HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-11-14 TC Agenda Packet
Mission Statement
Westlake is a unique community blending preservation of our natural environment and
viewscapes, while serving our residents and businesses with superior municipal and academic
services that are accessible, efficient, cost-effective, and transparent.
Westlake, Texas – “One-of-a-kind community; natural oasis – providing
an exceptional level of service.”
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TOWN OF WESTLAKE, TEXAS
Vision Statement
An oasis of natural beauty that maintains our open spaces in balance with distinctive
development, trails, and quality of life amenities amidst an ever expanding urban landscape.
TOWN COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING
AGENDA
August 11, 2014
WESTLAKE TOWN HALL
3 VILLAGE CIRCLE, 2ND FLOOR
WESTLAKE, TX 76262
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
Special Session: 6:30 p.m.
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Special Session
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 14-23 APPROVING THE
FIRM OF WEAVER, L.L.P. TO PERFORM THE TOWN OF WESTLAKE’S AUDIT FOR
A 3-YEAR PERIOD WITH THE OPTION OF 2 ADDITIONAL YEARS AND
AUTHORIZING THE FINANCE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE THE FY 2013-2014 AND
SUBSEQUENT ENGAGEMENT LETTERS ON BEHALF OF THE TOWN OF WESTLAKE.
3. ADJOURNMENT
ANY ITEM ON THIS POSTED AGENDA COULD BE DISCUSSED IN EXECUTIVE SESSION
AS LONG AS IT IS WITHIN ONE OF THE PERMITTED CATEGORIES UNDER SECTIONS
551.071 THROUGH 551.076 AND SECTION 551.087 OF THE TEXAS GOVERNMENT
CODE.
CERTIFICATION
I certify that the above notice was posted at the Town Hall of the Town of Westlake, 3 Village Circle,
August 6, 2014, by 5:00 p.m. under the Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code.
_____________________________________
Kelly Edwards, TRMC, Town Secretary
If you plan to attend this public meeting and have a disability that requires special needs, please advise
the Town Secretary 48 hours in advance at 817-490-5710 and reasonable accommodations will be made
to assist you.
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estlake Town Council
TYPE OF ACTION
Regular Meeting - Action Item
Westlake Town Council Meeting
Monday, August 11, 2014
TOPIC: Consider and approve the firm of Weaver, L.L.P. to perform the Town of
Westlake’s audit for a 3-year period with the option of 2 additional years
and authorizing the Finance Director to execute the FY 2013-2014 and
subsequent engagement letters on behalf of the Town of Westlake.
STAFF CONTACT: Debbie Piper, Finance Director
DECISION POINTS
Start Date Completion Date
Timeframe: 10/1/14 9/30/19
Funding: Amount - $27,000 Status- Funded Source- Multiple Sources - see
comments below
Allocation between the General Fund (70%), Utility Fund (15%) and the Visitors Association
Fund (15%)
Decision Alignment
VVM Perspective Desired Outcome
Service Excellence Financial
Stewardship
FS.Maintain Excellence in
Reporting and Financial
Standards
Strategic Issue Outcome
Strategy Staff Action
Fiscal Stewardship &
Organizational
Effectiveness
5. Budget according
to established
service level
provisions within
departments.
SA 09B1: Financial Analysis
Strategy Map or VVM Connection
Strategic Issue Connection
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
A “Request for Proposal” was published in the newspaper and posted on the Town’s website
with proposals to be received July 16, 2014. We received 4 proposals to perform the Town’s
audit. The references have been contacted with no negative feed-back on any of the firms. The
lowest proposal was from Belt Harris Pechacek, LLP from Houston. They have no presence in
the metroplex and office in Houston. Their firm only audits governmental entities and was
qualified to perform our audit, but the location of their offices was a detriment. There were
excellent comments made related to Weaver, LLP and the professional relationships formed with
the cities contacted. One of the contacts commented the Senior Manager who would be in
charge of our audit was very helpful in mentoring the staff as well as coming out to help with
specific problems, i.e. Fixed Assets, at no additional charge. The Finance Department has asked
for software to implement a Fixed Asset system that will interface with the general ledger in FY
14-15. We are currently using an excel spreadsheet and manually adding to the general ledger.
Weaver, LLP will be a great help with this endeavor. The firm has local offices and services
approximately 25 cities in Texas. Several of the staff assigned to the Town have reviewed audits
submitted to the GFOA Certificate of Achievement program and will be helpful in implementing
new ideas to decrease the comments received. They are able to comply with the time constraints
of delivering the audit report and their fee appears reasonable. The fee is the same as our FY 12-
13 audit fee. (See attached analysis of fees)
ORGANIZATIONAL HISTORY/RECOMMENDATION
Weaver and Tidwell performed the Town’s audit previously, but increased their audit fee by
$7,500 when we received proposals; therefore, we selected Pattillo, Brown & Hill, LLP to
perform subsequent audits.
Recommend the Town Council approve the firm of Weaver, LLP to perform the Town of
Westlake’s audit for a 3-year period with the option of 2 additional years and authorize the
Finance Director to execute the FY 2013-2014 and subsequent engagement letters on behalf of
the Town.
