Audit committee backs one-year extension of Pew and Company, forwards recommendation to commission

The Knox County Audit Committee on Sept. 19, 2024, voted by voice to recommend a one-year extension of Pew and Company as the countys external auditor and to forward that recommendation to the county commission for final approval.

Matt Myers, deputy director of procurement, told the committee he needed direction on whether the committee wanted to extend the incumbent audit contract or begin a request-for-qualifications process: he asked for time to prepare and vet proposals if the committee chose to rebid. The finance director and audit committee members said the working relationship with Pew has been strong and recommended continuation unless a reason to rebid arises.

Committee members moved and seconded a motion to select Pew and Company for an additional one-year extension; the chair called for a voice vote, recorded multiple "ayes" and said there was "no objection," and the motion passed. Committee members noted that, regardless of the committees recommendation, the county commission typically takes the final vote to approve an external-auditor contract.

Chris Cullow (finance) said he and staff are content with maintaining the current relationship "unless you see a reason to bid it out," and procurement said the RFQ process is comprehensive and time-consuming. The committee asked procurement to be ready to initiate a solicitation if the committee later requests it and to provide the documentation needed for commission consideration.

Next steps: the committees recommendation to extend Pew and Company will be transmitted to the Knox County Commission for action; procurement will prepare materials if a solicitation is requested.