The Yellowstone County Commissioner meeting on June 6, 2023, focused on reviewing bids for audit services and legal advertising. The meeting began with the opening of bids from two firms: Denning Downey and Associates from Kalispell and I Bailey from Billings.

Denning Downey and Associates submitted a bid for audit services with escalating costs over the next three fiscal years. The bid outlined fees of $179,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, and $189,000 for the following year.

In contrast, I Bailey's bid proposed lower fees, starting at $96,600 for the fiscal year 2024, increasing to $118,300 by fiscal year 2027.

After reviewing both bids, the commissioners moved to refer them to staff for further recommendations. The motion received unanimous support from the board.

Additionally, the meeting included a brief mention of a bid for legal advertising from Yellowstone County News, although further details were not discussed.

The decisions made during this meeting will guide the county's financial oversight and transparency in the coming years, as the selected audit firm will play a crucial role in ensuring accountability in county finances.