ATTACHMENTS
Analysis of Fees
Resolution
Exhibit A Proposal
Firm
FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2018
Weaver, LLP 27,000$ 27,675$ 28,350$ 29,050$ 29,750$
Whitley Penn 40,100 40,100 40,100 40,100 40,100
Pattillo, Brown & Hill 27,000 27,000 27,000 27,500 27,500
Belt Harris Pechacek, LLP 26,000 26,260 26,523 26,788 27,056
FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2018
Weaver, LLP 12,500$ 12,800$ 13,100$ 13,400$ 13,750$
Whitley Penn 28,225 28,225 28,225 28,225 28,225
Pattillo, Brown & Hill 12,500 12,500 12,500 12,750 12,750
Belt Harris Pechacek, LLP 14,900 15,049 15,199 15,351 15,505
FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2018
Weaver, LLP 3,500$ 3,600$ 3,700$ 3,800$ 3,900$
500 525 550 575 600
Whitley Penn 12,800 12,800 12,800 12,800 12,800
Pattillo, Brown & Hill 3,500 3,500 3,500 3,500 3,500
Belt Harris Pechacek, LLP 4,100 4,141 4,182 4,224 4,266
FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2018
Weaver, LLP
5,000$ 5,050$ 5,101$ 5,152$ 5,203$
10,500 10,605 10,711 10,818 10,926
10,500 10,605 10,711 10,818 10,926
10,500 10,605 10,711 10,818 10,926
10,500 10,605 10,711 10,818 10,926
47,000 47,470 47,945 48,424 48,907
Whitley Penn 38,100$ 38,100$ 38,100$ 38,100$ 38,100$
Pattillo, Brown & Hill 50,000 50,000 50,000 51,500 51,500
Belt Harris Pechacek, LLP
4,100$ 4,141$ 5,250$ 5,375$ 5,500$
10,000 10,025 10,500 10,750 11,000
10,000 10,025 10,500 10,750 11,000
10,000 10,025 10,500 10,750 11,000
10,000 10,025 10,500 10,750 11,000
44,100 44,241 47,250 48,375 49,500
TSH
TOWN OF WESTLAKE AND ENTITIES
AUDIT PROPOSAL ANALYSIS
Town
Academy
Foundation
Resolution 14-23
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TOWN OF WESTLAKE
RESOLUTION NO. 14 -23
A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN OF WESTLAKE, TEXAS APPROVING THE FIRM
OF WEAVER, L.L.P. TO PERFORM THE TOWN OF WESTLAKE’S AUDIT FOR A 3-
YEAR PERIOD WITH THE OPTION OF 2 ADDITIONAL YEARS AND AUTHORIZING
THE FINANCE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE THE FY 2013-2014 AND SUBSEQUENT
ENGAGEMENT LETTERS ON BEHALF OF THE TOWN OF WESTLAKE.
WHEREAS, Section 103.001 of the Local Government Code requires that a municipality
shall have its records and accounts audited annually and shall have an annual financial statement
prepared based on the audit; and
WHEREAS, Section 103.002 of the Local Government Code requires that a municipality
shall employ at its own expense a certified public accountant who is licensed in this state or a
public accountant who holds a permit to practice from the Texas State Board of Public
Accountancy to conduct the audit and to prepare the annual financial statements, and
WHEREAS, the Town Council is committed to the financial stability of the Town of
Westlake and feel it is in the best interest of the citizens to obtain the services of this firm to
perform the Town’s audits as set forth above; and
WHEREAS, the funds to facilitate the audit will be included in the proposed FY
2014/2015.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN
OF WESTLAKE, TEXAS AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1: That t he recitals set forth above in this Resolution are true and correct and
are hereby adopted as findings of the Town Council and are incorporated into the body of this
Resolution as if fully set forth herein.
SECTION 2: The Town Council of the Town of Westlake, Texas, does hereby approve
the firm of Weaver, L.L.P. to perform the Town’s audit for a 3-year period attached, as Exhibit
“A”, with t he option of 2 additional years and authorizes the Finance Director to execute the FY
2013-2014 and subsequent engagement letters on behalf of the Town of Westlake, Texas.
SECTION 3: If any portion of this Resolution shall, for any reason, be declared invalid by
any court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity shall not affect the remaining provisions hereof
and the Council hereby determines that it would have adopted this Resolution without the invalid
provision.
Resolution 14-23
Page 2 of 2
SECTION 4: This Resolution shall become effective upon the date of its passage.
PASSED AND APPROVED ON THIS 11th DAY OF AUGUST, 2014.
___________________________________
Laura Wheat, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________ __________________________________
Kelly Edwards, Secretary Tom Brymer , Town Manager
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_________________________________
L. Stanton Lowry, Town Attorney
July 16, 2014 Presented to:
Town of Westlake
Entities
Presented by:
Jerry Gaither, CPA, CGFM
Partner, Assurance Services
972.448.6918| jerry.gaither@weaver.com
Weaver
12221 Merit Drive, Suite 1400
Dallas, Texas 75251
www.weaver.com
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page i
Proposal for Professional Audit Services (RFP #14-20) City of Westlake, Texas
WEAVER AND TIDWELL L.L.P.
CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS AND CONSULTANTS
12221 MERIT DRIVE, SUITE 1400, DALLAS, TX 75251 P: (972) 490 1970 F: (972) 702 8321
Transmittal Letter July 16, 2014
Ms. Debbie Piper, CPA
Finance Director
Town of Westlake
3 Village Circle, Suite 202
Westlake, Texas 76262
RE: Request for Proposals for Independent Audit Services
With this proposal, Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P., (Weaver) commits to providing financial auditing services for
the Town of Westlake and your associated entities. These audits will meet the requirements of your request
for proposals, including government auditing standards, the U.S. Single Audit Act and Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-133, if required. We commit to offer you attentive personal
service from a locally based audit team, to furnish results and reports conforming to relevant standards and
your expectations, to work accurately and efficiently, and to meet your deadlines.
Why will the Town of Westlake get the best results from Weaver? We offer:
▪ A Texas-based firm. With offices in nearby Dallas and Fort Worth, as well as five other Texas
locations, Weaver has served Texas clients for almost 65 years. We have a deep understanding of
both economic and regulatory environments here.
▪ Experience in municipal environments. Weaver currently serves as auditor for more than 100 public-
sector clients, including 27 cities and towns. Through this work, we have grown familiar with the
complexities of governmental accounting and financial reporting.
▪ Commitment to ongoing communication. Frequent, effective and honest communication is critical
to a successful audit. Our partners and engagement team leadership remain accessible to you not
just throughout the engagement, but throughout the year.
▪ High-quality work and on-time delivery. Weaver’s reputation has been built on the quality of our
work and our ability to stay on schedule and on budget. We are dedicated to meeting the timelines
and other commitments set forth in our proposal.
Our goal is to provide you with more than just a financial and compliance audit. We want to offer the
support and guidance you need to maintain world-class financial operations — efficient, accurate and
secure, as required by a town like Westlake .
