DDA Regular Board Meeting Packet September 19, 2023

CALL TO ORDER

PUBLIC COMMENTS AND QUESTIONS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

PRESENTATIONS

• Discover the Palm Beaches

REGULAR BOARD MEETING AGENDA

Downtown Development Authority

Tuesday, September 19, 2023

8:30 AM

107 S. Olive Avenue, Suite 200 West Palm Beach, FL 33401

https://downtownwpb.com/DDA

Dial: +1 301 715 8592

Webinar ID: 850 0090 8071

Rick Reikenis

Raphael Clemente

CONSENT CALENDAR (Action Required)

• Minutes of Regular Board Meeting August 15, 2023

• Financial Statements of August 31, 2023

OLD BUSINESS

• Compassion Fund

• Community Safety and Policing Plan

• RFP 2023 – 001 Financial Audit Services Selection Committee Recommendations

NEW BUSINESS (Action Required)

• Circuit Extension

ANNOUNCEMENTS

• November Board meeting

ADJOURNMENT

Sergio Piedra

Rick Reikenis

Raphael Clemente

Raphael Clemente

Samantha Moore

Teneka James-Feaman

REGULAR BOARD MEETING MINUTES

Downtown Development Authority

Tuesday, August 15, 2023

8:30 AM

300 Clematis Street, Suite 200 West Palm Beach, FL 33401

https://downtownwpb.com/DDA

Dial: +1 301 715 8592

Webinar ID: 827 5398 6097

ATTENDANCE

DDA Board members in attendance: Vice Chairman William Jacobson, Samantha Bratter, Tim Harris, Daryl Houston, Varisa Lall Dass, and Bob Sanders. DDA Staff in attendance: Raphael Clemente, Vivian Ryland, Catherine Ast, Krystal Campi, Tiffany Faublas, Sabrina Lolo, Samantha Moore, Sherryl Muriente and Attorney Max Lohman. Guests in attendance: Kameron Taylor. DDA Staff Virtual Attendance: Teneka James-Feaman.

CALL TO ORDER

Vice Chairman Jacobson called the meeting to order at 8:34 a.m.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

None.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT

Clemente welcomed Sanders back. He reported that the proposed FY23-24 Budget presentation to the CRA Board went well and will be presented for approval during the September Budget Hearings. He explained that Jennifer Ferriol from City of West Palm Beach HUD will likely join the September board meeting to review current programs and resources available and to help us determine how to best structure the Community compassion fund so that we do not duplicate services and utilize those dollars effectively.

He notified the board that the Cohen Pavilion at the Kravis has been reserved on October 18, 2023, to begin community engagement outreach process for the new 5-year work plan that will begin October 01, 2024. Along with the DDA Board, City Leadership, property owners, business owners, and residents will all be invited to participate and provide feedback about downtown and what we should be doing as a special district

PRESENTATIONS

None

CONSENT CALENDAR

Minutes of Board Workshop Meeting July 11, 2023

Minutes of Organizational and Regular Board Meeting July 18, 2023

Financial Statement of July 31, 2023

Harris made a motion to approve the consent calendar. Lall Dass seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

OLD BUSINESS

None NEW BUSINESS Budget Amendment No. 06-2023

Ryland explained that the purpose of the attached budget amendment is to balance line items that are over budget and to add funding to line items that need additional funding to cover expenses through the end of the year. The net change to the budget is zero.

Sanders made a motion to approve Budget Amendment No. 06 - 2023. Bratter seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

Wayfinding Agreement

Ast explained that in 2019, through an RFP process, Don Bell Signs was selected as the contractor to build, paint, and install the pedestrian level wayfinding system that we have. During the RFP process, we found that the job's fabrication and size provided few companies that submitted to do the project, and Don Bell Signs was the only one qualified. Don Bell Signs was very reliable and helpful in executing this project with effectiveness.

At this time, we have multiple items that need to be updated on all signs and have received a quote from Don Bell Signs to do this work. Items that will be addressed include repair of any damage to frames, repaint, update graphics on map including, new logos and branding colors, removal of trolley routes, and visitor center and additional items as requested

Staff requested approval of the Don Bell Signs contract at $85,000.

Sanders made a motion to approve the wayfinding agreement up to $85,000. Houston seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

Ambassador Renewal

Ast presented a review of the ambassador program and explained that the DDA has a contract with PSC for the Downtown Ambassador Program. In addition, the City has multiple security contracts with PSC covering numerous city properties in and around downtown. Last year staff determined it best to adjust our terms to be in line with the City agreement so that all programs were under the same terms and timelines. That agreement was renewed for one year with a two-year option. Currently, the city has elected to only renew the agreement for one year.

After review of the agreement, DDA Staff is recommending the following changes:

A. Renew the agreement for one year

B. The living wage will increase from $15 to $17 per hour.

C. Increase weekly hours to serve the growing residential and business community. The additional hours for this increase will expand staffing needs from 14.5 full-time positions to 17 full-time positions.

D. Utilize two patrol vehicles to improve coverage and response time

Staff requested approval of the one-year renewal with PSC.

Sanders made a motion to approve renewal of the ambassador contract with PSC for one year. Harris seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

Amendment to Retirement Plan

Ryland explained that under the current rules of the DDA’s retirement plan, employees are 100% vested in the plan immediately. To make the plan more financially sound, staff is recommending that the plan be amended to change the plan for future employees only and that these employees will become 100% vested after three years of employment.

Sanders made a motion to approve amending the retirement plan for future employees to be 100% vested after three years of employment Houston seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

None

ADJOURNMENT

Sanders made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Lall Dass seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously Meeting adjourned at 9:32 am

ASSETS

West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority

Balance Sheet

August 31, 2023

No CPA provides any assurance on these financial statements.

West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority

No CPA provides any assurance on these financial statements.

Supplemental Schedules

August 31, 2023

SCHEDULE 1 - CURRENT YEAR REVENUES

No CPA provides any assurance on these financial statements.

West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority

August 31, 2023

No CPA provides any assurance on these financial statements.

West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority

August 31, 2023

No CPA provides any assurance on these financial statements.

West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority

August 31, 2023

SCHEDULE 7 - OPERATIONS

No CPA provides any assurance on these financial statements.

West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority

August 31, 2023

SCHEDULE 8 - PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Some rounding error may occur.

No CPA provides any assurance on these financial statements.

MEMO

TO: DDA Board

Rick Reikenis, Chairman

William Jacobson, Vice Chairman

Samantha Bratter

Tim Harris

Daryl Houston

Varisa Lall Dass

Robert Sanders

FROM: Raphael Clemente

RE: Community Safety and Policing

DATE: Tuesday, September 19, 2023

The combination of mental illness and homelessness, and the lack of services for people affected by these issues, have become the most urgent challenge being faced by downtown stakeholders. I have participated in numerous meetings over the past several weeks regarding the problem and how we can best respond to it. Unfortunately, there is not a lot of agreement on how to approach the situation in the long term, but there is consensus for the short term.

A meaningful response to these issues in the short term necessitates increased police presence in specific areas, better communication with service organizations, and education of the community on the issue and how we can collectively work together to address it.

Considering the urgency of the problem, and in response to community outcry, staff proposes that the Ambassador Program be scaled back, and funds allocated for that purpose be reallocated to pay for additional police hours. This is based on feedback from the police department, homeless outreach and mental health professionals, the community, City staff and administration, DDA staff, as well as my own observations.

In addition to increased policing in specific area, additional changes to how the Ambassador Program is utilized, how data is collected and shared, and how the community is informed and engaged in this process are steps that can be taken now to affect positive change and assist those in need as well as residents and business owners who have been negatively impacted by these issues.

Staff will present additional information during the meeting and will be requesting board approval to make the described changes to the programs and hire additional police officers for special detail assignments

MEMO

TO: Mayor Keith James DDA Board Chairman Rick Reikenis City Administrator Faye Johnson

FROM: Raphael Clemente, Executive Director

RE: Community Safety and Policing Plan for Downtown

DATE: August 28th, 2023

Due to growing community concerns about homelessness and individuals struggling with mental health on the streets and in public spaces, and the increased number of incidents of crime in the downtown area, the following plan of action is proposed to provide the most rapid response possible to address these issues.

The elements defined below are not comprehensive, and additional information is necessary to further develop this plan, however it is requested that we take a “learn as we go” approach as this will allow us to move as quickly as possible and refine the program based on results and feedback.

It is envisioned that these measures will remain in place for a period of 6 months, at which time their effectiveness can be evaluated, and additional steps taken.

1. Restructured Ambassador Program: The DDA’s Ambassador Program will be significantly reduced in size and scope. Residual funding (amount to be determined) will be reallocated to provide increased police presence in the Downtown area.

a. The total number of hours worked weekly by PSC under contract to the DDA will be reduced by approximately 50%.

b. The most experienced and effective members of the Ambassador Program will be retained and will receive additional training.

c. The program will be restructured to work more closely with Police in a coordinated effort to decrease crimes and behaviors that are currently undermining residential quality of life and business activity.

2. Enhanced Police Deployment: Increased police presence will be achieved through the deployment of Special Detail officers to specific zones and times, with a focus on the enforcement of laws in hotspot areas.

a. DDA will provide funding (amount to be determined) for law enforcement officers to be stationed in zones throughout the Clematis corridor and waterfront area.

b. The Entertainment District Unit (EDU) Commander will identify times and zones with input from the Safety Task Force (see below).

c. Special Detail officers will coordinate with existing EDU officers to provide a coordinated, tailored enforcement plan designed to improve community safety, protect businesses and their customers, and preserve residential quality of life in the downtown district.

3. Downtown Security Task Force: The DDA will form a Security Task Force for the Downtown area. The task force will be comprised of representative members from the community, including residential, business, property ownership interests, Housing and Community Development, Police, and Fire Rescue. The task force will provide feedback and advice to law enforcement, City Administration, DDA, and the community.

a. Task force deliverables will include a monthly report that includes calls for service, enforcement activity, and other pertinent information.

b. A sample of downtown businesses will be asked to provide regular updates on business activity, incidents of crime and nuisance behavior, perception, and customer experience. Business types will include restaurant, retail, and office uses, as well as specific locations that have been heavily impacted by activity related to homelessness.

4. Data and feedback: Information will be collected and compiled into weekly and monthly reports that will be made available to both the private and public sector.

MEMO

TO: DDA Board

Rick Reikenis, Chairman

William Jacobson, Vice Chairman

Samantha Bratter

Tim Harris

Daryl Houston

Varisa Lall Dass

Robert Sanders

FROM: Samantha Moore

RE: RFP 2023 – 001 Financial Audit Services – Selection Committee Recommendations

DATE: Tuesday, September 19, 2023

In July, the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Financial Audit Services. The RFP was released via DemandStar, the DDA website and advertised in the Palm Beach Post.

The scope of the RFP included requests for Proposals from qualified and experienced firms, licensed to practice in the State of Florida, with demonstrated skills and experience in financial auditing services. To be eligible to respond to this RFP, the proposing firm shall demonstrate that they have been continuously engaged in providing similar audit services to those specified herein for a minimum of five (5) years.

The proposals were required to meet the following minimum qualifications:

a. Reports to be Issued. Following the completion of the audit of the fiscal year’s financial statements, the auditor must prepare reports required by adherence to the auditing standards, including but not limited to:

i. A report on the fair presentation of the financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles;

ii. A report on the internal control over financial reporting and compliance and other matters based on an audit of financial statements performed in accordance with Governing Auditing Standards;

iii. A management letter required by Section 10.550, Rules of the Auditor General;

iv. An independent accountant’s report on Compliance with Section 218.415, Florida Statues.

b. Firm Qualifications and Experience. The proposal shall state the size of the firm, the size of the firm’s governmental audit staff and the number and nature of the professional staff to be employed on this engagement on a full-time basis and the number and nature of the staff to be

employed on a part–time basis. The firm must provide an affirmative statement that they are in good standing with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

c. Partner, Supervisory and Staff Qualifications & Experience. The firm must identify the principal, supervisory and management staff, including engagement partners, managers, other supervisors, specialists, and staff who will be assigned to the engagement and indicate whether each such person is registered to practice as a certified public accountant in the State of Florida.

d. Similar Engagements with other Governments. For the firm’s office that will be assigned the responsibility of the audit, list the most significant engagements (maximum of 5) performed in the last five (5) years that are similar to the engagement described in this RFP.

e. Specific Audit Approach. The proposal should set forth a work plan, including an explanation of the audit methodology to be followed, and a transition schedule, if applicable, to perform the services required in this RFP.

f. Identification of Anticipated Potential Audit Problems. The proposal shall identify and describe any anticipated potential audit problems, the firm’s approach to resolving these problems and any special assistance that will be requested from the DDA.

Selection Committee for this RFP process included:

1. Bill Jacobson Esq., WPB DDA Vice Chairman

2. Bridget Souffrant, City WPB Chief Financial Officer

3. Kasia Marczyk, Certified Financial Planner Practitioner

Three (3) proposals were received. The agencies that responded to the RFP are:

1. Marcum LLP

2. Nowlen, Holt, & Miner, P.A.

3. S. Davis & Associates, P.A.

The Selection Committee ranked each proposer based on the following scale:

Members of the Selection Committee ranked the proposers as follows:

At this meeting, staff are requesting that the DDA Board award the contract for a Financial Audit Services company and allow staff to begin contract negotiations. The final agreement will be presented to the DDA Board for review and approval in October 2023

DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

August 23, 2023

West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority

Raphael Clemente, Executive Director 107 S. Olive Avenue, Suite 200 West Palm Beach, FL 33401

Marcum LLP (“Marcum” or “the Firm”) is pleased to respond to the RFP to provide professional external auditing services for the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority, (“the DDA” or “the Authority”).

For 70 years, Marcum, a National Top 12 Firm, has provided professional services to the public sector, including counties, local governments, government pension plans, public utilities, charter schools, community redevelopment agencies, special districts, and other government entities. We believe our service, technical competency, and value to you will be unparalleled. Some of our key qualities that will benefit the DDA include:

 SIGNIFICANT EXPERIENCE IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR

In the past year alone, the Florida region of Marcum has performed more than 45 audits of government entities. At a national level, we provide services to more than 300 government entities. We have extensive experience in the Federal and Florida Single Audit Acts including the OMB Uniform Guidance.

 SMALL-FIRM CARE AND ATTENTION WITH LARGE-FIRM RESOURCES

Our local-office approach provides the personal service and timely communication of a small firm with access to the resources and capabilities of a large firm, resulting in the DDA receiving the best of both worlds. We have approximately 350 employees, located in West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Tampa.

 SMOOTH TRANSITON

Our extensive experience with transitioning new clients has led to a streamlined process that is respectful of your time and resources. As a result, you’ll receive the benefit of a new team with significant government experience as well as a fresh look at your systems, with minimal disruption.

 EXPERIENCED TEAM

For this proposed engagement Marcum has assembled an audit team, whose skills and experience match the requirements of the DDA. The proposed client service and audit engagement partner, Moises D. Ariza, CPA, CGMA, has extensive experience in performing audits of government pension plans. He will be supported by a quality control director, Beila Sherman, CPA; IT risk audit partner, Joe Layne, CISA; senior manager, Scott Montgomery, CPA and audit supervisor, Jason Relyea. All decisions that affect the planning, execution, and completion of the proposed audit will be made by Moises D. Ariza, Partner.

DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

 AUDIT QUALITY

The issues of audit quality and technical proficiency are important matters for consideration. We ensure that professional standards are exceeded on all of our engagements through a robust quality control system that encompasses a Partner and Manager Review Process, Professional Development, Technical Support, Internal Inspections, and the AICPA Peer Review Process.

Our technical competencies will be essential over the next several years with the implementation of new significant standards set by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board. This assistance will be provided at no additional cost to the DDA.

 COMPLEMENTARY RESOURCES THAT ADD VALUE BEYOND THE AUDIT

We are committed to providing our clients with educational insights and timely updates on matters relevant to their industry through complimentary webinars, newsletters, and other communications Additionally, annually we offer a full day government CPE seminar (Marcum’s Government Symposium) featuring both local and national speakers. This seminar is geared towards offering our clients training on key audit and accounting issues at no cost to the DDA.

 PROACTIVE COMMUNICATION & PARTNERSHIP

Perhaps the quality that best describes Marcum is our ability to go beyond the routine, to provide an extra dimension in quality, effort and service to our clients. The members of our firm are always accessible and are sensitive to your needs. We will be available to answer questions, discuss audit issues, and provide solutions throughout the year. We believe that this commitment sets Marcum apart from other firms.

This proposal will detail our methodology and how we will work with the DDA to develop a strong partnership. We will perform an audit on the financial statement of the DDA for the fiscal years ending September 30, 2023 through 2025, with the option to renew for two (2) additional one (1) year terms for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. Marcum is independent of the DDA as defined by generally accepted auditing standards and Government Auditing Standards issued by the Comptroller General of the United States.

We welcome the opportunity to answer any questions and to provide further information regarding our services and experience. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Moises D. Ariza, CPA, CGMA Partner, Government Services Authorized to represent and contractually bind the Firm moises.ariza@marcumllp.com

TAB 3: INDEPENDENCE INDEPENDENCE

Marcum LLP (the Firm) is independent of the DDA as defined by generally accepted auditing standards and the U.S. General Accounting Office’s Government Auditing Standards issued by the Comptroller General of the United States.

Marcum’s policy is that all professional personnel be familiar with and adhere to the independence, integrity, and objectivity rules, regulations, interpretations, and rulings of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the state Board of Accountancy and state CPA societies, relevant statutes, and applicable regulatory agencies. In addition, all professionals – from partner to staff auditor – are required to sign affidavits annually attesting to their independence.

Marcum’s quality control document contains detailed policies related to maintaining independence. These policies are the most stringent policies adopted by the AICPA and the various state boards of accountancy. Engagement team members are required to consider any possible situations where independence may be impaired during the acceptance or continuance process and if any arise during the performance of an engagement.

