The Grand County Audit Committee convened on October 1, 2025, to discuss proposals for auditing services, focusing on the financial implications and qualifications of various firms. The meeting highlighted the differences in pricing and experience among the three main proposals received.

The committee began by reviewing the Squire proposal, which was noted for its significantly higher fees compared to other bidders. The proposed cost for the county audit was $74,000, while the fee for Canyonlands was set at $30,000. Concerns were raised regarding the clarity of whether the single audit was included in Squire's proposal, indicating a need for further clarification if the committee considers this option.

Next, the Larson proposal was discussed. Members appreciated Larson's familiarity with the county, having worked with them for three years. Although their fees were the lowest for the county audit, they were higher for Canyonlands. The committee noted that Larson's pricing was reasonable given their existing relationship and experience.

The Ritchie May proposal was also reviewed, with members expressing concerns about its low pricing for component units, suggesting it might not adequately cover the scope of work required. Despite this, Ritchie May was recognized as the lowest bidder overall, with a total cost that was only slightly lower than Larson's. The committee debated the importance of experience versus cost, emphasizing that the difference in pricing should not be the sole deciding factor.

Throughout the discussions, members highlighted the potential learning curve associated with switching firms, particularly if Squire or Ritchie May were selected. The committee acknowledged that while Squire's fees were higher, the transition could impact the quality of service due to the need for onboarding.

In conclusion, the committee agreed that while cost is a significant factor, the experience and reliability of the auditing firms should weigh heavily in their decision-making process. The meeting underscored the importance of thorough evaluation and consideration of all proposals before making a final decision on the auditing services for Grand County. Further discussions and clarifications are expected as the committee moves forward with their selection process.