating of pass.
lop
EisnerAmper LLP
Iselin,New Jersey
r
7
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A,ICPA'
Der.ember ,
Michelle Thompson
Cherry Bekaert LLP
3800 Glenwood Ave Ste 26.00
Raleigh, NC 276,12-5532
It is my pleasure to notify you that on December ,16, 2022,the National Peer Review Committee accepted
the report on the most recent System Review of your firm. The due date for your next review is October 31,
2025. This is the date by which all review documents should
entity.administering
As you know, the report had a peer review rating of pass. The Committee asked me to convey its
congratulations to the fimi.
Thank you r your cooperaton.
f
Michael Wagner
Chair, National
+1.919.402.4502
MarcFogarty, Steven Siegel
Firm Number: 1 1 vie "'
. 5941338
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. .
D. The firm shall also provide information on the results of any federal or state desk reviews or field
reviews of its
. . audits . addition, . . .information
rm shall provide
the circumstances and status of any disciplinary
bodies
the past three (3) years with the state regulatory
As a major provider of government auditing services, Cherry Bekaert has been periodically subjected to
federal or state/local desk reviews or field reviews of audits during the past three (3) years. The results of
such reviews have been positive, with "pass" results on every occasion.
In addition, we distinguish ourselves by the quality and accuracy of the work we perform. As a large
professional services firm, Cherry Bekaert and its partners and employees are subject to occasional
regulatory matters. There has been no disciplinary action taken or pending against the firm by a state
regulatory body or professional organization within the past three years that will affect our ability to perform
the requested services.
Partners,
Supervisory,
A. The firm should identify the principal supervisory and management staff,. . including
singlepartners,, managers,, .
practiceand other supe
ia
assigned to the engagement and indicate whether each such person i's licensed to
certified public accountant in Florida. The firm also should provide information on the governmental
auditing
. . .including information
. continuingeducation for the past three (3) years and membership in professional organizations relevant to the
. .
. .
accounting,performance of thi's audit.
Team Qualifications
The Cherry Bekaert team responsible for the City's account brings specialized knowledge in the unique
auditing and compliance issues you face. Each engagement team is handpicked for alignment
with the special needs and considerations of clients like the City. Your team members have experience with
Florida cities and the particular requirements of cities located in Pinellas County. We commit to providing
timely and helpful responses to time sensitive questions; your engagement team is available to you year
round. We ensure frequent and direct access to the partners, directors and managers who maintain
responsibility for the engagement, employing a high ratio of partners and senior managers to staff. This
allows the Firm to staff and supervise engagements with a higher level of experienced staff than most
Continuing Professional Education
The field of governmental accounting and fiscal management is dynamic for both the City and its external
consultants. Pronouncements from the following bodies all have significant impact on this sector:
� Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB) (altering internal accounting and external reporting)
� AICPA (modifying audit standards and procedures)
� OMB (creating new compliance demands associated with the expenditure of federal funds)
� Florida Rules of the Auditor General (addressing Florida specific statutes and requirements)
We consider the training of our professionals to be extremely important to best meet the evolving needs of
our profession and provide the highest quality of service to our clients.
9
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We believe that to consistently offer our clients the most current information, continuing education of our
personnel is a mission-critical objective. It is the policy of Cherry Bekaert that all professional personnel:
Comply with the continuing professional education requirements of the AICPA, the U.S.
sources, Securities and
Exchange Commission Practice Section (SECPS) of the AICPA Division for Firms, the appropriate state
boards of accountancy, the U.S. Government Accountability Office, Yellow Book requirements and other
regulatory agencies as applicable
Maintain an adequate awareness and understanding of current developments in technical literature
Assist in the training and development of staff members under their supervision
We require that all client service professionals complete at least 20 hours of qualifying Continuing
Professional Education (CPE) every year and at least 120 hours every three (3) years. In addition, all client
service professionals who serve governmental entities are required to complete 80 hours of CPE every two
(2) years with at least 24 hours in subjects that directly relate to government auditing and/or the government
environment. CPE is obtained through various
national and state Government
including AICPA,
Finance Officers Association (GFOA) conferences, state society of Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
industry conferences and
other industry conferences and internally provided seminars and
a
webinars. All proposed service team members have more than 40 hours of relevant contminuing
education during each of the last three years, including the continu'ing education required by
Government Auditing Standards. Govern ment-specific CPE courses that our professionals have taken
over the last five years, in addition to speaking engagements to provide CPE for various organizations,
include the following:
AICPA Clarity Standards Common Frauds in Governmental Entities
AICPA Peer Review Update for Government Government Risk Assessment
AICPA GAQC Courses Grant Administration Controls and Fraud
Yellow Book Independence & Quality Control Risks
Yellow Book Update Governmental Entities and Cyber Frauds
Government ACFR Preparation Government Benefits Fraud
Annual GASB Updates Audits of State and Local Governments
Deep Dive into GASB
79, 80 and 87 Assets and Liabilities of State and Local
a
GASB 72
a
Fair Value Accounting Governments
GASB 84, Fiduciary Activities Cash Flows in a Government Environment
GASB 87, Leases Local Government Accountability Update
GASB 94' Public Private and Public-Public Auditing OPEB
Partnerships and Availability Payment Auditing Significant Estimates
Arrangements Final Pay, Reimbursements, & Other
GASB 96, Subscription-Based IT Arrangements Paycheck Administration Pitfalls
Navigating GASB 101 Intermediate Government Accounting
Annual GFOA GASB Updates GAQC Single Audit Roundtable
GASB Lease Changes Single Audit Fundamentals
GASB Other Postemployment Benefits (OPEB) Uniform Guidance requirements
SAS 135 Reporting in a Single Audit
National/State GFOA Annual Conferences Testing Internal Controls in a Single Audit
GASB Conceptual Framework: Disclosures Single Audit Compliance Supplement Update
10
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partner:om Cherry
%w"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Flon'da
Internal Control Considerations-Focus on Non- Subrecipient Monitoring Under Uniform
profits and Governmental Entities Guidance
LeaseCrunch: Functionality and Reporting Sampling for Single Audit
Overview Coronavirus Relief Funds - Financial and
Future Technology for Governmental Single Audit Considerations
Accounting/Finance Department Note that CPE taken by team member can
be provided upon request
Account Management
The City deserves responsiveness, quick turnaround time, efficient management and the benefit of our
professionals' experience applied and leveraged on your behalf. We use a "relationship partner" concept to
maintain continuity of service over time and a proactive understanding of your business and service needs.
Having a relationship partner means that one person is ultimately responsible for all aspects of all services
provided to the City. The relationship partner has the overall responsibility for coordinating all services and
ensuring that the City receives timely and innovative support and that your expectations are met or
exceeded. The relationship partner can make decisions on the spot and call upon the resources of the Firm
to meet the special needs of each client. Lauren Strope will serve as relationship partner for the City. In
addition to ensuring service quality and consistency, involvement of a relationship
Improves the effectiveness of the process and ensures compliance with our quality assurance system
Integrates expertise a
information,through active participation and observations, allows us to identifyopportunities to consult you on industry-related issues
The entire engagement team that serves the City will work together to share
documents and
timelines,what we all know about your business and service needs (goals, other relationships, delivery expectations,
etc.). We will have periodic meetings with you to hear about your business and learn from them. This
approach promotes stability by effectively sharing knowledge and collaboratively developing engagement
solutions, including standard checklists and involving specialized resources.
Key Engagement Members
a
Lauren Strope - Partner Lead Engagement/Audit Partner/Relationship Partner
Brian Liffick - Partner Audit Quality Review Partner
Neal Beggan - Partner IT Partner
Richard Crawford - Senior Manager Audit Senior Manager
Justin Conley- Manager Audit Manager
Matt Carr- Senior Associate Audit Senior
Jack Ugalde - Senior Associate Audit Senior
Sarah Jenkins -Associate Audit Staff
Danny Martinez - Partner Technical Resource
Jeff Zeichner- Director Technical Resource
Scott Anderson - Director Technical Resource
Please see below for detailed biographies.
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iLauren Strope
Partner, Cherry Bekaert LLP
i
j,
Partner, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC
identificationAssurance Services
Lauren Strope is an Assurance Partner specializing in audit services to local governments. Lauren focuses
on financial reports, areas, compliance audits,
cycles, testing design of key accounts andtransaction
and supervision of engagement teams. To further her expertise in financial reporting,
Lauren volunteers as a GFOA Annual Report reviewer. Many of the government audits she has participated
in have received the GFOA's Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. Lauren is an
instructor for Firm-sponsored trainings and has taught upper-level financial accounting courses for the
University of South Florida — Sarasota Manatee Campus. She is also a past chair and board member of the
Accounting Circle and a board member of the Advisory Council of the Lynn Pippenger School of
University of South Florida. She was a member of the Tampa Connection class of 2017-2018.
Accountancy,
She is active in the FICPA and FGFOA organizations, serving on the FICPA State and Local Government
Committee and Women in Leadership Committee and the FGOFA's Member& Leadership Development
Committee. Lauren has more than 40 hours of relevant continuing education during each of the last four
including the continuing education required by Government Auditing Standards.
Education
B.S. and MAcc in Accounting, University of South Florida
Focus Areas
� Accounting Services � Lease Accounting Services
� Audit &Attestation Services � Revenue Recognition
Professional & Clv'lc Involvement
American Institute of Certified Public Member, Florida Government Finance Officers
Accountants Association Leadership Development
Member, Florida Institute of Certified Public Committee
Accountants State and Local Government Chair and Board
Accounting Circle
Member,
Committee and Women and Leadership Board
Member,
Advisory Council of the LynnCommittee Pippenger School of
University of
Accountancy,
Government Finance Officers Association South Florida
Former
Tampa Connection
Member,
Relevant Experience
City of Clearwater, FL Charlotte County, FL Juvenile Welfare Board of
City of St. Petersburg, FL Orange
FL Pinellas County, FL
County,
City of Pinellas Park, FL Monroe County, FL Pinellas Suncoast Transit
City of Vero Beach, FL Hillsborough County, FL Authority (PSTA),
Vista, FLCity of Lake Buena
FL Miami-Dade Aviation Hillsborough Area Regional
City of Bay Lake, FL Department, FL Transit (HART), FL
City of Charlotte, NC Miami-Dade Transit Brevard County, FL
City of FL Columbia County, GA
® VA Department,
Forsyth County, NC
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Partner,om Cherry
%m"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Flon'da
Brian Uffick
Cherry Bekaert LLPPartner, Cherry Bekaert Adv'lsory LLC1
Assurance Services
c
CPA: Florida -AC51463
A Certified Public Accountant, Brian has over 15 years of experience in public accounting, primarily in the
government and not-for-profit sectors, and has led audits for several large counties and cities in the State of
Florida, numerous Florida governmental entities and various higher education and not-far-profit institutions.
He has considerable background with audits of state and federal grant compliance, not-for-profit
organizations, and audit services for numerous cities, counties, school boards, and other state and local
government organizations. Brian has published industry articles on governmental, nonprofit and compliance
matters and is a valued instructor and speaker for Firm-sponsored events. He is also an active participant in
government and not-for-profit seminars, conventions and trainings where he has also served as a
speaker annually. Brian has more than 40 hours of relevant continuing education during each of the last
four years, including the continuing education required by Government Auditing Standards.
Education
B.A., Manchester College
Professional & Civic Involvement
AICPA GFOA
FICPA Indiana CPA Society
FGFOA SACUBO
Relevant Experience
City of Lake Wales, FL Collier County District Collier County District School
City of Port St. Lucie, FL School Board Board, FL
City of Stuart, FL St. Johns County Public
City of Vero Beach, FL Schools Duval County District School
City of Bay Lake, FL Reedy Creek Improvement Board, FL
City of Lake Buena Vista, FL District, FL Orange County Public Schools,
City of Frankfort, KY Central Florida Tourism FL
Brevard County, FL Oversight District St. Johns County Public Schools,
Charlotte County, FL Jacksonville Transportation FL
Monroe County, FL Authority, FL St. Lucie County District School
Orange County, FL International Drive Master Board, FL
Orange County Library Transit and Improvement Volusia County District School
District District, FL Board, FL
Orange County Educational Enterprise Florida, Inc., FL Town of Eatonville, FL
Facilities Authority, FL Florida Development Town of Mooresville, NC
Orange County Health Finance Corporation, FL South Central Educational Risk
Facilities Authority, FL South Central Educational Management Program
Central Florida Regional Risk Management Clermont Police Officers'
Transit Authority (LYNX), FL Program, FL Pension Plan and Firefighters'
Retirement System
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%m"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Flon'da
NealBeggan
Partner, Cherry Bekaert Adv'lsory LLC
Risk Advisory Services
A Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified in Risk and Information
Systems Control (CRISC), Certified in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA), CertifiedCSF Practitioner (CCSFP) and one of the nation's first CMMC Provisional Assessors
(CMMC-PA),
Neal has
over 20 years of ® ' consulting and compliance experience,
and has performed reviews in the following
areas across a myriad of IT SOX
NIST
ISO 27001/2,
• ' a a
corporations,FISCAM, GIDPR, OMB A-130, and SOC 1/2/3.
Clients depend on Neal to identify key business and IT risks and recommend practical solutions to mitigate
those risks, as well as to perform operational audits to identify cost savings and revenue opportunities. Neal
has experience improving existing internal audit methodologies for large
and leadingcorporate-wide training for clients and the Firm.
Prior to joining Cherry Bekaert, Neal worked at a regional accounting firm as an IT audit manager, as an IT
audit senior with Ernst & Young's
KPMG's Risk Advisory practice.
BBA in Finance with a concentration in Computer Information Systems (CIS), James Madison University
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA)
Certified CSF Practitioner (CCSFP)
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC-PA)
Focus Areas
� Governance, Risk & Compliance � IT Internal Controls
Internal Audit Privacy
IT Audit & Consulting Risk Assessment Services
Professional & C'lv'lc Involvement
AICPA SOC for Supply Chain Committee Member
Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA)
Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)
Board Member, Autism Society of America
Executive Committee, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
School of Accounting Guiding Executive (SAGE) Board, James Madison University
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om Cherry
%m"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Flon'da
Richard CrawfordSenior Manager, Cherry Bekaert Adv'lsory LLC
Aud'it Services
Vt
d
qS 1
CPA: Florida -AC47597
A Certified Public Accountant, Richard has nine years of public accounting experience with a strong focus
on government services. He is a member of the Firm's Government Services Industry Group, and also
leads our local office initiatives for use of Smartsheet, Idea and other automated audit tools.
As an audit manager, Richard focuses on financial reporting, identification of key audit areas, testing design
of key accounts and transaction cycles and supervision of the engagement team. He will provide regular
communication and will be responsible for planning, directing and reviewing performance of our work.
Richard has more than 40 hours of relevant continuing education during each of the last four years,
including the continuing education required by Government Auditing Standards.
Education
M.B.A., University of Dallas
M.S.A., University of Central Florida
B.S., Texas A&M University
Professional & Civic Involvement
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Florida Government Finance Officers Association
Relevant Experience
City of Stuart, FL Collier County District School Board, FL
City of Vero Beach, FL Duval County District School Board, FL
Town of Eatonville, FL Martin County District School Board, FL
Orange County, FL Volusia County District School Board, FL
Orange County Water Utilities System, FL Enterprise Florida, Inc., FL
Orange County Solid Waste System, FL ATU Local 1577 and 1596 Pension Plans, FL
Orange County Convention Center, FL Boynton Beach General Employees Retirement
Orange County Health Facilities Authority, FL Plan, FL
Orange County Educational Facilities Palm Beach Gardens Pension Plans, FL
Authority, FL Town of Jupiter Police Officers Pension Plan, FL
Mecklenburg County, NC South Miami Pension Plan, FL
Town of Stanley, NC State of Florida
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om Cherry
%m"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Flon'da
Justin Conley
r
Manager, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LILC
■
i
Audit Services
CPA: Florida -AC49398
Justin is a Certified Public Accountant with over five years of public accounting experience. Justin's public
accounting experience includes a significant focus on audits of governmental entities, including employee
benefit plans.
As an Audit Manager, Justin focuses on financial reports, reviewing contracts and statutes for relevant
changes, testing key audit areas and transaction cycles, supervision of staff and emphasis of regular
communication between the client and engagement team.
Justin has more than 40 hours of relevant continuing education during each of the last four years, including
the continuing education required by Government Auditing Standards.
Education & Certifications
MBA, University of Central Florida
B.S., University of Central Florida
Relevant Experience
City of Bay Lake, FL Sarasota Firefighters' Insurance Trust Fund,
City of Lake Buena Vista, FL FL
City of Titusville, FL Sunrise Firefighters' Retirement Plan, FL
City of Bay Lake, FL Town of Jupiter Police Officers' Retirement
City of Lake Buena Vista, FL Fund, FL
Reedy Creek Improvement District, FL Brevard County, FL
ATU Local 1577 Pension Plan, FL Charlotte County, FL
ATU Local 1596 Pension Plan, FL Florida Development Finance Corporation,
Boynton Beach General Employee's Retirement FL
y
System, FL International Drive Master Transit and
Clermont Police Officers' Pension Plan FL Improvement District, FL
Clermont Firefighters' Retirement System, FL Orange County, FL
Fulton-Dekalb Hospital Authority Pension Plan, FL Osceola County District School Board, FL
Palm Beach Gardens Police Officers' Pension Fund, State of Florida
FL St. Johns County District School Board, FL
Retirement System for the General Employees of the St. Lucie County District School Board, FL
Utility Board for the City of Key West, FL Volusia County District School Board, FL
16
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om Cherry
%m"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Flon'da
Matthew Carr
Senior Assoc'late, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC
Assurance
l^
z'
■
Firm'sices
Matt has over five years of public accounting experience serving the
audit services for government and not-for-profit clients. Matt has extensive experience conducting audit
procedures and works closely with individuals to perform detail testing. Matt has been an integral resource
in testing and reviewing compliance in relation to Uniform Guidance for many of our single audits, most of
which receive FEMA • Senior, Matt focuses on financial reports,
cycles, testing key auditareas and transaction supervision of staff and emphasis of regular communication between the
client and engagement team.