TAB 4: LICENSE TO PRACTICE IN FLORIDA

LICENSED TO PRACTICE IN FLORIDA

We affirm that Marcum LLP is a licensed certified public accounting firm and is in good standing with all regulatory agencies. The Firm is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA). All professional staff, upon successful completion of the CPA exam, become members of both the AICPA and their respective state society of CPAs. The Firm is properly licensed and certified to practice in Florida and is registered annually with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation – Board of Accountancy.

All key team members assigned to this engagement are licensed to practice in the State of Florida. Each individual on the engagement has maintained the required CPE in government accounting and has attended an Ethics course for CPAs in Florida. All applicable licenses are provided in Appendix B.

TAB 5: FIRM

FIRM OVERVIEW

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

MARCUM LLP (a Limited Liability Partnership) is a national accounting and advisory services firm dedicated to helping clients like the DDA achieve their goals. Since 1951, clients have chosen Marcum for our deep expertise and insightful guidance in helping them forge pathways to success, whatever challenges they’re facing.

Marcum offers a complete spectrum of tax, assurance, and advisory services, as well as an extensive portfolio of industry-focused practices with specialized expertise for the public sector including local government entities. As part of the Marcum Group, the Firm also provides a full complement of technology, wealth management, executive search and staffing, and strategic marketing services.

Headquartered in New York City, Marcum has 50 offices in major business markets across the U.S. and select international locations.

The Florida Region of Marcum includes offices in West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Tampa. The audit will be staffed from our West Palm Beach office located at 525 Okeechobee Boulevard, Suite 750, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. All audit team members are full-time employees. We have a complete government service team of 46 locally based individuals and more than 4,100 associates nationwide.

The size of our Florida team is as follows:

CLIENT-DRIVEN

Understanding the governmental sector and helping clients identify their needs and meet their challenges and uncovering opportunities that propel them towards success is Marcum’s mission. Our own success is based on our commitment to building meaningful, trusted relationships with our clients, creating positive service experiences, and delivering unexpected value wherever and whenever we can, while maintaining our professional independence and objectivity.

Our assurance professionals, most who have been focused on the government arena throughout their entire careers, have an in-depth understanding of the complex economic and political environment in which these entities operate. Their knowledge and experience allow us to provide the highest level of professional service to our government clients.

COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE

From the way we service clients to the training and development of our professionals, Marcum is committed to excellence in every aspect of our operation.

Our focus on client success compels us to look beyond the numbers to see the opportunities, challenges, and solutions in every engagement. Innovation, proactivity, teamwork, and open communication are the hallmarks of our approach.

UNDERSTANDING OF THE GOVERNMENTAL SECTOR

Understanding the governmental sector and helping clients identify their needs and meet their challenges and uncovering opportunities that propel them towards success is Marcum’s mission. Our own success is based on our commitment to building meaningful, trusted relationships with our clients, creating positive service experiences, and delivering unexpected value wherever and whenever we can, while maintaining our professional independence and objectivity.

Our assurance professionals, most who have been focused on the government arena throughout their entire careers, have an in-depth understanding of the complex economic and political environment in which these entities, like the DDA, operate. Their knowledge and experience allow us to provide the highest level of professional service to our government clients.

One of the many advantages of choosing Marcum as your auditor is that our team has significant knowledge and understanding of the DDA and its operations. The combination of our Firm’s resources, level of partner involvement and experienced team members provides an excellent service team of professionals capable of servicing your needs.

EXPERIENCE SERVING THE PUBLIC SECTOR GOVERNMENT SERVICES

For over 70 years, Marcum has successfully provided professional auditing, accounting, financial reporting, and management advisory/consulting services to a broad spectrum of government entities, including preparing government financial statements. Annually, we perform more than 300 government entity audits, 400 employee benefit plan audits, and 200 Single Audit engagements.

The assurance services we provide to government entities includes pension audits, single audits, compliance audits, forensic audits, IT audits, internal audits, Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) implementation, financial statement audits, aiding in obtaining the Certificate of Achievement for the ACFR, and Annual Financial Report preparation and assistance, performance or operational reviews and a wide range of consulting services for local governments.

In addition, the partner and quality control director on the proposed engagement team have been instrumental in assisting clients with the implementation of new pronouncements. Most recently, to note significant GASB pronouncements, the team assisted our clients with the implementation of GASB Statement No. 87, Leases and GASB Statement No. 96, Subscription-Based Information Technology Arrangements.

IT RISK AND ASSURANCE

Our IT Risk and Assurance Services team can assess your information risk management and operational effectiveness. We can then provide you with privacy, compliance, and technology consulting solutions. Experienced professionals hold CISA, CISSP, CISM, CRISC, or CPA accreditations along with many years of experience in bringing unique solutions to your business and IT needs. This unique combination allows us to start with your business challenges and then tailor IT solutions to match your needs.

Our IT Risk and Assurance Services team helps clients achieve optimum results in their ability to manage IT risk, mitigate those risks, and improve performance with cost-effective solutions. Our goal is to deliver practical solutions to the problem of “digital insecurity,” which means helping to identify the most cost-effective ways to address specific concerns regarding IT-related compliance and control issues relevant to your environment and needs. In addition, the IT Risk and Assurance Services team can design and implement ERP solutions that will integrate your operations more efficiently

As a result of our robust expertise, in 2019 and 2022, Marcum was named a Best Firm for Technology by Accounting Today, an independent third party, in its review of accounting firms that are innovating the use of technology to build more responsive, profitable, and sustainable practices.

ROBOTIC PROCESS AUTOMATION

At Marcum LLP, we understand that government entities are always looking to stay at the forefront of innovation. Technological advances are transforming concepts that seemed impossible just a few years ago into today’s reality. Our goal as your trusted advisor is to provide you with the most cutting-edge resources available to streamline your work processes while delivering the best possible return on your investment.

Marcum’s team of consulting and technology experts offer clients Robotic Process Automation “Bot” Services. These services have the capability to change the way our clients are conducting business by automating and in many cases eliminating manual process that employees would be otherwise spending hours to complete. Utilizing Digital Workers can replace many tedious functions and tasks that are time consuming and often prone to human error, including data entry, periodic reporting, and accounts payable invoicing. They can also be used to generate and distribute reports, process inbound leads, and retrieve data from the web.

A CTIVE PARTICIPATION ON BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

The partners, directors, and managers of the Firm are actively involved in recognized standardsetting organizations at the national, state, and local level. These organizations include the Florida Government Finance Officers Association (FGFOA), Florida Association of Special Districts (FASD), and the Florida League of Cities (FLC).

AUTHORITY

Marcum is also a member of the AICPA Employee Benefit Plan Audit Quality Center (EBPAQC) and the AICPA’s Governmental Audit Quality Center (GAQC). Our involvement in these organizations further demonstrates our commitment to the public sector and helps keep us on top of issues affecting government entities. Marcum affirms it is a member in good standing with the AICPA.

RESOURCES FOR OUR GOVERNMENT CLIENTS

Marcum LLP is also committed to providing professional development programs to the entire South Florida community involved in the government sector. For the past 27 years, Marcum has presented an annual Government Symposium, an 8-hour accounting and auditing seminar that focuses on current developments in government affairs, including accounting, legal and operational topics. We encourage our clients and non-clients alike, to attend this technical (CPE) Symposium at no cost. During 2021 and 2022, our Annual Government Symposium was hosted virtually, with the hopes of continuing the virtual series next year. Additionally, Marcum provides more than 40 virtual courses that can be attended live or at a later date. All Marcum clients have access to this database at no cost.

PROPOSAL FOR WEST PALM BEACH DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

INTERCONNECTED SERVICES

Our group provides interconnected professional services to help government entities achieve their operational, strategic and compliance goals. Our service offerings grew from government entities seeking our advice beyond audit and compliance and our drive to do more for these organizations like the DDA.

By providing a vast array of expertise and service lines to support our clients’ operations, our capacity and passion to serve and strengthen every aspect of our clients’ operations remains unparalleled.

QUALITY CONTROL AND PEER REVIEW

The quality of our professional practice is of utmost importance to the Firm, our clients, and to the users of our reports. As such, we maintain a quality control program that ensures our internal policies are met and professional standards are exceeded on all of our engagements. To ensure that the Firm's performance is in conformity with our stated standards and those issued by the AICPA, our quality control system encompasses the following:

Professional Development. Marcum provides a minimum of 40 hours (five days) of CPE in-house to all professional staff. These seminars include sessions in accounting, auditing, financial reporting, and internal controls. In addition to the in-house training, our partners and professional staff attend various outside seminars.

Internal Inspections. Annually the Firm selects a random sample of accounting, auditing, advisory and tax engagements and performs a review to ensure compliance with firm policies and professional standards.

Centralized Financial Statement Review Process. The quality control department performs a review of our audit binders and financial statements prior to the release of the finished product. Their involvement includes participation in engagement planning to approve the audit approach, review of high risk and complex areas throughout fieldwork and a review of the financial statements and related information. Their involvement in the planning and fieldwork stages helps eliminate any last-minute surprises and assures the high level of quality we demand from our professionals is maintained.

Peer Review. The Firm participates in an external quality review program requiring an on‐site independent examination of our Accounting and Auditing practice. The Firm has consistently received clean opinions (rating of “Pass”) on the quality of the Firm’s audit practice. This is the highest level of achievement and recognition in the peer review program. Please refer to Appendix A for a copy of our latest peer review report which includes our government engagements.

FEDERAL OR STATE DESK REVIEWS OR FIELD AUDITS

There are no actions as a result of any federal or state desk reviews or field audits to Marcum or its auditors of government entities during the past three (3) years.

There has been no disciplinary action taken nor pending against Marcum or any of the professional staff during the past three (3) years with the State Board of Accountancy or the Auditor General or any other regulatory bodies.

GOVERNMENT SERVICES - LITIGATION AND DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS

Marcum LLP (“Marcum”) is a national firm with significant operations and as a result, it is a party to ordinary course litigation. No litigation, proceeding or investigation by any regulatory body will have a material impact on Marcum’s ability to operate its business and to provide the services contemplated hereunder.

GOVERNMENT / AICPA LITIGATION AND DISCIPLINARY

Not applicable - Marcum LLP affirms there has been no litigation whereby a court has ruled against the firm in any matter related to the professional government auditing services of the Firm. The firm has been providing audit services to government entities for over 70 years and has never been a party involving a government entity.

There have been no pending indictments, litigation or proceeding relevant to the subject matter of this solicitation.

There have been no pending indictments, litigation or proceeding during the past five (5) years, whereby a court or any administrative agency has ruled against the firm in any matter related to its professional government auditing services of the Firm.

There have not been any terminations, suspensions, censures, reprimands, probations or similar actions against any member of Marcum LLP by the Florida State Board of Accountancy in the last three (3) years.

NON-GOVERNMENTAL SETTLEMENTS

In 2023, the Securities & Exchange Commission & Public Company Accounting Oversight Board both announced settled administrative proceedings with Marcum LLP. None of the partners nor associates to be assigned to your engagements have participated in audits of public filing companies or special purpose acquisition company (SPAC’s). None of the government audit team members practice under the PCAOB or SEC.

TAB 6: PARTNER, SUPERVISORY AND STAFF QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE ENGAGEMENT TEAM

The team members proposed for the DDA have comprehensive industry knowledge and possess the critical regulatory, technical, and business process skills necessary to provide you with an effective and efficient audit. These professionals are well-versed in the complexities of governmental accounting, auditing, and financial reporting, including all GASB pronouncements, Florida Statutes and Rules of the Auditor General.

Moises D. Ariza, Audit Partner; Beila Sherman, Quality Control Director; Scott Montgomery, Senior Audit Manager; Joe Layne, IT Partner; Jason Relyea, Audit Supervisor; and Staff Auditors are from the South Florida offices and will be assigned to this engagement on a full-time basis.

Moises D. Ariza and Scott Montgomery are “key” team members. We anticipate key team members to remain consistent over the term of the engagement. No personnel changes will be made without the express prior written by the DDA.

ENGAGEMENT TEAM STRUCTURE

ASSURANCE IT AUDITOR QUALITY CONTROL

Beila Sherman CPA Quality Control Director

Moises D. Ariza CPA, CGMA Lead Engagement Partner

Joe Layne CISA, CISM, MSCA, PCIP IT Risk Audit Partner

Scott Montgomery CPA Senior Manager

Jason Relyea Audit Supervisor

Audit Staff

MOISES D. ARIZA, CPA, CGMA PARTNER  ASSURANCE SERVICES

 moises.ariza@marcumllp.comriza@marcumllp.com

Moises D. Ariza is a partner in the Firm's Assurance Division. He has more than thirteen years of experience in the accounting profession providing accounting, assurance, and advisory services to a wide range of clients. Much of his client base includes nonprofit organizations, local governments, employee benefit plans, manufacturing companies and retail entities.

In addition, Mr. Ariza has significant expertise in performing Federal and Florida Single Audits in accordance with OMB Uniform Guidance and the Florida Single Audit Act, as well as program-specific compliance audits.

Mr. Ariza is involved in all phases of the audit process, from planning and initial risk assessment to ensuring compliance with all State and Federal laws, and the preparation and review of financial statements. He is a qualified peer reviewer and regularly performs peer reviews under the AICPA Peer Review Program.

Within the firm, Mr. Ariza develops in-house training seminars for the Firm’s professional staff as well as continuing education programs for various outside organizations. Moises is an active team leader in the Firm's Employee Benefit Plan Group, Nonprofit Sector and Government Services Group.

Professional & Civic Affiliations

Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)

American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)

Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA)

Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA)

GFOA Special Review Committee, Active Member Association of Latin Professionals in Finance and Accounting, Member (ALPFA)

Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach County League of Cities, Associate Member South Florida Government Finance Officers Association, Associate Member Florida Government Finance Officer Association, Member (FGFOA)

YMCA of South Florida, Finance Committee Member

Awards & Accolades

Top 20 Professionals Under 40, Brickell Magazine, 2021 Young Horizons Award, Florida Institute of CPAs, 2021

Articles, Seminars & Presentations

Navigating through GASB No. 68, Published Article

The Importance of Governmental Financials, FGFOA Conference

GASB Statement No. 68, 2015 Marcum Governmental Symposium Government Auditing Standards and OMB Uniform Guidelines, Internal Training

Risk Assessment and Audit Approach, Internal Training Related Party Transactions, Internal Training Employee Benefit Plans, Internal Training

PRACTICE FOCUS

Financial Audits

Federal & Florida Single Audits

Financial Reporting

Program-Specific Compliance Audits

INDUSTRY FOCUS

Local Governments

Government Pension Plans

ERISA Pension Plans

Special Districts

Nonprofits

Wholesale & Retail Distributors

Manufacturers

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Accounting –

Florida International University

Master of Accounting –

St. Thomas University

Master of Accounting –St. Thomas University

*Licensed by the State of Florida #AC45440

PROPOSAL FOR WEST PALM BEACH DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

MOISES D. ARIZA  CURRENT AND FORMER GOVERNMENT CLIENTS

BEILA SHERMAN, CPA QUALITY CONTROL DIRECTOR  ASSURANCE SERVICES

 beila.sherman@marcumllp.com

Belia Sherman has more than 25 years of experience providing accounting, auditing and advisory services for a wide range of entities. As a Director in the Firm’s Assurance division, her primary responsibilities include on-site supervision and review of audit engagements to ensure they are prepared in accordance with professional and Firm standards.

Ms. Sherman provides guidance to clients ranging from complex accounting issues to general business and accounting developments. She has significant experience in the evaluation of internal controls.

In addition, Ms. Sherman develops in-house training seminars for the Firm’s professional staff as well as continuing education courses for various outside organizations, on current accounting and auditing matters. She is actively involved in the division’s professional development activities.

Professional & Civic Affiliations

American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)

Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA)

Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants – CIRA Section

Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA)

Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (CPA)

South Florida Government Finance Officers Association, Associate Member (SFGFOA)

Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties Leagues of Cities

Articles & Presentations

Internal CPE Training, Instructor

“Governmental Accounting (GASB) and Government Auditing Standards”

PRACTICE FOCUS

Financial Audits

Federal Single Audits

Florida Single Audits

Operational & Performance Reviews

Agreed-Upon Procedures

Attestation Services

Advisory Services

Peer Reviews

INDUSTRY FOCUS

Local Governments

Nonprofit Organizations

CIRA Organizations

Wholesale & Retail Distributors

Manufacturers

Construction Companies

Real Estate Companies

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Business

Administration, Mount Saint Vincent University

PROPOSAL FOR WEST PALM BEACH DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

BEILA SHERMAN  CURRENT AND FORMER GOVERNMENT CLIENTS

JOE LAYNE, CISA, CISM, MSCA, PCIP PARTNER  ADVISORY SERVICES

 joe.layne@marcumllp.coms.ariza@marcumllp.com

Joe Layne is a Partner in Marcum's Advisory Services practice. He oversees IT audits for large clients, including public and private businesses. He is an experienced Information Systems Auditor with dynamic information systems risk, compliance and audit experience spanning 19 years across external Big Four Audit, Internal Audit and Information Technology.

Mr. Layne has worked in Information Technology as well as Internal and External audit developing a unique perspective having experienced the client side as well as performing client services. This allows him to better bridge the gap between broad regulations and the realistic impact or implementation of IT Risk and Controls with clients.

Mr. Layne offers ongoing education for clients around risk mitigation as well as risk assessments and consulting around prevention strategies and procedures. He assists clients develop protocols and internal controls for IT risk management.

