City Council Postpones Tax Rate Vote and Approves Vail and Park as Auditors

In a pivotal meeting on September 2, 2025, the Glenn Heights City Council took significant steps regarding the city's financial oversight by postponing a vote on the proposed tax rate and approving a new auditing firm.

The council decided to delay the vote on the tax rate until September 9, adhering to statutory requirements that mandate the tax rate must be adopted on the same night as a public hearing. This postponement ensures compliance with the tax code and allows for further public discussion.

In a key agenda item, the council approved a resolution to engage Vail and Park, P.C. as the city's new auditors. Finance Director Sherry Roberts introduced the firm, highlighting their commitment to transparency and efficiency in conducting annual audits and preparing financial statements. The firm, represented by Mike Vail and Tung Pham, emphasized their use of advanced auditing technologies to streamline the process and enhance accuracy.

Roberts explained that the decision to switch auditors follows best practices recommended by the Government Finance Officers Association, which suggests a competitive procurement process every five years to maintain auditor independence. The previous auditors, Patilio, Hill, and Brown, opted not to bid for the new contract, citing internal cutbacks.

The financial implications of this new agreement include an initial audit cost of $63,000 for the first year, which accounts for both regular and single audit services related to federal grants. The council anticipates that costs may fluctuate in subsequent years due to inflation and city growth.

The council's actions reflect a proactive approach to financial management, ensuring that Glenn Heights remains compliant with regulations while also enhancing the quality of its financial oversight. The next steps include finalizing the engagement with Vail and Park and preparing for the upcoming audit cycle.