Matt has more than 40 hours of relevant continuing education during each of the last four years, including
the continuing education required by Government Auditing
■
M.S.,
B.S.,
Professional & Commun'Ity Involvement
� American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Relevant Experience■
County,City of Bay Lake, FL
City of Lake Buena Vista, FL
Brevard County, FL
Central Florida Tourism Oversight District
Charlotte
FL
County,Enterprise Florida
Florida Opportunity Fund
Manatee County District School Board
Orange
FL
Orange County Public Schools
Retirement System for General Employees of the Utility Board of City of Key West, FL
South Central Educational Risk Management
State of Florida
St. John's County District School Board
Volusia County District School Board
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%m"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Flon'da
Jack Ugaide
Senior Assoc'late, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC
Assurance Serv'ices
Jack is an experienced senior auditor with expertise in auditing governmental entities, including Pinellas
cities. He has provided clients with a wide-range of assurance services including financial statement audits,
compliance audits, compilations, agreed- upon procedures, SOC reports and other services.
Jack has more than 40 hours of relevant continuing education during each of the last four years, including
the continuing education required by Government Auditing Standards.
Education
B.S Accounting, University of South Florida
Focus Areas
� Single Audit
Professional Involvement
� Member, Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Relevant Experience
City of St. Petersburg, FL
City of Pinellas Park, FL
Sarasota County School
FL
District,
School District of Manatee County, FL
Norfolk Airport Authority, VA
Peninsula Airport Commission, VA
North Carolina Turnpike Authority, NC
Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority, FL
Hillsborough Area Rapid Transit Authority, FL
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om Cherry%m"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, .
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Sarah Jenkins
Assurance SerAces
Sarah is an experienced associate auditor with over a year of expertise in auditing nonprofits and
governmental entities. She has provided clients with a wide-range of assurance services including financial
statement audits, compliance audits, compilations, agreed- upon procedures, and other services.
Education
B.S Accounting, University of South Florida
Focus Areas
Relevant Experience
� City of St. Petersburg, FL
� Norfolk Airport Authority, VA
� YMCA of West Central Florida, FL
� North Carolina Turnpike Authority, NC
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om Cherry
%m"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Florida
Danny Martinez
Partner, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC
S`,t
Government& Public sector Accounting Advisory Leader
CPA: Texas - 114600
As a Partner at Cherry 7
Danny provides advisory and training services to a wide range ofgovernmental entities, including municipalities and their component units, counties, school districts, public
universities, special districts, tribal governments, airports, ports and hospitals. He has provided technical
accounting assistance to some of the largest cities and counties in the
including the implementation
J
of GASB
and 101. Danny and his team are currently working with the City to assist with the
7 7
firm'simplementation of GASB 101. As the leader of the Government and Public Sector Accounting Advisory
groupDanny is responsible for the quality and growth of the
7 writing,ACFR
Committee, andSurge Team accounting advisory services. Under his leadership, Cherry Bekaert has experienced
significant growth in these services and achieved high client satisfaction and retention scores for
Governmental Accounting Pronouncement Implementations. Danny's extensive experience is showcased
through his presentations on various governmental industry and accounting topics at both national and
regional conferences. He presented on GASB 101 implementations at last year's national GFOA conference
and this year's National Association of State Controllers (NASC) conference. Danny ensures that clients
receive top-tier guidance and support throughout the implementation process. He will be leading trainings
for the City, bringing his wealth of knowledge and practical insights directly to your team.
Danny is the past Zone 3 (GASB) Chair of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
Technical Issues
a group that provides a voice for its constituents in the standard-setting
Danny 7
process. Additionally,
Accountants,is a founding member of the firms Government Standards Outlook Committee,a group of technical leaders who stay abreast of all upcoming GASB, OMB, and AICPA changes and
provide comment letters to those bodies.
Danny has more than 40 hours of relevant continuing education during each of the last four years, including
the continuing education required by Government Auditing Standards.
B.S. in Accounting, University of Southern California
Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM)
Focus Areas
GASB Technical Accounting Assistance Strategic Accounting Projects
Public Speaking and Training Audit Preparation and Year-End Close
Governmental Accounting Pronouncement Assistance
Implementation ACFR or Financial Statement Writing or
Process and Technology Accounting Refresh
Transformation Surge Team Urgent Accounting Assistance
Professional & Clv'lc Involvement
� Past GASB Zone Chair, AICPA Technical Issues Committee
� Association of Governmental
Dallas and New Mexico Chapters
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%m"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Flon'da
Jeff Zeichner
Assurance Services
R Rt
{r11i ill Isr
4 £z � ;££�lUriPrstlt�jfc£ytt
CPA: Florida -AC40690
As a Director in Cherry Bekaert's Assurance practice, Jeff leverages more than two
decades of audit and attest services to help public sector entities, including large municipal and county
governments, school districts, higher education institutions and public transportation agencies. Jeff has
extensive experience working in public transportation and has served a number of large and complex
transportation authorities, aviation authorities /departments, port authorities, and tolling agencies.
Prior to joining Cherry Bekaert, Jeff was a partner in a national public accounting firm, responsible for the
audit quality of large and complex governmental entities. Jeff holistically serves governmental entities,
providing value that goes beyond the scope of a financial statement audit.
Jeff has more than 40 hours of relevant continuing education during each of the last four years, including
the continuing education required by Government Auditing Standards.
Education
B.S. in Accounting, Richard Stockton College of New Jersey
B.A. in Management, Richard Stockton College of New Jersey
Focus Areas
D.C.� Assurance Services
� Audit & Attestation Services
� Lease Accounting Services
Professional & Clv'lc Involvement
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants � St. Augustine Rotary
(AICPA) � Stewardship Committee, Rotary District 6970
Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants Grant Administrator, Tarahumara Foundation
(FICPA)
Florida Government Finance Officers Association
Relevant Experience
Washington Metropolitan University of North Carolina at City of Jacksonville/Duval
Area Transit Authority, Charlotte Investment Fund, County, FL
,
County,Jacksonville Transportation University of North Carolina at FL
Authority, FL Charlotte Foundation, NC Clay
FL
Palm Tran, FL University of North Carolina at Florida Turnpike System, FL
Hillsborough County Aviation Charlotte Facilities Hillsborough County, FL
Authority, FL Development Corporation, NC Jacksonville Port Authority,
Fort Laud erdale-H ol lywood University of Georgia FL
International Airport, FL Research Institute, GA
21
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Authority,om Cherry
%w"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Flon'da
Palm Beach International Augusta University Research Kauai Department of Water,
Airport, FL Institute, GA HI
Jacksonville Aviation Kennesaw State Research Martin County, FL
County, FL
Northeast Florida Regional South Florida Water St. Johns County, FL
Aviation
FL Management District, FL St. Johns County School
Authority,
City of
Tampa, FL Baker County, FL District,
FL
City of Pinellas Park, FL Broward County, FL Sumter County, FL
City of Miami Beach, FL Canaveral Port Authority, FL Town of Callahan, FL
City of Green Cove Springs,
FL
22
Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
om Cherry
%m"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Flon'da
t }:
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Scott Anderson
Director, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC
Government & Public Sector Technical Director
CPA: Florida- AC47907, North Carolina - 32398, Virginia- 53857
Scott, a licensed Certified Public Accountant in Florida, North Carolina, and Virginia, has been serving the
Firm's clients since 2005. As the Firm's public sector Technical Director, he drives technical accounting
training and thought leadership for the entire governmental practice. As a former GASB Practice Fellow,
Scott was at the forefront of evolving standards, providing unique insights and access to future
developments. His involvement in the standard-setting process has equipped him with vast experience in
governmental accounting and financial reporting standards.
Scott advises clients and audit teams in all phases of auditing and financial reporting, overseeing
engagement planning, performance of audit tests, report writing, and overall audit quality. His deep
understanding of technical accounting and evolving standards enables him to guide teams effectively. He
has extensive experience with Uniform Grant Guidance and the audit requirements for numerous states.
Scott's expertise in audit methodology provides the consulting team with unique, forward-thinking strategies
to ensure audit readiness in deliverables.
Scott has also instructed at numerous external conferences and seminars, representing both the firm and
the GASB, and has conducted webinars sponsored by the Firm on various technical GASB topics. His
professional involvement includes participation in committees and panels, such as the AICPA State and
Local Government Experts Panel and the Government Finance Officers Association Special Review
Committee.
Scott has more than 40 hours of relevant continuing education during each of the last four years, including
the continuing education required by Government Auditing Standards.
Education
Master of Accounting, North Carolina State University
Bachelor of Arts, Utah State University
Professional & Clv'lc Involvement
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
AICPA State and Local Government Expert Panel Member
North Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants
Government Finance Officers Association
GFOA Special Review Committee
GASB Practice Fellow Program
Leadership Tampa Bay
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om Cherry
%w"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Florida
. .
qualifications,B. The firm should provide as much information as possible regarding the number,
. training,,
. .including continuing. . education, .specified
to be assigned to . .
details,s engagement. The
rm should indicate how the quality of staff over the term of
the agreement will be assured.
Please see above for information regarding number, qualification
and relevant
experience, training,
knowledge,continuing professional education of your proposed team and specified staff assigned of the engagement.
We believe
efficiency and effectiveness are optimized over time in a client relationship. We
ideas,therefore strive to maintain continuity in Partners and key professionals from year to year. The public sector
has been a major industry served by our firm since its inception. All members of your team are a part of the
government and public sector industry group. This means that your team have devoted their careers to the
public sector. This dedication and year-round work experience increases the quality of our staff.
In the mentoring and developing our staff, we normally experience a progression of staff responsibility
during the years of service on the engagement allowing their knowledge of the client to increase the
efficiency of our team. For many of our tenured clients, we have professionals that began as staff
accountants and progressed to serve as managers, senior managers and partners on that engagement. We
will periodically introduce new staff to our clients as bringing fresh talent and insight to the engagement
team provides new
while maintaining team continuity, which creates efficiency and reduces the
learning curve for new team members.
we will replace that person from the top rather than from the bottom. For
However, if we lose a key person,
example, if
replacement has been assigned and has been brought up to speed on the City's engagement. We will keep
you informed of all personnel changes consistent with auditing principles generally accepted in the
a
U.S
., seek your agreement before any changes are made to key personnel.
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Engagements with Other Governmental Entities
A. The firm should . . .
st separately all engagements within the last five (5) years for other
.
governmental entities, by type of engagement(i.e. .
Government Experience
Government and public sector organizations are in an environment of accelerated change and greater
expectations from the constituents they
• From fluctuating budgets, new program demands,
uncertainty,increasingly complex compliance restrictions, political
economic changes, and the public need
for greater access to services, we understand the distinct challenges state and local governments face.
Cherry r
nation;s Government & Public Sector (GPS) team has a deep understanding of the complexchallenges state and local governments face, and we focus on the areas of highest need to help improve
the transparency, efficiency and effectiveness government. With extensive knowledge of the methods and
techniques applicable to government auditing, we are one of the largest providers in the state and local
audit and accounting space, serving clients around the we prov'Ide targeted, risk-based, effective
government aud'iting and assurance serv'Ices to nearly 200 munic'ipal'it'ies, counties, public
authorities/boards, school. . .istricts, and state agencies, ranging in size from $2. . . . . . . . .
•
issues,Using a digital approach with data-driven practices, we increase audit efficiency and enable government
managers and leaders to better focus on delivering results to constituents. The experience gained through
service to such a wide breadth and depth of public sector organizations provides us with invaluable insight
into the issues and stresses impacting the City.
In the current environment, it is critical to have the right government accountant providing the proper
technical guidance, reducing the demands on government staff and allowing entities to focus on their
constituents. Many Cherry Bekaert team members have worked in government, helping us to better
understand what you are trying to achieve and the obstacles and opportunities that may exist within your
organization. Our professionals have held key positions for the American Institute of Certified Public
Accountants (AICPA) and state and local committees. They attend and teach at conferences hosted by the
Government Finance Officer Association (GFOA), the Association for School Business Officials (ASBO), the
Association of Government Accountants (AGA), the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) and
the Airports Council International (ACI).
Addressing New Accounting, Reporting, Compliance, and Audmit Requirements
Over the years, we have assisted our clients with GASB pronouncement implementation, providing
research and advice to resolve many complex accounting
resources,Providing assistance interpreting the fair value measurement and disclosure requirements under GASB
#72 and the guidance for certain external investments pools and participants under GASB #79
Assisting with analysis and implementation of the accounting and reporting aspects for pensions (GASB
#67 and #68) and other postemployment benefits (GASB #74 and #75)
Assisting with the analysis of fiduciary activities (GASB #84)
Assisting with analysis of the accounting and reporting aspects of lease and SBITA accounting (GASB
#87 and #96)
We typically meet with our clients during engagement planning and throughout fieldwork to discuss new
pronouncements and issues surrounding implementation. We are very proactive in follow-up communication
to derive appropriate solutions in the planning stages. Our knowledge of GASB requirements is
complemented by our willingness to invest necessary time and including appropriate
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Cherry Bekaert also provided a professional from our government team to serve on a two-year GASB fellow
program rotation, working with GASB on technical Scott Anderson, a Director
• As a GASB fellow,
management'sfrom our GPS audit practice, was on the forefront of evolving standards currently contemplated. Scott's
involvement provides unique insights we can share with our clients. He finished his rotation and returned to
the Firm in August 2022.
Your engagement team offers an unmatched depth of knowledge in current GASB requirements, as well as
future reporting standards such as:
� GASB #101 - Compensated Absences
� GASB #102 - Certain Risk Disclosures
� GASB #103 - Financial Reporting Model Improvements
New standards can have a significant impact on your organization's reporting, so we offer assistance in
many areas, including:
General diagnostic discussion with management
Consultation and interpretive guidance, including GASB interpretations
Checklists and other tools for compliance
Assistance in identifying additional reports and data needed
Review of your
Single Audits under Uniform Guidance
Between 2019 and
covering
a we performed compliance audits over more than 5,000 major programs,
billions of dollars of Federal and State grants annually. We often communicate with federal and state
agencies during our planning process to ensure we have the most recent regulatory requirements and to
ensure we are familiar with any communications or monitoring that have been conducted in association with
our clients that may influence the extent and nature of our procedures. We will perform the required Single
Audit procedures in accordance with the Uniform Guidance. For major programs, we will test the accounting
and administrative internal control systems in place over your federal and state programs. We will also test
all major programs for compliance with specific and general grant requirements.
Thought Leadership
The field of governmental accounting and financial management is dynamic for both you and your external
auditors. Pronouncements from the following bodies all have significant impact on this sector:
� GASB (altering internal accounting and external reporting)
� AICPA (modifying audit standards and procedures)
� OMB (creating new compliance demands associated with the expenditure of Federal funds)
We consider the training of our professionals to be extremely important to best meet the evolving needs of
our profession and provide the highest quality of service to our clients. Furthermore, we are dedicated to the
continuing education of our clients and the greater Public Sector community. We offer webinars
ct.)h., and seminars throughout the year, including the local chapters of the GFOA. It
is this commitment to education and leadership of the public sector that has set us apart from other firms.
Our professionals teach for the AICPA, GFOA and various other state and local government organizations.
CPE topics we have provided to our clients and organizations in the past include:
GASB and/or Uniform Guidance Update
Evolution of Internal Control
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Behavioral Ethics
Grant Administration Controls and Fraud Risks
Risk Assessment topics
Current Information Technology hot topics
What's Your Fraud
.
Coronavirus Relief Funds - Financial and Single Audit Considerations
Additionally, Cherry Bekaert's Government Services Blog
helps keep our governmental clients up to date on vital business and financial information.
GFOA Certification Reporting
The GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting is highly recognized as the
epitome of financial accountability and quality reporting. As a firm, we have provided support in obtaining
and maintaining the certification to more than 75 governments, with several of our partners/di rectors
participating in the program as certificate reviewers.
As with all of our GFOA submitting entities, we will assist you in any way necessary to help you continue to
receive this award every year. Before issuance of our audit reports, we will review the City's Annual
Comprehensive Financial Report in comparison to our Firm's standard governmental reporting checklist and
the current GFOA reporting checklist to help ensure that the Annual Report is in compliance with the
certificate program requirements. We will also review any comments received from the GFOA from the most
recent submission to ensure all matters are addressed appropriately.
Florida Public Sector Experience
We have served the Florida public sector since the 1970s, special
including many cities, towns, counties,
districts, school districts and state agencies throughout the state. Each of these clients generally require
Single Audit and Annual Comprehensive Financial Reports, and cities/counties typically include component
units. In just the last five (5) years, we have proudly provided auditing services to the following Florida public
sector organizations:
�Ill�oATU 1577 1111Palm Beach Gardens Police
ATU Local 1596 Board Pension Fund
Pension Plan
Pinellas Suncoast Transit
Boynton Beach General
Enterprise Florida, Inc. Authority
Employee's Retirement
Escambia County School District 111", Retirement System for General
System Florida Agency for Health Care Employees
�Il�o Sarasota County School Board
Florida Development Finance Firefighters' Insurance
Schools Corporation (FDFC) Trust Fund
�IlloCareerSource Broward ADD° School District of Indian River
Central Florida Regional HART (Hillsborough Transit County
Transportation Authority Authority)
School District of Manatee
�Il�o Indian River County School County
Oversight District Board
SelectFlorida
Charlotte County27
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City of Bay Lake 11111,, International Drive Master Transit 11111,, South Central Educational Risk
City of Fort Myers and Improvement District Management Program
City of Hallandale 11111,, Jacksonville Transportation Space Florida
Beach Authority 11111, St. Johns County Airport
City of Lake Buena Juvenile Welfare Board of Authority
Vista Pinellas County St. John's County School
City of Pinellas Park Martin County School Board District
City of St. Petersburg Miami-Dade Aviation Department St. Lucie County District School
City of Vero Beach 011,, Miami-Dade Transit Department Board
Clermont Firefighters' Monroe County Sunrise Firefighters' Retirement
Retirement Plan Ocala PD Plan
Clermont Police Orange County (including Health Tampa Bay Estuary Program
Officers' Retirement Facilities Authority, Industrial Tampa Bay Regional Planning
Plan Development Authority, Library Council
District and Public Schools) Village of Wellington
Volusia County Schools
Additional Fmirmwide Clients
Cherry Bekaert takes great pride in providing industry-leading assurance services to nearly 200 public
sector organizations. Following is a detailed list of current government audmit cimients. Each of these clients
generally require Single Audit and Annual Comprehensive Financial Reports, and cities/counties typically
include component units.