Professional & Civic Affiliations

Information Systems Auditing and Control Association (ISACA)

Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council

Professional Designations

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), ISACA

Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), ISACA

Payment Card Industry Professional (PCIP), PCI Security Standards Council

Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA), Microsoft

PRACTICE FOCUS

IT Risk Management

IT Governance

IT Security Assessments

IT Audits

Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX)

SOC 1, 2, 3

HIPAA Security Rule

Internal Controls

PCI Compliance

INDUSTRY FOCUS

Government Agencies

Nonprofit Organizations

Public and Private Companies

Healthcare Organizations

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, Information Studies, Florida State University

FOR WEST PALM BEACH DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

SCOTT MONTGOMERY, CPA SENIOR MANAGER  ASSURANCE SERVICES

 scott.montgomery@marcumllp.com

Scott Montgomery is a senior manager in our Assurance Services Division with 25 years of experience in public accounting. He has experience in all audit phases, including planning, organization, supervision, and review of the fieldwork. Mr. Montgomery works with clients in a variety of industries including government, nonprofit, real estate, construction and privately held businesses.

Mr. Montgomery’s public accounting experience is primarily focused on financial reporting compliance, including audits, reviews, and compilations of privately held and regulated businesses. His experience also includes the planning and administration of audits of the financial statements of municipalities, private companies, real estate companies and a variety of nonprofit entities including social service agencies, religious organizations, schools, and private foundations.

Additionally, Mr. Montgomery has a significant background in internal controls and compliance, including performing audits with reporting requirements related to government funding, in addition to those required by the Federal Uniform Guidance (formally OMB Circular A-133) and State auditor general.

Professional & Civic Affiliations

American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)

Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA)

FICPA Committee on Accounting Principles and Auditing Standards, Past Committee

Member

Government Finance Officers Association, Special Review Committee for the Certificate of Achievement Program

Florida Government Finance Officers Association

Housing Leadership Council of Palm Beach County, Treasurer

Capri West Condominium Association, President

Meadows on the Green Condo Association, Past Treasurer

Poinciana West Condominium Association, Treasurer

Palmland Villas Homeowners Association, Past Treasurer

PRACTICE FOCUS

Internal Audits

Assurance Services

Government & Municipal

INDUSTRY FOCUS

Local Governments

Nonprofit Organizations

Special Districts

Real Estate

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Accounting

St. Mary’s University

Master of Taxation

Baylor University

JASON RELYEA SENIOR  ASSURANCE SERVICES

 jason.relyea@marcumllp.comises.ariza@marcumllp.com

Jason Relyea is a Senior in the Firm’s Assurance Division. He has approximately 5 years of experience in the accounting profession providing accounting, and auditing, for local government and nonprofit organizations. Some of the clients Jason has assisted in providing auditing services to include the School district of Palm Beach County, School District of Broward County, Palm Beach County BOCC, Broward County BOCC, Martin County BOCC, Canaveral Port Authority along with over a dozen cities throughout the Tri-County area. Jason also has experience working with nonprofit organizations (Conservation Organizations, Education Agencies etc.). Mr. Relyea has significant experience in performing Federal and Florida Single Audits in accordance with OMB Uniform Guidance and the Florida Single Audit Act, as well as program-specific compliance audits.

Mr. Relyea is involved in all phases of the audit process, from planning and initial risk assessment to ensuring compliance with all State and Federal laws, and the preparation and review of financial statements. He is client service driven and is always willing to assist clients with accounting, auditing and financial reporting issues, including but not limited to, implementation of new accounting pronouncements.

PRACTICE FOCUS

Financial Audits

Federal Single Audits

Florida Single Audits

Program-Specific

Compliance Audits

INDUSTRY FOCUS

Nonprofit Organizations

Special Districts

Local Governments

Governmental Pension Plans

EDUCATION

Masters of Accounting, St. Thomas University

STAFF DEVELOPMENT

Having the best-qualified professionals requires a continuous investment in training and resources that improve and maintain competencies. As the guidelines and compliance requirements of our industry change frequently, we are proactive in keeping up with the changes in the profession and providing the necessary training for our staff. Technical training for all of our staff covers accounting, auditing, federal regulations, tax, employee benefits and computer systems. In addition to the standard technical training required to maintain our certifications, we include training on mentoring, interviewing, time management, coaching and more.

Our training initiatives help our professionals maintain the highest level of technical and business competencies that our clients have come to expect. Our team encourages and requires continuing education and training at all levels, and this steadfast commitment to our own personal and professional growth benefits our clients and us.

Every year, Marcum provides a minimum of 40 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) in-house to all professional staff. These seminars include sessions in government accounting, auditing and financial reporting, including Yellow book, single audit, IT audits and information systems and other accounting and auditing issues. In addition to the in-house training, our partners and professional staff attend various outside seminars/conferences.

Marcum affirms all members of the audit team meet or exceed the CPE requirements mandated by professional auditing standards (including Government Auditing Standards) and all CPAs assigned meet or exceed the CPE and ethics training mandated by the Florida State Board Accountancy (including Florida State Statutes, Chapters 473.3101 and 10.550 as well as, Sections 218.391 and 218.415)

FOR WEST PALM BEACH DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

TAB 7: SIMILAR ENGAGEMENTS WITH OTHER GOVERNMENTS

MARCUM’S CURRENT GOVERNMENT CLIENTS

City of Boca Raton

City of Boca Raton CRA

City of Boca Raton ERP

City of Boca Raton GERS

City of Boca Raton Police and Firefighters

Retirement System

City of Boynton Beach

City of Delray Beach

City of Palm Beach Gardens

East Central Regional Wastewater Treatment

Facilities Operations Board

Healthy Start Coalition of Palm Beach County

Northern Palm Beach County Improvement District

Palm Beach County Housing Finance Authority

South Central Regional WW Treatment and Disposal Board

The Children's Services Council of Palm Beach County

Town of Jupiter

Town of Palm Beach

Town of Palm Beach Retirement System

Village of Palm Springs

Village of Royal Palm Beach

Broward County (IT Dept.)

City of Deerfield Beach

City of Deerfield Beach CRA

City of Fort Lauderdale Police and Firefighters Retirement System

City of Hollywood

City of Florida City

City of Florida City CRA

City of Homestead

City of Homestead CRA

City of Miami Firefighters & Police Officers

Retirement Trust

City of Sunny Isles

Miami-Dade County (WASD)

Miami Police Relief and Pension Fund

City of Hollywood CRA

City of Hollywood GERS

City of Pompano Beach Police and Firefighters Retirement System

City of Sunrise

City of Tampa Police and Firefighters’ Pension Plan

The Children's Trust of Miami-Dade County

Town of Bay Harbor Islands

Town of Bay Harbor Islands ERS

Town of Surfside

Town of Surfside Employees’ Retirement Plan

Village of Palmetto Bay

1.) Palm Beach County

2.) Broward County

3.) Miami-Dade County

4.) Monroe County Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority

5.) Hillsborough County

FOR WEST PALM BEACH DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

REFERENCE LETTERS

The Reference Form is available in the next page and Reference Letters are provided in Appendix D: Reference Letters of the proposal.

LOCAL PREFERENCE

The audit will be staffed primarily from our West Palm Beach office located at 525 Okeechobee Boulevard, Suite 750, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401

CANCELLED OR TERMINATED ENGAGEMENTS

We consider relationships with our clients to be our most important responsibility. We communicate with our clients openly, honestly, and frequently. As a result, we have experienced long and mutually rewarding relationships with our clients – many for 15 years and longer. Based on the strength of our people and our practice, we continue to grow our client roster over the years.

Marcum has not been terminated for cause by any government audit engagement within the past five (5) years. Marcum has not withdrawn or resigned from a government engagement in the past five (5) years. Most recently, Marcum completed a five-year contract with The Children’s Trust of Miami-Dade (the “TCT”). The contract ended after five (5) years and Marcum did not re-bid due to a mandatory auditor rotation policy the TCT has in place.

The Children’s Trust

3150 SW 3rd Ave, Miami, FL 33129

William Kirkland, CPA, CFO

Willliam.kirkland@thechildrenstrust.org

305-571-5700 Ext 334

Years of Service: 5 years

Audit Services

PROPOSAL FOR WEST PALM BEACH DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

SIMILAR ENGAGEMENTS WITH OTHER GOVERNMENT ENTITIES

The following page represents several engagements similar to the engagement described in the RFP performed in the last five (5) years by Marcum LLP.

401 Clemantis Street, West Palm Beach, FL 33401 Donna L.Levengood, Fiscal Services Manager of Public Utilities DLevengood@wpb.com

561-494-1050

Services: Financial Audit

Term: September 30, 2020 to Current

Total Hours: 300

1801 North Congress Avenue, Delray Beach, FL 33445 Beatrice Good, Finance Administrator bgood@scrwwtp.org

561-272-7061 Ext. 303

Services: Financial Audit

Term: September 30, 2022 to Current

Total Hours: 200

350 SE 1st, Delray Beach, FL 33483 Laura Simon, Executive Director lsimon@downtowndelraybeach.com

561-243-1077

Services: Financial Audit

Term: September 30, 2022 to Current

Total Hours: 175

2.

210 Military Trail, Jupiter, Florida 33458 Scott Reynolds, Finance Director scottr@jupiter.fl.us

561-741-2327

210 Military Trail, Jupiter, Florida 33458

Services: Financial Audit and Single Audit

Term: September 30, 2021 to Current

Total Hours: 500

4.

1100 Kennedy Drive, Key West, FL 33040 Cindy Kondziela, Director of Finance ckondziela@fkaa.com

305-295-2234

Services: Financial Audit, Single Audit

Term: September 30, 2012 to Current

Total Hours: 650

1. East Central Regional Wastewater Treatment Facilities Operations Board

Town of Jupiter

3. South Central Regional WW Treatment and Disposal Board

Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority

5. Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority

TAB 8: SPECIFIC AUDIT APPROACH

PROPOSED STAFFING PLAN AND SEGMENTATION

Note: In the first year of an engagement, additional hours are required to transition the audit to a new audit Firm. Our extensive experience with transitioning new clients has led to a streamlined process that is respectful of your time and resources. As a result, the DDA will receive the benefit of a new team with significant government experience as well as a fresh look at your systems, with minimal disruption. The above schedule does not include the first year “transition hours” which we intend to absorb.

Note: The Uniform Guidance states that the auditor must use a risk-based approach to determine which federal programs are major programs. This determination will affect the scope of the Uniform Guidance compliance audit and the compliance requirements to be tested. The schedule of expenditures of federal awards, prepared by the Village, is the basis of the auditor's identification of type A and type B programs and documentation of our risk-based approach. Upon determination, audit hours for testing a major program significantly range due to program size, program compliance requirements, weaknesses in internal control over federal programs, if any, prior audit findings, program longevity, program clusters, program subrecipients, etc. As such, related Singe Audit hours will vary on an annual basis.

PROJECT APPROACH & PHILOSOPHY

Through the audit, we strive to understand your vision, entity operations, financial performance, accounting systems, and internal controls. While this process ultimately leads to an audit opinion on your financial statements, our goal is to provide value beyond this assurance.

Our professionals will complement the DDA’s team with the right blend of technical, practical, and personal insight to help you successfully deliver on all of your initiatives

AUDIT METHODOLOGY

The audit will be conducted in four phases, as shown below. These phases are discussed in more detail on the following pages.

Obtain an Understanding of the DDA’s Operations

Evaluate Internal Controls  Information Technology Review

Develop Audit Plan and Strategies; Risk Assessment 

Prepare Audit Programs

Perform Test of Internal Controls (as applicable) 

Perform Tests of Account Balances

Test Compliance with Laws, Rules, Regulators, and Contracts

PHASE I: STRATEGIC PLANNING PROCEDURES FOR INTERNAL CONTROL

Documentation

Reviewed by Partner and Quality Control Department 

Auditor’s Conclusions

Documented 

Preliminary Discussion with Management of Audit Findings (as applicable)

Prepare Auditor’s Reports

Review the Draft Financial Statements 

Discuss Final Results with Management in Exit Conference

Presentation to the DDA Board

A thorough understanding of the DDA, its agencies, and your operating environment is essential for developing an efficient, cost-effective audit plan. During this phase, the engagement partner and key supervisory personnel will meet with the appropriate personnel to ensure we have an understanding of your operations. You will also have the opportunity to express your expectations

regarding the services that we will provide. This effort will be coordinated so that there will be minimal disruption to your staff. During this phase, we will perform the following activities:

Review the current regulatory and statutory compliance requirements within which the DDA operates. This will include a review of applicable state regulations; ordinances, contracts, and other agreements; meeting minutes of the elected body, as applicable; Review major sources of information such as budgets, organization charts, procedures manuals, financial systems and management information systems;

Determine the most practical and effective way to apply computer-aided audit tools to convert and analyze data and generate reports;

Performance of fraud inquiries and retrospective review;

Determination of materiality levels;

Regarding controls that are relevant to the audit, Marcum will evaluate the design of the controls and determine whether they have been properly designed and implemented; Documentation of current year activity expectations and performance of preliminary analytical procedures;

Review internal control systems, including determining an audit risk assessment; Consider the methods used to process accounting information that influence the design of the internal control system. This includes understanding the design of relevant policies, procedures, and records and whether they have been placed in operation; Design audit programs to ensure that they incorporate financial statement assertions, specific audit objectives and appropriate audit procedures to achieve the specified objectives;

Identify and resolve accounting, auditing and reporting matters; and Prepare detailed audit plans, including a list of schedules to be prepared by the DDA’s personnel.

RISK-BASED AUDIT TECHNOLOGIES

The Firm employs a risk-based approach early in the audit process. This approach considers how the overall risk identified in the general risk analysis affects specific account balances. We consider, in part:

Relative significance of the account to the financial statements as a whole;

Volume of transactions;

Susceptibility of the account to fraud;

Accounts that have traditionally required significant adjustments; and

Account with complex calculations, judgement, and accounting issues that have a high assessed level of inherent risk.

Based on these considerations, we assess the inherent risk and control risk to determine the overall audit risk. Once this assessment is completed, the audit procedures to be used are determined. By redirecting our efforts through a risk-based approach, audits are significantly enhanced, which provide greater value to our clients

We will use several approaches to conduct the audit engagement. These approaches include traditional audit techniques and strategies, and an evaluation of the systems utilized by the DDA

SPECIFIC FRAUD INVESTIGATIVE TECHNIQUES

Professional Auditing Standards imposes on auditors the additional responsibility to “plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatements due to fraud.” By redirecting our efforts through a risk-based approach and additional fraud inquiry techniques, audits are significantly enhanced.

COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY (CRA)

The CRA was created in 1986 under Chapter 163, Florida Statutes, for the purpose of carrying out redevelopment activities for certain areas existing in the DDA. The below is a listing of several Cities which we have recently performed audits of their CRA.

City of Boca Raton

City of Deerfield Beach

City of Delray Beach

City of Florida City

City of Hollywood

SINGLE AUDITS

City of Homestead

City of Pompano Beach

City of Hallandale Beach

Town of Jupiter

Village of Palm Springs

We have conducted hundreds of federal, state, and local Single Audits and are knowledgeable of all requirements under OMB Uniform Guidance and the State of Florida Single Audit Act (including Section 215.97) To stay on top of changing audit requirements, our firm participates in various AICPA trainings and our team receives annual single audit training that involves all aspects of a single audit, including internal controls, compliance, financial reporting, the Data Collection Form, Yellow Book, and audit effectiveness. A significant portion of this training also includes discussion about single audit quality and current topics discussed in the AICPA Audit Guides and Audit Risk Alerts.

We leverage our training and experiences across the Firm to benefit our clients through improved audit methodology and work programs. Furthermore, we proactively ensure all of our affected clients understand the impact of any new regulations on their organization.

Since we perform a substantial number of single audits annually, our single audit working papers are routinely reviewed by federal and state agencies as well as peer reviewers. We have not had any findings regarding substandard work in the past three years and, in fact, have had many positive comments about the excellent quality of our audit files.

With this experience, we are able to provide a robust amount of knowledge as it relates to the DDA and your engagement team has the necessary expertise to assist you with Federal and Florida single audits.

In general, Single Audit procedures may include:

Identify the DDA’s major programs to be tested and reported on for compliance. Identify the compliance requirements applicable to each major program. Determine which of the compliance requirements identified could have a direct and material effect on each major program.

Consider relevant portions of the DDA’s internal control over compliance for each direct and material compliance requirement for each major program. Obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence, which involves testing internal control over compliance and compliance with direct and material compliance requirements for each major program.

Consider indications of fraud.

Consider indications of abuse.

Consider subsequent events.

Form an opinion about whether the DDA’s complied with the direct and material compliance requirements.

Perform follow-up procedures on previously identified findings.

PHASE II: EXECUTION OF AUDIT PLAN

The audit team will complete a major portion of transaction testing and audit requirements during this phase. The procedures performed during this period will enable us to identify any matters that may impact the completion of our audit work or require the attention of management. Tasks to be performed in Phase II include, but are not limited to:

Apply analytical procedures to assist in planning the nature, timing and extent of auditing procedures used to obtain evidential matter for specific account balances or transaction classes. Analytical procedures are utilized in almost every audit area tested.

Perform substantive account balance and transaction tests. Samples will be drawn from major transaction systems, including cash disbursements, cash receipts, accounts payable, and payroll. The size of the samples will be determined after the review of the internal control system.

SAMPLE SIZE AND EXTENT OF STATISTICAL SAMPLING

There are three types of tests that involve audit sampling (statistical and non-statistical sampling) which Marcum will use:

Account Balance Tests. Substantive tests of account balances are performed on yearend balances. Certain accounts justify a 100 percent examination, such as confirming an investment and bank balance, which does not involve sampling at all.

Transaction and Control Tests. Substantive transaction and control tests are often combined to use one sample to achieve more than one audit objective. We often test the controls to verify that the transactions were properly authorized in accordance with the DDA’s procedures.

Compliance Tests. Compliance tests with laws and regulations are included with the tests of transactions and controls.

Additional samples are sometimes necessary to test specific laws and regulations. Sample sizes for compliance testing are determined based on the number of transactions and the significance of the requirement.