As Weaver’s partner on the engagement, I am authorized to contractually bind the firm; upon award, we
will furnish the certificates of insurance as requested in the RFP. This proposal is an irrevocable offer for a
period of 90 days from the RFP closing date. If you have any questions regarding this proposal or any other
matter, please do not hesitate to contact me directly at 972.448.6918 or via email at
jerry.gaither@weaver.com.
Sincerely,
Jerry L. Gaither
Engagement Partner
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page i
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake , Texas
Executive Summary
As a vibrant, growing Town that offers
exceptional services, Westlake needs an
auditor who understands your financial
challenges. You need a firm who
understands component units, charter
schools, nonprofit reporting and the
Government Finance Officers Association
(GFOA) award requirements — and one
who can provide the information you need
to make good decisions. You need a
responsive local auditor who can support
and guide you through changing standards,
rapidly evolving technology, and economic
cycles.
You need Weaver.
Weaver proposes to audit financial statements of the following
entities:
▪ Town of Westlake for the fiscal years ending September 30, 2014 through 2016
▪ Westlake Academy (blended component unit) for the fiscal years ending August 31, 2014 through
2016
▪ Westlake Academy Foundation (component unit of the Academy) for the fiscal years ending
August 31, 2014 through 2016
▪ Texas Student Housing Authority and each of the four Texas Student Housing projects (discretely
presented component units of the Town) for the fiscal years ending August 31, 2014 through 2016
The Town will have the option of extending the contract for the two subsequent years, through fiscal year
2018. The audits will be performed in accordance with Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS) as
set forth by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA); standards for financial audits set
forth in the U.S. General Accounting Office’s Government Auditing Standards (2011); and provisions of the
Single Audit Act of 1996 and U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-133, Audits of States,
Local Governments, and Non-Profit Organizations, if required.
Based on the results of the audit, we will express opinions on the fair presentation of each entity’s basic
financial statements and the accompanying supplementary information. We will perform specified
procedures on the required supplementary information each year. In addition, we will report on the Town’s
and Academy’s internal control over financial reporting and on its compliance with requirements
described in generally accepted government auditing standards (GAGAS). Weaver will report on the
Named to Inside Public
Accounting’s “BEST of the BEST
Firms” list (2012)
Largest independent accounting
firm in the Southwest
Ranked #6 on the 2013 Largest
North Texas Accounting Firms in
the Dallas Business Journal
Named an All-Star Firm and a
Fastest Growing Firm by INSIDE
Public Accounting (2013)
Independent membership in Baker
Tilly International, the world’s 8th
largest accounting firm network
FIRM OVERVIEW
Industry
Recognition
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page ii
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake , Texas
Town’s and Academy’s compliance with requirements applicable to each major program and internal
control over compliance in accordance with the Single Audit Act and OMB Circular A-133, if required.
In addition, Weaver will assist the Town in preparing a comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR) that
meets the requirements of the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Certificate of
Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. Our engagement team is very experienced with GFOA
requirements; in fact, every city John DeBurro, senior manager, has ever assisted in preparing its CAFR has
been awarded that Certificate of Achievement.
Why Weaver?
Experience
With a dedicated public sector practice composed of more
than 120 professionals — the largest industry practice within our
firm — Weaver understands the nuances and intricacies of
governmental operational structures, financials and reporting
requirements. Weaver provides audit services for more than 100
public sector clients across Texas, including 40 entities that
receive the GFOA award and more than 75 entities that receive
federal funding sufficient for a single audit.
The level of specialized knowledge we have developed over the past six decades is second to none, and
we will bring that full knowledge to bear in service of the Town’s goals. Leveraging best practices and
lessons learned from a wide variety of industries and organizations, we work to help you manage your
financial reporting requirements efficiently, so you can focus on continuing to provide services to the
businesses and citizens of Westlake.
Collaboration
At Weaver, success isn’t built on engagements, it’s built on relationships. We work to understand your
unique needs. With a strong focus on continuity and communication, we work to cultivate a lasting,
collaborative relationship with you. Our goal is not only to help the Town achieve your immediate audit
objectives, but also to lay the foundation for achieving your long term strategic goals. To that end, our
engagement partners provide much more than oversight and accountability during the audit — they
remain available to you throughout the year. We also provide timely technical updates and consultation to
ensure that you have the guidance and services necessary to help meet your changing needs over time.
This collaborative spirit truly sets Weaver apart from other firms.
Quality
We are proud of our high standards and quality work product. Our auditors are recognized for their insight
and ability to conduct both complex and relatively straightforward audits. Weaver professionals regularly
author and present papers at various industry conferences. No firm in Texas can match Weaver’s
experience and capabilities in providing audit services to Texas municipal entities.
Weaver is a member of the AICPA Governmental Audit Quality Center. We’ve also been a member of the
AICPA Center for Audit Quality since the inception of the program, and undergo an independent peer
review every three years to ensure we’re maintaining the highest standards possible. Weaver has received
the highest possible rating on every peer review completed to date.
Value
Weaver understands the importance of cost-effectiveness, especially for governmental entities. We also
know you don’t want to sacrifice quality in favor of controlling costs. That’s why we focus on providing true
value — ensuring that you get the highest degree of client service and quality with affordable fees. Our
depth of experience and ability to leverage resources from across the firm enables us to take a function-
specific approach: staffing the right resources at the right time, based on the tasks at hand. As a result, you
are assured cost-efficient services without sacrificing the quality that has become our hallmark.
Auditor of 5 of the 25 largest
cities in the state
Auditor of 10 of the 50 largest
cities in the state
Auditor of 16 of the 100 largest
cities in the state
Auditor of more top-100 Texas
cities than any other firm
Table of Contents
License to Practice in Texas 1
Firm Qualifications and Experience 2
Partner and Staff Qualifications and Experience 6
Continuing Professional Education 9
Similar Engagements with Other Government Entities 10
Specific Audit Approach 12
Scope 12
Town of Westlake Audit at a Glance 13
The Transition to Weaver: Making it Easy 14
CAFR Preparation 14
Implementation of Auditing Standards 15
Communication, Technical Assistance and Staff Support 15
Phase-by-Phase Audit Approach 15
Potential Audit Problems 23
Technical Assistance and Education Offered Our Clients 23
Tax Approach 24
Proposed Schedule 25
Concluding Remarks 27
Cost of Services Schedule 29
Appendix A: Engagement Team Resumes 31
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 1
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
License to Practice in Texas
Weaver is licensed to practice accountancy in Texas. All key staff assigned to the Town’s audit are properly
licensed to practice in Texas.
