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District to begin process for state‑required internal auditor; staff recommends outside firm
Summary
Saint Lucie Public Schools staff outlined the process required by Florida statute for hiring an internal auditor once annual revenues exceed $500 million and recommended contracting with an external firm rather than a direct hire; the board will appoint a selection committee and begin an RFP process in September.
Michelle Thomas, chief financial officer for Saint Lucie Public Schools, told the board July 29 that Florida statute requires any district with annual revenues over $500,000,000 to employ an internal auditor and presented two options: a direct hire who would report to the board or an outside contracted firm. Thomas recommended an external firm and outlined a selection process, committee composition and timeline.
Thomas said an external firm would provide specialized expertise, avoid internal bias and could be more cost effective than hiring one or more full‑time employees with salaries and benefits. Her proposed timeline asks the board to appoint a committee chair at the next board meeting (the board's August meeting), approve a committee roster at a public meeting, and begin the request for proposals in September. She emphasized the committee must include at least three members, one of whom must be a board member, and that district employees cannot serve on the selection committee.
Superintendent Dr. Prince and several board members expressed support for an external auditor, saying an outside firm can provide greater objectivity and protect the board. No final decision was made at the work session; staff will return with committee nominations and an RFP package for the board to approve.