The audit team will report on a weekly basis to management the status of any potential adjustments so that management may have adequate time to investigate, gather information and respond, if necessary.

We use a risk-based assessment of the opportunities for a material financial statement error or irregularity to occur and remain undetected.

SECURE DATA REQUEST AND COLLECTION PROCEDURE

An “Auditor Request List” will be prepared and delivered to you prior to, or shortly after, the close of the Planning meeting.

The requested schedules, report, agreements, etc. requested in the “Auditor Request List” are collected by Marcum via a secure workflow tool. Our information technology department has established a secure workflow data management tool (“INFLO”) on our network for each of our clients.

We use the INFLO site as a virtual common workspace that is keyed to our data request lists and electronic audit system. We have been using the software for the past five years with much success. Any data we request from you can be easily uploaded to the secure site and seamlessly downloaded by our client service team directly into our electronic work programs. This web-based tool minimizes the use of e-mails to transmit data, enhances the security of your information and eliminates duplicate requests for data. Our software tools and approach to our work reduce demands on client resources and saves our clients both time and money.

In addition, INFLO provides real-time audit update information which is available at any time to the DDA, such as the progress current of the audit and the status of the audit requests specifically tailored to the engagement. All this information is available through the INFLO dashboard.

ANALYTICAL PROCEDURES

Tasks to be performed in Phase II of Marcum LLP’s Audit Process include applying analytical procedures to assist in planning the nature, timing and extent of auditing procedures used to obtain evidential matter for specific account balances or transaction classes. Analytical procedures are utilized in almost every audit area tested.

LAWS AND REGULATIONS AND COMPLIANCE TESTS

Compliance tests with laws and regulations are included with the tests of transactions and controls. Additional samples are sometimes necessary to test specific laws and regulations. Sample sizes for compliance testing are determined based on the number of transactions and the significance of the requirement.

COMMUNICATION AND PLANNING

Our firm believes that open and honest communication is a hallmark of strong client service, and without open and honest dialogue, the auditor/client relationship cannot properly function. During the planning phase of the audit, Marcum will schedule a “Planning Kick-Off Meeting” with the DDA’s management.

This meeting allows our team to meet in person with management and revisit audit time frames and due dates, as well as determine the level of assistance we need from your staff and management team.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AUDIT TECHNIQUES

In accordance with Professional Auditing Standards, we are required to gain an understanding of the procedures, both automated and manual, by which transactions are initiated, recorded, processed and reported, from their occurrence to their inclusion in the financial statements. During the planning stage of our audit, we evaluate the effect information technology (IT) will have in performing our audit procedures. This evaluation includes obtaining an understanding (generally through observations and inquiries of IT personnel) of internal controls and identifying those controls that are automated.

PROPOSAL FOR WEST PALM BEACH DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

Our approach includes review of IT general controls as follows:

Security Physical and Access Controls

Change Management for Systems and Configurations

Application/System Development and Customization

IT Risk Management

Data Backup and Recovery/Business Continuity Plans

Electronic Banking Wire and ACH Security

Segregation of Duties within Systems and IT function

When key internal controls are automated, we use our IT specialist to perform a detailed review of those automated controls. The assigned IT Risk Audit Partner, Joe Layne, will then communicate to the audit engagement team as to whether such controls are working as prescribed by management. With this information, the audit engagement team determines the extent of their audit procedures.

In certain situations where there is significant accounting data processed electronically, we use several state-of-the-art software programs (IDEA and Teammate Analytics) to extract and summarize computerized financial data files. These programs provide an efficient way for us to extract and test computerized accounting information, enabling us to audit through the computer, rather than around the computer. Some of the uses of this program are:

Retrieving aged receivables information

Extracting credit balances in accounts receivable reports

Extracting pre-determined sample items from reports for testing

Merging files for the purposes of extracting information that meets predetermined criteria

Sorting information and footing report

Searching for anomalies

Searching for related party transactions

Searching disbursements for selected vendors

Journal entry testing

PHASE III: EVALUATION OF AUDIT RESULTS

This phase includes a review of all audit documentation by the partners to ensure that testing and documentation support the conclusions reached. This phase also includes preliminary discussions with management of the audit findings.

Marcum will accumulate misstatements identified during the audit, other than those that are clearly trivial and will determine whether the audit plan and strategy per audit area needs to be revised.

PHASE IV: REPORTING

In this phase of the audit, the engagement team will complete the tasks related to the closing of year-end balances and financial reporting. This will include final testing in areas including compliance, balance sheet accounts, revenues and expenditures.

Upon receipt of the draft ACFR, we will turn around the draft with our comments within seven to ten days. Final reports will be issued by the agreed upon date. The audit partner and/or audit manager will be available to present the audit report in person.

EXIT CONFERENCE

Upon completion of audit work, Marcum will hold a closing or exit conference with senior members of the DDA’s management. The exit conference assists Marcum in obtaining the views of responsible officials concerning the findings, conclusions, and recommendations, as well as planned corrective action, as required by Government Auditing Standards.

This conference also provides the DDA with an advance opportunity to discuss whether planned corrective actions adequately address the auditor's recommendations and to initiate corrective action without waiting for a final audit report. Marcum will also consider having preliminary exit meetings with directors, department heads, and other operating personnel who have direct responsibility for financial management systems

MANAGEMENT LETTER

The Firm will prepare a management letter for the DDA to identify systemic deficiencies observed. The letter also may offer recommendations for changes in accounting and other procedures in order to improve operations of the DDA. As each potential management letter point is identified in the audit process, the engagement team will document the condition, our recommendation, and the benefits of the recommended action. All potential comments will be reviewed with key staff members before issuance.

The Firm’s policy is to prepare this report as a vehicle for suggesting improvements to enhance efficiency, management effectiveness, and the degree of internal control. Findings (material weaknesses and significant deficiencies and material instances of noncompliance) are required to be reported in writing and will be included in the schedule of findings and questions costs

OUR COMMITMENT

We will act as a valued advisor to recommend meaningful operation solutions, leverage our Firm resources to your benefit, and make ourselves readily available to the DDA

PROJECT SCHEDULE

Marcum is committed to completing the audit procedure within the below timeframe or within any other reasonable schedule requested by the DDA. Marcum LLP is available to commence the audit as soon as notification of award has been issued. Each of the following will be completed as stipulated by the RFP:

TASK ANNUAL TIMING

Detailed Audit Plan

Interim Work

Fieldwork

Review of Financial Reports

Auditor Opinions Issued

Presentation of Audit Results

September

October

December

January

February

March

GFOA CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT PROGRAM

Marcum assists clients who participate in the GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting Program. This program is recognized as the highest award in government financial reporting. The Certificate of Achievement has been awarded on all of the financial statements for participating clients, including first time submissions. Several members of the Marcum team are special reviewers for the GFOA Certificate of Achievement Program, including Moises D. Ariza who has been a Certificate Program reviewer since 2014.

Marcum serves more than 300 government clients at a national level and 40 government clients in Florida. One hundred (100) percent of our clients that apply for the GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting have received the certificate during our tenure as auditors.

We plan to meet the annual reporting deadlines to comply with the requirements of the Florida Statutes and GFOA award program.

TAB 9: IDENTIFICATION OF ANTICIPATED POTENTIAL AUDIT PROBLEMS

The Firm does not anticipate any issues meeting the DDA’s desired audit timeline or RFP requirements. One of the many advantages of choosing Marcum as your auditor is that our South Florida government team has significant knowledge and understanding of the DDA’s operations. The combination of our Firm’s resources, level of partner involvement, and experienced team members provides an excellent service team of professionals capable of servicing your needs. Having a complete government service team of 46 locally based individuals and more than 4,100 associates nationwide allows us to meet or exceed client deadlines.

Regular communication will be ongoing with the DDA personnel, allowing for timely knowledge of matters as they arise. When we learn of matters the DDA may not be aware of, we will be active in conveying relevant information. We understand the audit, accounting and financial reporting requirements affecting the DDA. As with other issues that may arise, we will work with management throughout the year to achieve the appropriate resolution.

TAB 10: PUBLIC ENTITY CRIMES

Refer to Appendix E for required forms

TAB 11: PROJECT FEE

APPENDIX A

PEER REVIEW REPORTS

APPENDIX D REFERENCE LETTERS

July23,2021

ToWhomItMayConcern:

It is our pleasure to provide this letter of recommendation for the services provided by Marcum LLP who haveservedasourauditorssince2014.

We are extremely pleased with the services Marcum LLP has provided our organization. The work performed by the partner to the staff level is to be commended. The audit team is always courteous, professional and very responsive. All audits were conducted in a timely, orderly, and systematic manner, encompassing all of the audit requirements of the Government Auditing Standards and reporting requirementsofthe Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB).

The firm’s services have always been performed to the highest degree of professionalism. Their staff are always willing to provide accounting guidance and suggestions to improve systems and methods of operation. Mostimportantly,MarcumLLPisalwaysavailabletousthroughouttheyearforquestions,not onlyduringtheaudit.

During the 2020 audit, the City was subject to a Federal Single Audit for the first time in several years. Marcum was extremely helpful and knowledgeable oftheprocess and assistedwith the preparation ofthe scheduleoffinancialassistance.

Marcumisalwayspreparedforthe auditwithhighlyqualifiedstaff who workedcloselywith us frompreplanning the audit to financial statement issuance. The team is thorough and follow through with any questionsorrequests. Inaddition,theywereveryhelpfulinprovidingalotofguidanceensuringasmooth auditingprocess.

We highly recommend the firm of Marcum LLP to any organization requiring auditing and related consultingservices.

Pleasedonothesitatetocontactmyofficeifthereareanyquestionsregardingthisletterofrecommendation.

Sincerely,

SeanO’Brien,CPA DeputyFinanceAdministrator

FINANCE & ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

10770 West Oakland Park Boulevard, Sunrise FL, 33351

Phone: (954) 746-3217 Fax: (954) 572-2469

March 25, 2021

To Whom It May Concern:

It is my great pleasure that I provide this letter of recommendation for the services provided by Marcum LLP.

We have been utilizing the services of Marcum LLP for approximately 11 years; and we are extremely pleased and satisfied with the services that they have provided to our organization. The work performed by the partner to the staff level is to be commended. The audit team is always courteous, professional and very responsive. All audits were conducted in a timely, orderly, and systematic manner, encompassing all of the requirements of Government Auditing Standards and of the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB).

In addition, our City is usually subject to both Uniform Guidance and the Florida Single Audit Act. From my experience, I can express that Marcum LLP has a high level of expertise in both of these areas.

The firm’s services have always been performed to the highest degree of professionalism. Their staff has always been very courteous, always willing to provide any required information and offering suggestions to improve systems, methods of operation, and facilitate the financial processes in our organization. The firm has always been a dependable resource in providing timely information and direction. The firm is always available to us throughout the year, not only during the audit.

We highly recommend the firm of Marcum LLP to any organization requiring auditing and related consulting services.

Please do not hesitate to contact my office if there are any questions regarding this letter of recommendation.

Respectfully,

Wendy Dunbar

Finance and Administrative Services Director

March 14 , 2022

To Whom It May Concern:

It is with my great pleasure that I provide this letter of recommendation for the services provided by Marcum LLP .

We have been utilizing the services of Marcum LLP for over 20 years which is a testament to our satisfaction with the level of services that they have provided to our organization. The work performed by the partner to the staff level is to be commended. The audit team is always courteous, professional , very responsive and has a wealth of industry knowledge. All audits were conducted in a timely, orderly, and systematic manner, encompassing all of the requirements of Government Auditing Standards and of the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB).

In addition, our City is usually subject to both Uniform Guidance and/or Florida State Single Audit Act. Furthermore, during our 2020 audit , Marcum also assisted the City with its first time issuance of the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) stand-alone financial statements set forth by the Florida Statutes. From my experience , I can express that Marcum LLP has a high level of expertise in these areas .

The firm ' s services have always been performed to the highest degree of professionalism. Their staff has always been very courteous, always willing to provide any required information and offering suggestions to improve systems , methods of operation , and facilitate the financial processes in our organization. The firm has always been a dependable resource in providing timely information and d irection. The firm is always available to us throughout the year , not only during the audit.

We highly recommend the firm of Marcum LLP to any organization requiring auditing and related consulting services .

Please do not hesitate to contact my office if there are any questions regarding this letter of recommendation .

Respectfully,

Chad Burkhalter Finance Director

August 23, 2023

West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority

301 Clematis Street, Suite 200

West Palm Beach, FL 33401

Audit Selection Committee:

Thank you for giving us the opportunity to present our proposal to serve as external auditors for the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (the “DDA”) for the fiscal years ending September 30, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026, and 2027.

We understand the scope of services requested by the DDA as outlined in the DDA’s RFP. We are committed to exceeding the performance specifications outlined and meeting all the DDA’s time requirements.

Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A (NH&M) believes our expansive governmental experience, quality of team members, and emphasis on client satisfaction make our firm the best qualified to provide audit services to the DDA.

Our firm is best qualified to perform the engagement and provide the DDA with the following added advantages:

 Experience – Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A. has served a remarkable number of South Florida governments for over 50 years. Edward T. Holt, the principal on the engagement, has over 50 years of experience in the auditing field and has managed the audits of over 100 different entities. All senior management team members also have over 15 years of experience in the audit field and have continuously dedicated their time to governmental and not-for profit clients. Furthermore, we are prepared and aptly equipped to assist the DDA with the implementation of revised audit standards, when applicable, and fulfill all the Authority’s audit needs.

 Industry Focus – NH&M has served a remarkable number of South Florida governmental entities for over 50 years. Unlike many other firms, NH&M’s primary focus is governmental entities. Consequently, our team has mastered the elements of the audit process and is prepared to resolve issues typical to governmental entities such as the DDA.

 Communication – NH&M strives to build strong relationships with our clients. An essential part of this relationship is communication. NH&M has a firm policy of responding to phone calls and/or emails within 24 hours. We encourage clients to call year-round to discuss questions or concerns as they arise. Our team is always prepared to answer questions or discuss audit issues at no additional charge.

 Staff Continuity/Professional Qualifications – We are proud to have high staff retention and minimal turnover. Our engagement team will remain consistent from year-to-year and will include experienced individuals. Such continuity, stability and teamwork give our employees valuable client and industry-specific knowledge, which in turn maximizes audit efficiency and strengthens our working relationship with the DDA.

 Location – NH&M is located in close proximity to the DDA in downtown West Palm Beach and within the DDA District.

 Additional Resources – We are members of CPAmerica International, Inc., an international association of independent accounting firms. For this reason, we can draw from the vast consulting resources of CPAmerica member firms with 500 offices in more than 370 cities around the globe (see Appendix E).

Our proposal outlines our qualifications and expertise further. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to present our credentials. We are confident our qualifications make us the ideal firm to fulfill your audit needs and would like to emphasize our desire to serve as the DDA’s auditors. Again, thank you for your consideration, and we look forward to serving as your auditors.

FIRM CONTACT AND INFORMATION

Edward T. Holt, President, 515 N. Flagler Drive, Suite 1700, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401, (561) 659-3060. Mr. Holt is authorized to bind the offeror. This proposal is a firm and irrevocable offer for one hundred and twenty (120) days. If you have any questions about this proposal, please contact Ed Holt at (561) 659-3060.

Sincerely,

Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A.

About Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A.

NH&M is a local firm of certified public accountants. Established in 1961, we have offices in downtown West Palm Beach and Belle Glade, Florida. We are a full-service firm that provides audit, accounting, tax, business valuation, forensic accounting, litigation support and management services. NH&M’s philosophy is to combine the knowledge of experienced professionals with the responsiveness and flexibility of a local CPA firm. We have flipped the typical staff “pyramid” where much of the work is performed by partners and managers instead of first year team members.

Independence

As defined by generally accepted auditing standards and the U.S. General Accounting Office’s Government Auditing Standards, Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A. is independent of the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority and any component units of the DDA. We will give the DDA written notice of any professional relationships entered into during the period of the engagement that might create a conflict of interest. Our proposal is made without collusion with any other person or entity submitting a proposal pursuant to this RFP.

Licensed to Practice in Florida

NH&M is an entity licensed to practice in Florida. All of the “key” professional staff assigned to the DDA’s audit are Certified Public Accountants and are properly licensed to practice in Florida, and qualified to perform governmental audits. Our firm and all professionals are members in good standing of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA) and comply with the continuing professional education requirements of the AICPA, including those educational requirements established by quality control standards. A copy of NH&M’s State of Florida Board of Accountancy Business License is attached in Appendix A.

SBE Certification

Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A is certified as a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) through the Palm Beach County Office of Equal Business Opportunity. See certification in Appendix A.

Firm Qualifications and Experience

Governmental Audit Staff

We have a professional staff of thirteen people. All professional staff assigned to the audit will be working on the DDA’s engagement full-time out of our West Palm Beach office. The number of our governmental audit employees, by employee classification, is as follows:

Experience in Governmental Audits and Single Audits

Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A. has been auditing South Florida governmental entities for over 50 years. Several of our clients receive Federal and/or State funding which require compliance audits under the Uniform Guidance and Chapter 10.550, Rules of the Florida Auditor General. Because NH&M’s main focus is governmental auditing, our team has an extensive understanding of issues related to government auditing and the accounting requirements.

Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) Experience

NH&M has assisted a number of our past and current governmental clients with their ACFR preparation. This program is recognized as the highest award in governmental financial reporting. We assisted several of our clients with their initial ACFR preparation and assist several of our governmental clients with their current ACFR preparation. All the governments we have assisted with their ACFR preparation have been awarded Certificates of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting.

Federal or State Desk Reviews

NH&M is committed to maintaining the highest level of quality control in our accounting and auditing practice. Our firm has never been involved in disciplinary actions with the State of Florida Board of Accountancy or any other professional organizations. NH&M has not received any comments from a Federal or State desk review, nor has NH&M undergone a field audit in the past three years.