City of Hampton, VA City of Greenville, NC Town of Morven, NC
City of Chesapeake, VA City of Greensboro, NC Town of Rolesville, NC
City of Newport News, VA City of High Point, NC Town of Stanley, NC
City of Suffolk VA City of Raleigh, NC Town of Wake Forest, NC
City of Virginia Beach, VA City of Reidsville, NC City of Harlem, GA
City of Bowling Green, KY City of Winston-Salem, NC City of North Augusta, SC
City of Frankfort, KY Town of Apex, NC Deerfield Township, OH
City of Jeffersontown, KY Town of Cary, NC Liberty Township, OH
City of Richmond, KY Town of Fuquay-Varina, Village of Terrace Park, OH
City of Simpsonville KY NC West Chester Township, PH
City of Charlotte, NC Town of Holly Springs, NC City of Palos Hills, IL
City of Durham, NC Town of Lillington, NC
Town of Morrisville, NC
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County of Hanover, VA Cumberland County, NC Tyrrell County, NC
Fairfax County, VA Forsyth County, NC Union County, NC
Henrico County, VA Guilford County, NC Pickens County, SC
Loudoun County, VA Henderson County, NC Richland County, SC
Prince William County, VA Mecklenburg County, NC Augusta-Richmond County
York County, VA New Hanover County, NC Consolidated Government, GA
Durham County, NC Randolph County, NC Beaufort County, GA
Columbia County, GA
NOW Sir-
Augusta Canal Authority, 1111� Judicial Branch of Kentucky Piedmont Triad Regional Water
GA 0,,,, Kentucky Association of Authority, NC
Blue Island Fire Counties Public Library of
Department, IL 0,,,, Kentucky Economic Charlotte/Mecklenburg County,
Bonnie Brae Forest Manor Development Finance NC
Sanitary District, IL Authority Research Triangle Regional
0,,,, Cleveland County Water, 0,,,, Kentucky State Fair Board Public Transportation Authority,
NC 0,,,, Kentucky Judicial Retirement NC
Centralina Regional System Renewable Water Resources,
Council 0,,,, Knoxville Community SC
0,� Chattanooga Housing Development Corporation, TN Richmond Metropolitan
Authority, TN 0,,,, Lexington Convention & Transportation Authority, VA
1111o� Chesapeake Bay Bridge Visitors Bureau, KY Richmond Water, Gas &
and Tunnel District, VA 0,,,, Lexington Public Library, KY Sewerage Works, KY
Chesapeake Economic 11o, Louisville Convention & River Ridge Development
Development Authority, VA Visitors Bureau, KY Authority, IN
Cook Memorial Public Marquis Community Southwest Regional Water
Library District, IL Development Authority, VA District, OH
Daviess County Fiscal 1111� Mecklenburg Emergency Southeastern Public Service
Court, KY Medical Services, NC Authority, VA
Eastern Virginia Regional 0,,,, Metropolitan Sewage District 1110 Spartanburg County Public
Facility Authority of Buncombe County, NC Library, SC
Evansville Housing 0,,,, Metropolitan Development 11� Virginia Beach Development
Authority, IN and Housing Agency, TN Authority
0,,,, Fairfax County 0,,,, New Hanover County Airport lol,, Virginia Passenger Rail
Redevelopment and Authority, NC Authority
Housing Authority, VA 0,,,, Newport News Industrial Virginia Peninsulas Public
Fort Monroe Authority, VA Development Authority, VA Service Authority
0,� Greenville Utilities 11,11, Newport News llo� Western Tidewater Water
Commission, SC Redevelopment and Housing Authority, VA
Authority, VA
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0,,, Hampton Roads Sanitation 0,,,, North Carolina Educational 0,,,, York County Economic
District, VA Lottery Development Authority, VA
Hampton Roads Criminal 11114� North Carolina Turnpike Illinois Sports Facilities
Justice Training Academy, Authority Authority
VA Pamunkey Regional Library LaGrange Highlands Sanitary
Handy Sanitary Water 11,11, Piedmont Municipal Power District, IL
Authority, NC Agency, SC 11114� Mill Creek Water Reclamation
1111� Highview Fire Protection 0,,,, Piedmont Triad Airport District, IL
District, KY Authority, NC New Lenox Community Park
0,,,, Housing Authority Of 11o, Piedmont Triad Regional District, IL
Charlestown, IN Council, NC Orland Fire Protection District,
Intercommunity Cable IL
Regulatory Commission, South Palos Township Sanitary
OH District, IL
B. For each engagement, the firm should indicate the scope of work, date, engagement partners.,
total hours, the location of the firm's office from which the engagement was performed, and the
name and current telephone number of the principal client contact.
The best indicator of our ability to serve clients in a professional yet personalized manner is the outstanding
reference provided by our clients. Provided are some of our references served by members of your
engagement team. We can provide additional references if needed. We encourage you to call any of the
individuals listed and ask them about our services and expertise.
Client Name City of St. Petersburg & City of St. Petersburg CRA
Scope of Work External Audit Services including ACFR (GFOA
Certification), CRA Audit, Special Reports (including EMS
Report in accordance with the ALS First Responder
Agreement, Federal & State Single Audit (Same services
descripted in the service requirements of the scope of
services excluding requirement B (individual non-major
fu n d s)).
Date 2015 - Present
Engagement Partner(s) Lauren Strope, Dan Gougherty
Total Hours 11250
Primary Office Location(s) Central Florida
Name and Telephone of Client contact Erika Langhans, Chief Financial Officer- 727.892.5652
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Name of Client City of Pinellas Park & City of Pinellas Park CRA
Scope of Work External Audit Services including ACFR (GFOA
Certification), CRA audit, and Federal and State Single
Audits (when required)
Date 2008 - Present
Engagement Partner(s) Lauren Strope, Dan Gougherty
Total Hours 650
Primary Office Location(s) Central Florida
Name &Telephone of Principal Client Kelly Schrader, Finance Administrator- 727.369.0621
Contact
Name of Client Brevard County & Brevard County CRA
Scope of Work ACFR (GFOA Certification)Audit, CRA Audits, Federal
and State Single Audits, BOCC and Constitutional Officer
audits, CFCC, Landfill Escrow
Date 2019— Present
Engagement Partner(s) Brian Liffick, Lauren Strope
Total Hours 27250
Primary Office Location(s) Central Florida
Name &Telephone of Principal Client Kathleen Prothman, Finance Director- 321.264.5228
Contact
Client Name Orange County, FL
Scope of Work ACFR (GFOA Certification) Audit, Constitutional Officer
Audits, Enterprise Fund Audits, CRA Audits, CFCC,
Landfill Escrow, Federal & State Single Audit
Date 2001 - Present
Engagement Partner(s) Brian Liffick, Lauren Strope
Total Hours 31500
Primary Office Location(s) Central Florida
Name and Telephone of Client contact Laurie Bauer, Director of Finance and Accounting -
407.836.5719
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Name of Client Charlotte County, FL
Scope of Work External Audit Services including ACFR (GFOA
Certification), CRA Audits, CFCC, Landfill Escrow,
Federal & State Single Audit
Date 2012 - Present
Engagement Partner(s) Brian Liffick, Lauren Strope
Total Hours 11300
Primary Office Location(s) Central Florida
Name &Telephone of Principal Client Stacy Wear, Finance Director- 941.743.1436
Contact
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TAB 3 Aud 'it Approach
The proposal should set forth a general work plan, including an explanation of the audit
methodology to be followed.
Cherry Bekaert utilizes a risk-based tailored audit approach and program. The Firm employs an efficient,
effective, compliant and time-tested audit process utilizing a methodology that facilitates quality and delivers
a comprehensive and timely audit. Our approach focuses on a targeted examination of your financial
statements by addressing the risks related to the fair presentation of the statements in accordance with U.S.
generally accepted accounting principles. Our audit of the City will feature CCH Engagement software, a
state-of-the-art automated environment enabling our audit documentation to be virtually paperless and our
engagement team members to share files via wireless technology. We tailor Thomson Reuters PPC audit
and accounting guidance to specifically address the audit and risk areas associated with each local
government client. These audit programs will reflect the identified areas of risk and help us ensure that such
areas receive the proper degree of audit consideration. Cherry Bekaert, like multiple accounting firms
across the U.S., use PPC's Audit and Accounting guidance and audit engagement workflow tools as a
starting point for our audit program sheets. PPC provides the breadth and depth for specific industry
coverage and is always as the forefront of new and changing standards. Then the audit team will tailor
these audit programs based on the specific risks (inherent, control and overall risk of material misstatement)
that have been identified during the planning a brainstorming session by the audit team assigned to the
City's audit.
The following chart shows the key procedures and audit segmentation applied during each of the defined
stages of the audit engagement:
Plann'Ing Procedures
1. Initial Meetings with Management
We will schedule an entrance conference to introduce all key personnel, discuss the planned audit scope,
and verify our understanding of communication channels and working relationships. These early
discussions will ensure the City's awareness and compliance with new requirements and allow a
reasonable amount of time for implementation and consultation. We will discuss the following:
Anticipated audit issues Any staff concerns
New accounting principles Initial audit approach and dates, as well as dates and times for
and/or auditing updates periodic audit progress meetings
New laws or regulations, Reporting requirements and deadlines
including Florida Statutes Assistance to be provided by the City staff
and Uniform Review of any reports issued by regulatory agencies during the year
Guidance/Chapter 10.550, Audit concerns or operational changes that could affect the audits
and the expected impact We are happy to attend a City Council meeting before field work
on the City begins to discuss the audit process
Results of the predecessor Discussion of the status of the corrective action plans for the
auditor workpaper review previous year findings (2024-01, 2024-02, 2024-03, and 2024-04.
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2. Perform Preliminary Analytical Review Procedures
We will perform a preliminary analytical review to analyze the financial statements for unusual trends and
results and to identify in advance the high audit risk areas. To strengthen audit confidence and risk
assessment compliance, Cherry Bekaert uses MindBridge, an Al-enhanced auditing data analytic tool to
analyze 100% of transactions using a risk-scoring mechanism based on predefined control points,
including rule based, statistical and Al learned selection criteria. Using data analytics provides efficient
means to spotting risks and anomalies. Having insight into riskier transactions and data anomalies
enables our engagement team to better understand the risk of material misstatement and design more
effective audit procedures. Extended audit procedures are then focused on the areas of unusual results
or potential audit risk.
3. Determine Audit Materiality
We will calculate materiality during the preliminary planning process for the audit. However, it must be
pointed out that this calculated materiality is only a starting point. Auditing standards define materiality
from the viewpoint of the user of the financial statements, not the auditor. The question we have to ask is,
"Would it affect the user's conclusions regarding the financial position or results of operations of the City,
if the adjustment was not made or a particular fact was not disclosed?"
As a result, for certain areas, such as compliance requirements or potential fraud related to cash receipts,
our materiality levels may be adjusted to take into account the user's perspective.
Assess the Risk of Fraud: The auditor's consideration of inherent, fraud, and internal control risk
(including control environment, risk assessment, communication, and monitoring) affects the nature,
timing, and extent of testing. During the planning phase, we will identify and document all risks and
associate them with significant financial statement line items and assertions during the Risk Assessment
Synthesis (RAS). For each risk identified, we will also document the nature and extent of the risk and
condition(s) that gave rise to the risk. Typical procedures include:
Hold audit team meetings to "brainstorm" ideas regarding how fraud could be perpetrated and
concealed.
Inquire of management and others significantly involved in financial reporting to: (1) identify known
instances of fraud and (2) determine how someone could rationalize, perpetrate, and conceal fraud.
Evaluate the possibility that management could override internal controls.
Inherent Risk Assessment: Inherent risk involves the degree to which a financial statement assertion is
susceptible to misstatement due to the nature of the account. The objective of our inherent risk
assessment is to take into consideration all that we have learned about the organization, changes that
have occurred during the year, its operating environment, and about the risk of fraud and determine what
our audit response, if any, should be. The risks identified and our planned responses to these risks will be
summarized and documented in our working papers.
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Our internal control phase will be designed to carefully assess control-risk factors corresponding with all
significant financial statement assertions. We will conform to AICPA's risk-assessment standards, which
include evaluating and testing internal controls to support our report on the following determinations:
Assets are safeguarded from loss from unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition-,
Transactions are executed in accordance with budget authority and significant provisions of
applicable laws and regulations; and
Transactions are properly recorded, processed, and summarized to permit preparation of the financial
statements and to maintain accountability for assets.
Ent'ity Level Controls-. As part of our entity level control assessment, we will consider whether there are
organ izational-wide processes that promote strong internal controls.
Verification of these entity level controls is generally performed through the use of interviews of key staff
and review of documentation maintained by those key staff.
1. Monitoring - Document and assess the effectiveness of the City's monitoring activities
2. Control Environment
Management philosophy
Management's attitude towards risks
Oversight by the City board of commissioners
Integrity and ethical values
Promotion of ethics and appropriate conduct
Organizational structure
Assignment of authority and responsibility
Workforce competence and human resource development
3. Risk Assessment
� Document the results of the most recent organ izational-wide risk assessment.
� Determine whether a process is established for on-going risk assessments of the impact of change on
key financial processes
4. Information and Communication - Document and assess how the City gathers, uses, and disseminates
information.
Process Level Control Act'ivit'ies
Documentation - Obtain and review documentation of process level control activities applicable to:
All significant fiscal processes
Accounting administration
The general ledger
Information systems
Year-end close and financial reporting
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Verification - We will verify that all key controls identified are in place and appear to be operating
effectively. This is done by inquiry and observation, and walk-through procedures that trace process from
initiation to completion.
Testing: The team will prepare sampling control test work plans. We will select the most effective and
efficient testing techniques when determining the nature of the tests to apply. The nature of our testing
will fall into one of the following three non-sampling control test categories:
Observation involves physically observing organization personnel performing the control technique to
be tested.
Inquiry involves making either oral or written inquiries of organization personnel responsible for
specific control techniques to determine what they do or how they perform a specific control
technique.
Inspection involves examining documents and records for evidence that a control technique actually
occu rred.
Determining the timing of control tests depends on the type of test. For example, observations should be
conducted during the period under audit. Inspections, on the other hand, could be performed after year-
end, as long as documents being examined are from the period under audit. The extent of testing is
determined by auditor judgment to be the level necessary to assess the effectiveness of the controls.
Our use of sampling will also consider requirements of the Uniform Guidance and Chapter 10.550. If
necessary, we will draw representative sample selections for each separate system of internal control
over major federal and state programs. We will integrate these tests, to the extent possible, with required
sampling for reliance on other aspects of the City's internal control structure.
Perform Non-sampling Control Tests - We will perform and evaluate non-sampling control test results,
test information system controls associated with financial reporting, and evaluate results. We also will test
internal control over compliance with laws and regulations that could have a direct and material effect on
the financial statements. We will test controls sufficiently to support a low assessed level of control risk or
report findings where controls in operation cannot support that risk assessment.
Conduct Sampling Control Tests- Sampling control tests are conducted if sufficient evidence cannot be
obtained through non-sampling procedures. A sampling control test is conducted by taking a sample of
transactions and determining if the control technique being tested was in place for the sampled items
during the audit period. Based on test results, we will reassess control and combined risk. Whenever
possible, the team will also make use of computerized audit tools, such as Interactive Data Extraction and
Analysis (IDEA), to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of sampling control tests.
Assess Control Risk- Based on our evaluation of the above steps, and the results of our tests of controls,
we will assess control risk. Control risk is the risk that a material misstatement is not prevented or
detected in a timely manner by the City's systems of internal control. We then will assess control risk in
light of our assessment of inherent risk to determine combined risk. The team will then document its
assessment of control risk.
Integration of Information System Controls Test'ing: The Cherry Bekaert team has developed an
integrated financial statement audit approach to ensure that Information System ("IS") controls are
considered when determining the amount of reliance that can be placed upon internal controls for
financial reporting and compliance with laws and regulations.
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Our review procedures of general controls of the Tyler Munis system are categorized as follows:
Ent'llity-Mide secur'lty program plann'ing and management controls provide a framework and
continuing cycle of activity for managing risk, developing security policies, assigning responsibilities,
and monitoring the adequacy and effectiveness of IS and security controls.
Access controls limit or detect access to computer resources (data, programs, equipment, and
facilities), thereby protecting these resources against unauthorized modifications, loss, and
disclosure.
System development and program change controls prevent implementation of unauthorized
programs or modifications to existing programs that may alter financial data, modify or destroy
application audit trails, or introduce processing errors.
System software controls limit and monitor access to powerful programs, utilities and sensitive files
that control computer hardware, secure applications supported by the system, and monitor and record
activities.
Segregation-of-dut'ies controls provide policies, procedures, and an organizational structure to
prevent one individual from controlling key aspects of computer-related operations and thereby
conducting unauthorized actions or gain unauthorized access to assets or financial records.
SerAce continuity controls ensure that when unexpected events occur, critical operations continue
without interruption or are promptly resumed to minimize the impact of the disruption on an entity's
critical mission and to protect sensitive data from destruction.
MEN
AOL
We use a risk assessment synthesis process to summarize results of our initial planning, inherent risk
assessment, and documentation of entity level and process level internal controls. The risk assessment
synthesis process is designed to:
lll� Identify significant audit areas
Illo, Document the risks of material misstatement affecting each area (including fraud risks or other
significant risks)
)oil Assess those risks and select an audit approach that is appropriately tailored to respond to the
assessed level of risk,
Document the linkage of the assessed risks to the audit procedures that respond to those risks
One of the byproducts of this process will be the identification of potential improvements that could be
made to strengthen the internal control process, eliminate duplicative controls or improve the operating
efficiency of the City's financial processes. Any observations will be shared with the City's management
team at the conclusion of this phase of the audit. We will also use the lessons learned to develop our
customized audit programs by significant area that reflects our risk assessment process.
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This engagement will include the issuance of an opinion on the The nature and extent of our
annual financial statements prepared by the City, and applying compliance tests are derived from
procedures and reporting on the schedule of expenditures of the following:
Federal and State awards presented as supplementary Results of our analysis of
information. The engagement will also include consideration, internal control over compliance
testing, and reporting on the City's internal controls and matters
compliance, for both laws and regulations that could have a 11111, Review of debt documents
material impact on the financial statements, as well as compliance 1i,11, Correspondence with Federal
requirements material to major Federal and State programs. The and State agencies
aforementioned statement of work will be performed in accordance
with GAAS; the standards for financial audits contained in 11111, Review of the
Government Auditing Standards issued by the Comptroller City's agreements
General of the United States- and the provisions of Uniform 1illl, ALS First Responder Agreement
Guidance, Audits of States and Local Governments and the 11111, Review of the City's internal
Florida Single Audit Implementation Act. We will audit the special policies and procedures
purpose Schedule of Revenues and Expenditures of Emergency 11111, Florida statutes
Medical Services in accordance with the ALS First Responder 11111, Grant agreements
Agreement. Lastly, we will perform procedures over the City's 1illl, AICPA Statements of Position
compliance with Florida Statutes. 1illl, AICPA Statements on Auditing
Our compliance audit procedures will be designed to identify and Standards
test those transactions and activities that are likely to have a direct 1illl, Government Auditing Standards
and material impact on the City's basic financial statements and to 11111, Uniform Guidance Compliance
determine whether they were carried out in accordance with the Supplement and Chapter 10.550
provisions of laws, rules, contracts, and grantor guidelines. Our
reports will note instances of noncompliance that could have a 11111, Other applicable professional
direct and material effect on the City's financial statements. standards and guidance
We will perform substantive tests to form conclusions about whether the financial statements are free
from material misstatements. These customized audit procedures come directly from our risk assessment
procedures.
