Board declines to interview two auditors for entrance audit after split vote

A proposal to schedule interviews with Plant Moran and Ryman Group for an entrance audit of township finances failed after a split vote by the board.

Proponents said an entrance audit — a review of internal controls, policies and a period of transactions — would give the board a comprehensive view of township operations and could be followed by a forensic audit if discrepancies were found. Trustee Margaret (last name not specified) introduced the proposal and said it would provide an independent understanding of internal controls and policies. Supporters described the interviews as an inexpensive first step to learn more about potential strengths and weaknesses.

Opponents questioned whether the township’s limited budget should be spent on an audit now and suggested funds might be better used elsewhere. The motion received a voice vote and then a roll‑call; the roll call recorded three “yes” votes and three “no” votes, leaving the measure short of the majority needed for approval.

Board members said no interviews will be scheduled based on the vote. Staff clarified the proposal was for a non‑forensic entrance audit; trustees noted that if an entrance audit did identify concerning matters, a separate forensic review could be considered later.