Public Entity Crimes/Disciplinary Actions

Neither Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A., nor any of its officers, directors, executives, partners, shareholders, employees, members, or agents who are active in the management of the entity, nor any affiliate of the entity, has ever been charged with or convicted of a public entity crime. Additionally, no disciplinary actions have ever been taken nor are pending against the firm or any of its officers, directors, executives, partners, shareholders, employees, members, or agents by any State regulatory bodies or professional organizations. In the event that any disciplinary actions or complaints arise, we agree to notify the DDA immediately and submit a written report of all irregularities and illegal actions.

Litigation

Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A. has never had any litigation or proceedings where a court or any administration agency has ruled against the firm in any manner related to its professional activities. No current or pending litigation exists.

External Quality Control Review

Nowlen, Holt & Miner P.A. is a member of the AICPA’s Center for Audit Quality, and participates in the AICPA Peer Review Program every three years. NH&M is in good standing with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and our most recent external peer review resulted in a peer review rating of pass on the quality of our accounting and auditing practice with no letters of comment, which is the highest level of achievement in the peer review program. This review included a review of specific government engagements. We will provide the DDA with a copy of each peer review report and any letters of comment for each review conducted during the time period engaged by the DDA. A copy of NH&M’s 2021 peer review report and the FICPA / AICPA acceptance letter are included in Appendix B.

Partner, Supervisory and Staff Qualifications & Experience

Hiring and retaining highly qualified professionals is at the core of our firm’s business philosophy. We believe staff retention is a crucial factor in increasing audit efficiency and maintaining high levels of client satisfaction. The following table outlines our staff’s experience and length of employment with the firm.

Audit Team Members

Key Roles

 Responsible for overall audit practice.

 Assumes responsibility for quality control throughout firm.

Managing Partner

Edward T. Holt, CPA

 Assures all commitments to clients are timely met.

 Selects and assigns appropriate staff to engagements.

 Reviews audit documentation, financial statements, reports and management letters.

 Meets with clients on material matters.

 Signs audit reports and management letters.

Key Roles

 Develops overall audit approach, including preparing audit programs.

Audit Partner

Robert W. Hendrix, Jr., CPA Terry L. Morton, CPA

N. Ronald Bennett, CPA

 Coordinates audit planning, development and timeline.

 Maintains client contact and communications regarding audit progress, significant findings and any client questions.

 Supervises audit team members to ensure quality control throughout audit engagement.

 Reviews workpapers, audit reports and financial statements.

 May also perform key roles by Managers and Senior/Staff.

Key Roles

 Implements audit approach.

 Performs risk assessment procedures to document understanding of client, including internal controls.

Manager

William C. Kisker, CPA Mark Bymaster, CPA

 Maintains client contact and communication regarding any client questions.

 Researches technical accounting and audit issues as necessary.

 Recommends audit adjustments for partner’s review.

 Reviews workpapers of seniors and staff accountants.

 Reviews financial statements and audit reports.

 Prepares management letter for partner’s review.

 May also perform key roles by Senior/Staff.

Key Roles

 Performs audit procedures as required by audit programs.

 Documents understanding of client’s internal control.

Senior/Staff

Kristy Rowe

 Prepares financial statements and audit reports for management’s review.

 Maintains and update audit documentation records.

 Confirms asset and liability account balances.

 Performs analytical procedures.

 Performs tests of compliance.

Audit Team

To provide the DDA with optimal audit service, we have assembled a talented audit team whose knowledge and experience will be ideal to meet the requirements of the DDA. All of our key team members have more than fifteen years of government auditing experience and over 85% of our team is a licensed CPA. It is NH&M’s policy not to assign first year staff to a new engagement therefore, the DDA will not have to train their auditors. The proposed engagement team is as follows:

Edward T. Holt, CPA (Key Member) – Audit Engagement Partner oversees responsibility for the engagement team and signing the final reports. Ed has managed the audits of over 100 different entities throughout his 52 years of auditing experience. His diverse experience includes governmental, non-profit, retail and construction industries.

Terry L. Morton, CPA (Key Member) – Quality Control Review Partner, in our West Palm Beach office, responsible for reviewing the form and content of the audit workpapers, the independent auditor’s report, and other documents to ensure firm and industry standards have been met. Terry has been with the firm for 35 years and received a Certificate of Educational Achievement in both Governmental and Non-Profit Accounting and Auditing from the AICPA.

N. Ronald Bennett, CPA (Key Member) – Technical Review Partner, in our West Palm Beach office, responsible for assigning personnel, reviewing the financial statements, independent auditor’s report and other documents, maintaining client contact and overall engagement team oversight. Ron has been with the firm for 35 years and has extensive experience in auditing governmental entities and grant compliance testing.

Mark J. Bymaster, CPA, CFE (Key Member) – Audit Manager, in our West Palm Beach office, responsible for daily client contact, executing and supervising the day-to-day fieldwork during the audit, developing audit programs, preparing the financial statements and reports, reviewing the work of senior and staff, and reporting to the partners on the status of the engagement. Mark has over 15 years of experience auditing local governments in Florida including municipalities and special districts.

Senior/Staff Members – Will execute the day-to-day fieldwork during the audit and will report directly to the audit managers.

CISA Professional – Certified Information Systems Auditor services through CPAmerica will be utilized on an as needed basis.

Quality of Staff

Staff retention is an important part of NH&M’s strategy for increasing audit efficiency. Because of our firm’s low employee turnover rate, the DDA will see the same audit team members year-afteryear.

Team members will not be changed without the express prior written permission of the DDA. If staff rotation is necessary, the team member will be replaced with someone of comparable skills and experience. However, the DDA retains the right to approve or reject replacements. Consistency of audit team members from one year to the next results in a more efficient audit by enhancing both client-specific and industry-specific experience.

Continuing Professional Education

All team members hold accounting degrees from accredited universities. Several of our team members have advanced degrees and/or multiple degrees in related areas. NH&M believes that, not only to comply with professional standards, but in order to consistently offer our clients the best and most current information, continuing education is a necessity.

Training our team members is important in order to meet the needs of our clients and assist them with new accounting standards. All professionals receive at least the required 80 hours of continuing professional education, as required by Government Auditing Standards and the State Board of Accountancy, every two years. Our professionals attend in-house seminars as well as seminars provided by the AICPA, FICPA, FGFOA and GFOA. Due to our commitment to remain current on the technical pronouncements, we will keep the DDA informed of any new reporting requirements and will discuss any situations involving options in reporting formats.

Resumes

See related licenses in Appendix A for resumes below.

EDWARD T. HOLT, CPA

Edward T. Holt is a partner with Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A. with 52 years of experience. He received his B.B.A from Arkansas A&M. He has managed the audits of over 100 different entities. His diverse experience includes governmental, non-profit, retail, construction, and coordinating the firm’s continuing professional education program. He is licensed as a CPA in Florida and affiliated with the following organizations:

 American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

 Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants

 Florida Government Finance Officers’ Association (FGFOA)

 Government Finance Officers’ Association

 Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches

 CPAmerica International – Council Member

Some of Ed’s more current seminars include the following:

 06/2020 – FGFOA 2020 Annual Conference

 05/2021 – FGFOA 2021 Annual Conference

 06/2022 – Annual Accounting and Auditing Update & Review

 06/2023 – Auditing Developments

Ed has been the Managing Audit Partner for governmental audits from entities such as small towns and special districts to large entities at the County level.

TERRY L. MORTON, JR., CPA

Terry L. Morton, Jr. is a partner with Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A. and has been with the firm for 35 years. His education includes a B.S. (with honors) and M.Acc. from the University of Florida. He has also received a Certificate of Educational Achievement in both Governmental and Non-Profit Accounting and Auditing from the AICPA. He is licensed as a CPA in Florida and affiliated with the following organizations:

 American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

 Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants

 Florida Government Finance Officers’ Association (FGFOA)

 Association of Certified Fraud Examiners

 Gold Coast Area, Kairos Prison Ministry, Chairman

Some of Terry’s more current seminars include the following:

 06/2020 – FGFOA 2020 Annual Conference

 05/2021 – FGFOA 2021 Annual Conference

 06/2022 – Annual Accounting and Auditing Update & Review

 06/2023 – Auditing Developments

Terry has been the Audit Partner for governmental audits from entities such as small towns and special districts to large entities at the County level.

N. RONALD BENNETT, CPA, ABV, CVA,

CFF

N. Ronald Bennett is a partner with Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A. and has been with the firm for 35 years. His education includes an MBA in Finance from Florida State University where he was also a member of Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Society, and a Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering (with high honors) from Georgia Institute of Technology. He is licensed as a CPA in Florida and affiliated with the following organizations:

 American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

 Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants

 Florida Government Finance Officers’ Association (FGFOA)

 American Society of Mechanical Engineers

 National Association of Certified Valuation Analysts

 Association of Certified Fraud Examiners

Some of Ron’s more current seminars include the following:

 06/2020 – FGFOA 2020 Annual Conference

 05/2021 – FGFOA 2021 Annual Conference

 06/2022 – Annual Accounting and Auditing Update & Review

 06/2023 – Auditing Developments

Ron has been the Audit Partner for governmental audits from entities such as small towns and special districts to large entities at the County level.

MARK J. BYMASTER, CPA, CFE

Mark Bymaster is a manager at Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A. with 16 years of experience. His education includes a B.S. in Finance and Information Studies from Florida State University. He received a MAcc. and a Master’s in Economics from Florida Atlantic University. He is licensed as a CPA in Florida and is a Certified Fraud Examiner. Mark is affiliated with the following organizations:

 American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

 Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants

 Florida Government Finance Officers’ Association (FGFOA)

 Association of Certified Fraud Examiners

 Audit Committee – School District of PBC

Some of Mark’s more current seminars include the following:

 06/2020 – FGFOA 2020 Annual Conference

 05/2021 – FGFOA 2021 Annual Conference

 05/2021 – Annual FICPA Non-For-Profit Conference

 06/2022 – Annual Accounting and Auditing Update & Review

 06/2023 – Auditing Developments

Mark has been the Audit Manager for governmental audits from entities such as small towns and special districts to large entities at the County level.

Similar Engagements with Governmental Entities References

Below are governmental references you may contact regarding the audit services we have provided to their respective organizations.

Client: City of Greenacres

Contact: Teri Beiriger, Finance Director

Address: 5800 Melaleuca Lane, Greenacres, FL 33463

Phone: (561) 642-2019

Email: tbeiriger@greenacresfl.gov

Length of Service: 2015 – Current

Engagement Partners: Edward T. Holt / N. Ronald Bennett

Scope of Services: Performed Financial Statement Audit conducted in accordance with U.S. generally accepted auditing standards of the AICPA, the standard for financial and compliance audits contained in Government Auditing Standards, Florida Statutes, and other rules as applicable.

Assisted with ACFR preparation. Performed Federal and State Single Audit.

Audit Hours: Approximately 250 hours

Client: Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County

Contact: Paul Dumars, Chief Financial Officer

Address: 7501 N. Jog Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33412

Phone: (561) 640-4000

Email: pdumars@swa.org

Length of Service: 2015 – Current

Engagement Partners: Edward T. Holt / Terry L. Morton

Scope of Services: Performed Financial Statement Audit conducted in accordance with U.S. generally accepted auditing standards of the AICPA, the standard for financial and compliance audits contained in Government Auditing Standards, Florida Statutes, and other rules as applicable.

Assisted with ACFR preparation. Performed Federal Single Audit.

Audit Hours: Approximately 725 hours

Client: South Florida Conservancy District

Contact: David R. Davis, District Manager

Address: 2832 North Main Street, Belle Glade, FL 33430

Phone: (561) 996,2940

Email: districtmanager@sflcd.com

Length of Service: 2021 – Current

Engagement Partners: Edward T. Holt / N. Ronald Bennett

Scope of Services: Performed Financial Statement Audit conducted in accordance with U.S. generally accepted auditing standards of the AICPA, the standard for financial and compliance audits contained in Government Auditing Standards, Florida Statutes, and other rules as applicable.

Assisted with financial statement preparation.

Audit Hours: Approximately 110 hours

Client: Village of North Palm Beach

Contact: Samia Janjua, Finance Director

Address: 501 US Highway 1, North Palm Beach, FL 33408

Phone: (561) 841-3360

Email: sjanjua@village-npb.org

Length of Service: 2005 – Current

Engagement Partners: Edward T. Holt / Terry L. Morton

Scope of Services: Performed Financial Statement Audit conducted in accordance with U.S. generally accepted auditing standards of the AICPA, the standard for financial and compliance audits contained in Government Auditing Standards, Florida Statutes, and other rules as applicable.

Assisted with ACFR preparation.

Audit Hours: Approximately 300 hours

Governmental Audits Performed by Our Audit Team

Below is a list of NH&M’s Special District clients for which we are currently engaged to provide auditing services for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2023. A contact person, and related phone number for each, is also included. We encourage you to contact these individuals regarding the audit services we have provided to their respective organizations.

*ACFR – Annual Comprehensive Financial Report

Below is a list of NH&M’s governmental municipality clients for which we are currently engaged to provide auditing services for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2023. A contact person, and related phone number for each, is also included. We encourage you to contact these individuals regarding the audit services we have provided to their respective organizations.

*ACFR – Annual Comprehensive Financial Report

Specific Audit Approach

Planning

Understand operations environment

Evaluate internal controls and need for test of controls

Assess audit risk and determine materiality levels

Develop audit strategy

Audit Procedures

Perform test of transactions

Continuous Procedures

Prepare audit programs

Test compliance with laws and regulations

Fulfill Program-specific testing requirements

Review of work papers by partner and manager

Discuss audit and internal control findings with management

Reporting

Finalize audit procedures

Assist management with financial statement completion

Communicate final results to management

Present Audit Report to the Board

Approach to Providing Audit Services Audit Approach

NH&M understands the scope of work to be performed for the DDA, and commits to meet, if not exceed, the DDA’s expectations.

Along with information gathered from the DDA, we will use our broad experience with other governmental entities to plan an efficient and effective audit strategy. Our audit will be conducted in accordance with Generally Accepted Auditing Standings and Government Auditing Standards. We will also consider state statutes and local ordinances applicable to the DDA.

The audit engagement will be segmented into the following stages:

 Develop an Audit Plan

 Execute the Audit Plan

 Completion and Reporting

1. Develop an Audit Plan

In order to provide the DDA with the most efficient audit services, NH&M will need to develop an in-depth understanding of the DDA and its operations. To obtain this understanding, NH&M will discuss operations with DDA staff and review budgets, organizational charts, DDA manuals and other sources of information. During this time the engagement partner and supervisory team members will meet with DDA staff to discuss timing and other expectations the DDA has regarding the audit process. During this phase we will perform the following:

 Conduct an entrance conference.

 Communicate with the predecessor auditor, if applicable, and review prior year workpapers, financial statements, and management letters.

 Document the nature, timing, and extent of procedures to be performed to obtain sufficient and appropriate audit evidence.

 Perform risk assessment procedures.

 Document the DDA’s internal control procedures and perform walk-throughs and interviews with DDA staff.

 Prepare audit programs based on risk assessments.

 Perform analytical procedures on account balances.

 Request assistance from DDA staff in the preparation of certain schedules and pull requested documentation.

Risk Assessment

Our audit will be conducted on a risk-based approach. Risk assessment procedures will be performed to provide a basis for the identification and assessment of risks of material misstatement at both the financial statement and relevant assertion levels. Assessed risk considers planning materiality and the identification of significant accounts. Significant accounts are identified based on quantifiable information and the extent to which they are affected by subjective judgments.

General IT controls are implemented to address risks arising from the use of IT. Accordingly, NH&M will obtain an understanding about the identified IT applications and other aspects of the IT environment and the applicable risks arising from the use of IT in determining the general IT controls to identify.

Consideration of Fraud

Generally Accepted Auditing Standards establishes standards and provides guidance on the auditor’s responsibility to consider the risk of fraud and to design the audit to provide reasonable assurance of detecting fraud that result in the financial statements being materially misstated. The auditor’s consideration of fraud is not separate from consideration of risk, but is integrated into the overall risk assessment process. There are two types of misstatements that are relevant to the auditor’s consideration of fraud in a financial statement audit:

 Misstatements resulting from fraudulent financial reporting.

 Misstatements resulting from misappropriation of assets.

When assessing the risk of material misstatement due to fraud, NH&M will consider the type of risk, the significance of the risk, the likelihood of fraud occurring, and the pervasiveness of the risk. The following risk assessment process is used to identify fraud risks:

 Hold a discussion among engagement team members to consider the susceptibility of the DDA’s financial statements to material misstatements due to fraud.

 Make inquiries of management and other DDA staff.

 Evaluate unusual or unexpected relationships identified by analytical procedures.

Assistance to be Provided by DDA Staff

In order to perform an effective and efficient audit, we will rely on DDA staff to prepare reconciling and back-up schedules, as well as retrieve back-up documents as necessary. Management level employees will also be relied upon to answer various audit questions and explain particular variances as they arise. Staff and management will be allowed the necessary time to comply with our audit requests for documents; our staff will always be available to answer any questions DDA staff may have on documents or schedules requested.

2. Execute the Audit Plan

After updating our understanding of the DDA the audit team will perform the majority of transaction testing and complete audit requirements during the execution of the audit plan. During this segment of the audit, we will:

 Obtain third party confirmations.

 Test account balances and details.

 Perform analytical procedures.

 Test transactions and controls.

 Test compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Computer Assisted Audit Techniques

Computer Assisted Audit Techniques are used to automate and simplify the data analysis process. NH&M uses IDEA Data Analysis Software which allows us to extract and look at data from different angles to gain greater insight into the DDA’s operations. The IDEA software can accept electronic records from virtually any bookkeeping/financial accounting system. With the help of IDEA we can quickly select a statistically valid sample of transactions on which to base our audit, evaluate general ledger accounts and journal entries, and even detect fraud. We do this work from our office, saving your staff time and inconvenience.

