Keith County accepts letter of engagement from auditor; fee ranges for 2025–2027 outlined

The Keith County Board of Commissioners voted to accept a letter of engagement from Geared Carr & Monroe to provide auditing services for the coming year, after staff reviewed estimated fee ranges and record‑copying requirements.

Why it matters: an independent audit is a statutory obligation for county governments, affects financial transparency and can influence budgetary planning and grant eligibility.

County staff summarized the firm’s proposed fee ranges: for fiscal year 2025, fees were estimated in a range (approximately $18,000–$23,000); fiscal 2026 and 2027 included similar estimated ranges (roughly $19,000–$24,000). Board members asked how audit copies would be handled and noted that audit reports are publicly available through the state once filed.

After brief discussion, Commissioner Schroeder moved to accept the auditor letter of engagement; Commissioner Irvin seconded. The motion passed on roll call (Ortman/Anderson/Irvin/Schroeder/Crandall — all “yes”). Staff said the county would post reports and make copies available per auditing standards and state procedures.

Commissioners also noted that the county receives recommendations from other clerks and that engaging a firm promptly is advisable to secure scheduling; staff mentioned an audit firm contact had already called about timing. The board gave staff direction to finalize the engagement and proceed with contracting and scheduling.