Conduct Substantive Tests-. The objective of our substantive testing is to:
Determine if financial statement assertions are materially misstated
Form an opinion about whether the principal statements are presented fairly in accordance with the
organization's basis of accounting
Substantive test procedures will be applied to all significant assertions in each significant financial
statement line item and account. As with the sampling control testing described above, the team makes
use of computerized audit tools to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of substantive tests. The
extent of substantive testing is based largely upon our assessed level of combined risk. For example, if
we assess combined risk as low, then we can rely upon internal controls and perform limited testing.
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If, however, we assess combined risk as high, we must obtain all assurance from substantive testing to
express an opinion on the financial statements. The two types of substantive tests are analytical review
procedures and detail tests.
� Analytical review procedures involve establishing an expectation of what a significant balance or
transaction total should be. If the actual amount is within a certain limit of the established expectation,
then the auditor may determine that no further testing is necessary or that additional detail testing is
desirable.
� Detail tests are procedures applied to individual items selected for testing and include confirmation,
physical observation, vouching, and recalculation.
Conduct Tests Related to Fraud Risks-. We will perform testing for fraud risks identified during the
planning phase that are not mitigated by internal controls. Testing will be combined with substantive and
compliance testing to the extent practical. In addition to testing for specifically identified fraud risk, we will
perform the following procedures to identify fraud related to management override of controls:
Examine journal entries and other significant adjustments.
Review accounting estimates.
Evaluate the business rationale for significant and non-recurring transactions.
Complete Overall Analytical Review Procedures: Once all the final adjustments are recorded and a
final draft of the financial statements has been prepared, we will conduct analytical review procedures.
Specifically, we will review the financial statements and supporting trial balances for key relationships and
determine if audit evidence is consistent with variances noted during preliminary analytical procedures.
Our analytic review will include trend and comparative analysis and will encompass the use of key
liquidity, performance and operational metrics.
Determine Adequacy of Audit Procedures and Audit Scope-. In the planning phase, we determined
planning materiality based on preliminary information. Based on planning materiality, we determined
design and test materiality levels, which impacted the nature and extent of testing. We now will determine
a final materiality based upon audited balances. In light of the final assessment of combined risk and final
materiality level, we will consider if the extent of substantive audit procedures was sufficient.
Evaluate Known and Likely Misstatements-. Misstatements will be evaluated both in quantitative and
qualitative terms. Based largely on these considerations and our evaluation, we will determine the type of
audit opinion and internal control and compliance reports to render.
Review of ACFR for GFOA Compliancem. Before issuance of our audit reports, we will review the ACFR
in comparison to our Firm's standard governmental reporting checklist and the current GFOA reporting
checklist to help ensure compliance with the certificate program requirements. We will also review any
comments received from the most recent submission and discuss management's response to ensure all
matters are addressed appropriately.
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We will prepare the following reports in accordance with GAAS, GAS, Uniform Guidance, and Chapter
10.550, Rules of the Auditor General:
Report of Independent Auditor on the financial statements and an in-relation to opinion on
supplementary information - this includes an opinion on the fair presentation of the City's individual
non-major governmental, non-major enterprise, internal service and fiduciary funds of the financial
statements.
Report of Independent Auditor on Internal Controls over Financial Reporting and on Compliance and
Other Matters Based on an Audit of Financial Statements Performed in Accordance with Govemment
Auditing Standards
Reports of Independent Auditor on Compliance for Each Major Program and on Internal Control Over
Compliance Required by the Uniform Guidance and Chapter 10.550, Rules of the Auditor General, for
both Federal and State programs (including a schedule of findings and questioned costs)
Complete the auditor sections of the Data Collection Form
Management letter in conformance with Chapter 10.550 Rules of the Auditor General (State of
Florida).
A report on the EMS "Schedule of Revenues and Expenditures of Emergency Medical Services" and
the "EMS Financial Information Attestation Form" required by Pinellas County
Report of Independent Accountant on Compliance with Local Government Investment Policies in
accordance with Sections 218.415 and Community Redevelopment Agency Requirements of Section
163.387(8) (for the CRA), Florida Statutes
External Auditor's Communication with the City Board of Commissioners
We will review our auditor's reports, management letter, and other matters with management. After
meeting with management, the finalized reports will be made available to the City.
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A. Proposed segmentation of the engagement B. Level of staff and percentage of hours to be
assigned to each proposed segment of the engagement
Partner/Di rector Manager Senior Staff Total
Phase I — Planning and Inherent Risk Assessment
2% 2% 1% 0% 5%
Phase 11 — Internal Control Documentation, Verification and Testing
2% 4% 8% 6% 20%
Phase III — Risk Assessment Synthesis
1% 2% 1% 1% 5%
Phase IV— Compliance Testing
1% 2% 6% 5% 14%
Phase V— Further Audit Procedures (Substantive Testing)
3% 5% 18% 15% 41%
Phase VI — Reporting
3% 5% 5% 2% 15%
Totals
12% 20% 39% 29% 100%
C. Extent of EDP software use in the engagement
Use of Technology
Leveraging the power of technology is critical as financial and operational systems become more complex,
companies expand operations, and regulatory requirements change. Cherry Bekaert employs and offers
expertise in a wide range of solutions and platforms to improve the efficiency, quality, compliance,
integration and speed of our engagements. Our audit and advisory services combine data analysis
software, wireless technology and engagement management software. As such, our documentation is
virtually paperless with procedures documented in an automated environment and files shared through
encrypted wireless technology among engagement team members. We will also provide a secure client
portal for transmitting information to the engagement team over the internet.
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Cherry Bekaert uses Suralink for secure, web-based document management, allowing clients to transmit
data files to our team. Authentication to the Suralink portal utilizes unique login credentials, and data is
secured through SSL encryption.
MindBridge leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to detect unintentional errors and intentional
misstatements, minimizing financial loss while automating our audit approach. We use its Al-enhanced
risk-scoring mechanism to focus on higher-risk items, improving the efficiency of journal entry testing. In
addition, MindBridge enables us to perform a revenue reconciliation and proof of cash exercise by simply
uploading your general ledger, which reduces the revenue sample sizes our teams need to detail test.
DataSnipper is an intelligent automation platform built and optimized for audit procedures to extract,
cross-reference and validate source documents. It allows us to complete audit tasks up to 1 Ox faster and
focus more time on audit risk areas while helping standardize documentation to easily meet regulator
demands.
We manage workpapers with CCH Engagement, allowing us to prepare, review, transfer and manage our
work in a paperless environment. It has a trial balance feature to reduce time and effort- we request that
clients provide a file containing the trial balance— including ending, actual and final budget balances— in
a format such as Excel which we upload into our software. The software has an account grouping feature
which allows each general ledger account to be grouped to a specific financial statement line.
1 0 a A 0 0 0 m
We use IDEA data analysis software to test for ways to improve efficiency and effectiveness while
providing a robust audit, and ActiveData advanced data analytics and statistics to assist in understanding
trends and identifying anomalies.
As a demonstration of our commitment to leveraging technology for
our clients' benefit, Cherry Bekaert was one of four firms to be
recognized in the first-ever MindDrid(:i.e Cornmuni-tv Awards. The
awards were presented by MindBridge and recognize companies who
are using the MindBridge platform to deliver innovative solutions,
services and support to their clients. The Firm received the
MindBridge Impact Award, which recognizes an organization whose
efforts have had a clear impact on business outcomes, improving the
client experience, driving operational efficiency, creating cost savings
and/or impacting revenue performance.
"These awards reflect MindBridge's mission to improve the global financial system by building the world's
YY
leading risk discovery platform , says Leyton Perris, CEO of MindBridge. "These leading firms have
shown us where the future of audit i's heading".
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Coordination & Communication Using Suralink
To ensure seamless delivery and efficient communication, we will utilize SuralinVI throughout the audit
process. This powerful cloud-based tool allows us to track and manage the entire audit engagement in real-
time through a highly secure platform. You can attach documents, log comments and notes, schedule
check-in meetings, share screens and show request status and progress throughout the year, not just at
final fieldwork or at a single point in the process. Suralink provides more real-time information for clients to
have better transparency on the progress and status of requests throughout the engagement compared to
other solutions.
We have collaborated with clients to employ our technology and tools to restructure the audit processes,
creating virtual audit environments that provided high quality with flexible scheduling. This minimized
disruptions decreased the need for lengthy in-person meeting requirements. However, we understand
building trust in a relationship is important and frequent interaction is necessary. We utilize Microsoft Teams
to meet remotely with clients and SuralinkO to stay engaged with our clients throughout the engagement
process. We understand that remote/virtual auditing does not work for all parts of the audit and will work
with your staff to determine what procedures/activities need to be on-site during the planning phase.
Your engagement team will share in a way that creates efficiencies and enhances a collaborative
communication environment. Service delivery using SuralinkO allows us to:
Promote real-time and year-round collaborative planning, communication and status updates
Integrate the technology of information sharing seamlessly and without disruption
Decompress the evidence gathering burden on your team
Reduce distractions to your team
Minimize your training of Cherry Bekaert staff
Enhance specialist interaction
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Information Secur'Ity Statement-. The Firm takes the security of all our clients' data very seriously.
SuralinkO encryption and access controls protect your data at rest and in transit. In addition, Cherry Bekaert
maintains Information Security Policies and monitoring procedures that only allow authorized individuals to
access client data within SuralinkO based on their job function.
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D. Approach to be taken to gain and document an understanding of the City of Clearwater's internal
control structure
Internal Control Testing Methods
Internal control assessment is a significant part of our audit process, included in planning, risk assessment
and throughout our testing procedures. We will focus internal control assessment for the City on the
following audit and accounting areas:
� Cash receipts � Budgeting
� Cash disbursements � Journal entries
� Payroll � Financial close out procedures
� Grant Compliance
During the preliminary planning segment, we will review the internal control environment over the City's
financial processes. We will conduct this internal control review from an information technology perspective,
but will also include manual controls over the transactional flow in the account balances. By relying on
controls from a compliance perspective, we will gain an understanding of the processes and controls related
to the City. As appropriate, during this control review we may test certain controls that we will rely on when
performing the audit. Reviewing and testing controls over the City's financial processes during the planning
segment will give us a strong understanding of the significant areas and processes of the City we will need
to perform an efficient and effective audit.
Our internal control procedures include a combination of interviews, inquiries, document inspection,
walkthroughs of transaction processing and observation, noting the adequacy of internal controls in light of
processes recommended by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (COSO). When conducting our
internal control procedures, we assess the potential for error and what could go wrong, designing our audit
procedures to assure controls exist to prevent errors and to assess the adequacy of controls to detect errors
should they occur. In the event of error, we find it important to understand how it occurred and to assess
what can be done to inhibit future occurrence. As a by-product, we also assess the potential for best
practice improvements in efficiency and effectiveness, although those are not our primary objectives in
conducting an audit of financial statements.
Integration of Information System Controls Testing
The Firm has developed a financial statement audit approach to ensure that IT controls are considered
when determining reliance that can be placed upon internal controls for financial reporting and compliance
with laws and regulations. Our review procedures of general controls of Tyler Munis are categorized as
follows:
Entity-wide security program planning and management controls provide a framework and continuing
cycle of activity for managing risk, developing security policies, assigning responsibilities, and
monitoring the adequacy and effectiveness of Information Technology and security controls.
Access controls limit or detect access to computer resources (data, programs, equipment, and facilities),
thereby protecting these resources against unauthorized modifications, loss, and disclosure. System
development and program change controls prevent implementation of unauthorized programs or
modifications to existing programs that may alter financial data, modify or destroy application audit trails,
or introduce processing errors.
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0101
System software controls limit and monitor access to powerful programs and utilities and sensitive files
that control computer hardware, secure applications supported by the system, and monitor and record
activities.
Segregation-of-duty controls provide policies, procedures, and an organizational structure to prevent
one individual from controlling key aspects of computer-related operations and thereby conducting
unauthorized actions or gain unauthorized access to assets or financial records.
The extent of our IT procedures will be based on the perceived efficiency of the audit approach. For
example, we would typically audit utilities by sampling customers, examining their monthly billings,
recalculating the charges (based on established the City's rates), and vouching cash receipts to payment
support. However, if it were deemed more efficient, we could perform application testing. This would involve
testing the City's utility billing system. Once this testing was performed successfully, we would be able to
rely on that system to provide competent audit evidence. But regardless of the approach, at a minimum we
will obtain an understanding of the City's IT environment and perform walk throughs of the information
technology general controls (ITGC). In performing ITGC walk throughs we have historically identified a
number of recommendations in areas such as:
Password management
Change management
Permission authorization
Rights and privileges of terminated employees
E. Approach to be taken in determining laws and regulations subject to audit test work
As a major provider of state/local government audit services, we are well versed in performing reviews of
operations, financial transactions and/or activities to determine how well they conform with established
State/Federal laws, standards, regulations and organizational policies/procedures. Additionally, our
involvement in the accounting community, including various FGFOA chapters, GASB, and FICPA Local
Government Committees, ensures that we stay ahead and informed of new regulations that will be subject
to audit work.
Our compliance audit procedures are designed to:
Understand the regulatory requirements specific to selected audit areas,
Assess internal controls over governance and compliance,
Identify and test those transactions and activities that are likely to have a financial impact on the
financial statements and to determine whether they were carried out in accordance with the provisions
of laws, rules, investments, bonds, Florida Statutes, ordinances / resolutions, contracts and grantor
agreements applicable to the City.
The nature and extent of our compliance tests are derived from the following:
Results of our analysis of internal control over compliance matters
Review of bond documents
Correspondence with federal and state agencies
Review of inter-jurisdictional agreements and internal policies
Florida statutes and grant agreements
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We will conduct our audit in accordance with standards applicable to financial audits contained in auditing
standards generally accepted in the United States of America, GAS and Single Audit (both federal and
state). We will work with the City's personnel during interim fieldwork to determine key requirements to test
by inquiring on key compliance requirements that the City regularly monitors and by selecting grants to be
tested under Uniform Guidance and the Florida Single Audit Act.
We will also review debt covenants, the ALN agreement, contractual requirements, Florida Statutes, key
ordinances and resolutions and investment policies. In doing so, we will utilize programs and procedures
already established for county governments. Our reports will note instances of noncompliance, if any, that
could have a direct and material effect on the financial statements or on compliance reporting required
grantors.
F. Sample sizes and the extent to which statistical sampling i's to be used in the engagement
Our tailored audit program will employ statistical and non-statistical sampling to ensure that we select and
review transactions in sufficient detail to formulate conclusions regarding the fair presentation of the
financial statements, the City compliance with regulations, and the existence of properly functioning internal
control. Given the City's requirement for all non-major funds to be audited, we will ensure that sampling is
performed for each fund's materiality. Cherry Bekaert has developed sample size guidelines in accordance
with GAAS and GAS for all samples performed to form our opinions on the fair presentation of the financial
statements. The objective of the guidelines is to improve the quality of sampling by:
� Relating sample sizes more directly to factors that influence sample size;
� Reducing unexplainable sample size variability; and
Encouraging the use of statistical sampling.
Structured worksheets, which give appropriate recognition to factors such as reliance on internal control,
nature and timing of audit procedures, dollar total of population being sampled, and the estimated sampling
error, are used to effectively determine audit samples and evaluate the results. We will use these
worksheets to determine the sample size for testing over areas such as capital asset additions /dispositions,
cash disbursements, accounts receivable, and accounts payable. Sample sizes will vary based on
materiality and the population being tested. The extent to which we apply detailed audit procedures and
sampling is based on:
� Quantitative and qualitative components of our materiality determination;
� Our evaluation of audit risks and internal accounting controls; and
� The characteristics of items comprising the account balances or class of transactions.
G. Type and extent of analytical procedures to be used in the engagement
Analytical procedures are a required part of every audit engagement under current auditing standards.
Below is a summary of how we plan to use these procedures throughout our audit:
Plann'ing analyfl'cs. Analytical procedures will be used in planning the audit to enhance our
understanding of the System and identify risks of material misstatement. In performing analytical
procedures as risk assessment procedures, we will develop expectations about plausible relationships
that are reasonably expected to exist. When the relationship of the recorded amounts or ratios
developed from recorded amounts yields unusual or unexpected relationships, we will consider those
relationships in identifying risks of material misstatement. Accordingly, we will design our audit
procedures to address those risks of material misstatement.
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� Analytics as a substantive test. Analytical procedures will be used as substantive procedures
throughout fieldwork and wrap-up phase of the audit that contribute to all the objectives of substantive
tests, but particularly those of existence or occurrence, valuation or allocation and completeness. We
focus primarily on revenues and expenses of the City as appropriate.
� Final rev'lew. We utilize analytical procedures during our final review of the financial statements to
consider whether any items do not meet our expectations developed during the course of our fieldwork.
Examples of substantive tests include:
Analytical review procedures are based upon establishing an expectation of what a significant balance
or transaction total should be. If the actual amount is within a certain limit of the established expectation,
then the auditor may determine that no further testing is necessary or that additional detail testing is
desirable.
Detail tests are procedures applied to individual items selected for testing and include confirmation,
physical observation, vouching and recalculation.
Examples of typical substantive test work procedures include:
Confirmation of cash and investment balances (detailed)
Comparison of charges for services in the enterprise funds to an expectation based on approved rates
and customer data (analytical)
Review of the City's budget vs. actual revenues and expenditures (analytical)
We also plan to conduct tests of internal controls over journal entries, grant compliance, disbursements,
payroll, budgeting, and significant receipts. Testing of internal controls and concluding that controls are
operating effectively allow us to rely on the control environments to reduce our substantive testing in these
areas. Relying on receipts test of controls allows us to:
Conduct a more analytical approach to testing revenues (budget versus actual, current year versus prior
year, ratio analytics, etc.)