Communications

Our firm’s working relationship with the DDA will stress communication and prompt discussion of all important matters as they arise. We will report at least weekly to the DDA on the status of any potential audit adjustments, so that the DDA may have adequate opportunity to investigate, gather information, and respond as necessary. If necessary, the partner and manager in charge will meet with the DDA representatives on any material matters that could affect the financial position or results of operations and will attend the audit committee meeting and Board meetings, on an as needed basis, for discussion of the audit reports as deemed necessary by the DDA.

We maintain open communication with clients and respond within 24 hours to requests for assistance with, or information on, accounting and other reporting matters. We encourage clients to call year-round to discuss questions or concerns as they arise, at no additional charge.

3. Completion and Reporting

The final step in the audit process is the completion and reporting segment. During this segment all audit documentation will be reviewed by the partners to ensure that the testing performed supports the conclusions reached. This stage also includes preparing the financial statements in accordance with auditing and firm standards.

The final segment will include, but is not limited to the following:

 Perform final analytical procedures.

 Review draft financial statements and prepare draft reports for the DDA to review.

 Discuss with management audit findings.

 Conduct an exit conference with DDA management and/or audit committee.

 Engagement partner presents the audit report to the DDA Board.

Management Letter Philosophy

We are required to comply with certain professional standards regarding reporting on internal control, compliance, illegal acts, and errors and irregularities. In addition, it is our firm's philosophy to assist our clients in improving their accounting policies and procedures. We do not recommend change for the sake of change. Our recommendations will focus on the effectiveness and efficiency of the operations and financial reporting of the DDA. We will not suggest any change if it is not practical and cost effective.

Reports

Following the completion of the audit, we will issue the following reports:

A. A report on the fair presentation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.

B. A report on compliance and on internal control over financial reporting.

D. Reports on compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

E. Schedules of federal awards and state financial assistance and related reports on the administering of federal awards and state financial assistance programs, if applicable.

F. A report to management (management letter).

G. An immediate, written report of all irregularities and illegal acts discovered.

In the required report(s) on internal controls, we will communicate any significant deficiencies found during the audit. A significant deficiency is a control deficiency, or combination of control deficiencies, that adversely affects the DDA’s ability to initiate, authorize, record, process or report financial data reliably in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles such that there is more than a remote likelihood that a misstatement of the DDA’s financial statements that is more than inconsequential will not be prevented or detected by the DDA’s internal control. Significant deficiencies that are also material weaknesses will be identified as such in the report. The report on compliance will include all material instances of noncompliance.

Segmentation by Employee Classification

The following chart presents key procedures and estimated number of hours by employee classification for our proposed segmentation of the engagement.

Sample Size and Statistical Sampling

Audit sampling is the application of an audit procedure to less than 100% of the items within an account balance or class of transactions for the purpose of evaluating some characteristic of the balance or class. The items constituting the account balance or class of transactions of interest are the population. The portion of the account balance or class of transactions to be examined is the sample.

It is important to note that a test that involves application of procedures to less than 100% of the items in the population but that does not involve projecting the results to the entire account balance or class of transactions is not audit sampling. All audit sampling involves judgment in planning and performing the sampling procedure and evaluating the results of the sample. The audit procedures performed in examining the selected items in a sample generally do not depend on the sampling approach used.

When a decision is made to use audit sampling, the auditor must choose between statistical and non- statistical sampling. The choice is primarily a cost-benefit consideration. If sampling is used, some sampling risk is always present. Statistical sampling uses the laws of probability to measure sampling risk. Any sampling procedure that does not measure the sampling risk is a nonstatistical sampling procedure. A properly designed non-statistical sampling application can provide results that are as effective as those from a properly designed statistical sampling application.

Statistical sampling generally involves additional costs to design individual samples that meet statistical requirements and to select the items to be examined. The basic requirements that relate to all audit samples, statistical and non-statistical, are as follows:

 Planning – Relate the population to the objective of the audit tests.

 Selection – Select items that can be representative of the population.

 Evaluation – Project sample results to the population and consider sampling risk.

Because of the costs associated with audit sampling, it is important to consider the effectiveness of alternative approaches before concluding that sampling is necessary. Audit sampling may not always be appropriate. It may be more efficient to test an account balance or class of transactions by applying analytical review procedures. In some cases, legal requirements might necessitate 100% examination. In other situations, some items might be examined 100% because acceptance of sampling risk is not justified, or 100% examination is more cost effective in the circumstances. Our professional judgment will be used to determine whether sampling is appropriate.

Extent of Use of Electronic Data Processing

Our office uses computers extensively to perform audit steps that a computer can accomplish faster and more efficiently than manual calculations. The following will be performed on computers:

 Development of trial balances and lead schedules – We will download your trial balance to our firm’s specialized audit software. As we make adjusting journal entries, they will be electronically posted, and an updated trial balance will be available immediately.

 Efficient paperless environment – Our firm utilizes AdvanceFlow software, which allows us to conduct paperless engagements. Paperless audits facilitate our firm with the following advantages:

 Simultaneous access to workpapers by multiple users

 Enhanced collaboration among audit team members for sharing and reviewing workpapers.

 Linking CSA, Excel, and Word documents/files to generate reports.

 Faster turnaround time for financial statements and the auditor’s report.

 Electronic Reports – We provide our clients with original PDF copies of the auditor’s report rather than a scanned version of the report.

 Citrix® ShareFile® – NHM uses ShareFile, a web-based software that helps us exchange files, regardless of size, easily, securely and professionally with our clients.

Analytical Procedures

Analytical procedures are an important part of the audit process and range from simple comparisons to the use of complex models involving many relationships and elements of data.

Understanding financial relationships is essential in planning and evaluating the results of analytical procedures and requires knowledge of the client and the industry in which the client operates. Understanding the purpose of analytical procedures and the limitations of those procedures is also important. Accordingly, the relationships and types of data used, as well as conclusions reached when recorded amounts are compared to expectations, require the auditor’s judgment.

We will use analytical procedures to:

 Assist in planning the nature, timing, and extent of other auditing procedures.

 Obtain evidential matter about particular assertions related to account balances of classes of transactions.

 Review of financial information in the final review stage of the audit.

When used as substantive tests, analytical procedures may include, but not be limited to, the following:

 Comparison of prior year and current year balances.

 Comparison of actual and budgeted amounts.

 Ratio and trend analysis.

 Predictive tests based upon relationships between financial and nonfinancial information.

Internal Control Procedures

The DDA’s Board, management, and other personnel establish the internal control structure of the DDA, which is an important source of information about the types and risks of potential material misstatements that could occur in financial statements. We will use this information to design appropriate substantive tests that will provide reasonable assurance of detecting material misstatements.

We usually perform these procedures only to gain a general understanding of the overall internal control structure and the way the DDA operates. Under most circumstances, we believe formal documentation of control activities, including tests of controls, is not the most efficient method of achieving audit objectives in most entities your size. We will use all the internal control information we gather as a supplement to our industry and audit knowledge to ensure the development of the most efficient audit possible for the DDA.

In evaluating the control environment of the DDA we will consider items such as the following:

 Frequency of Board meetings.

 Qualifications and involvement of Board members.

 Other external factors.

Control activities are policies and procedures that help ensure that management’s directives are carried out and the DDA’s objectives are met. The types of items we will consider in understanding your control activities are:

 Policies for comparing actual results to budgeted amounts.

 Billing and collection procedures.

 Purchasing procedures, such as the use of competitive bidding.

 Payment procedures.

Understanding the Use of Information Technology in the Information System

The DDA’s information system may include the use of manual and automated elements, which also affect the manner in which transactions are initiated, recorded, processed, and incorporated in the general ledger and reported in the financial statements. In particular, procedures to initiate, record, process, and report transactions may be enforced through the IT applications used by the entity and how the entity has configured those applications. In addition, records in the form of digital information may replace or supplement records in the form of paper documents.

In obtaining an understanding of the IT environment relevant to the flows of transactions and information processing in the information system, NH&M will gather information about the nature and characteristics of the IT applications used as well as the supporting IT infrastructure and IT. This may include, for example, the complexity or level of customization related to IT applications, third-party hosting or outsourcing, and the use of interfaces, data warehouses, or report writers.

The understanding of general IT controls that may be implemented for different aspects of the IT environment include the following:

 Applications. General IT controls at the IT application layer will correlate to the nature and extent of application functionality and the access paths allowed in the technology.

 Database. General IT controls at the database layer typically address risks arising from the use of IT related to unauthorized updates to financial reporting information in the database through direct database access or execution of a script or program.

 Operating system. General IT controls at the operating system layer typically address risks arising from the use of IT related to administrative access, which can facilitate the override of other controls.

 Network. General IT controls at the network layer typically address risks arising from the use of IT related to network segmentation, remote access, and authentication.

Tests of Compliance with Laws and Regulations

Audits conducted in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards provide the basis for expressing an opinion on the fairness of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. However, due to the special nature of governments, the traditional audit scope has been broadened to encompass determinations of whether the governmental unit has complied with governing laws, regulations, rules, grantor guidelines, and other finance related legal requirements.

Generally, compliance criteria can be found in Florida law, rules, grant agreements, local ordinances, resolutions, policies, contracts and similar documents. Specific compliance criteria will be identified early in the audit process in order to facilitate the design and performance of appropriate audit procedures for testing compliance.

The following are examples of the types of laws and regulations that may have a direct and material effect on the financial statements:

 Procurement

 Taxing authority

 Legal authority for transactions

 Tax reporting

 Establishment of funds

 Debt limitations

 Budgets and budgetary reporting

 Restrictions on expenditures

NH&M has performed governmental audits for over 50 years. Thus, we have developed numerous compliance checklists to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of compliance testing. These checklists are designed and continuously updated to test compliance with current Florida Statutes, Rules of the Auditor General, and other legal and regulatory requirements. These checklists will increase the efficiency of our audit of the DDA.

For compliance testing, we will simultaneously conduct tests of items that can be quantified in terms of dollars and substantive tests of transaction classes and account balances. Under this approach, items selected for substantive testing will also be tested for compliance. Because of the type of evidence available, certain compliance requirements do not lend themselves to testing in conjunction with substantive tests. These requirements will be tested by inquiry, observation, and inspection.

The audit process is guided by generally accepted auditing standards and not by specific cookbook-type procedural instructions. Therefore, the auditor's professional judgment is an extremely important element in defining the audit scope properly, especially with respect to compliance testing.

Audit Sampling

Audit sampling involves judgment in planning and performing the sampling procedure and evaluating the results of the sample. When a decision is made to use audit sampling, the auditor must choose between statistical and non-statistical sampling. Because of the costs associated with audit sampling, it is important to consider the effectiveness of alternative approaches before concluding that sampling is necessary.

Anticipated Potential Audit Problems

Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A. does not foresee needing any special assistance from the DDA nor do we anticipate any potential audit problems. The designated key team members will monitor the progress of the audit on a continuous basis. Any minor problems will be communicated verbally. If more significant issues arise, the problems will be communicated in writing.

Availability of Firm

NH&M is able and willing to commit and maintain staffing, both number and level, to successfully conclude the audit within the specified time constraints. Ron Bennett, Audit Partner and Mark Bymaster, Audit Manager, will be free to meet with the administration and DDA Board for discussion of the audit report, or any other material matters that could affect the financial position or results of operations, as deemed necessary by the DDA.

Firm’s Ability to Comply with DDA’s Time Requirements

We believe the most effective way for NH&M to comply with the DDA’s time requirements is by providing quality work. Quality work starts with our team members and is enriched with timeliness. NH&M hires and trains only quality team members. All audit team members have a thorough understanding of Generally Accepted Auditing Standards and Government Auditing Standards. All team members will be working out of our West Palm Beach office. The team members assigned to the engagement will be dedicated to the engagement from inception through the issuance of the financial statements. A tentative schedule for performing key aspects of the audit follows:

 Audit list of items will be requested no later than October 31, following the close of the fiscal year.

 Fieldwork will conclude no later than January 31 (depending on the availability of the endof-year records) following the close of the fiscal year.

 Draft reports and final audit adjustments will be submitted to the DDA no later than February 15, following the close of the fiscal year.

 A final and complete audit will be submitted no later than the last day in February, following the close of the fiscal year.

Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A. encourages our clients to call year-round with questions they may have relating to their financial statements or new standards that may arise. It is Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A.’s policy not to charge an additional fee for routine advice. We will only bill the DDA for services provided outside the scope of the audit or for special projects. The audit partner will continually monitor the progress of the audit in order to ensure timely completion.

Proof of Insurance

Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A. maintains the following insurance policies and with attached declaration page in Appendix C:

 Workers’ Compensation Insurance and Employers’ Liability Insurance ($1,000,000 Coverage)

 General Liability Insurance ($5,000,000 Coverage)

 Professional Liability Insurance ($3,000,000 Coverage)

 Business Automobile Liability ($1,000,000 Coverage)

COST OF SERVICES

Total price for auditing services for the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority:

Year 1 (fiscal year ended 09/30/2023)

$ 19,500

Year 2 – 2024 $ 20,500

Year 3 – 2025 $ 21,500

Year 4 – 2026 $ 22,500

Year 5 – 2027 $ 23,500

The Price Proposal assumes that no significant audit adjustments will be necessary and no significant deficiencies in internal control or significant non-compliance will be noted. Invoices for audit services will be rendered each month as work progresses and are payable upon presentation. In accordance with our firm's policies, work may be suspended if your account becomes overdue and may not be resumed until your account is paid in full.

The fees, rates, and costs proposed are accurate and complete. If awarded the contract, the fees will not increase over the agreed upon contractual amount for the entire contract term, regardless of changes in accounting principles, State or Federal Laws, and requirements associated with annual financial report, unless a Federal or State single audit is required. If a Federal or State Single Audit is required the fee will be an additional $4,500, per major program.

Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A. encourages our clients to call year-round with questions they may have relating to their financial statements or new standards that may arise. It is Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A.’s policy not to charge an additional fee for routine advice. We will only bill the DDA for services provided outside the scope of the audit or for special projects. Fees for services provided outside the scope of the audit will be billed at the proposed hourly rates listed below.

APPENDIX B

PEER REVIEW

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL AUDIT SERVICES FEEINFORMATION

A. Instructions: Please indicate the cost as per Section 8:

B. All prices submitted are to be listed below. Prices quoted should be in unit of measureshown.

NOTE: Single audit fees are per major program. Hourly rates for additional professional services:

1 - Level of Service will be negotiated at the time any additional professional services are requested.

The undersigned certifies that he/she has the ability to sign and bind the firm or company to the services to be performed within the fees proposed. Signature � r, �

APPENDIX E

PROFESSIONAL RESOURCES/U.S. CITIES

CPAmerica International, Inc.

As described in the proposal, CPAmerica International is an association of accounting firms with offices and professionals in more than 370 cities worldwide. CPAmerica International, in partnership with Horwath International, provides our firm with access to limitless world-wide accounting and consulting services and expertise. The following pamphlets depict in further detail CPAmerica’s mission, services, activities and locations.

LETTER OF INTEREST

2521 Hollywood Boulevard

Hollywood, Florida 33020

Telephone: 954-927-5900

Fax: 954-927-5927

1176 NW 163 Drive

Miami Gardens, Florida 33169

Telephone: 305-628-1510

Fax: 305-628-1595

900 Osceola Drive, Suite 201I

West Palm Beach, Florida 33409

Telephone: 561-547-0545

Fax: 561-253-2747

Member: American Institute of Certified Public Accountants | Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants

Letter of Interest

August 23, 2023

Auditor Selection Committee

West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority

107 S. Olive Avenue, Suite 200

West Palm Beach, Florida 33401

Dear Members of the Auditor Selection Committee:

S. Davis & Associates, P.A. (“SDA”) is pleased to respond to your request for proposals to provide financial auditing services for the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (the “DDA”). We have a clear understanding of the work to be performed for the fiscal years ending September 30, 2023, 2024 and 2025 with possible extensions to renew for 2026 and 2027.

The selection of a certified public accounting firm is an important decision for the DDA. In choosing SDA, you have the opportunity to select a full service, South Florida firm with auditors that have successfully demonstrated the ability to deliver responsive high quality service to governmental entities, combined with highly accessible personal contact associated with smaller firms and the sophisticated professional resources of the national accounting firms.

The professionals assigned to the engagement, led by Tanya I. Davis, the firm’s Assurance Partner, demonstrate one of the best indications of our total commitment to serve the DDA. To ensure that you receive the highest quality service in a prompt manner, we have assembled a group of individuals who are well qualified to serve on the engagement team and have included the resumes of the key personnel to be assigned to your audit. The client service team understands the work to be performed, is committed to performing the engagement and will not be changed without the approval of the DDA. The Firm’s engagement partner will be personally engaged and maintain contact with the audit team, coordinate ongoing work and advise management of the DDA on the status of the engagement. Tanya I. Davis will serve as the Engagement Partner and representation for the firm and Shaun M. Davis, as the Quality Review Partner. They will be joined by Heather Sinclair Young, Engagement Manager; Annette Lewis, Consulting Manager; Joy Chambers-Nicholas, Senior; and staff who will assist them. The engagement team will be available to the DDA’s management as a technical resource throughout the year. All key members of our client service team meet or exceed the continuing professional education requirements promulgated by Government Auditing Standards.

We proudly make the statement that we have the qualifications, knowledge and capacity to exceed expectations, strong desire to perform as your auditor and ability to make a significant, positive statement for which the many years have prepared us. The firm’s first-hand experience in auditing governments has

LETTER OF INTEREST

no doubt put us in the best position to conduct your audit in order to issue your financial reporting package and management letter comments, if any, by the earlier of March 15th or the March board meeting.

The DDA will be a high priority client deserving of our highest levels of responsiveness on operational and performance audit issues and any other questions, concerns or advice you may seek. We will spare no effort in delivering timely reports. We thank you for the opportunity to present this proposal and look forward to serving the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority on this engagement. In this proposal process you will undoubtedly read and hear much about such things as firm resources and client lists. We proudly include that information in our proposal. In the final analysis, however, the important things are quality people and quality service at a fair price. We commit to deliver to you on both and are eager to respond to any questions you may have.

