Abby Doyle, Chief Deputy Auditor, asked the board to approve a contract renewal with Kruger Lawton, CPA, for preparation of St. Joseph County’s annual comprehensive financial report. Doyle said Kruger Lawton has served the county since 2019 and that a transition to another firm would require significant implementation costs — she estimated an onboarding fee in the range of $15,000 to $20,000 if the county pursued a new firm.

Doyle said staff can initiate an RFP process for the 2027 engagement to test the market, but recommended renewing with Kruger Lawton for the current year to avoid immediate implementation costs and to preserve continuity. Commissioners moved and approved the renewal, recording affirmative votes during the roll call.

The contract amount with Kruger Lawton as presented in the packet is $54,365 and does not include an implementation fee because the firm is already onboard. The auditor’s office will plan an RFP for 2027 as discussed.