We are a registrant with the Texas State Board of Public
Accountancy under Section 14 of the Public
Accountancy Act of 1979, Texas Revised Civil Statutes,
Article 41a-1. A copy of our license is provided at right.
Each client-serving partner of the firm holds a certificate
as a Certified Public Accountant pursuant to that act, as
does each assigned key team member for your audit.
Information about each team member’s licenses and
certificates is provided within the resumes in
Appendix A.
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 2
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Firm Qualifications and
Experience
Size of the Firm
Weaver is a nationally recognized, Texas-based firm with
approximately 500 professionals and offices in seven major
Texas cities: Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, San
Antonio, Odessa and Midland.
We will manage and staff this audit from our Dallas office,
which has significant experience auditing towns like
Westlake. In addition, because of our closely integrated
offices and use of advanced technology, you will have
access to the resources of the entire firm.
Governmental Audit Staff
Weaver has a dedicated practice focused on public
sector entities across the state of Texas. It is one of the
largest industry practices in the firm, with more than 120
professionals serving more than 100 public sector clients. In
fact, public sector clients account for nearly 40 percent of
the firm’s audit revenue.
Specific Government and Charter School Auditing
Experience
Weaver serves as financial auditor for approximately 25
cities. Of the largest 100 cities in Texas (by population), we
audit 16, more than any other firm. (Data based on
published 2013 audited statements.)
In addition, we audit approximately 20 public school
districts, four charter schools, and numerous counties,
councils of governments, and various other local
governments. Our governmental practice is one of the
largest and most respected in Texas.
Other Services
In addition to audit services, we also provide public sector
clients with internal audits (both outsourced and co-
sourced), risk assessments, enterprise risk management
consulting, business process improvement, IT audits, data analytics and forensic accounting.
The benefits of this diverse experience are clear: Weaver professionals are well informed about the wide
array of issues our public sector clients face. Our broad and sustained experience enables us to take a
particularly thoughtful approach, balancing your short-term reporting needs with your long-term objectives.
Benefits to You
Because of Weaver’s depth of experience,
Westlake will gain the advantages of:
A knowledgeable engagement team
that can alert you to pending changes
and coach you through them
Professionals at every level who
understand Government Auditing
Standards
CAFR review by staff who sit on the
GFOA Special Review Committee for the
Certificate of Achievement for
Excellence in Financial Reporting
Practical guidance to help you work
more efficiently and ensure accuracy
Year-round access to consultation and
advice from well-informed industry
leaders
Free admission to Weaver’s annual day
of continuing professional education
designed specifically for our public-
sector clients
Confidence in the results of your audit
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 3
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
GFOA and CAFR Experience
The firm is the auditor of more than 40 entities who have
received the GFOA certificate of achievement in each
of the past two years. We are experienced with the
reporting requirements of the GFOA and have the
knowledge and experience to assist with reporting under
these requirements.
The firm has nine members of its staff who are currently
members of the Special Review Committee of the GFOA
that evaluate CAFRs for eligibility with Certificate of
Achievement Program requirements. Two of your audit
team members—Jerry Gaither and John DeBurro—are
members of this Special Review Committee.
One of these engagement team members who is also
on the Special Review Committee will review prior-year
GFOA comments and the Town’s CAFR for compliance
with GFOA requirements and standards.
Number and Nature of Staff Assigned to Westlake
Weaver takes a function-specific approach to engagement staffing: we focus on leveraging the right
resources at the right times, ensuring that teams are assigned based on the specific tasks required during
each of the audit phases, as well as the timing of those tasks. The resources for your engagement have
been chosen specifically for their broad understanding of public sector, utility and single audits, as well as
their technical ability, experience and management skills.
Partner Jerry Gaither, who has decades of experience leading government auditing engagements, will
serve as the engagement partner. In this role, he will be responsible for the overall management of the
engagement. Additional team members will include:
▪▪ Senior Manager John DeBurro (full-time)
▪▪ Senior Associate Meredith Churchill (full-time during field work)
▪▪ IT Advisory team members to assist in evaluating IT controls and security (part-time)
▪▪ Two audit associates (full-time during field work)
The senior manager and senior associate will oversee the work of the audit associates during interim and
final fieldwork.
We may also draw upon additional resources and key subject matter advisors at various stages of the
engagement. Our professionals have a broad range of public sector experience, knowledge and skills.
With this leveraged model, Weaver is able to offer the Town a fully customized team that can adjust
dynamically and quickly to meet your needs throughout all stages of the audit. It also enables us to provide
a holistic, multidisciplinary audit with added innovation, thought leadership and insight.
40 clients currently receiving
the GFOA Certificate of
Achievement
Nine members on the GFOA
special review committee
Two members of the SRC on the
engagement team
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 4
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Our Involvement in Professional Organizations
All of our technical staff are members of the AICPA, the Texas Society of CPAs (TSCPA), the Internal
Auditing Association (IIA), or other organizations appropriate to their professional focus. Many of them are
officers or committee chairs; some are frequently asked to make presentations at
industry conferences or other professional development opportunities. These
memberships and presentations are noted on individual staff members’ resumes.
Weaver professionals have served in notable state-wide or even national leadership
positions in our profession. Tommy Lawler, managing partner, is a former member of the
AICPA Technical Issues Committee, and in that position, he dealt with all FASB
pronouncements at the exposure draft stage.
Terry Ford, audit partner, is a member of the AICPA National Peer Review Committee, where he evaluates
member firms across the nation. Additionally, Greg Bailes, audit partner, is a past chair of the Texas State
Board of Public Accountancy (TSBPA) and currently serves on a committee of the National Association of
State Boards of Accountancy. David Duree, audit partner, is a former regional director of the National
Association of State Boards of Accountancy, a current member of the AICPA Auditing Standards Board
audit issues task force, and a past chair of the TSBPA.