If you have any questions or require more information, please contact Tanya I. Davis at (561) 547-0545 or tdavis@sdaviscpa.com. We look forward to meeting with you in the near future.

Very truly yours,

S. Davis & Associates, P.A., by Tanya I. Davis, Partner

INDEPENDENCE

Independence

Independence is an absolute necessity in attest engagements, including audits. Each SDA employee completes an independence statement when hired and annually, thereafter, attesting to his/her independence with respect to the firm’s clients. SDA and employees are independent of the DDA as defined by generally accepted auditing standards, the U.S. General Accounting Office’s Government Auditing Standards and by the Florida Board of Accountancy under Florida Statute Chapter 473.

None of the firm’s employees have a personal interest, direct or indirect, in the fiscal affairs of the DDA or any of its Governing Board members. We affirm that none of the firm principals have governance relationships with the DDA and there are no family ties between our principals and any of the DDA’s Governing Board members or senior management.

LICENSES TO PRACTICE IN THE STATE OF FLORIDA

SDA has been licensed by the State of Florida to practice public accounting since the firm’s beginning and licensure is renewed every two years

All personnel licensed to practice as certified public accountants are required to meet continuing professional education (CPE) requirements of eighty (80) hours to renew their license every two (2) years and are required to submit their renewed license to office administration. Non-licensed personnel are required by the firm to obtain the same number of hours every two (2) years. All professional personnel, licensed and non-licensed, are required to obtain Yellow Book CPE compliance under Government Auditing Standards due to the volume of engagements we perform requiring adherence those standards. SDA coordinates and monitors CPE for each staff person, ensuring they all have the requisite number of Governmental, Accounting and Auditing and total CPE hours by taking courses offered by the AICPA, FICPA, Big 4 and 2nd-tier public accounting firms, and SDA-sponsored CPE courses. Our professional staff historically exceeds CPE requirements every two (2) years.

LICENSES TO PRACTICE IN THE STATE OF FLORIDA

The audit senior, Joy Chambers-Nicholas, is in the process of completing the Uniform Certified Public Accounting Examination to obtain certification in the State of Florida.

All audit team members exceed the CPE required by Government Auditing Standards and the Florida Board of Accountancy.

As evidenced, SDA and management are properly licensed to practice certified public accounting in the State of Florida.

FIRM QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

ABOUT THE FIRM

S. Davis & Associates, P.A. (“SDA”), incorporated in 1997, is a full service firm providing services to public and private sector clients that include, but are not limited to, entities required to be audited under Government Auditing Standards and the provisions of the Uniform Guidance.

Spanning over 25 years of service to the South Florida community, SDA has offices in West Palm Beach, Hollywood, Miami, and Tallahassee, Florida. We pride ourselves in completing successful governmental engagements and have done so since inception. Approximately eighty percent (85%) of the firm’s professional services hours are incurred in services provided to governmental entities, providing successful and timely service to small, medium and large organizations.

SDA, a Palm Beach County Small/Minority Business Enterprise, is qualified to perform, and will perform, 100% of the scope of services. SDA is also certified by the City of West Palm Beach as a Small Business and a Minority Owned Business. We are an Equal Opportunity employer and have a drug free workplace. SDA does not discriminate on the basis of gender, sexual orientation or identification, race, color, creed, national origin, age or handicap in regards to our employees, obligations, work or services provided.

INSURANCE

SDA maintains insurance coverage in the amounts required by the DDA.

SIZE OF THE FIRM

SDA employs over forty (40) and, currently, has over twenty (20) governmental staff. Your engagement will be conducted from our South Florida offices and will include:

All personnel assigned to your engagement have experience performing engagements for governmental entities.

The audit senior and staff will devote 100% of their time to the DDA’s audit during scheduled audit periods. The partners’ and managers’ time will be scheduled as needed for supervision, review and technical assistance. They will be heavily involved in all phases of the audit. In addition, when not already on site, the engagement partner’s and engagement managers’ time can be arranged to participate in all meetings and conference calls deemed necessary to answer questions and resolve any issues that may arise during the performance of the audit. We are only a phone call away.

All of our professional staff are degreed accountants. The firm’s partners and several of our staff members have worked in global accounting firms, governmental entities and/or Fortune 500 companies. We bring a wealth of knowledge and innovation to our governmental clients.

FIRM QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

EXTERNAL QUALITY CONTROL REVIEW

SDA participates in the AICPA peer review program which includes review of our quality control programs and certain engagements selected by the peer reviewer every three years. Due to the high volume of governmental entities SDA audits, at least one governmental audit client requiring a federal single audit is always selected for review. Our most recent review was performed for the year ended November 30, 2020, resulting in a PASS (formerly called an unqualified opinion) with no letters of comment. In fact, we have received a PASS on our quality review program since the firm’s inception.

Following, is our peer review letter for the year ended November 30, 2020.

FIRM QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

FIRM’S STANDING WITH PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

We are a member in good standing of, both, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants, and a proud member of the AICPA Governmental Audit Quality Center.

DESK/FIELD REVIEWS

There has been no remediation or disciplinary action taken against the firm or staff by a federal or state regulatory body or by a professional organization as a result of desk or field reviews in the past three (3) years.

DISCIPLINARY ACTION

There has been no disciplinary action taken against the firm by a federal or state regulatory body or professional organization as a result of desk or field reviews in the past three (3) years. We will notify the DDA immediately should any disciplinary actions be taken or complaints filed with regulatory bodies against firm staff or the firm itself.

PARTNER, SUPERVISORY AND STAFF QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Partner, Supervisory and Staff Qualifications & Experience

WEST PALM BEACH DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY’S AUDIT TEAM

The audit personnel assigned to the engagement all have extensive governmental financial statement and single audit experience and meet or exceed continuing professional education (CPE) as required by Government Auditing Standards. In addition to time spent during audit periods, key engagement team members will provide technical support as needed throughout the year, especially to aid in implementing Governmental Accounting Standards Boards pronouncements which may come into effect during the course of our contract period.

ORGANIZATIONAL CHART AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF TEAM MEMBERS

ENGAGEMENT PARTNER

Tanya I. Davis, CPA

ENGAGEMENT MANAGER

Heather Sinclair, CPA

ENGAGEMENT SENIOR

Joy Chambers‐Nicholas*

QUALITY REVIEW PARTNER

Shaun M. Davis, CPA

CONSULTING MANAGER

Annette Lewis, CPA

ENGAGEMENT STAFF

* pending licensure

The engagement partner has overall responsibilities for all work performed for a client and will be your primary point of contact. Tanya I. Davis, Partner at S. Davis & Associates, P.A., has extensive experience in serving governmental, not-for-profit, and other large, complex, computer-oriented clients, with over thirty years of public accounting experience. Her project management skills will be invaluable on the DDA’s audit. Tanya is a licensed CPA in Florida and has exceeded the governmental and total CPE hours required by Government Auditing Standards

The quality review partner is responsible for reviewing audit documentation and reporting for quality controls. Shaun M. Davis, Managing Partner of S. Davis & Associates, P.A., will serve in this capacity. Shaun also has extensive experience in serving governmental, not-for-profit, and other large, complex, computer-oriented clients. Shaun has over thirty-five years of public accounting experience and, in addition to audits, has participated in numerous consulting projects that addressed internal controls, best practices

PARTNER, SUPERVISORY AND STAFF QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

and financial projections. Shaun is licensed to practice as a CPA in Florida and New York and has exceeded the governmental and total CPE hours required by Government Auditing Standards.

The engagement manager maintains continuous control over the engagement through meetings with clients, review of work papers, and discussions with staff. Heather Sinclair Young, Senior Manager, will be assigned to the audit. She will devote substantial attention to the planning and wrap up phases of the audit and, during fieldwork, will devote a significant amount of her time to review and supervision. She will establish and maintain open communication channels with key personnel, the engagement partner, and the engagement senior to ensure a smooth execution and timely completion of the audit. Heather has more than twenty-five years of public accounting experience and is licensed to practice as a CPA in Florida. She has exceeded the governmental and total CPE hours required by Government Auditing Standards.

Consulting manager, Annette Lewis, Senior Manager, has significant experience in providing auditing, consulting and accounting services to our governmental clients and, having previously served as a finance director for governmental entities, will provide technical assistance to the audit team as needed. Invaluable to this engagement will be the use of her expertise as a government finance director. She is a licensed CPA in the State of Florida and has exceeded the governmental and total CPE hours required by Government Auditing Standards.

The engagement senior is responsible for the daily performance and supervision of the audit fieldwork. Joy Chambers-Nicholas will be assigned in this capacity. Joy will devote substantial attention to the planning and wrap up phases of the audit and, during scheduled periods, will devote 100% of her time to the DDA. She is pending licensure as a Florida CPA. Joy has exceeded the governmental and total CPE hours required by Government Auditing Standards

The engagement staff will perform the audit procedures at the direction of the engagement manager and senior. We strive to match the interests, abilities, and experience of our staff to each engagement. Staff assigned to our governmental industry engagements receives specific industry training to prepare them for their assignments.

PARTNER, SUPERVISORY AND STAFF QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

RESUMES

TANYA I. DAVIS, CPA Engagement Partner

Professional Experience

Tanya is the partner in charge of attest services at S. Davis & Associates, P.A. and has over thirty years of public accounting experience. She was a former Audit Supervisor with Grant Thornton, LLP and experienced staff with PricewaterhouseCoopers. Tanya has attained pertinent audit and special services experience in the governmental industry, most requiring federal and/or state single audits.

Tanya has been with SDA since the firm’s inception.

Select Current and Former Governmental Experience

 Broward County Housing Finance Authority

 Broward County Housing Authority

 Broward Performing Arts Center Authority

 City of Riviera Beach Community Redevelopment Agency

 City of Lauderhill Community Redevelopment Agency

 City of Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency

 Port of Palm Beach District

 City of Lauderhill

 City of Lauderhill General Employees Retirement System

 City of West Park

 City of Hollywood

Professional and Civic Affiliations

 City of Miramar Pension Trust for General Employees

 City of Miramar Management Retirement Plan

 City of Miramar Police Officers’ Retirement Plan and Trust

 Broward County Supervisor of Elections

 South Florida Regional Planning Council

 Miami-Dade County Public Schools

 School Board of Broward County

 Florida Atlantic Research & Development Authority



Florida Atlantic University Research Corporation (Florida Atlantic University DSO)

 Past Chairperson and Two-Term Board Member, State of Florida Board of Accountancy

 Past Member, National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA)

 Member, Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA)

 Member, Florida GFOA

 Member, South Florida Government Finance Officers and City Clerks Association

 Member, Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA)

 Lifetime Member and Past Regional Vice President, National Association of Black Accountants

 Member, National Black MBA Association

 Vice Chair of Trustees and Audit & Compliance Committee Chair, Barry University

 Trustee and Audit Committee Member (former Treasurer and Audit Committee Chair), Art & Culture Center of Hollywood

 Budget, Finance & Audit Committee Member, Humane Society of Broward

Education and Licenses

Cum Laude Graduate of Barry University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting

CPA licensed to practice in Florida

Tanya has exceeded the CPE hours required by Government Auditing Standards

PARTNER, SUPERVISORY AND STAFF QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

SHAUN M. DAVIS, CPA Quality Review Partner

Professional Experience

Shaun is the Managing Partner of S. Davis & Associates, P.A. and has over thirty-five years of public accounting experience, including serving in his former position as Audit Manager with Ernst & Young. Shaun has pertinent experience in audit, consulting and special services engagements in the governmental industry, most requiring federal and/or state single audits.

As the founding partner, Shaun has been with SDA since the firm’s inception, preceded by six (6) years as founder of the legacy firm.

Select Current and Former Governmental Experience

 Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County

 South Florida Water Management District

 Florida Atlantic Research & Development Authority

 Broward County Housing Finance Authority

 Broward County Housing Authority

 City of Riviera Beach Community

Redevelopment Agency

 City of Hollywood Community

Redevelopment Agency

 City of Lauderhill

 City of Lauderhill General Employees

Retirement System

 City of Miramar

 City of Miramar Pension Trust for General Employees

Professional and Civic Affiliations

 City of Miramar Management Retirement Plan

 City of Miramar Police Officers’ Retirement Plan and Trust

 City of Hollywood

 Broward County Sheriff’s Office

 School Board of Broward County

 Miami-Dade County Public Schools

 Broward County Supervisor of Elections

 South Florida Regional Planning Council

 Florida Atlantic University Research Corporation (Florida Atlantic University DSO)

 Florida A&M Foundation (Florida A&M University DSO)

 FAMU Boosters (Florida A&M University DSO)

 Past Chairman and Two-Term Board Member, State of Florida Board of Accountancy

 Member, South Florida Government Finance Officers and City Clerks Association

 Member, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)

 Member, Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA)

 Lifetime Member, National Association of Black Accountants

 Member, National Black MBA Association

 Trustee and Audit & Compliance Committee Member, Florida Atlantic University

 Former Board of Governors Member, Florida State University School of Business

 Former Advisory Council Member, Florida State University School of Accounting

 Member, Broward Workshop

 Member and Audit Committee Chair, Orange Bowl Committee

Education and Licenses

Graduate of Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting

CPA licensed to practice in Florida and New York

Shaun has exceeded the CPE hours required by Government Auditing Standards

PARTNER, SUPERVISORY AND STAFF QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

HEATHER SINCLAIR YOUNG, CPA, MBA Engagement Manager

Heather will serve as the engagement manager with over twenty-five years of public accounting experience, including serving in her former position as Audit Professional with Mair Russell, a corresponding firm of Grant Thornton, LLP. Her pertinent financial statement audit, single audit and special services experience has been attained in the governmental, not-for-profit and employee benefit plan industries.

Heather has been with SDA since the firm’s inception.

Select Current and Former Governmental Experience

 Broward County Housing Authority

 Housing Finance Authority of Broward County

 Broward Performing Arts Center Authority

 City of Dania Beach

 City of Hollywood

 City of Lauderhill General Employees Retirement System

 City of Miramar Management Retirement Plan

 City of Miramar Police Officers’ Retirement Plan and Trust

 City of Dania Beach Police and Firefighters Retirement System

 South Florida Regional Planning Council

 Broward County Single Audit

 Broward County Supervisor of Elections

 Broward County Property Appraiser

 Palm Beach County

 South Broward Hospital District

 Miami-Dade County Public Schools

 Miami-Dade Water and Sewer

 School Board of Broward County

 Palm Beach School District

 Broward Education Foundation (School Board of Broward County Component Unit)

Professional and Civic Affiliations

 Leadership Hollywood Alumni

 Member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)

 Member of the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA)

Education and Licenses

Honors Graduate of the University of the West Indies with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting

Master of Business Administration from Florida International University

CPA licensed to practice in Florida

Heather has exceeded the CPE hours required by Government Auditing Standards

PARTNER, SUPERVISORY AND STAFF QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

ANNETTE E. LEWIS, CPA, MBA Consulting Manager

Professional Experience

Annette has over thirty years of combined governmental and public accounting experience. She has held Director of Finance positions with governmental entities and, in her transition to public accounting, has gained significant experience in providing audit, consulting and accounting services for governmental clients.

Annette has been with SDA for nineteen years.

Select Current and Former Governmental Experience

 Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County

 City of Riviera Beach Community Redevelopment Agency

 City of Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency

 School Board of Broward County

 Miami-Dade County Public Schools

 South Florida Regional Planning Council

 City of Miramar

 City of West Park

 City of Hollywood

 City of North Miami

 Florida A&M University Foundation (Florida A&M University DSO)

 FAMU Boosters (Florida A&M University DSO)

Professional and Civic Affiliations

 Member, South Florida Government Finance Officers and City Clerks Association

 Member, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)

 Member, Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA)

 Member, National Black MBA Association

Education and Licenses

Graduate of Boston College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting

Master of Business Administration from Florida International University

CPA licensed to practice in Florida

Annette has exceeded the CPE hours required by Government Auditing Standards

PARTNER, SUPERVISORY AND STAFF QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

JOY CHAMBERS-NICHOLAS, MBA Engagement Senior

Professional Experience

Joy is an auditor at S. Davis & Associates, P.A. She began her career with Mair Russell, a corresponding firm of Grant Thornton, LLP and has over ten (10) years of combined public and private experience in accounting, taxation and auditing.

Joy has been with SDA for nine years.

Selected Current and Former Governmental Experience

 Miami-Dade Expressway Authority

 City of Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency

 South Florida Regional Planning Council

 School Board of Broward County

 Florida Atlantic University Research Corporation (Florida Atlantic University DSO)

 City of Deerfield Beach

 City of Pompano Beach

 City of West Park

 City of Hollywood

 City of Miramar Pension Trust for General Employees

 City of Miramar Management Retirement Plan

 City of Miramar Police Officers’ Retirement Plan and Trust

 City of Lauderhill General Employees Retirement System

Professional and Civic Affiliations

 Member, South Florida Government Finance Officers and City Clerks Association

 Member, Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA)

Education and Licenses

Graduate of the University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and Management

Masters Degree in Accounting from Western Governors University

Joy has exceeded the CPE hours required by Government Auditing Standards

PARTNER, SUPERVISORY AND STAFF QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

CONTINUITY AND QUALITY OF STAFF

The key is to provide adequate staffing by qualified, knowledgeable, experienced auditors. We believe the anticipated audit team made up of 2 partners, 2 managers, a senior and 1-2 staff will amply divide work/tasks so that your audit is efficient, sufficient and completed on time. Supervisory staff (partners, managers and senior) will provide over 50% of the hours on the engagement and all have many years of governmental audit experience.