Perform dual-purpose testing or reduced tests of details of specific transactions
Further focus our substantive tests of details on those transactions that fall outside the standard control
environment (cutoff testing and journal entry testing)
H. Approach to be taken in drawing audit samples for purposes of tests of compliance
Our sample sizes will consider audit risk through reliability and precision factors. Auditing standards
prescribe the criteria for developing sample sizes, which we have utilized based on carrying degrees of
reliance and confidence in internal control structure. If necessary, we will draw representative sample
selections for each applicable compliance requirement of internal control over major federal programs and
state financial assistance projects. We will integrate these tests, to the extent possible, with required
sampling for reliance on other aspects of the City's internal control structure. We will work with your staff to
fully understand the population of the compliance requirement prior to performing sampling procedures.
Because our sample sizes are affected by many variables, a statement about sample sizes cannot be made
in absolute terms. However, with regard to sample selection, we generally will utilize statistically generated,
representative sampling for internal control and compliance tests. Samples will also be used in conjunction
with other tests of compliance (e.g. Florida Statutes, Ordinances, etc.).
For tests of compliance pertaining to major federal programs and state financial assistance projects and
EMS expenditures, we will utilize the guidance in Chapter 11 of the AICPA Audit Guide: Government
Auditing Standards and Single Audits.
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Identification of Potential Audit Problems. The proposal should identify and describe any potential
audit problems,, the firm's approach to resolving, and any special assistance that will be requested
from the City.
We do not anticipate any potential audit problems. To avoid any surprises, our client service team prepares
management comments with a "bottom-up" review approach. This allows any draft comments or
recommendations to be initially reviewed at the departmental level directly responsible for the activity under
review, and only subsequently discussed at higher levels if the observation has been validated.
A smooth engagement begins with detailed planning and execution. We provide our clients with an
organized approach, clear expectations for both parties, and detailed timelines. We hold regular status
meetings with our clients where we provide a dashboard highlighting potential problems in meeting
milestones and budget. This allows our clients to see potential problem areas at a glance. Each problem is
presented with a solution and discussed with the client. For significant problems, we immediately
communicate them to our clients, along with a proposed solution, rather than wait for the next regularly
scheduled status meeting.
We further do not employ a "gotcha" strategy; any suggested improvements will be constructive, and both
Cherry Bekaert and the City's staff will agree to the facts behind any observations before any finding
progresses toward reporting. Our findings will contain a statement of condition describing the situation and
the matter needing attention, what should be corrected, and why.
At this time, we do not anticipate any special assistance being requested from the City. In the event that
special assistance is needed, the matter would be immediately communicated to the City.
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TAB 4 References
A minimum of three (3) references, preferably from other public entities within the State of Florida,
for whom you have provided s' ilar se " es. Include the name of entity contact person Ys names
Im rVic
phone numbers, e-mail addresses,. mailing addresses, type of service provided,. dates these
R
services were provided.
Client Name City of St. Petersburg & City of St. Petersburg CRA
Scope of Work External Audit Services including ACFR (GFOA Certification),
CRA Audit, Special Reports (including EMS Report in
accordance with the ALS First Responder Agreement, Federal &
State Single Audit (Same services descripted in the service
requirements of the scope of services excluding requirement B
(individual non-major funds)).
Date 2015 - Present
Engagement Partner(s) Lauren Strope, Dan Gougherty
Total Hours 13250
Primary Office Location(s) Central Florida
Name and Telephone of Client Erika Langhans, Chief Financial Officer
contact 727.892.5652
Erik�&
Name of Client City of Pinellas Park & City of Pinellas Park CRA
Scope of Work External Audit Services including ACFR (GFOA Certification),
CRA audit, and Federal and State Single Audits (when required)
Date 2008 - Present
Engagement Partner(s) Lauren Strope, Dan Gougherty
Total Hours 650
Primary Office Location(s) Central Florida
Name &Telephone of Principal Kelly Schrader, Finance Administrator
Client Contact 727.369.0621
ksch rader(r"',",'Vni nella Dark.com
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Name of Client Brevard County & Brevard County CRA
Scope of Work ACFR (GFOA Certification)Audit, CRA Audits, Federal and
State Single Audits, BOCC and Constitutional Officer audits,
CFCC, Landfill Escrow
Date 2019 — Present
Engagement Brian Liffick, Lauren Strope
Partners/Mangers/Specialists/Supe
rvisory Staff
Total Hours 21250
Primary Office Location(s) Central Florida
Name &Telephone of Principal Kathleen Prothman, Finance Director
Client Contact 321.264-5228
kathHleen.' rot'n,,,, ,,g
p
Client Name Orange County, FL
Scope of Work ACFR (GFOA Certification)Audit, Constitutional Officer Audits,
Enterprise Fund Audits, CRA Audits, CFCC, Landfill Escrow,
Federal & State Single Audit
Date 2001 - Present
Engagement Partner(s) Brian Liffick, Lauren Strope
Total Hours 37500
Primary Office Location(s) Central Florida
Name and Telephone of Client Laurie Bauer, Director of Finance and Accounting
contact 407.836.5719
Laurie.Bau,��"%
0212tcom
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Name of Client Charlotte County, FL
Scope of Work External Audit Services including ACFR (GFOA Certification),
CRA Audits, CFCC, Landfill Escrow, Federal & State Single
Audit
Date 2012 - Present
Engagement Brian Liffick, Lauren Strope
Partners/Mangers/Specialists/Supe
rvisory Staff
Total Hours 1)300
Primary Office Location(s) Central Florida
Name &Telephone of Principal Stacy Wear, Finance Director
Client Contact 941.743.1436
Stac)/.Weai:(C-,�),cl"iarlottecierk.com
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TAB 5 Cost Proposal
A. Pricing information relative to performing the audit engagement as described in this request for
proposals. The total all-inclusive maximum price bid i's to contain all direct and indirect costs,.
including all out-of-pocket expenses. B. A total all-inclusive maximum price ror each of the 2025,
2026, 2027y 2028, and 2029 engagements, along With the signature of an individual empowered to
represent the firm and sign a contract with the City. The fees for the audit of the Community
Redevelopment Agency(CRA) financial statements and the EMS audit as described in Section
4.A.11. of thi's RFP should be identified separately for each year.
We understand and appreciate your desire for professional service providers who are not only highly
qualified, but who are also cost-conscious and cost-effective about the work they perform. We are mindful
that cost is always a consideration in selecting a professional services firm. Accordingly, we have structured
our fee based on our strong desire to develop a mutually rewarding, long-term relationship.
Our fees are generally based on the time required to complete the work at our established billing rates, plus
clerical and computer charges and out-of-pocket expenses. Our fees are also based on other factors such
as the complexity of the work, the skill required, time limits, the experience and abilities of our personnel,
and the value of the services rendered.
City of Clearwater Financial Statement Audit in $138,500 $1413960 $1453515 $1493150 $1523880
Accordance with Government Auditing
Standards & Uniform Guidance for the Year
Ending September 30
Clearwater Community Redevelopment $83500 $83715 $83930 $93155 $93380
Agency Financial Statement Audit in
Accordance with Government Auditing
Standards for the Year Ending September 30
Emergency Medical Services Financial $33000 $37075 $33150 $37230 $33310
Statement Audit in Accordance with
Government Auditing Standards for the Year
Ending September 30
Total Not-to-Exceed Fees $150,000 $153J50 $157,595 $161�535 $165,570
Certification
As a Partner of the Firm, Lauren Strope is entitled to represent Cherry Bekaert, empowered to submit the
bid, and authorized to sign a contract with the City.
Lauren Strope
Partner, Cherry Bekaert LLP
Partner, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC
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Additional Details
Please Note: "Cherry Bekaert" is the brand name under which Cherry Bekaert LLP and Cherry Bekaert
Advisory LLC, independently owned entities, provide professional services in an alternative practice
structure in accordance with applicable professional standards. Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC is not a
licensed CPA firm. Cherry Bekaert LLP is a licensed CPA firm that provides attest services, and Cherry
Bekaert Advisory LLC and its subsidiary entities provide business advisory and non-attest services. For
more details, visit cbh.com/disclosure.
Future year increases beyond the fee commitment shown will be adjusted to annual cost of living
increases, assuming there are no significant changes to the scope of work and engagement.
A change in fees will apply should the scope of work change significantly. Should this occur, or there is
a change in scope because of a change in your operations, we would meet with you to obtain your
agreement on any increase in the fee ranges before proceeding.
These fees represent our good faith estimate based upon our experience and current understanding of
your company and scopes of work. If we have misunderstood the scope requirements or company
structure in any way, we are happy to reassess fees and present an updated cost proposal.
Start Up Costs
The proposed fees do not include the additional time we expect to establish our understanding of the City,
get introduced with your personnel and become familiar with the structure and allocation criteria. This effort
typically amounts to 15— 25% more hours in the first service year. We will absorb this additional time as an
investment in the long-term relationship with the City.
Out-of-Scope Services
We encourage open lines of communication throughout the year as part of our services. Generally, we do
not bill for routine telephone consultations, including calls received during the year regarding tax and
compliance questions.
However, should a matter require major research or services not included above, we will bill for these
services at established hourly rates as rendered. Before beginning any additional work outside the scope of
this proposal, we will discuss anticipated fees with your management to obtain understanding and approval,
as well as any anticipated discount based on the timing and complexity of the service.
C. Progress payments will be made based on hours of work completed during the course of the
engagement ton accordance with an agreement reached during contract negotiations. Interim billings
shall cover a period of not less than a calendar month. Twenty percent(20yo) of the total annual
contract will be retained pending delivety and acceptance of the firm's final reports.
Cherry Bekaert understands the above requirements. Our professional staff enter time daily in our practice
management system where a project code is configured specifically for the City services. We monitor time
on a weekly basis and bill monthly, generally at the conclusion of the calendar month. Invoices are
calculated based on the rates and hours incurred as recorded in our practice management
system. Progress bills will include the hours completed to date. Invoices are payable upon presentation.
We do understand that twenty percent (20%) of the total annual contract will be retained pending delivery
and acceptance of our final reports.
53
Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
om Cherry
%m"% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Flon'da
No,
Appendmix F'irm L'icense
Cherry Bekaert is currently licensed under Section 473.3101, Florida Statutes. The Florida license number
issued by the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation is AD001 0078.
IF 10 PAE" C 0 N TA C T U S
��..........
dbp"' r,
ONLINE SERVICES LICENSEE DETAILS 8 47
Apply for a License Licensee Inforniation
N'ame, CHERRY BEKAERT LLP(Primarly Name)
Main Address, 3800 GLENWOOD AVENUE
Vie,,.v,Ft-,,od&Lodgirg SUITE 200
F�t�e a CompO�,n.,! RALEIGH North Carolina 27612
C'on,Lw,nig Educa*�on Course License Mailing, 3800 GLENWOOD AVENUE
Search SUITE 200
RALEIGH NC 27612
V I eo,,Ap�ru,C a t�0 n S la t U S
"Pind E,,,,arnt lnfoj�mation License Location, 800 N MAGNOLIA AVE SUITE 1300
ORLANDO FL 3�2803
Search County" ORANGE
AB&T De�krqjent ;-i,Activ�!y
',3e a rclh License Inforniation
License Type� FIRM
Rank, CPA Firms
License Number, AD10,0110078
Status,, Current
Licensure Date,� 05102/1978
Expires, 12131/2025
Special Qualifications QUalification Effective
Partnership
Alternate Names
Vie%,i Re�'alked infcirm;,t,�-o t i
Vilrew U.c.--ir,,,se(,onipda�nt,
54
Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
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No,
Our Sunbiz (Division of Corporations) proof of registration is below:
�12
org
QeDartment of State Division of Corpgrations Search Records, Search b Entit Name
Deta"11 by Entity Name
Foreign Limited Liability Company
CHERRY BEKAERT ADVISORY LLC
Fifing Information
Document Number M22000010348
FEIIEIN Number 88-2730877
Date Filed 07/05/2022
State DE
Status ACTIVE
Principal Address
3800 GLENWOOD AVENUE,SUITE 200
RALEIGH, NC 27612
Mailing Address
3800 GLENWOOD AVENUE,SUITE 200
RALEIGH, NC 27612
Registered Agent Name&Address,
CORPORATION SERVICE COMPANY
1201 HAYS STREET
TALLAHASSEE,FL 32301-2525
Authorized Perspn(a)Detail
Name&Address
Title AUTHORIZED PERSON
THOMPSON, MICHELLE L.
3800 GLENWOOD AVENUE,SUITE 200
RALEIGH, NC 27612
Title MEMBER
Cherry Bekaert Guarantor LLC
3800 GLENWOOD AVENUE,SUITE 200
RALEIGH, NC 27612
55
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Scrutinized Companies Form(s)
SCRUTINIZED COMPANIES FORMS
SCRUTINIZED COMPANIES AND BUSINESS OPERATIONS WITH
CUBA AND SYRIA CERTIFICATION FORM
IF YOUR Bl"ROPOSAL IS$11W01000 OR MORE, THIS FORM MUST BE COMPLETED AND
SUBMIITED WITH THE 8101PROPOSAL FAILURE 1*0 SUBMIT THIS FORM AS REQUIRED MAY
DEEM YOUR SUBMITrAL NONRESPONSIVE.
The affiant,by virtue of the signature below.ceddies that:
1, The vendor,company, individual, principal.,subsidiary, affiliate,or owner is aware of,therequirements
of section 287.135,Florida Statutes,regarding companies on'the Scrutinized Companies with Activities in Sudan
List,the Scrutinized CompaNes,with Activities in the Iran Petroleum Energy Sector List,or ortgaging In business
operations in Cuba and Syria-and
Z The vendor,company,individual,principal, subsidiary,affifiate,or owner ills eligible to participate in this-
solicitation and is not listedon eitherthe Scrutinized Companies with Activities in Sudan List, the Scrutinized
Companies with, Activities in the Iran Petroleum Sector Ust, or engaged in business operations in Cuba and
Syria,and
3., Business Operations means.for purposes specifically related to Cuba or Syria,engaging in oernmerce
# O�VL
in any form In Cuba or Syria, including, but not limited to, acquiding, developing, maintaining, ning, selling,
possessing. leasirV or operating equipment, facilities. personnel, products, services., personal property, real
property,milittary equipment.or any other,apparatus of business or commercel� and
,4. If awarded the Conitt,act(q Agrooment),the vendor,company, individual,principlaill,subsidiary'.affifiate,
or owner will immediately noll the City of Clearwater in writing,no later than five(�)calendar days after any of
its ptincipals are placed on the Scrutinized Companies with Activities in Sudan Ust.the Scrutinized Companies
with Activities in the Iran Potroleurri Sector List,or enoaaed in business operations in Cuba and Syria.
Authorized Signature
Lauren Strople
Printed,Name
Partner
Title
Cherry Bekaert LLP
STATE OF FLOR 11) N Name of Entity/Clorporafion
COUNTY OF L L%S f�0 U �j
The foregoing instrument was lacknowl! led before me by means of X� �'physlcal presence or r: oniine
,notarization on, this_Lo'day of 20)
k!r— _:L, by
(name of person whose signature is being notarized) as the f"�t*k"LLW 7777� (title) of
tname of corporatrorVentity),personally kmmn or
-1d M t�
produced (type of identification)as identification,and who dtd/did n, take
an oath,
Z
Nota 1p�"K
Printed Name
My,Commission Expires',
NOTARY SEAL ABOVE
Rotary PuW-0 St'sio of Florillia,
List Whit,#Tjlllii;ors
W Ill M, Cornm1#41on HM SUP29
Expirts 212812027,
Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
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%0% Bekaert Proposal for City of Clearwater, Flon'da
SCRUTINIZED COMPANIES FORMS
.SC.RUTINIZ.ED COMPANIES THAT BOYCOTT I.SMEL LIST CERTIFICATION FORM
THIS FORM MUST BE COMPLETED AND SUBMITTED WITH THE BIDIPROPOSAL
FAILURE TO SUBMIT THIS FORM'AS REQUIRED MAY DEEM YOUR SUBMITTAL
NONRESPONSIVE.
The affilant, by virtue of the signature bellow,,certifies that-
1 The vendor,company. individual.ptlincipal, subsidiary, affiliate, or owner is aware of the requirements
of section 287.13,5, Florida Statutes, regarding companies on the Scrutinized Companies that Boycott
Israel List,or engaged in a boycott of Israel; and
2. The vendor,company, individual, principal,subsidiary I
I , ,affiliate,or owner is eligible to participatein,this
solicitation and is not listed on the Scrutinized Companies that Boycott Israel List, or engaged 'in a
boycott of Israel,and
3. "Boycott Israefor 1*ycott of Israel,"" means refusing to deal,,tefminating business activities, or taking
other actions to lirrilt commercial relations wfth Israel, or persons or entities dollIng business in Israel or
iscri i tory manner. A statement by a company that A is
in Israefi-controlled tern"tories in a di imina
participating in a boycott of Israel,or that it has initiated a boycolt in response to a request for a boycott
of Israel or in compliance with,or in furtherance of,calls for a boycott of Israel, may be considered as
evidence that a company is participating in a boycott of Israel, and
4. If awarded the Contract(or Agreement),the vendor.company, 'individual,,principal,subsidiary,affiliate,,,
or owner will immediately notify the City of Ctearwater in writing, no later than five(5) calendar days
after any of its pnincipals are placed on the Scrutinized Companies that Boycott Israel List,or engaged,
i,n a boycott of Israel.
Authorized Signature
1.auren Strope
Pn*nted Name
Partner
ritle
Cherr,y, Be,kae,rt 11 P
Name of Entity/Cotporation
STATE OF F L(A I
COUNTY OF
The foreong instru
r Wntwas acknjAqrd before me by means of nce o 11 r IJ online
..'ro
notarization on, thi's day Of b
(name of Person whose signature is being notarized) as the title) of
!Z.RekRV ?,X_KWK-T` L, (name of corporatio or
produced (type of fldentificat** n)as identification,and who did/did not take
an oath.
r P�blic,
Printed Nani-e
Mly Commissk)n Expires. Notsfy Pubk, state of F1*64#
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NOTARY SEAL ABOVE uss WWt*Triomoon
4,an WI 3 U2
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EXPIM 2126-J2027
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Compliance with Antolm uman
0
Traffickming Laws Form
Compliance with Anti-Human Trafficking Laws
Pursuant to Section 787.06 (13), Florida Statutes, this form must be completed by an officer or
representative of a non-governmental entity when a contract is executed, renewed, or extended
between the non-govemmental entity and the City of Clearwater.