Jerry Gaither is also a Certified Government Financial Manager and a former
member of the Technical Issues Committee of the AICPA as liaison to the
Governmental Accounting Standards Board. This not only provides him with
knowledge of new governmental standards before enactment, but also a role in
helping shape those standards.
Single Audit Experience
Due to the nature and size of our public-sector practice, we audit numerous entities that receive Federal
financial assistance. We audit more than 75 government and nonprofit organizations that require a single
audit under OMB Circular A-133. Of those, seven are multi-faceted entities that receive in excess of $50
million in federal financial assistance, with two in excess of $100 million.
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 5
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
External Quality Control Review
The AICPA’s Government Audit Quality Control Center (GAQC) is a voluntary membership center for CPA
firms and state audit organizations that perform governmental audits. Weaver has been a member since its
inception. Every three years, the firm engages an independent accounting firm to determine if our quality
control policies and procedures are suitably designed, and if our techniques for implementing these
policies and procedures comply with professional standards.
Each peer review has included a review of governmental audit engagements, as mandated by AICPA
standards and GAQC requirements.
Weaver has successfully
completed all peer reviews
to date. Our latest peer
review was performed in
September of 2013. Firms can
receive a rating of pass, pass
with deficiencies or fail. We
are pleased to report that
Weaver received the pass
rating. The latest report is
shown here.
Field and Desk Reviews
Three field reviews by the
Department of Health and
Human Services and the
Texas Education Agency
have been completed in the
last three years. There were
no findings. We have been
notified by the Department
of Health and Human
Services that our audit of
financial statements met
federal audit requirements
with no findings. We are not
aware of the number of
federal or state desk reviews
that have been performed
on our audits in the last three
years; however, no findings
have been communicated
to us.
Disciplinary Action
No disciplinary action has
ever been alleged and no
action is pending or has ever
been undertaken against the
firm by the SEC, AICPA, state
regulatory bodies or other
professional organizations.
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 6
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Partner and Staff Qualifications and Experience
At Weaver, we continually strive to bring you our best and brightest. Weaver engagement teams are marked
by continuity, cross-functional communication, leadership and stability—all important factors for any
engagement team to be effective. As mentioned previously, your engagement partner and managers
remain accessible to you not just during the engagement, but throughout the year.
This chart illustrates the team that will serve you:
Continuing Education Program Policy
Weaver’s continuing professional education policy requires that all staff comply with the continuing
professional education requirements of the PCAOB, AICPA, Texas State Board of Public Accountancy, and
other regulatory agencies. All professional staff receive at least 120 hours of continuing professional
education every three years, with a majority of this training in their industries of concentration. The
governmental audit staff is required by GAGAS to obtain 80 hours, with at least 24 hours relating to the
governmental audit environment, every two years. Each member of the engagement team has met the
GAGAS requirement.
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 7
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Policy Regarding Staff Rotation
We have a governmental engagement and practice planning process stressing experience and continuity
in the engagement team from year to year. Weaver is committed to providing continuity and will not
rotate partners or managers unless requested by the Town or required through advancement or promotion
of personnel. The depth of our governmental practice ensures the Town will have experienced
professionals from year to year.
Assignment of Auditing Staff and Changes in Auditing Staff
The individuals described in this proposal are the people who will actually do the work associated with the
Town’s audit. Weaver understands the Town reserves the right to approve any change to the assigned
staff, both before and during the engagement. Before implementing any personnel change, Weaver will
provide the resume of the proposed substitute, offer the Town an opportunity to interview that person and
allow the Town to approve or deny the change.
Commitment to Equal Employment Opportunity
Weaver is an equal-opportunity employer. In accordance with federal, state and local laws, we recruit,
hire, promote and evaluate all personnel without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin,
citizenship status, physical or mental disability, or past, present, or future status in the uniformed services of
the United States. Job applicants and present employees are evaluated solely on ability, experience, and
the requirements of the job.
Each employee is responsible for helping Weaver maintain a climate that provides equal opportunity for
all.
The objective of Weaver is to recruit, hire, promote and retain individuals who are the best qualified for
each specific position based solely on job-related criteria of education, training accomplished, experience
and personal qualifications. Any individual within the firm who has responsibility or input to personnel
decisions is responsible for compliance with this policy.
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 8
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Team Leadership
Jerry L. Gaither, CPA| Engagement Partner
Jerry has more than 36 years of experience auditing government entities and is the
partner-in-charge of Weaver’s public sector practice. With extensive experience
leading audit teams, Jerry brings specialized government industry knowledge to
each of his clients. In addition, he is responsible for developing Weaver’s audit
methodologies for financial auditing of government entities including cities, regional
governments and public school districts as well as single audits meeting the
requirements of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) A-133.
Jerry is licensed to practice as a Certified Public Accountant in Texas He is an
associate member of the Government Finance Officers Association and also serves
on the Special Review Committee. Jerry is a Certified Government Finance
Manager and a former member of the Technical Issues Committee of the American
Institute of Certified Public Accountants as liaison to the Governmental Accounting
Standards Board. With Jerry’s years of experience serving government entities and
involvement in standard setting bodies, Jerry’s clients have access to important
industry insights often before major changes happen. He graduated with a
bachelor’s of business administration degree in accounting from Texas Christian
University.
Shawn M. Parker, CPA| Quality Control Partner
Shawn has more than 25 years of experience in public accounting, 16 of which have
been with Weaver. As the partner-in-charge of assurance services for Weaver’s
Dallas location, he is responsible for overall growth and strategy for the local
department. Shawn’s practice emphasis is in auditing and accounting for
government entities, employee benefit plans, closely held businesses, nonprofit
organizations, municipalities and school districts. Serving on the Special Review
Committee for the Government Finance Officers Association, he brings specialized
technical knowledge and experience to his government clients.
