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Selectboard reviews wide-ranging forensic-audit bids; opts to ask voters for funding
Summary
Williamstown officials reviewed six proposals for a preliminary and potential forensic audit with estimates from about $17,500 to roughly $350,000; the board decided to place an article on the Town Meeting Day ballot and to notify taxpayers with a letter.
Town Manager Ryan presented six proposals in response to an RFP for a preliminary and potential forensic audit. Bids varied: CliftonLarsonAllen proposed a preliminary/forensic combination with a cap of $25,000; PKF O'Connor Davies estimated $25,000 for a preliminary audit and gave a 4–7 week timeframe; C Lewis & Company provided hourly rates (partners listed up to $900/hour) without a firm total; CBIZ estimated roughly $100,000 for a preliminary audit and $250,000 for a forensic audit (about $350,000 combined); Wipfli estimated a $17,500 preliminary audit in three weeks; Bonadio Group estimated $55,000 for a preliminary audit and $165,000 for a forensic audit and would cap costs at $220,000.
Selectboard discussion noted that, if pursued, the town would pay preliminary and forensic audit fees and cover staff time, and that taxpayers would ultimately bear the cost. The board agreed to place an article on the Town Meeting Day ballot asking voters to fund the audit work and directed staff to draft an informational letter to taxpayers outlining expected impacts on taxes and rough estimates of costs. The board also scheduled a special Selectboard meeting on Jan. 19, 2026, to review the current auditor's reported findings in a public question-and-answer session.