The undersigned, on behalf of the entity listed below ("Entity"), hereby attests under penalty of
pe�ury that:
Entity does not use coercion for labor or services as defined in Section 787.06, Florida Statutes.
The undersigned is authorized to execute this form on behalf of Entity.
Datel- May 28 —72,025 Signed-
Lauren Strope
Entity. Cherry Bekaert LLP Name.
Title.- Partner
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Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
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No,
W=9 Form
9%
Form WmIZI Request for Taxpayer Give Form to the
(Rev.October 2018) Identification Number and Certification requester.Do not
Dep3dmwV of the Treasury send to the IRS.
Internal Rvitt"strvce Go to www.k-&gov1rormW9 for instructions and the latest information.
W,"1",11 IMI liiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii'I L
I Name(as sncyttr on your incom*tax relArn).Name Is roq4rod on this llr**,do not$*Avo this Me Wank.
C
.Khnerq Bekaert LLP
2 Susirvess nameldisregarded entity narr*,if different frorn above
3 Ctwk appfoplato box for federal tax Classification of the person vvt�os#name is entered CM,I'Ao I Check only otte of the 4 Exemptions,(cod".apply only to
followM seven boxes. cenaln entities.not individjals.see
8L instructiors on page 3�.
jrtdjviduw/scje proprietor or C Cotporation El S Corboratlon 21 partnef$Np El TrusVestate
LLC Exampt pay**code(if a*
E] Limited liacifity company.Evntv,the tax classi6cation(C-C corwation,S-S corporation,pwpartrwship)10"
Note:Check the appropriete box In ttv 14no above fot the tax classification of the single-member owner. Do not chook Exemption from FATCA r"tting
LLC if the LLO is classified as a sIrVWrrurrnbar LLC that it disregarded from the 000mor unl*ss Iho tywner of the LIZ Is coda(tt any)
anottw LLC that Is not disregarded from the owrvw fof U.S.federal tax purposes.otr'A�nvjse.a'stgle-mamber LLC that
& 0 Is disregarded from tv ovavir st"W ctwck ttre appropiate box for the tax classification o*its mvnor�
$APP*v to farcunu smbIVA'Aso 0WOVP ow V.9)
othor(so*ins*,r,%x1ions)op�
6 Address(nimbor,,stroet.and apt,o,,,sAAto no,)See In,,struclions. Roquostor's name and address iopfiona"�
38W Glenwood Avenue,SUito 200
6 City,state,and ZP crido
RaWqh,.NC 27612
7 Ust aw*ount oumWj's)note(optional)
W Tax1palyer Identification Number(TIN)
Enter your'TIN in the appropriate box,The TIN provided must match the name given on Vine I to avoid Social security number
backup withholding.For Indli'v"dualls,this is generahy your social secur',ty number(SSN).However,for a
resident alier,sole prophetor,or disregarded entity.see the Instructions for Part 1,Wer.Fo�r other
entities,A is your employer identif ication number(EIN).If you do net have a number,see How to get a
T7N.later. or
Note:It the account Is In more than one nam e,see the instructions for line 1.AJso see INhat Name and oyer identification number
------ ------------
Number To Give the Requester for guidel"ines on whose number to enter.
0[5 4 4_,.I_.4 1,
L]
.-,Certification
Under pe�ra,ties of perjury.I certify that;
1.The number shown on this form is my correct taxpayer ideritif!cation number(o�r I am waitnq for a number to be Issued to me):and
2.1 am noitsubject to backup withh,6�ding oecause':(a)I am exempt from,backup withholding,or(b)I have not been notified by the Inteima)Revenue
Service(IRS)that I am subject to backup withholding as a result of a faFure to rerAyl all Interest or dividends.or(c)the IRS has notified me that I am
no longer subject to backup withholding;and
3.1 am a U.S.citizen or other U.S.person(defirted below);and
4.The FATCA code(,.%)entered on this form(if any)indicating that I am exempt from FATCA report4tg Is correct.
Certification instructions.You must cress out item 2 above if you have been notftd by the IRS that you are currently sut�oct to backtip,withholding becaise
you have faHed to report all interest and dividends on your tax return.For real estate transactions,Rom 2 does not appty.For mortgage interest paid,
accluisition or abandonment of secured property,cancellation of debt,contributions to an indMdual retirement arrangement ORA),and Werally,payments,
other than interest and dividends,you are not required to sign the ce r`ffloation,,but you must provide your correct TIN.See the Instructions V Part 11,later.
..............
sign sigroture of
Here U.$.Person Date 110'�
/Alj--
General Instructions #Form 1099-DIV(dividends,including those from stocks or mutual
funds)
Sector references are to the Internal Revenue Code unless othervoise
#Form 1099-MISC(varicrus types of income,przes,awards,or gross
noted. proceeds)
Future developments.For the latest information about devoloprrtents #Form 1099-8(stock or mutual fund seJes,and certain other
related to Form W-9 and Is,instructions,Such as legislation enacted transactions by brokers)
aft er they vier e pub lis hod,go I o wmv.ir-s.govIForm W- 9. #Form 1099-�S(Proceeds from real estate transactions)
Purpose o�f Form #Form 10,99-K(merchant,card,and third party network transactions)
An individual or entity(Form W-9 requester)who is required to file an *Form 1098(home mortgage interest),1098-E(stwent loan interest).
tnforma6on return with the IRS must obtain your correct taxpayer 10,98-T(tultion)
identification number(TIN)which may be your social security number e Form I 0199-C,(canceled debt)
(SSN),individual taxpayer idenfification number(ITIN),adoption
v Form 1099-A(acquisition or abandonment of secured property)
Taxpayer identifiration rwmrber(ATIN).or employer identification n,=bcr
(EIN),to repor,t on an information return the amount paid to you.or other Use Form W-9 only ifyou are a U.S.person(Including a res4ent
amount reportuible on an,information return.Examples of information at*n),to provide your correct TIN.
retums include,but are notlimited to,the following. If you do not return Flarm W-9 to the irequester with a TIN,you might
Form 1099-INT(interest eamed,or P&A be sukoct to backup withholding.See Mat is backup wilh,holding,
/affor.
Ow.No.10231 X Form W'-9(Flev.110-2018)
Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
X .0, 1 N Epp%&
Cherry Blekaert"P E A.H, m
You r Guide Forward
August 7, 2025
VIA EMAIL:
Monica.Mitchell@myclearwater.com
Monica D. Mitchell, Assistant Finance Director
City of Clearwater
100 S. Myrtle Avenue
Clearwater, Florida 33756-5220
Dear Ms. Mitchell:
This engagement letter between City of Clearwater(hereafter referred to as the "City" or
If you"or"your" or"management")and Cherry Bekaert LLP (the "Firm" or"Cherry Bekaert" or
If we if or 19 us if or If our") sets forth the nature and scope of the services we will provide, the City's
required involvement and assistance in support of our services, the related fee arrangements,
and other Terms and Conditions, which are attached hereto and incorporated by reference,
designed to facilitate the performance of our professional services and to achieve the
mutually agreed-upon objectives of the City.
Summary of services
We will provide the following services to the City as of and for the year ended September 30,
2025:
Audit and attestation services
1. We will audit the financial statements of the City as of and for the year ended
September 30, 2025 including the governmental activities, the business type
activities, each major fund and the aggregate remaining fund information, including
the disclosures. We will also audit the financial statements of each of the City's non-
major governmental, non-major enterprise, internal service and fiduciary funds
presented as supplementary information, as defined by the Governmental Accounting
Standards Board, in the accompanying combining and individual fund financial
statements as of and for the year ended September 30, 2025.
2. We will audit the schedule of expenditures of federal awards and state financial
assistance. As part of our engagement we will apply certain additional procedures,
including comparing and reconciling such information directly to the underlying
accounting and other records used to prepare the financial statements or the
financial statements themselves, and other additional procedures in accordance with
auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America.
3. We will read the introductory section, statistical section, and other information
(continuing disclosure and fire services program) accompanying the financial
statements and consider whether a material inconsistency exists between the other
information and the financial statements. In addition, we will remain alert for
indications that a material inconsistency exists between the other information and
knowledge obtained in the audit, or if such information contains a material
misstatement of fact or is otherwise misleading. If based on the work performed, we
conclude that an uncorrected material misstatement of the other information exists,
we are required to describe it in our report.
4. We will apply limited procedures to the City's management's discussion and analysis
(MD&A) required supplemental information - pension trust funds and other
cbh.com
Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
City of Clearwater
August 7, 2025
Page 2
postemployment benefits and the combining and individual fund statements and
schedules), which will consist of inquiries of City's management about the methods of
preparing the information and comparing the information for consistency with
management's responses to our inquiries, the financial statements, and other
knowledge we obtained during our audit of the financial statements.
5. We will examine the City's compliance with the requirements of Section 218.416,
Florida Statutes, during the City's fiscal year ended September 30, 2025. Our
examination will be conducted in accordance with the attestation standards
established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Accordingly, it
will include test of your records and other procedures we consider necessary to
enable us to express an opinion as to whether the City complied, in all material
respects, with the aforementioned requirements.
6. We will audit the special purpose Schedule of Revenues and Expenditures of the
Emergency Medical Services Department of the City (the "schedule"), and render an
opinion whether the schedule presents fairly, in all material respects, the revenues
and expenditures related to the Emergency Medical Services of the City in
accordance with the requirements of the ALS First Responder Agreement.
7. We will audit the City of Clearwater Community Redevelopment Agency("CRA") as
of and for the year ended September 20, 2025, including the governmental activities
and each major fund.
8. We will apply limited procedures to the CRA's management discussion and analysis
(MD&A), will consist of inquires of the City's management about the methods of
preparing the information and comparing the information for consistency with
management's responses to our inquires, the financial statements, and other
knowledge we obtained during our audit of the financial statements.
Nonattest accounting and other services
We will provide the following additional services:
1. Complete the appropriate sections of and sign the Data Collection Form.
M1
Examination services
Our examination will be conducted in accordance with attestation standards established by
the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants ("AICPA"). Accordingly, it will include
examining, on a test basis, your records and other procedures to obtain evidence
necessary to enable us to express our opinion. We will issue a written report upon
completion of our examination. We cannot provide assurance that an unmodified opinion
will be expressed. Circumstances may arise in which it is necessary for us to modify our
opinion. If our opinion is other than unmodified, we will discuss the reasons with you in
advance. If, for any reason, we are unable to complete the examinations or are unable to
form or have not formed an opinion, we may decline to express an opinion or may withdraw
from the engagement.
Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
City of Clearwater
August 7, 2025
Page 3
Because of the inherent limitations of an examination engagement, together with the inherent
limitations of internal control, an unavoidable risk exists that some material misstatements
may not be detected, even though the examination is properly planned and performed in
accordance with attestation standards.
We will plan and perform an examination to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the
assertion is free from material misstatement. Our engagement will not include a detailed
inspection of every item supporting each assertion and cannot be relied upon to disclose all
material errors, or known and suspected fraud or noncompliance with laws or regulations, or
internal control deficiencies that may exist. However, we will inform you of any known or
suspected fraud and noncompliance with the laws and regulations, internal control
deficiencies identified during the engagement, and uncorrected misstatements that come to
our attention unless clearly trivial.
We understand that you provide us with the information required for our examinations and
that you are responsible for the accuracy and completeness of that information. We may
advise you about appropriate criteria, but the responsibility for the subject matter remains
with you.
You are also responsible for making all management decisions and performing all
management functions; for designating an individual who possesses suitable skill,
knowledge, or experience to oversee the services we provide; and for evaluating the
adequacy and results of those services and accepting responsibility for them.
Your expectations
Our services plan, which includes our audit plan, is designed to provide a foundation for an
effective, efficient, and quality-focused approach to accomplish the engagement objectives
and meet or exceed the City's expectations. Our services plan will be reviewed with you
periodically and will serve as a benchmark against which you will be able to measure our
performance. Any additional services that you may request, and that we agree to provide, will
be the subject of separate written arrangements.
The City recognizes that our professional standards require that we be independent from the
City in our examination, and audit of the City's financial statements and our accompanying
reports in order to ensure that our objectivity and professional skepticism have not been
compromised. As a result, we cannot enter into a fiduciary relationship with the City and the
City should not expect that we will act only with due regard to the City's interest in the
performance of this audit, and the City should not impose on us special confidence that we
will conduct this audit with only the City's interest in mind. Because of our obligation to be
Docusign Envelope ID: B354CCD9-B25E-494E-8FFE-628004237755
City of Clearwater
August 7, 2025
Page 4
independent of the City, no fiduciary relationship will be created by this engagements or audit
of the City's financial statements.
The engagement will be led by Lauren Strope, who will be responsible for assuring the
overall quality, value, and timeliness of the services provided to you.
N
Audmit and attestation services
Our audit will be conducted in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the
United States of America; and the standards for financial audits contained in Government
Auditing Standards, issued by the Comptroller General of the United States; the provisions of
Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200, Uniform Administrative
Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards ("Uniform
Guidance)"; the Single Audit Act Amendments of 1996; Chapter 10.550, Rules of the Auditor
General of the State of Florida ("Chapter 10.550") Florida Single Audit Act. The objective of
our audit is to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the City's financial statements as a
whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and issue an
auditor's report that includes our opinion(s) about whether the City's financial statements are
presented fairly, in all material respects, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted
accounting principles and to report on the fairness of the additional information referred to in
the Summary of Services section when considered in relation to the financial statements
taken as a whole. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not absolute
assurance and therefore is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with
GAAS and Government Auditing Standards will always detect a material misstatement when
it exists. Misstatements, including omissions, can arise from fraud or error and are
considered material if there is a substantial likelihood that, individually or in the aggregate,
they would influence the judgment of a reasonable user made based on the financial
statements in conformity with the basis of accounting noted above. The objective also
includes reporting on:
Internal control over financial reporting and compliance with the provisions of
applicable laws, regulations, contracts, and grant agreements, noncompliance with
which could have a material effect on the financial statements in accordance with
Government Auditing Standards.
Internal control over compliance related to major programs and an opinion (or
disclaimer of opinion)on compliance with laws, regulations and the provisions of
contracts or grant agreements that could have a direct and material effect on each
major program in accordance with the Single Audit Act Amendments of 1996 and the
Uniform Guidance and the Florida Single Audit Act and Chapter 10.550.
N
Auditor's responsibmilmitmies for the audit of the financial
statements
We will conduct our audit in accordance with GAAS and the standards for financial audits
contained in Government Auditing Standards, issued by the Comptroller General of the
United States and will include tests of accounting records, a determination of major programs
in accordance with Uniform Guidance and the Florida Single Audit Act and Chapter 10.550,
and other procedures as deemed necessary to enable us to express such an opinion or
opinions about whether the financial statements are fairly presented, in all material respects,
in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America
("GAAP"). We will also:
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Exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the
audit.
Obtain an understanding of the City and its environment, including internal control
relevant to the audit, sufficient to identify and assess the risks of material
misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and to design
and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence
that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion(s). The risk of not
detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting
from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions,
misrepresentation, or the override of internal control.
Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of
significant accounting estimates made by management. We will also evaluate the
overall presentation of the financial statements, including the disclosures, and
whether the financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events in
a manner that achieves fair presentation.
Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design
audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstance, but not for the purpose of
expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the City's internal control. However, we
will communicate to you in writing concerning any significant deficiencies or material
weaknesses in internal control relevant to the audit of the financial statements that
we have identified during the audit.
Conclude, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether there are conditions or
events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the City's
ability to continue as a going concern for a reasonable period of time.
Nonattest accounting and other services
In connection with any of the audit, accounting, or other services noted below, we will provide
a copy of all schedules or other support for you to maintain as part of your books and records
supporting your financial statements. You agree to take responsibility for all documents
provided by Cherry Bekaert and will retain copies based on your needs and document
retention policies. By providing these documents to you, you confirm that Cherry Bekaert is
not responsible for hosting your records or maintaining custody of your records or data and
that Cherry Bekaert is not providing business continuity or disaster recovery services. You
confirm you are responsible for maintaining internal controls over your books and records
including business continuity and disaster recovery alternatives. In addition, any documents
provided to Cherry Bekaert by the City in connection with these services will be considered to
be copies and will not be retained by Cherry Bekaert after completion of the accounting and
other services. You are expected to retain anything you upload to a Cherry Bekaert portal
and are responsible for downloading and retaining anything we upload in a timely manner.
Portals are only meant as a method of transferring data, are not intended for the storage of
client information, and may be deleted at any time. You are expected to maintain control over
your accounting systems to include the licensing of applications and the hosting of said
applications and data. We do not provide electronic security or back-up services for any of
your data or records. Giving us access to your accounting system does not make us hosts of
information contained within.
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The accounting and other services described in this section are nonaudit services, which do
not constitute audit services under Govemment Auditing Standards, and such services will
not be conducted in accordance with Govemment Auditing Standards. We will perform the
services in accordance with applicable professional standards. We, in our sole professional
judgment, reserve the right to refuse to perform any procedure or take any action that could
be construed as assuming City's management responsibilities.
In conjunction with providing these accounting and other services, we may use third party
software or templates created by Cherry Bekaert for use on third party software.
Management expressly agrees that the City has obtained no rights to use such software or
templates and that Cherry Bekaert's use of the City's data in those applications is not
deemed to be hosting, maintaining custody, providing business continuity, or disaster
recovery services.
Data collection form
We will complete the appropriate sections of and sign the Data Collection Form that
summarizes our audit findings. We will provide copies of our reports to the City; however, it is
the City's management's responsibility to submit the reporting package (including financial
statements, schedule of expenditures of federal awards and state financial assistance,
summary schedule of prior audit findings, auditors' reports, and corrective action plan)along
with the Data Collection Form to the designated federal audit clearinghouse and, if
appropriate, to pass-through entities. The Data Collection Form and the reporting package
must be submitted within the earlier of 30 days after receipt of the auditors' reports or nine
months after the end of the audit period.
City's management responsibilities related to accounting and
other services
For all nonattest services we perform in connection with the engagement, you are
responsible for designating a competent employee to oversee the services, make any
management decisions, perform any management functions related to the services, evaluate
the adequacy of the services, retain relevant copies supporting your books and records, and
accept overall responsibility for the results of the services.
