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Suffolk school board approves $175,000 forensic audit after divided votes and public‑hearing dispute
Summary
After a failed conditional motion and prolonged debate over public notice and use of operating funds, the Suffolk School Board approved a contract for up to $175,000 to conduct a forensic audit under RFP 19‑10‑P. The decision followed a split roll‑call vote and requests for a public hearing on budget transfers.
The Suffolk Public School Board on Dec. 11 voted to award a contract to the vendor identified in RFP 19‑10‑P to conduct a forensic audit of the district’s financial records for a not‑to‑exceed amount of $175,000.
Why it mattered: The contract and the process for awarding it were the subject of heated debate. Several board members argued that the public should have a formal opportunity to weigh in before the board commits operating funds, citing previous statements that the board would hold a town hall on the matter. Advocates for the audit said the review is a standard stewardship practice intended to ensure sound fiscal management.
What happened in the meeting: Board Member Riddick first moved to award a contract to Beckert (named variously in the transcript as Terry/Cherry Beckert) for up to $175,000, with the award made contingent on the results of a public hearing. That initial motion failed in a…
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