Council questions audit contract language, postpones award to allow counsel negotiation

Council considered a resolution to award RFP 2607 for independent financial audit services to a firm recommended by staff. Staff said four responses were received and the selected firm offered the best price and references; the proposed agreement is one year with renewals available up to five years.

At least one council member raised concerns about a liquidated‑damages provision that appeared in the draft contract (a referenced rate of 0.1% per day) and also questioned the scoring weight that emphasized cost. Outside counsel and staff reviewed the language and suggested the contract could be renegotiated; the council voted to postpone the award to the next meeting so counsel can attempt to negotiate clearer or adjusted terms.