Prior to the release of the report, the City's management will need to sign a representation
letter acknowledging its responsibility for the results of these services, and acknowledging
receipt of all appropriate copies.
City's management responsibilities related to the audmit
The City's management is responsible for(1) designing, implementing, and maintaining
internal controls, including internal controls over federal awards and state financial
assistance, and for evaluating and monitoring ongoing activities, relevant to the preparation
and fair presentation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement,
whether due to fraud or error, and to help ensure that appropriate goals and objectives are
met; (2)following laws and regulations; (3) ensuring that there is reasonable assurance that
government programs are administered in compliance with compliance requirements; and (4)
ensuring that the City's management and financial information is reliable and properly
reported. The City's management is also responsible for implementing systems designed to
achieve compliance with applicable laws, regulations, contracts, and grant agreements. You
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are also responsible for the selection and application of accounting principles; for the
preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements, schedule of expenditures of
federal awards and state financial assistance and all accompanying information in conformity
with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles; and for compliance with applicable laws
and regulations (including federal and state statutes) and the provisions of contracts and
grant agreements (including award agreements). Your responsibilities also include identifying
significant contractor relationship in which the contractor has responsibility for program
compliance and for the accuracy and completeness of that information.
The City's management is responsible for making all financial records and related information
available to us, including additional information that is requested for purposes of the audit
(including information from outside of the general and subsidiary ledgers), and for the
accuracy and completeness of that information. You are also responsible for providing us
with (1)access to all information of which it is aware that is relevant to the preparation and
fair presentation of the financial statements, such as records, documentation, identification of
all related parties and all related-party relationships and transactions, and other matters, (2)
access to personnel, accounts, books, records, supporting documentation, and other
information as needed to perform an audit under the Uniform Guidance and the Florida
Single Audit Act, Chapter 10,550, (3)additional information that we may request for the
purpose of the audit and (4) unrestricted access to persons within the City from whom we
determine it necessary to obtain audit evidence.
Your responsibilities include adjusting the financial statements to correct material
misstatements and for confirming to us in the written representation letter that the effects of
any uncorrected misstatements aggregated by us during the current engagement and
pertaining to the latest period presented are immaterial, both individually and in the
aggregate, to the financial statements taken as a whole.
You are responsible for the design and implementation of programs and controls to prevent
and detect fraud, and for informing us about all known or suspected fraud affecting the City
involving (1)the City's management, (2) employees who have significant roles in internal
control, and (3)others where the fraud could have a material effect on the financial
statements. Your responsibilities include informing us of your knowledge of any allegations of
fraud or suspected fraud affecting the City received in communications from employees,
former employees, grantors, regulators, or other. In addition, you are responsible for
identifying and ensuring that the City complies with applicable laws, regulations contracts,
agreements, and grants and for taking timely and appropriate steps to remedy fraud and
noncompliance with provisions of laws, regulations, contracts, or grant agreements that we
report. Additionally, as required by the Uniform Guidance and the Florida Single Audit Act,
Chapter 10.550, it is the City's management's responsibility to evaluate and monitor
noncompliance with federal and state statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of
federal and state awards and state financial assistance; take prompt action when instances of
noncompliance are identified including noncompliance identified in audit findings; promptly
follow up and take corrective action on reported audit findings; and prepare a summary
schedule of prior audit findings and a separate corrective action plan.
The City's management is responsible for identifying all federal awards and state financial
assistance received and understanding and complying with the compliance requirements and
for the preparation of the schedule of expenditures of federal awards (including notes and
noncash assistance received, and COVID-19 related concepts, such as lost revenues, if
applicable)and state financial assistance in conformity with the Uniform Guidance and the
Florida Single Audit Act, and Chapter 10.550. You agree to include our report on the
schedule of expenditures of federal awards and state financial assistance in any document
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that contains and indicates that we have reported on the schedule of expenditures of federal
awards and state financial assistance. You also agree to include the audited financial
statements with any presentation of the schedule of expenditures of federal awards and state
financial assistance that includes our report thereon or make the audited financial statements
readily available to intended users of the schedule of expenditures of federal awards and
state financial assistance no later than the date the schedule of expenditures of federal
awards and state financial assistance is issued with our report thereon. Your responsibilities
include acknowledging to us in the written representation letter that(1)you are responsible
for presentation of the schedule of expenditures of federal awards and state financial
assistance in accordance with the Uniform Guidance and the Florida Single Audit Act and
Chapter 10.550, (2)you believe the schedule of expenditures of federal awards and state
financial assistance, including its form and content, is stated fairly in accordance with the
Uniform Guidance and the Florida Single Audit Act and Chapter 10.550, (3)the methods of
measurement or presentation have not changed from those used in the prior period or, if they
have changed, the reasons for such changes), and (4)the City has disclosed to us any
significant assumptions or interpretations underlying the measurement or presentation of the
schedule of expenditures of federal awards and state financial assistance.
You are responsible for the preparation of the supplementary information, which we have
been engaged to report on, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
You agree to include our report on the supplementary information in any document that
contains and indicates that we have reported on the supplementary information. You also
agree to include the audited financial statements with any presentation of the supplementary
information that includes our report thereon. Your responsibilities include acknowledging to
us in the written representation letter that (1)you are responsible for presentation of the
supplementary information in accordance with GAAP, (2)you believe the supplementary
information, including its form and content, is fairly presented in accordance with GAAP, (3)
the methods of measurement or presentation have not changed from those used in the prior
period (or, if they have changed, the reasons for such changes), and (4)you have disclosed
to us any significant assumptions or interpretations underlying the measurement or
presentation of the supplementary information.
The City's management is responsible for establishing and maintaining a process for tracking
the status of audit findings and recommendations. The City's management is also responsible
for identifying and providing report copies of previous financial audits, attestation
engagements, performance audits or other studies related to the objectives discussed in the
Audit and attestation services section of this letter. This responsibility includes relaying to us
corrective actions taken to address significant findings and recommendations resulting from
those audits, attestation engagements, performance audits, or other studies. You are also
responsible for providing City's management views on our current findings, conclusions, and
recommendations, as well as your planned corrective actions, for the report, and for the
timing and format for providing that information.
The City's management agrees to assume all management responsibilities relating to the
financial statements, schedule of expenditures of federal awards and state financial
assistance and disclosures, and any other nonaudit services we provide. You will be required
to acknowledge in the management representation letter our assistance with preparation of
the financial statements, schedule of expenditures of federal awards and state financial
assistance and disclosures, and that you have reviewed and approved the financial
statements, schedule of expenditures of federal awards and state financial assistance and
disclosures prior to their issuance and have accepted responsibility for them. Further, you
agree to oversee the nonaudit services by designating an individual, preferably from senior
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management, with suitable skill, knowledge, or experience; evaluate the adequacy and
results of those services; and accept responsibility for them.
The City's management is responsible for disclosing to us all documents that comprise the
annual report and preparation of the annual report. You agree you will provide us with the
final version of all documents comprising the annual report prior to the date of the auditor's
report so that required audit procedures can be completed prior to the issuance of the
auditor's report. If obtaining the final version of these documents is not possible prior to the
date of the auditor's report, then the documents will be provided as soon as practicable, and
the City will not issue the annual report prior to providing them to the us and allowing
sufficient time to apply required audit procedures. If the documents comprising the annual
report are provided after the date of the auditor's report and we concluded that there is a
material inconsistency or misstatement then we will take appropriate actions which may
include communicating the matter to those charged with governance or obtaining legal
advice.
City's management's responsibilities related to the
m
examination
The City's management is responsible for:
Providing us with the information required for our examination and for the accuracy
and completeness of that information
If applicable, the fair presentation of the financial information included in the report in
conformity with the acceptable financial framework or the criteria or assertion
described on page one of the engagement letter
If applicable, the selection and application of accounting principles and the consistent
application of those principles
Making all financial or other applicable records and related information available to us
Ensuring that all material information is disclosed to us
Granting unrestricted access to persons within the entity from whom we determine it
necessary to obtain sufficient evidence to complete our examination
Identifying and ensuring that the City complies with the laws and regulations
applicable to the criteria or assertion described on page one of the engagement letter
The City's management is responsible for informing us of its views regarding the risk of fraud
impacting the report at the City. The City's management must inform us of their knowledge of
any allegations of fraud or suspected fraud affecting the City received in communications
from employees, former employees, regulators, or others and for informing us about all
known or suspected fraud affecting the City involving (a) management, (b) employees who
have significant roles in internal control, and (c) others where the fraud could have a material
effect on the report.
The City's management is responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of
programs and controls over the report and to prevent and detect fraud. Appropriate
supervisory review procedures are necessary to provide reasonable assurance that adopted
policies and prescribed procedures are adhered to and to identify errors and fraud or illegal
acts.
At the conclusion of the engagement, the City's management will provide to us a
representation letter that, among other things, addresses (1)the City's management's
responsibilities related to the examination and confirms certain representations made to us
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during the examination, including, the City's management's acknowledgement of its
responsibility for the design and implementation of programs and controls to prevent and
detect fraud; (2)the City's management's responsibilities related to the monitoring of internal
control over financial reporting; and (3)the City's management's knowledge, directly or from
allegations by others, of fraud or suspected fraud affecting the City.
Repofting
Our report will be addressed to the Honorable Mayor and the City Council Members of the
City. Circumstances may arise in which our report may differ from its expected form and
content based on the result of our audit. Depending on the nature of these circumstances, it
may be necessary for us to modify our opinion or add emphasis-of-matter or other-matter
paragraphs to our auditor's report, or if necessary, withdraw from this engagement. If our
opinion is other than unmodified, we will discuss the reasons with you in advance. If, for any
reason, we are unable to complete the audit or are unable to form or have not formed an
opinion, we may decline to express opinions or issue reports, or may withdraw from this
engagement.
We will also issue written reports upon completion of our Single Audit. The Government
Auditing Standards report on internal control over financial reporting and on compliance and
other matters will include a paragraph that states that (1)the purpose of the report is solely to
describe the scope of testing of internal control and compliance and the result of that testing,
and not to provide an opinion on the effectiveness of the City's internal control or on
compliance, and (2)the report is an integral part of an audit performed in accordance with
Government Auditing Standards in considering the entity's internal control and compliance.
The Uniform Guidance and the Florida Single Audit Act, and Chapter 10.550 report on
internal control over compliance will include a paragraph that states that the purpose of the
report on internal control over compliance is solely to describe the scope of testing of internal
control over compliance and the results of that testing based on the requirements of the
Uniform Guidance and the Florida Single Audit Act and Chapter 10.550. Both reports will
state that the report is not suitable for any other purpose.
Indemnity
Cherry Bekaert will rely on the City to provide information and representations to us in the
performance of our professional services and in consideration of the fees that we will charge.
Because of the importance of management's representations to the effective performance of
our services, the City will release, indemnify, and hold harmless the Firm and its personnel
from any claims, liabilities, costs, and expenses relating to our services under this letter
arising in circumstances where there has been a known misrepresentation by an officer or
employee of the City.
Nothing contained herein is intended to serve as a waiver by the City of its sovereign
immunity, to extend the liability of the City beyond the limits set forth in Section 768.28,
Florida Statutes, or be construed as consent by the City to be sued by third parties.
This provision will survive termination of this Letter.
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Limitation of damages
In recognition of the relative risks and benefits of this agreement to both the City and Cherry
Bekaert, the City agrees, to the fullest extent permitted by law, to limit the damages owed by
Cherry Bekaert to the City for any and all liability, claims, losses, and costs, of any nature
whatsoever, so that the total aggregate damages payable by Cherry Bekaert to the City shall
not exceed the total fees for services rendered under this agreement. Both parties to this
agreement intend and agree that this limitation apply to any and all damages or causes of
action against Cherry Bekaert, however alleged or arising, unless otherwise prohibited by
law, or unless the claimed damages arise due to the gross negligence or willful misconduct of
Cherry Bekaert.
Fees
The fees contemplate only the services described in the Summary of Services section of this
letter. You may request that we perform additional services not addressed in this
engagement letter. If this occurs, we will communicate with you concerning the scope of the
additional services and the fees which will be at our standard billing rates noted in the table
below. We also may issue a separate engagement letter covering the additional services. In
the absence of any other written communication from us documenting such additional
services, our services will continue to be governed by the terms of this engagement letter.
Standard Bill Rates
Skill Level B 0111 Rate
Partner $580
Director $510
Senior Manager $495
Manager $375
Senior Accountant $325
Staff Accountant $240
The following summarizes the fees for the services described above:
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Description of services Estimated fee
Audit services
Audit of City's financial statements and single audit(federal and state) $1387500
Audit of Community Redevelopment Agency $87500
Emergency Medical Services Audit $37000
Nonattest services
Completion of Data Collection Form Included above
Total $1509000
The fees will be billed periodically. Invoices are due on presentation. A service charge will be
added to past due accounts equal to 1.5% per month (18% annually) on the previous month's
balance less payments received during the month, with a minimum charge of$2.00 per
month.
If the foregoing is in accordance with your understanding, please sign a copy of this letter in
the space provided and return it to us. No change, modification, addition, or amendment to
this letter shall be valid unless in writing and signed by all parties. The parties agree that this
letter may be electronically signed and that the electronic signatures will be deemed to have
the same force and effect as handwritten signatures.
If you have any questions, please email Lauren Strope at Istrope@cbh.com.
Sincerely,
CHERRY BEKAERT LLP
1 7 Z�?44 2�_Z/_j-.,to
City of Clearwater
ACCEPTED BY:
TITLE: DATE:
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Cherry Bekaert LLP
Engagement Letter Terms and Condmitions
The following terms and conditions are an integral part of the attached engagement letter and
should be read in their entirety in conjunction with your review of the letter.
Limitations of the audit report
Should the City wish to include or incorporate by reference the financial statements and our
report thereon into any other document at some future date, we will consider granting
permission to include our report into another such document at the time of the request.
However, we may be required by generally accepted auditing standards ("GAAS")to perform
certain procedures before we can give our permission to include our report in another
document such oaonannual report, private placement, regulator filing, official statement,
offering of debt securities, etc. You agree that the City will not include or incorporate by
reference the financial statements and our report thereon, or our report into any other
document without our prior written permission. In addition, to avoid unnecessary delay or
misunderstandings, it is important to provide us with timely notice of your intention to issue
any such document.
Limitations of the audit process
In conducting the audit, we will perform tests of the accounting records and such other
procedures as we consider necessary in the circumstances to provide a reasonable basis for
our opinion on the financial statements. We also will assess the accounting principles used
and significant estimates made by the City's management, as well as evaluate the overall
financial statement presentation.
Our audit will include procedures designed to obtain reasonable assurance of detecting
misstatements due to errors or fraud that are material tothe financial statements. Absolute
assurance is not attainable because of the nature of audit evidence and the characteristics of
fraud. For example, audits performed in accordance with GAAS are based on the concept of
selective testing of the data being examined and are, therefore, subject to the limitation that
material misstatements due to errors or fraud, if they exist, may not be detected. Also, an
audit is not designed to detect matters that are immaterial tothe financial statements. In
addition, an audit conducted in accordance with GAAS does not include procedures
specifically designed to detect i||ogo| eoto having on indirect effect(a.g., violations of fraud
and abuse statutes that result in fines or penalties being imposed on the City) on the financial
statements.
Similarly, in performing our audit we will be aware of the possibility that illegal acts may have
occurred. However, it should be recognized that our audit provides no assurance that illegal
acts generally will be detected, and only reasonable assurance that illegal acts having a
direct and material effect on the determination of financial statement amounts will be
detected. We will inform you with respect to errors and fraud, or illegal acts that come to our
attention during the course of our audit unless clearly inconsequential. In the event that we
have to consult with the City's counsel or counsel of our choosing regarding any illegal acts
we identify, additional fees incurred may be billed to the City. You agree that the City will
cooperate fully with any procedures we deem necessary to perform with respect to these
matters.
We will issue a written report upon completion of our audit of the City's financial statements.
If, for any reason, we are unable to complete the audit, or are unable to form, or have not
formed an opinion on the financial statements, we may decline to express an opinion or
cbh.conm
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decline to issue a report as a result of the engagement. We will notify the appropriate party
within your organization of our decision and discuss the reasons supporting our position.
Audit procedures - general
An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and
disclosures in the financial statements; therefore, our audit will involve professional judgment
about the number of transactions to be examined and the areas to be tested. An audit also
includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness
of significant accounting estimates made by the City's management, as well as evaluating the
overall presentation of the financial statements. We will plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable rather than absolute assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement, whether from (1) errors, (2)fraudulent financial reporting, (3)
misappropriation of assets, or(4)violations of laws or governmental regulations that are
attributable to the City or to acts by the City's management or employees acting on behalf of
the City. Because the determination of waste and abuse is subjective, Govemment Auditing
Standards do not expect auditors to perform specific procedures to detect waste or abuse in
financial audits, nor do they expect auditors to provide reasonable assurance of detecting
waste and abuse.
Because of the inherent limitations of an audit' combined with the inherent limitations of
internal control there is an unavoidable risk that some material misstatements may not be
detected by us, even though the audit is properly planned and performed in accordance with
U.S. generally accepted auditing standards and Govemment Auditing Standards. In addition,
an audit is not designed to detect immaterial misstatements or violations of laws or
governmental regulations that do not have a direct and material effect on the financial
statements. However, we will inform the appropriate level of the City's management of any
material errors, fraudulent financial reporting, or misappropriation of assets that come to our
attention. We will also inform the appropriate level of management of any violations of laws or
governmental regulations that come to our attention, unless clearly inconsequential. We will
include such matters in the reports required for a program specific audit. Our responsibility as
auditor is limited to the period covered by our audit and does not extend to any later periods
for which we are not engaged as auditors.
Our procedures will include tests of documentary evidence supporting the transactions
recorded in the accounts, and may include tests of the physical existence of inventories, and
direct confirmation of receivables and certain assets and liabilities by correspondence with
selected customers, funding sources, creditors and financial institutions. We will request
written representations from your attorneys as part of the engagement, and they may bill you
for responding to this inquiry. At the conclusion of our audit, we will require certain written
representations from you about your responsibilities for the financial statements; schedule of
expenditures of federal awards and state financial assistance; federal award programs and
state projects; compliance with laws, regulations, contracts, and grant agreements; and other
responsibilities required by generally accepted auditing standards.
