Fort Thomas City Council asked staff to draft a request for proposals for a limited forensic audit of the city’s general fund after the 2023–24 audit returned a qualified opinion and public commenters urged a deeper review.

Supporters said a forensic review would help restore confidence. A public commenter who addressed the council said: "the best way for this city to move forward in a positive manner is by the utilization of a strong forensic audit. We are only asking you for what every citizen deserves. Take appropriate action so we stop wasting money that the citizens have entrusted to you." (public comment, 00:05:12)

Why it matters: Council members and several commenters said the audit’s qualified opinion, late delivery, and multiple findings create optics and governance concerns. Staff recommended a staged approach to manage cost and scope: an initial RFP limited to the general fund and a three‑year look back, with an option to expand to five years or additional funds if auditors identify cause to extend the review.

Staff said the firm Dean Dorton provided an early, informal ballpark of roughly $1,500–$2,500 per year for a condensed scope and noted broader ranges were possible depending on how many years and funds are examined. As a staff presenter summarized, "We can look at the accounting system, but...we follow the retention rules, so we'll have to see how many years back we would have any detail on it, but we do have the old system that can be accessed." (Linda, 00:27:21)

Council members and staff discussed practical limits for evidence and cost control. Staff recommended posting the RFP for two weeks after council review, having the finance committee screen proposals, and scheduling interviews of two or three finalists. A council member said a staged RFP would allow an initial report to guide any expansion of scope.

Next steps: Staff will circulate a draft RFP to council for comment and post it for bidding. The draft will propose a three‑year general‑fund review with a two‑year expansion option; the finance committee will review bids and recommend finalists for interviews.

No formal binding vote to retain a firm was recorded in the discussion; the council provided direction to staff to prepare and solicit proposals.