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City moves to contract MGT Impact Solutions for short‑term finance support amid staffing gaps
Summary
The Purchasing & Finance Committee approved an agreement with MGT Impact Solutions not to exceed $82,000 for professional accounting services through May 29, 2026, after debate about rates, staffing strategies and a candidate's past lawsuit against the city.
The Waukegan Purchasing and Finance Committee voted Oct. 20 to authorize a professional services agreement with MGT Impact Solutions for short‑term finance and accounting support, not to exceed $82,000 and with a term through May 29, 2026.
Staff explained the city has been using temporary services since 2021 and continues to experience difficulty recruiting experienced accounting personnel. The new contract would replace an existing temporary services arrangement and provide specialized accounting assistance intended to bring reconciliations up to date and support audit readiness.
Committee discussion focused on hourly rates, scope and the candidate profile. Committee members noted the contract design would equate to a $145 hourly rate if extrapolated to a full‑time equivalent, though staff said the vendor will be used on a part‑time basis (the motion and staff presentation said the contract is expected to equate to roughly $82,000 for the engagement period). Questions were raised about whether the city had advertised widely for candidates, whether staffing firms such as Robert Half (already used for a staff accountant) could supply candidates, and whether the proposed vendor had a personnel history that raised concerns: 1 committee member noted a past lawsuit (reported in the meeting) involving a prior finance director.
Finance staff told the committee the vendor was being recommended because of needed accounting expertise (a CPA skill set) that the department needs to shore up reconciliations and audits; staff emphasized the contract would be limited in duration and intended to help clear backlogs and mentor current staff. The committee approved the contract after discussion; roll call shows the motion carried.
Staff said the contract is a stop‑gap measure while the department continues recruiting for permanent staff and that Robert Half would remain engaged for some temporary staffing needs in parallel. The committee and staff agreed the city would aim to reduce reliance on temporary vendors as internal hiring progresses.