Shawn is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and
the Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants. He is a frequent author of articles
for professional and business publications, providing valuable industry insights. Shawn
earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
John DeBurro, CPA | Audit Senior Manager
John will serve as audit engagement manager for the Town, leading day-to-day
work and overseeing audit staff. He will ensure regular communication with
management on the status of the audit and will provide technical assistance
relating to accounting issues.
John has more than 17 years of experience in public accounting, with a focus on
audits of municipalities and other government entities, including entities with
government-wide net position of more than $200 million. He also has experience
managing single audits that meet the requirements of the U.S. Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) A-133.
John is licensed to practice as a Certified Public Accountant in Texas. He is a regular
speaker at industry events, and a member of the Government Finance Officers
Association Special Review Committee. He graduated from New Hampshire College
with a master of science degree, and has a bachelor’s degree in business
administration from the University of New Hampshire. His recent public sector audit
experience includes the cities of Southlake, Wylie, Lewisville and Little Elm.
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 9
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Subject Matter Advisors
Marlon Williams, CPA, ACDA| Data Analytics SME
Marlon Williams has audited Texas governmental entities from the firm’s Dallas office
for the past 16 years. Marlon has been involved in various data-mining projects.
Marlon is licensed to practice as a Certified Public Accountant in Texas. He is also an
ACL Certified Data Analyst, evidence of his skill and experience analyzing large
volumes of computerized data. If needed, Marlon will apply these skills to mine and
efficiently analyze any large volumes of data needing to be examined at the Town.
Brittany Teare, CISA| IT SME
Brittany Teare will serve as an IT consultant to the audit team to test security and
ensure data integrity. Brittany is a manager in the firm’s IT audit services department;
she has almost a decade of experience providing IT audit and consulting services to
public sector and related entities. Her professional IT experience includes controls
testing performed in SAP, JD Edwards, Oracle Database, Microsoft Dynamics (Great
Plains), UNIX / LINUX, and Microsoft (SQL Server, Windows Server and Active
Directory) environments.
Continuing Professional Education
Weaver’s continuing professional education policy complies with the revised government auditing
standards requirement regarding formal education for professionals responsible for planning, conducting or
reporting on government audit engagements. The governmental audit staff is required by GAGAS to
obtain 80 hours of CPE every two years, with at least 24 hours relating to the governmental audit
environment. Specific CPE credits for the past three years for the key members of the proposed audit team
are summarized below:
Continuing Professional Education
(CPE) Credit Hours (Three Years)
Team Member Government Audit
Environment Total Hours
Jerry L. Gaither 87.0 123.5
Shawn Parker 51.5 128.0
John DeBurro 91.5 185.4
Meredith Churchill 35.5* 147.5
*From the past two years.
Staff Continuity
Weaver makes engagement team continuity a client service priority; we established a formal policy years
ago that states that continuity in engagement leadership should be maintained throughout a client
relationship unless client interests indicate otherwise. This has proven to be a true differentiator for Weaver.
We are committed to providing continuity for the Town, and will not rotate partners, managers or other
supervisory staff unless the Town requests a change, or a change becomes necessary as a result of staff
being promoted, leaving the firm or being assigned to another office. In these cases, Weaver will obtain
prior express written permission from the Town , and will provide the Town with a resume of the proposed
replacement team member.
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 10
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Similar Engagements with Other Government
Entities
The table below provides details regarding five similar engagements completed within the past three years
by Weaver’s Dallas office. We currently audit several cities and towns similar to Westlake that have both
blended and discretely presented component units as part of the reporting entity.
Weaver also audits four charter schools: Dallas Can Academy, Midland Academy Charter School, Lena
Pope–Chapel Hill Academy, and TLC Academy, with annual audits ranging from 200 to 500 hours.
Client Partner Contact Scope of Work Dates Audit
Hours
City of Southlake
Jerry
Gaither
Ms. Sharon Jackson
Director of Finance
817.748.8042
Annual financial and
compliance audits,
including AUP for Southlake
Tennis Center and GFOA
submission
1997–
present
600
hours/
year
Town of Little Elm
Jerry
Gaither
Mr. Alan Dickerson
Finance Director
214.975.0415
Annual financial and
compliance audits,
including single audit, block
grants and GFOA
submission
2012 –
present
450
hours/
year
City of Wylie
Jerry
Gaither
Ms. Linda Bantz
Finance Director
972.516.6122
Annual financial and
compliance audits,
including single audit and
GFOA submission
2008–
present
500
hours/
years
City of Lewisville
Jerry
Gaither
Ms. Brenda Martin
Finance Director
972.219.3775
Annual financial and
compliance audits,
including single audit and
GFOA submission
2013–
present
600
hours/
year
Plano ISD
Jerry
Gaither
Mr. Richard Matkin
Assoc. Supt. for
Business Services
469.752.8122
Annual financial and
compliance audits,
including single audit and
GFOA submission; forensic
investigations
2007–
present
800
hours/
year
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 11
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
In addition to these references, below is a partial list of public sector clients for whom Weaver has provided
audit services:
Municipalities
City of Allen, Texas*/+
City of Benbrook, Texas*
City of Bryan, Texas*/+/#
City of Cedar Hill*/+
City of Denton*/+/#
City of Euless, Texas*/+
City of Friendswood*/+
City of Galveston*/+
City of Grand Prairie*/+
City of Houston#
City of Killeen*/+
City of McKinney*/+/#
City of Midlothian, Texas+
City of Rowlett+
City of Saginaw, Texas*
City of Sanger, Texas
City of Southlake, Texas*/#/+
City of Springtown, Texas*
City of University Park*/+
City of Wylie*/+
Town of Addison, Texas*/#/+
Town of Little Elm*/+
Town of Highland Park, Texas*/+
Town of Trophy Club+
Local & County Entities
Bethany Special Utility District
Central Texas Council of
Governments*/+
Dallas County#
Denton County Transit Authority*/+
East Texas Council of
Governments*/+
Edwards Aquifer Authority*
Ellis County Rural Rail Transport
Emergency Communication District
of Ector Co.
