Pittsfield auditing committee to review written bids after favorable references for both finalists

The Pittsfield City Auditing Services Evaluation Committee voted unanimously on July 13 to obtain and review written bid proposals from two finalist auditing firms after members reported favorable reference checks for both firms. Chairperson Cunningham asked committee members to return completed evaluation questionnaires so he could provide them to Purchasing Agent Colleen Hunter-Mullet ahead of the next meeting, scheduled for July 28 to decide whether interviews are necessary.

Councilor Amuso presented a five-page written report summarizing reference checks for Scanlon & Associates and Clifton Larson Allen LLP and said references gave both firms high marks; she also reported that Finance Director Matthew Kerwood told her the city has a good working relationship with Scanlon and that she "did not see a reason to change" from Scanlon to CLA. Councilor Warren urged the committee to weigh the written bid quotes, noting a significant spread in the bids and contrasting Scanlon's Western Massachusetts focus with CLA's Boston and national footprint; he said he would be "leaning towards the lower bid" and summarized his position with, "show me the money." Councilor White said Purchasing Agent Colleen Hunter-Mullet had provided criteria for evaluating proposals and reminded the committee it is permitted to choose a firm based on experience rather than price alone. Committee member Karen Kalinowsky said she supports bringing in "fresh eyes" but agreed that cost is an important factor for the city.

The committee approved a motion to move forward with review of both proposals and to obtain bid quotes, 5-0. Members also unanimously agreed to postpone any decision about scheduling vendor interviews until the July 28 meeting.