Richfield accepts 2024 comprehensive financial report, approves contracts for Woodlake Nature Center exhibits

The Richfield City Council on Oct. 14 accepted the city’s annual comprehensive financial report for the year ended Dec. 31, 2024, after auditors reported an unmodified opinion and no material findings. The council also approved contracts with the Science Museum of Minnesota and Blue Rhino Studios—totaling approximately $709,158—to fabricate and install interpretive exhibits for the new Woodlake Nature Center building. Commissioners from two advisory bodies presented annual reports to the council earlier in the meeting.

The audit and contracts are significant: the audit provides independent assurance about the 2024 financial statements and internal controls, and the exhibit contracts advance the Woodlake Nature Center building project, a multiyear capital investment backed by prior council decisions and a local sales‑tax referendum.

Caroline Stutzman, partner involved in the audit, told the council the auditors obtained “reasonable assurance” and issued an “unmodified opinion,” the highest level of audit opinion. The report noted increased…