Staff quality will be maintained throughout the term of the agreement. Turnover of our audit staff is very low, with the average tenure being over ten (10) years. The average tenure of your key team members is over twenty (20) years. It is the firm’s policy to keep the key engagement team members intact for multiyear assignments. Although never anticipated, if a change of any personnel should become necessary, the DDA will be advised in time for pre-approval of such. Partners are rotated every five years based on the duration of the contract assignment and the wishes of the client. Staff continuity allows us to maintain efficiencies as well as ensure that the team has a thorough knowledge and understanding of the client and the client’s environment.

SIMILAR ENGAGEMENTS WITH OTHER GOVERNMENTS

TOP FIVE ENGAGEMENTS IN LAST FIVE YEARS

Housing Finance Authority of Broward County

110 NE 3 Street, Suite 300

Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301

Norman Howard, Manager nhoward@broward.org

(954) 357-4925

Port of Palm Beach District

1 East 11th Street, Suite 600 Riviera Beach, Florida 33404

Daniel Kirchman, Controller dkirchman@portofpalmbeach.com

(561) 383-4129

The School Board of Broward County

600 SE 3 Avenue

Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301

Joris Jabouin, Chief Auditor

Joris.Jabouin@browardschools.com

(754) 321-2400

City of Lauderhill

5581 W. Oakland Park Boulevard

Lauderhill, Florida 33313

Karen Pottinger, Assistant Finance Director

kpottinger@lauderhill-fl.gov

(954) 730-3046

City of West Park

1965 S. State Road 7 West Park, Florida 33023

W. Ajibola Balogun, City Manager abalogun@cityofwestpark.org

(954) 989-2688

Financial Statement Audit, Single Audit, ACFR

Performance Audit, Agreedupon Procedures, Consulting, Single Audit

Financial Statement Audit, Single Audit, Special-purpose Reports (NTD), CRA Audit

Financial Statement Audit, Single Audit, Contract Compliance, Special-purpose Reports (NTD)

annually, depending on scope of services

previous contracts from 1999-2009

SIMILAR ENGAGEMENTS WITH OTHER GOVERNMENTS

OTHER RELEVANT EXPERIENCE

SDA has performed numerous governmental financial statement audits, single audits, and related services as lead auditors. Current and former governmental clients as lead (prime) auditor include (but are not limited to):

* - services performed within the last five (5) years

^ - terminated in last five (5) years; end of contract

SPECIFIC AUDIT APPROACH

PROPOSED AUDIT SEGMENTATION

Our risk-based audit will be conducted in four phases:

PHASE I

Strategic Plan

PHASE II

Interim

PHASE III

Final

• Gain an Understanding of the Operations and Internal Controls

• Develop the Overall Audit Plan

• Develop Audit Programs

• Information Technology Testing

PHASE IV

Completion & Reporting

• Interim Work, including Tests of Controls and Specific Account Balances

• Tests of Compliance with Laws, Rules, Regulations, Contracts and Grant Agreements

• Final Year-End Work, including Substantive Testing of Account Balances and Evaluation of Results

• Federal and State Single Audit Testing and Evaluations of Results, as applicable

• Review and Discuss Financial Statement Drafts

• Prepare Auditor’s Reports

• Discuss Results of the Audits and Management Letters, if any

• Conduct Exit Conferences

• Review and discuss the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (“ACFR”)

• Present Audit Results

• Complete applicable sections and certify the Federal Single Audit Data Collection Form, if single audit performed

Phase I – Strategic Plan

Our engagement will be planned and carried out with sensitivity towards not overburdening the DDA’s staff. We will commence immediately after notification of our selection as the DDA’s auditors and will include the following procedures:

 Meet with the key DDA personnel to gain an understanding of accounting principles and procedures used, reporting requirements, budgeting, planning and closing schedules. We will agree on audit timelines and deliverables. DDA personnel will be provided with an agenda prior to this planning meeting;

SPECIFIC AUDIT APPROACH

 Review the predecessor auditor’s reports and work papers;

 Evaluate the internal control structure, including the control environment, by conducting interviews with your personnel and by obtaining copies of organizational charts, budgets, employee manuals, and other relevant documentation;

 Evaluate computer/accounting system controls;

 Review applicable laws, regulations, contracts and grant agreements;

 Perform risk assessments pertinent to the financial statement audit and single audit(s) (if single audit thresholds are met);

 Develop detailed audit programs that allocate elements of the time budget to various audit areas, including determining audit samples, based on the results of risk assessments performed; and

 Plan the engagement to meet the DDA’s deadline for issuance of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR).

The planning phase of the audit is spent laying a good foundation for the remaining phases of audit by ensuring we have a good understanding of the DDA’s operations, internal controls and audit risk areas with which to develop the overall audit plan.

Phases II & III – Interim and Final

Our interim and year-end work will involve updating and completing our audit of the data used to test balances and compliance for the completion and rendering of our report. As a result of our inquiries and risk assessments performed during planning, the majority of the accounting and reporting problems (if any) will have been identified, the completion of the engagement will be efficient and we will be on course to issue and distribute the ACFR by the established deadlines.

We will perform the following procedures for all reporting units based on established risks:

 Analysis, confirmation, and tests of accounts;

 Analytical review of the certain accounts;

 Performance of substantive testing;

 Tests of controls and compliance including controls of the DDA’s computer environment;

 Tests of compliance with applicable laws, regulations, contracts, and grant agreements;

 Test of compliance with federal and state requirements as it relates to major programs in accordance with the Uniform Guidance and major projects in accordance with the Florida Single Audit Act, as applicable;

 Performance of such other procedures as will be required to render an opinion on the financial statements, notes to the financial statements, and compliance matters, including the single audit(s), as applicable; and

 Review of our findings, comments and conclusions regarding financial operations, internal controls and compliance which may be relevant for the Management Letter before issuance.

Our approach will be based on a thorough, up-to-date understanding of the accounting and compliance issues and the operations thereof. The approach directly links governmental industry regulations, business environmental factors, analytical review results, and our internal control evaluation to specific accounts and transactions. We provide all staff with laptop computers that use up-to-date auditing software, including but not limited to EDP software, which enables them to audit client records in a timely and efficient manner.

SPECIFIC AUDIT APPROACH

We will utilize our consulting and information technology resources as deemed necessary in auditing your computer environment as it specifically relates to significant audit areas, to further enhance the timeliness and efficiency of your audit. Through the use of information technology tools, the audit team will assess risk related to your computer environment, and evaluate and test your pertinent computer systems, including physical controls. We will use recognized leading audit software tools to perform computer-assisted auditing techniques to clerically test and age data files, select audit samples, and test calculations as well as to stratify data and perform exception reporting.

We will request the assistance of the DDA’s personnel to prepare audit schedules and confirmations, follow up on confirmation requests, locate audit support documentation, provide supporting data requested, and inform us of any issues or concerns. A preliminary list of items requested will be provided to the DDA prior to interim work with a revised list to be provided as we gain a better understanding of the DDA.

Phase IV - Final

In the final phase of our audit, much of our time will be spent with finance department management to discuss financial reporting and the results of the audit. We will perform the following:

 Review and discuss draft and final financial statements (including the MD&A, statistical information and the transmittal letter, as required), single audit(s), and applicable notes covered by the auditor’s opinions;

 Review auditor’s comments and conclusions regarding internal controls;

 Review management responses to findings in the single audit(s) and in the State of Florida management letter, if any;

 Meet with Board of Directors, individually, to discuss the results of the audit;

 Issue auditors reports for the ACFR;

 Present the final ACFR and Executive Summary of results of the audit to the Board of Directors, and

 Complete the Auditor’s sections and certify the Federal Single Audit Data Collection Form.

STAFFING ASSIGNMENTS AND LEVELS

From partner to staff, all personnel levels will be assigned to each segment of the audit. The engagement partner, manager and senior will, primarily, be responsible for interim work including preliminary review and planning, with assistance from staff. Senior and staff will spend 100% of their scheduled time performing interim and year end fieldwork. During this time, the engagement partner and the engagement manager will be on-site for supervision, review and technical assistance, as needed. The Quality Review Partner will be scheduled to conduct reviews throughout the audit process and the Consulting Manager will be a technical resource to the Team as necessary. The partners, engagement manager and senior will all be heavily involved in year-end reporting. When not already on-site, partners’ time can be arranged to participate in all meetings and conference calls deemed necessary to answer questions and resolve any issues that may arise during the performance of the audit. Estimated hours by segment and staff category are as follows:

SPECIFIC AUDIT APPROACH

ANALYTICAL PROCEDURES

Based on the results of the DDA’s audited financial statements for fiscal year ended September 30, 2022, it is likely that analytical procedures may be performed on the following areas pending the results of risk assessments SDA performs:

 Investments – investment earnings (interest, gains/losses);

 Capital assets – right to use lease asset and related amortization; accumulated depreciation/depreciation expense;

 Accrued liabilities – payroll, payroll-related, other accrued expenses;

 Long-term liabilities – lease liability;

 Revenue – property tax

 Expenditures – administrative, public realm maintenance, business development

 Financial statements – final conditions assessment on financial statements as a whole.

During interim, we will perform preliminary analytical review procedures, primarily comparing current and prior year account balances and will ask the DDA to provide explanations for significant variances. Also during the interim phase, we will make a better determination of the areas that will, in fact, be subject to year-end analytical procedures. Final analytical review procedures, including year to year comparisons and financial ratios, will be performed during year-end fieldwork.

APPROACH FOR DETERMINATION OF INTERNAL CONTROL STRUCTURE

In order to gain and document our understanding of internal control related to, both, the financial statement and the single audit(s), the following procedures will be performed, at a minimum:

 Review documents including, but not limited to, organizational charts, operations manuals, finance/accounting manuals and administrative procedures;

 Prepare questionnaires and/or forms to elicit written responses to document internal control processes prior to conducting staff interviews;

 Interview staff, including management, and other personnel involved in the operations of the DDA;

 Document unwritten procedures performed by personnel;

 Compare written and unwritten process and procedures; and

 Perform walk-throughs.

SPECIFIC AUDIT APPROACH

APPROACH TO DETERMINE LAWS AND REGULATIONS

After meeting with key DDA personnel and performing procedures noted above, we will take additional steps to ensure that those federal, state and local laws and rules that are applicable to the scope will be included in testing procedures. We keep abreast of laws and regulations relating to governmental entities. We will review applicable Florida Statutes, Rules of the Auditor General, Uniform Guidance, the State Single Audit Act, DDA ordinances and other documents, and rules of regulating and authoritative bodies to determine those rules, laws and regulations applicable to the DDA for testing.

APPROACH TO DETERMINING AUDIT SAMPLES

Using information gained during the planning phase, we will plan risk-based financial and single audits and develop our audit programs. The financial statement audit will include tests of account balances, tests of significant and effective controls, and tests of applicable laws, regulations, contracts and grant agreements.

Statistical methods will be used throughout the engagement and a random number generator will, typically, be employed to select individual sample items. Sample sizes for tests of account balances will be determined by our risk assessments, the dollar value of the total population, and the level of assurance desired. Sample sizes for tests of controls and compliance for both the financial statement audit and the single audit(s) will, typically, range from 25 to 40 items based on the results of risk assessments and the level of assurance desired. Tests performed for the single audit are compliance in nature, and will follow federal and state guidelines. Statistical sampling will be used to test most significant audit areas.

PROCEDURES FOR REPORTING FRAUD, ILLEGAL ACTS, INTERNAL CONTROL DEFICIENCIES

Immediate verbal notification will be given to the Director of Administration and Executive Director, as appropriate, for any fraud or suspicions of fraud, other illegal acts and irregularities. After proper vetting and additional testing, all findings of fraud, illegal acts or other irregularities, will be communicated in writing to the Director of Administration, Executive Director, Board of Directors and the DDA’s attorney and disclosed in the audit reporting package.

MANAGEMENT LETTER COMMENTS

SDA will review and discuss previous years’ findings and management letter comments to determine current year status. If the results of current year testing yield potential findings or management letter comments, they will be properly vetted and discussed with management prior to potential inclusion in the final audit reporting package. Management responses will be requested for all findings and comments to be included in the final report.

ENGAGEMENT PROGRESS

The engagement partner and manager will be personally engaged and maintain contact with the audit team, coordinate ongoing work and advise management of the DDA on the status of the engagement. It is SDA’s practice to have weekly status update meetings with finance management and we expect to do so with the DDA’s Director of Administration throughout the engagement.

COST AND PRICE INFORMATION

We strive to keep our fees at a reasonable level consistent with the highest professional standards. We will use audit sampling and the DDA’s personnel as a resource in an effort to curtail costs. In light of the structure of SDA, and because we understand how the national, state and local economies have impacted

SPECIFIC AUDIT APPROACH

all governmental entities, our proposed audit engagement fees on the “Fee Information” form are discounted.

PROPOSED AUDIT TIMETABLE

The following table charts a proposed course for a successful and efficient audit for fiscal years ending 2023 and forward and enables us to meet your needs and make your deadlines.

Procedure

Oct/ Nov Jan Feb Mar

Planning

Entrance Conference

Risk Assessments, Understanding and Testing

Internal Control

Detailed Audit Plan

Submit List of Required Schedules

Circulate Confirmations

Preliminary Audit

Progress Conferences

Year End Entrance Conference

Year End Substantive Testing

Exit Conference

Review Drafts of Financial Statements & Notes, Single Audit Reporting, Management Letter

Issue Auditors Reports

Review Draft of Complete ACFR

Finalize ACFR

Discuss Results of Audit with Board of Directors, individually

Present Complete ACFR and Executive

Summary to Board of Directors

Complete Auditor’s Section of Data Collection

Form and Certify, if Federal Single Audit

Required

IDENTIFICATION OF SPECIFIC AUDIT PROBLEMS

The SDA team will work with the DDA to resolve any issues that may arise. That said, SDA does not foresee any potential audit problems for this engagement; however, if problems occur during the course of the audit, we will immediately discuss them with finance management/Director of Administration to properly vet and resolve the issue and, depending on the complexity or severity, also discuss it with the Executive Director to come to a resolution.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL AUDIT SERVICES

A. Instructions: Please indicate the cost as per Section 8:

B. All prices submitted are to be listed below. Prices quoted should be in unit of measure shown.

Hourly rates for additional professional services:

Partner

Senior Manager

Senior Auditor

Staff Auditor

The undersigned certifies that he/she has the ability to sign and bind the firm or company to the services to be performed within the fees proposed.

Signature Title Date Signed Printed Name Firm or Company

MEMO

TO: DDA Board

Rick Reikenis, Chairman

William Jacobson, Vice Chairman

Samantha Bratter

Varisa Lall Dass

Tim Harris

Daryl Houston

Bob Sanders

FROM:

Teneka James-Feaman

RE: Third Extension to Piggy-back Agreement with Circuit Transit, Inc.

DATE: Tuesday, September 19, 2023

The DDA entered into an agreement with Circuit Transit in August of 2021, via a “piggyback” on their contract with Pompano Beach and extended the agreement for an additional year in 2022. Since that time, Circuit has proven to be an effective and efficient way for residents and visitors to get around the downtown area. Brightline Trains has continued to merge their program with the Downtown Development Authority to maximize the available fleet of vehicles in the downtown area. Also, in the past year of this agreement, the city has also provided additional transportation services via RideWPB in the downtown area, Northwood, and Northwest communities, as well as the addition of a fixed route.

The agreement with Circuit Transit expires on September 30th, 2023. Based on the success of the program and its growing popularity with stakeholders, it is recommended that the DDA enter into a third extension of the piggy-back agreement to commence October 1, 2023, through April 15, 2024.

THIRD EXTENSION TO AGREEMENT

West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority Contractor: Circuit Transit, Inc.

Piggy-back Agreement:

City of Pompano Beach RFP # P-29-20

This Third Extension of that certain Piggy-back Agreement (the “Agreement”), dated August 4, 2021 by and between Circuit Transit, Inc. a Florida Corporation with offices located at 777 S. Flagler Drive, Suite 800 W, West Palm Beach, FL 33401 (hereinafter “Contractor”) and the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority, an Independent Special District, with offices located at 107 South Olive Avenue, Suite 200, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401 (hereinafter “DDA”) is hereby entered into this 19th day of September, 2023.

WITNESSETH:

DDA and Contractor, in consideration of the mutual covenants contained herein and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and value of which is hereby acknowledged by both parties, hereby agree to extend the term of the Agreement, as follows:

Section 1. Paragraph 1. of the Agreement is hereby repealed and replaced in its entirety such that it shall hereafter read as follows:

1. DDA and Contractor both hereby agree to enter into this Agreement for Micro-Transit Transportation Services by piggy-backing unit rates and service pricing rates as set forth in the agreement between the City of Pompano Beach and the Contractor dated February 23, 2021 (the “Piggy-back Agreement”). This Agreement is effective on the date first written above with transportation services to run for a term commencing on October 1, 2023 and terminating on April 15, 2024, subject to the same terms and conditions set forth in the Piggy-back Agreement and as modified in this Agreement.

Section 2. Paragraph 6. of the Agreement is hereby repealed and replaced in its entirety such that it shall hereafter read as follows:

6.Contractor shall provide Micro-Transit Transportation Services as outlined in Exhibit “B” and DDA shall pay Contractor the Contract Price of $324,000 in accordance with the Contractor’s RFP Response, in conformance with the Piggy-back Agreement, for the specific services requested by the DDA. The Contract Price to be paid to Contractor shall be divided into equal payments of up to $35,000 per month beginning on October 1, 2023 through April 15, 2024, subject to any additional credits for advertising and ridership fare revenue that may be applied for the benefit of DDA

Section 3. All the terms and conditions set forth in the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect except as specifically amended by the First Extension. No modification shall be made to this Third Extension unless such modification is in writing and signed by both parties.

WITNESSES: Contractor: James Mirras, President

WITNESSES: DDA: Raphael Clemente, Executive Director

Approved as to form and legal sufficiency

R. Max Lohman, General Counsel