Fort Worth Transportation Authority*
Houston Galveston Council of
Governments#
Lake Cities Municipal Utility Authority
Lubbock Housing Authority*
MHMR of Tarrant County*
Monahans Housing Authority*
North Central Texas Council of
Governments*/#/+
North Texas Municipal Water
District#
Odessa Housing Authority*
Odessa Development Corporation
Pecos County TJPC
Reeves County Commissary Funds
Reeves County TJPC
Region XI Education Service
Center#
Tarrant Appraisal District
Tarrant County College*
Tarrant County Emergency Services
District No. 10
Tarrant County Tax Collectors
Office#
Tarrant Regional Water District#
Texas Coalition for Affordable Power
Texas Municipal Power Agency+
Trinity River Authority+
Williamson County */+
State Entities
Employee Retirement System of
Texas#
Texas Adjutant General’s Office
Texas Department of Insurance#
Texas Lottery Commission
Texas Permanent School Fund
Texas State Auditor's Office
Educational Entities
Burleson ISD*/+
Cedar Hill ISD*
Conroe ISD*/+
Dallas County Schools
Fort Worth ISD*/+/#
Frisco ISD#/*/+
Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD*/+
Higher Education Servicing
Corporation#
Highland Park ISD*/+
Irving ISD*/+/#
Keller ISD Education Foundation, Inc.
Keller ISD*/+
La Porte ISD*/+
Laredo ISD */+
Mesquite ISD*
Midland ISD*
Montgomery ISD */+
North Texas Higher Education
Authority
Northside ISD*/+
Plano ISD*/+
Rockwall ISD*
Tarrant County College District*/+/#
Legend
* A-133 Single Audits
+ Recipients of GFOA Award for Excellence in Financial Reporting
# Internal Control and/or IT Audit Experience
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 12
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Specific Audit Approach
Scope
Weaver will conduct an annual financial audit of the Town’s financial statements and a single audit of
federal grants, if required, for the fiscal years ending September 30, 2014, through 2016.
We will also conduct annual financial audits of the following entities for the fiscal years ending August 31,
2014, through 2016:
▪ Westlake Academy
▪ Westlake Academy Foundation
▪ Texas Student Housing Authority (TSHA)
▪ TSHA Ballpark Austin Project
▪ TSHA Town Lake Austin Project
▪ TSHA College Station Project
▪ TSHA The Ridge at North Texas Project
The audits will be performed in accordance with GAAS as set forth by the AICPA; U.S. General Accounting
Office’s Government Auditing Standards; and provisions of the Single Audit Act of 1996 and OMB Circular
A-133, Audits of States, Local Governments, and Non-Profit Organizations, if required.
Based on the results of the audit, Weaver will express opinions on the fair presentation of each of the
Westlake Entities’ basic financial statements and the accompanying supplementary information, in
relation to the basic financial statements as a whole for conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles. We will perform specified procedures on the required supplementary information each year.
Weaver will also report on each entity’s internal control over financial reporting and on its compliance with
certain provisions of laws, regulations, contracts and grant agreements and other matters for the year
being audited, in accordance with generally accepted government auditing standards (GAGAS).
Finally, Weaver will report on each of the Westlak e Entities’ compliance with requirements applicable to
each major program and internal control over compliance in accordance with the Single Audit Act and
OMB Circular A-133, if required.
Weaver will make immediate, written report to governance (audit committee chair, Town manager,
finance director, or executive director) of any suspected irregularity or illegal act that we become aware
of.
We will communicate in a letter to management any significant deficiency, material weakness, or other
control deficiency found during the audit. Additional details about the reports to be issued are provided in
the section “Phase 5: Reporting.”
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Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Town of Westlake Audit at a Glance
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Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
The Transition to Weaver: Making it Easy
Our goal is to make the transition process seamless and efficient. Current auditing standards require us to
get certain information from the previous auditor before accepting a new engagement. Once those
inquiries are finished, we will coordinate the work paper review as quickly as possible and begin the
planning stages of the Town’s audit, with the goal of a timely understanding of your controls and processes,
to tailor our request list and audit plan accordingly.
Weaver can accept electronic data from virtually every accounting system on the market, which minimizes
the time required by your personnel to send us necessary information. We attempt to minimize the audit’s
impact on your staff by using the information your management already prepares and uses regularly. Our
objective is to allocate only those tasks to you that will result in the greatest cost-efficiency overall and only
after we have completed our understanding of your controls and operations. This approach ensures that
we are only requesting information that has a direct impact on your financial processes and makes our
audits easier not only on you, but also on your third-party vendors and investment managers.
CAFR Preparation
Weaver has a well-established process that will allow us to assist the Town by preparing significant portions
of the CAFR without impairing our independence. We will furnish a document to guide a Town
representative through a review of the financial statements, ensuring that the Town has maintained
oversight and taken responsibility for the work.
Both Jerry Gaither, engagement partner, and John DeBurro, senior manager, have extensive experience
meeting GFOA requirements and serve on the GFOA Special Review Committee. John’s clients who have
routinely received the Certificate of Achievement include:
▪ City of Southlake
▪ City of Midlothian
▪ Town of Little Elm
▪ Town of Trophy Club
▪ City of Greenville
▪ City of Frisco
▪ City of Lewisville
▪ Plano ISD
▪ Highland Park ISD
▪ City of Wylie
In fact, every governmental entity that John has assisted with its CAFR has been awarded GFOA
recognition.
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 15
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Implementation of Auditing Standards
Each year, we will discuss with you the implementation of new standards from GASB, FASB or GAO (for
2014, GASB statements 66, 67 and 70) and how they will impact your accounting and financial reporting.
We will help you develop a plan to implement these standards, or, if such plans are already in place, we
will evaluate and make recommendations for improvements, if necessary.
Throughout our term as auditors, we will discuss emerging accounting standards with you as they are
issued, in order to help you develop plans for timely implementation.
Communication, Technical Assistance and Staff Support
Creating value in any engagement starts with open and regular communication — hands-on partner
involvement by leaders who communicate on a regular basis. This serves as the ever-valuable foundation
in every Weaver engagement. Throughout the audit — and throughout our entire relationship with you —
Weaver will remain in close communication with your management team. Our philosophy is a “no-
surprises” audit. Therefore, whenever there is a question or a potential issue, we will immediately bring it to
your attention, seek your confirmation of the data, and ask about any relevant circumstances.
