City staff told the Wausau Finance Committee that a formal RFP for auditing services produced several proposals and recommended Malden & Jenkins, citing a substantially lower bid and a successful interview with the firm.

"Their total quote is $80,500 versus $119,100 for Baker Tilly," the city staff member said, noting the price difference. Staff also raised concern that Malden & Jenkins’ government work has been concentrated in the southern United States and that Wisconsin-specific reporting requirements matter: "one of the things that the auditors have to do each year is give an opinion on our state report that we have to submit down to the state that is specific to the state of Wisconsin," the staff member said.

Staff reported conducting an interview with Malden & Jenkins and checking references; because of a tight turnaround some references were still outstanding. Staff recommended proceeding with Malden & Jenkins and said the committee could return the matter to finance if negative reference feedback arrived. Alder Tierney moved to accept Malden & Jenkins; Alder Watson seconded and the committee voted in favor. The selection will be forwarded to the common council for final action.