Audit procedures - internal controls
Our audit will include obtaining an understanding of the City and its environment, including
internal controls relevant to the audit, sufficient to identify and assess the risks of material
misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and to design and
perform audit procedures responsive to those risks and obtain evidence that is sufficient and
appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion(s). The risk of not detecting a material
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misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may
involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentation, or the override of internal
control. Tests of controls may be performed to test the effectiveness of certain controls that
we consider relevant to preventing and detecting errors and fraud that are material to the
financial statements and to preventing and detecting misstatements resulting from illegal acts
and other noncompliance matters that have a direct and material effect on the financial
statements. Our tests, if performed, will be less in scope than would be necessary to render
an opinion on internal control, including cybersecurity, and, accordingly, no opinion will be
expressed in our report on internal control issued pursuant to Government Auditing
Standards.
As required by the Uniform Guidance and the Florida Single Audit Act and Chapter 10.550,
we will perform tests of controls over compliance to evaluate the effectiveness of the design
and operation of controls that we consider relevant to preventing or detecting material
noncompliance with compliance requirements applicable to each major federal and state
award program. However, our tests will be less in scope than would be necessary to render
an opinion on those controls and, accordingly, no opinion will be expressed in our report on
internal control issued pursuant to the Uniform Guidance and the Florida Single Audit Act and
Chapter 10.550.
An audit is not designed to provide assurance on internal control or to identify significant
deficiencies or material weaknesses. However, during the audit, we will communicate to the
City's management and those charged with governance internal control related matters that
are required to be communicated under American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
("AICPA") professional standards, Govemment Auditing Standards, and the Uniform
Guidance and the Florida Single Audit Act and Chapter 10-550.
Audit procedures - compliance
As part of obtaining reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement, we will perform tests of the City's compliance with provisions of
applicable laws and regulations, contracts and agreements, including grant agreements.
However, the objective of those procedures will not be to provide an opinion on overall
compliance and we will not express such an opinion in our report on compliance issued
pursuant to Govemment Auditing Standards.
The Uniform Guidance and the Florida Single Audit Act and Chapter 10.550 requires that we
also plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the auditee
has complied with federal and state statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of
federal awards applicable to major programs. Our procedures will consist of tests of
transactions and other applicable procedures described in the OMB Compliance Supplement
for the types of compliance requirements that could have a direct and material effect on each
of the City's major programs. For federal programs that are included in the Compliance
Supplement, our compliance and internal control procedures will relate to the compliance
requirements that the Compliance Supplement identifies as being subject to audit. The
purpose of these procedures will be to express an opinion on the City's compliance with
requirements applicable to each of its major programs in our report on compliance issued
pursuant to the Uniform Guidance and the Florida Single Audit Act and Chapter 10.550.
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Nonattest services (if applicable)
All nonattest services to be provided in the attached engagement letter(if applicable) shall be
provided pursuant to the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct. The AICPA Code of
Professional Conduct requires that we establish objectives of the engagement and the
services to be performed, which are described under nonattest services in the attached letter.
You agree that the City's designated individual will assume all the City's management
responsibilities for the nonattest services we provide; oversee the services by designating an
individual, with suitable skill, knowledge, or experience; evaluate the adequacy and results of
the services; and accept responsibility for them. In order to ensure we provide such services
in compliance with all professional standards, the designated individual is responsible for:
Making all financial records and related information available to us
Ensuring that all material information is disclosed to us
Granting unrestricted access to persons within the entity from whom we determine it
necessary to obtain audit evidence
Identifying and ensuring that such nonattest complies with the laws and regulations
The accuracy and appropriateness of such nonattest services shall be limited by the
accuracy and sufficiency of the information provided by the City's designated individual. In the
course of providing such nonattest services, we may provide professional advice and
guidance based on knowledge of accounting, tax and other compliance, and of the facts and
circumstances as provided by the City's designated individual. Such advice and guidance
shall be limited as permitted under the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct.
Responsibilities of Cherry Bekaert LLP with respect to the
m N
examination services
In performing our examinations, we will be aware of the possibility that illegal acts may have
occurred. However, it should be recognized that our examinations will not include a detailed
test of every item supporting the assertion or subject matter and provides no assurance that
illegal acts generally will be detected, and only reasonable assurance that illegal acts having
a direct and material effect on the assertion will be detected. We will inform you with respect
to errors and fraud or illegal acts that come to our attention during the course of our
examination unless clearly inconsequential. You agree to cooperate fully with any
procedures we deem necessary to perform with respect to these matters.
Our examination will include procedures designed to obtain reasonable assurance that the
assertion is in conformity with the criteria described above. Absolute assurance is not
attainable because of the nature of evidence and the characteristics of fraud. For example,
examinations performed in accordance with attestation standards are based on the concept
of selective testing of the data being examined and are, therefore, subject to the limitation
that errors or fraud, if they exist, may not be detected.
Comm u nications
At the conclusion of the audit engagement, we may provide the City's management and those
charged with governance a letter stating any significant deficiencies or material weaknesses
which may have been identified by us during the audit and our recommendations designed to
help the City make improvements in its internal control structure and operations related to the
identified matters discovered in the financial statement audit. As part of this engagement, we
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will ensure that certain additional matters are communicated to the appropriate members of
the City. Such matters include (1)our responsibilities under GAAS, (2)the initial selection of
and changes in significant accounting policies and their application, (3) our independence
with respect to the City, (4)the process used by City's management in formulating particularly
sensitive accounting estimates and the basis for our conclusion regarding the
reasonableness of those estimates, (5) audit adjustments, if any, that could, in our judgment,
either individually or in the aggregate be significant to the financial statements or our report,
(6) any disagreements with the City's management concerning a financial accounting,
reporting, or auditing matter that could be significant to the financial statements, (7) our views
about matters that were the subject of the City's management's consultation with other
accountants about auditing and accounting matters, (8) major issues that were discussed
with the City's management in connection with the retention of our services, including, among
other matters, any discussions regarding the application of accounting principles and auditing
standards, and (9) serious difficulties that we encountered in dealing with the City's
management related to the performance of the audit.
We have attached a copy of the report on our most recent peer review.
Other matters
Access to working papers
The working papers and related documentation for the engagement are the property of the
Firm and constitute confidential information. We have a responsibility to retain the
documentation for a period of time to satisfy legal or regulatory requirements for records
retention. It is our policy to retain all workpapers and client information for seven years from
the date of issuance of the report. It is our policy to retain emails and attachments to emails
for a period of 12 months, except as required by any governmental regulation. Except as
discussed below, any requests for access to our working papers will be discussed with you
prior to making them available to requesting parties. Any parties seeking voluntary access to
our working papers must agree to sign our standard access letter.
We may be requested to make certain documentation available to regulators, governmental
agencies (e.g., SEC, PCAOB, HUD, RD, DOL, etc.), or their representatives ("Regulators")
pursuant to law or regulations. If requested, access to the documentation will be provided to
the Regulators. The Regulators may intend to distribute to others, including other
governmental agencies, our working papers and related documentation without our
knowledge or express permission. You hereby acknowledge and authorize us to allow
Regulators access to and copies of documentation as requested. In addition, our Firm, as
well as all other major accounting firms, participates in a 11peer review" program covering our
audit and accounting practices as required by the AICPA. This program requires that once
every three years we subject our quality assurance practices to an examination by another
accounting firm. As part of the process, the other firm will review a sample of our work. It is
possible that the work we perform for the City may be selected by the other firm for their
review. If it is, they are bound by professional standards to keep all information confidential. If
you object to having the work we do for you reviewed by our peer reviewer, please notify us
in writing.
Electronic transmittals
During the course of our engagement, we may need to electronically transmit confidential
information to each other, within the Firm, and to other entities engaged by either party.
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Although email is an efficient way to communicate, it is not always a secure means of
communication and thus, confidentiality may be compromised. As an alternative, we
recommend using our Client Portal ("Portal")to transmit documents. Portal allows the City,
us, and other involved entities to upload and download documents in a secure location. You
agree to the use of email, Portal, and other electronic methods to transmit and receive
information, including confidential information, between the Firm, the City, and other third
party providers utilized by either party in connection with the engagement.
Use of th"Ird party providers and alternative practice structure
Cherry Bekaert LLP and Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC (an associated, but not affiliated entity)
are parties to an administrative services agreement ("ASA"). Cherry Bekaert LLP and Cherry
Bekaert Advisory LLC are operating in an arrangement commonly described as an
11alternative practice structure". Pursuant to the ASA, Cherry Bekaert LLP leases professional
and administrative staff, both of which are employed by Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC, to
support Cherry Bekaert LLP's performance under this engagement letter. As a result, Cherry
Bekaert LLP will share your confidential information with Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC so that
the leased employees are able to support Cherry Bekaert LLP's performance under this
engagement letter. These leased employees are under the direct control and supervision of
Cherry Bekaert LLP, which is solely responsible for the professional performance of the
services under this engagement letter. The leased employees are subject to the standards
governing the accounting profession, including the requirement to maintain the confidentiality
of client information, and Cherry Bekaert LLP and Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC have
contractual agreements requiring confidential treatment of all client information.
To the extent Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC will provide tax, advisory, and/or consulting
services to you, Cherry Bekaert LLP will provide Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC with access to
your accounting, financial, and other records that Cherry Bekaert LLP maintains to enable
Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC to provide those services to you.
In addition to the structure noted above, in the normal course of business, we may on
occasion use the services of an independent contractor or a temporary or loaned employee,
all of whom may be considered a third party service provider. On these occasions, we remain
responsible for the adequate oversight of all services performed by the third party service
provider and for ensuring that all services are performed with professional competence and
due professional care. We will adequately plan and supervise the services provided by the
third party service provider; obtain sufficient relevant data to support the work product; and
review compliance with technical standards applicable to the professional services rendered.
We will enter into a contractual agreement with the third party service provider to maintain the
confidentiality of information and be reasonably assured that the third party service provider
has appropriate procedures in place to prevent the unauthorized release of confidential
information to others.
Subpoenas
In the event we are requested or authorized by the City, or required by government
regulation, subpoena, or other legal process to produce our working papers or our personnel
as witnesses with respect to our engagement for the City, the City will, so long as we are not
a party to the proceeding in which the information is sought, reimburse us for our professional
time and expense, as well as the fees and expenses of our counsel, incurred in responding to
such a request at standard billing rates.
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Dispute resolution provision
This Dispute Resolution Provision sets forth the dispute resolution process and procedures
applicable to any dispute or claim arising out of or relating to this engagement letter or the
services provided hereunder, or any other audit or attest services provided by or on behalf of
the Firm or any of its subcontractors or agents to the City or at its request ("Disputes"), and
shall apply to the fullest extent of the law, whether in contract, statute, tort(such as
negligence), or otherwise.
Mediation
All Disputes shall be first submitted to nonbinding confidential mediation by written notice to
the parties, and shall be treated as compromise and settlement negotiations under the
standards set forth in the Federal Rules of Evidence and all applicable state counterparts,
together with any applicable statutes protecting the confidentiality of mediations or settlement
discussions. If the parties cannot agree on a mediator, the International Institute for Conflict
Prevention and Resolution ("CPR"), at the written request of a party, shall designate a
mediator.
Arbitration procedures
If a Dispute has not been resolved within 90 days after the effective date of the written notice
beginning the mediation process (or such longer period, if the parties so agree in writing), the
mediation shall terminate and the Dispute shall be settled by binding arbitration to be held at
a mutually agreeable location. The arbitration shall be conducted in accordance with the CPR
Rules for Non-Administered Arbitration that are in effect at the time of the commencement of
the arbitration, except to the extent modified by this Dispute Resolution Provision (the
"Rules"). The arbitration shall be conducted before a panel of three arbitrators. Each of the
City and the Firm shall designate one arbitrator in accordance with the 11 screened 11
appointment procedure provided in the Rules, and the two party-designated arbitrators shall
jointly select the third in accordance with the Rules. No arbitrator may serve on the panel
unless he or she has agreed in writing to enforce the terms of the engagement letter and to
abide by the terms of the Rules. Except with respect to the interpretation and enforcement of
these arbitration procedures (which shall be governed by the Federal Arbitration Act), the
arbitrators shall apply the laws of the State of Florida (without giving effect to its choice of law
principles) in connection with the Dispute. The arbitrators may render a summary disposition
relative to all or some of the issues, provided that the responding party has had an adequate
opportunity to respond to any such application for such disposition. Any discovery shall be
conducted in accordance with the Rules. The result of the arbitration shall be binding on the
parties, and judgment on the arbitration award may be entered in any court having
jurisdiction.
Costs
Each party shall bear its own costs in both the mediation and the arbitration; however, the
parties shall share the fees and expenses of both the mediators and the arbitrators equally.
Waiver of trial by jury
In the event the parties are unable to successfully arbitrate any dispute, controversy,
or claim, the parties agree to WAIVE TRIAL BY JURY and agree that the court will hear
any matter without a jury.
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am
Terms and conditions supporting fees
The estimated fees set forth in the attached engagement letter are based on anticipated full
cooperation from the City's personnel, timely delivery of requested audit schedules and
supporting information, timely communication of all significant accounting and financial
reporting matters, the assumption that unexpected circumstances will not be encountered
during the audit, as well as working space and clerical assistance as mutually agreed upon
and as is normal and reasonable in the circumstances. We strive to ensure that we have the
right professionals scheduled on each engagement. As a result, sudden City requested
scheduling changes or scheduling changes necessitated by the agreed information not being
ready on the agreed-upon dates can result in expensive downtime for our professionals. Any
last minute schedule changes that result in downtime for our professionals could result in
additional fees. Our estimated fees do not include assistance in bookkeeping or other
accounting services not previously described. If, for any reason, the City is unable to provide
such schedules, information, and assistance, the Firm and the City will mutually revise the
fee to reflect additional services, if any, required of us to achieve these objectives.
The estimated fees contemplate that the City will provide adequate documentation of its
systems and controls related to significant transaction cycles and audit areas.
In providing our services, we will consult with the City with respect to matters of accounting,
financial reporting, or other significant business issues as permitted by professional
standards. Accordingly, time necessary to affect a reasonable amount of such consultation is
reflected in our fees. However, should a matter require research, consultation, or audit work
beyond that amount, the Firm and the City will agree to an appropriate revision in our fee.
The estimated fees are based on auditing and accounting standards effective as of the date
of this engagement letter and known to apply to the City at this time. Unless otherwise
indicated, estimated fees do not include any time related to the application of new auditing or
accounting standards that impact the City for the first time. If new auditing or accounting
standards are issued subsequent to the date of this letter and are effective for the period
under audit, we will estimate the impact of any such standard on the nature, timing, and
extent of our planned audit procedures and will communicate with the City concerning the
scope of the additional procedures and the estimated fees.
The City agrees to pay all costs of collection (including reasonable attorneys'fees)that the
Firm may incur in connection with the collection of unpaid invoices. In the event of
nonpayment of any invoice rendered by us, we retain the right to (a)suspend the
performance of our services, (b) change the payment conditions under this engagement
letter, or(c)terminate our services. If we elect to suspend our services, such services will not
be resumed until your account is paid. If we elect to terminate our services for nonpayment,
the City will be obligated to compensate us for all time expended and reimburse us for all
expenses through the date of termination.
This engagement letter sets forth the entire understanding between the City and the Firm
regarding the services described herein and supersedes any previous proposals,
correspondence, and understandings whether written or oral. Any subsequent changes to the
terms of this letter, other than additional billings, will be rendered in writing and shall be
executed by both parties. Should any portion of this engagement letter be ruled invalid, it is
agreed that such invalidity will not affect any of the remaining portions.
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EisnerAmper LLP
........ Mil I
IRS,`
EM
11 Wood Avenue South
Iselin, NJ 08830-2700
T 732.243.7000
F 732.951.7400
Report on the Firm's System of Quality Control
November 29, 2022
To the Partners of Cherry Bekaert LLP and the National Peer Review Committee
We have reviewed the system of quality control for the accounting and auditing practice of Cherry Bekaert
LLP (the firm) applicable to engagements not subject to PCAOB permanent inspection in effect for the year
ended April 30, 2022. Our peer review was conducted in accordance with the Standards for Performing and
Reporting on Peer Reviews established by the Peer Review Board of the American Institute of Certified
Public Accountants (Standards).
A summary of the nature, objectives,scope, limitations of, and the procedures performed in a system review
as described in the Standards may be found at www.aicpa.org/prsummary. The summary also includes an
explanation of how engagements identified as not performed or reported on in conformity with applicable
professional standards, if any, are evaluated by a peer reviewer to determine a peer review rating.
Firm's Responsibility
The firm is responsible for designing and complying with a system of quality control to provide the firm
with reasonable assurance of performing and reporting in conformity with the requirements of applicable
professional standards in all material respects.The firm is also responsible for evaluating actions to promptly
remediate engagements deemed as not performed or reported on in conformity with the requirements of
applicable professional standards, when appropriate, and for remediating weaknesses in its system of
quality control, if any.
Peer Reviewer's Responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the design of and compliance with the firm's system of quality
control based on our review.
Required Selections and Considerations
Engagements selected for review included engagements performed under Government Auditing Standards,
including compliance audits under the Single Audit Act; audits of employee benefit plans; an audit
performed under FIDICIA; and an examination of service organizations (SOC 2 engagement).
As a part of our peer review, we considered reviews by regulatory entities as communicated by the firm, if
applicable, in determining the nature and extent of our procedures.
"Eisrrery,rnper"is the brand name under which Eisneryrriper LLP and Eisner Advisory Group LLC provide professional services.EisnerArriper LLP and
Eisner Advisory Group LLC are independently owned firms that practice in an alternative practice structure in accordance with the AICIDA Code of
Professional cl onduct and applicable law,regulatioris and professional standards.EisnerAmper LLP is a licensed CPA firm that provides attest services,
and Eisner Advisory GrOLlis LLC and its st.,ibsidiary entities provide tax and bt.isiness const.dting services,Eisner Advisory Grot,iix LLC and its st,.ibsidiary
entities are not licensed CPA firms,
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Opinion
In our opinion, the system of quality control for the accounting and auditing practice of Cherry Bekaert LLP
applicable to engagements not subject to PCAC)B permanent inspection in effect for the year ended April
30, 2022, has been suitably designed and complied with to provide the firm with reasonable assurance of
performing and reporting in conformity with applicable professional standards in all material respects. Firms
can receive a rating of pass, pass with deficiency(ies), or fail. Cherry Bekaert LLP has received a peer review
rating of pass.
EisnerAmper LLP
Iselin, New Jersey
EisnerAmper LLP