Weaver will identify all schedules customarily prepared by cities in conjunction with the annual audit, and
provide a detailed list early enough to allow your staff time to prepare these schedules. Our objective is to
allocate to you only those tasks that will result in the greatest cost-efficiency overall.
Phase-by-Phase Audit Approach
Weaver’s audit methodology is designed to be collaborative,
comprehensive and efficient, with guidance from the
engagement partner throughout. We focus on identifying
potential risks that could lead to material misstatement of the
basic financial statements, and tailor our audit accordingly.
When we evaluate risks, we focus not only on understanding
your operations and accounting processes, but also on
examining your internal control systems and the personnel’s
capabilities. We also take time to properly identify major
programs for single audit purposes, so that the audit meets
requirements without wasting our time or your money.
Work Segmentation
An overview of the key segments of our methodology is provided on the following page (for hours, see
page 22. The timing indicated is based on our current understanding of the Town’s desired delivery of
services. We will adjust the timing as necessary to accommodate your needs.
Weaver is committed to meeting your timelines and engagement objectives; we take our commitment to
you seriously and will work diligently with you to meet or exceed the scheduled deadlines. We will schedule
our fieldwork to minimize disruption to the ongoing finance operations while adhering to your deadlines
and participating in conferences as requested. The following timeline will be discussed with you, and can
be modified to best meet your needs.
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Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Control Documentation and Preliminary Fieldwork
Phase 1: Planning & Risk Assessment
During the planning phase, we will meet with you to learn more about your
operations and processes, find out your preferences, ask for the reports and data
we will need, and set milestones and deadlines. We will also review prior-year work
papers and financial statements, identify potential risks and calculate a
preliminary estimate of materiality.
In planning our detailed audit approach, we will ensure that audit tests are designed to be efficient, not
repetitive. We will also modify the audit program as needed to reflect changes in conditions or audit
standards, unexpected results from tests of operating effectiveness of internal accounting controls, new
information or unanticipated activities.
When learning about your operations, we will consider aspects that could affect our audit scope and
approach, such as your organizational structure; governing laws and regulations; the annual budget,
including sources of revenue; number of employees; and any significant events during the past year that
might have affected your financial processes.
During this phase, we will develop the following key parameters and plans for the audit, including:
▪▪ Audit objectives
▪▪ Staffing and responsibilities, including manager and partner supervision
▪▪ Application of analytical procedures
▪▪ Schedules and hour budgets by audit area
▪▪ Materiality levels used for planning
▪▪ A risk assessment of internal controls
Phase 2: Internal Control Evaluation, Preliminary Fieldwork
As an integral part of our audit planning, we complete questionnaires, narratives
and walkthroughs relating to internal control, operations and accounting
processes. An in-depth understanding of these areas helps us perform a more
thorough, efficient and effective audit. The better we understand your
organization, the more helpful our management comments and
recommendations will be.
An “internal control” is any process you institute to make your operations more effective, to comply with
regulations, to improve the reliability of your financial reports, or to reduce the risk of fraud or other loss. In
Phase 2, we will examine your internal controls to make sure they are properly designed and functioning as
intended.
This will be accomplished by:
▪▪ Reviewing controls and determining whether they have been placed in operation
▪▪ Assessing the materiality of the various account balances and transaction classes
▪▪ Evaluating the risk factors that could affect the scope of testing
Planning and Risk Assessment
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Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Approach to Determining Laws and Regulations Subject to Testing
In the course of planning the engagement, we will obtain an understanding of the effects of laws and
regulations that have a direct and material effect on the determination of amounts in the financial
statements. These steps will be taken to determine laws and regulations subject to audit tests:
▪▪ Discuss applicable laws and regulations with Town representatives and legal counsel, if indicated
▪▪ Utilize information from prior-year work papers
▪▪ Review certain grants and contracts
▪▪ Obtain written representations from management
Assessment of IT System Controls
Due to the anticipated size and scope of the Town’s computerized EDP function, we will use Weaver’s IT
Advisory group to assist with the audit. This group will lead EDP testing. Weaver has significant experience
providing auditing and advisory services related to other major financial and business systems. Our
procedures for evaluating the security and integrity of EDP systems typically include procedures to validate
system settings and user authorizations.
A well-thought-out, scalable design of IT general and system controls at the process, transaction or
application level is vital to an effective system of control. We will focus on business areas that are mission-
critical—areas that may impact your ability to perform financial reporting or continue operations.
While we utilize a variety of frameworks and standards in conducting specific IT application and security
audits, Control Objectives for Information and Related Technology (COBIT) provides us with a
comprehensive approach and methodology underlying all of our IT audit engagements and allows us to us
focus on the specific requirements. We apply the COBIT framework in planning, executing and reporting
the results of our IT related services.
Audit Sampling
The nature and size of the Town’s operations will require us to design procedures to include sampling
applications. All sampling will be performed in accordance with AU Section 530 and the AICPA audit
guide, “Audit Sampling.” Sampling applications will be used for these areas:
▪▪ Tests of accounting controls
▪▪ Tests of controls over compliance requirements of major federal programs
▪▪ Tests of compliance with major federal program requirements
▪▪ Substantive tests of account-balance details
Depending on the strength of your internal control structure, we may be able to rely on those controls to
reduce the amount of substantive testing. In that case, we must first design tests of those controls.
Randomly selected transactions will be evaluated based on nonstatistical methods for attribute sampling.
The tests of controls, if any, are to be performed during interim fieldwork.
The need for tests of controls for transaction cycles will be determined by our evaluation of the design and
effectiveness of your accounting controls. We expect to use nonstatistical and probability-based sampling.
Sample sizes depend on the characteristics of your data and cannot be determined in advance. However,
we expect to test controls over cash disbursements, purchasing bids, payroll, journal entries, utility billings
(water and sewer) and similar areas.
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 18
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Final Fieldwork
Phase 3: Final Fieldwork
After you complete the year-end closing of accounts, our team will begin final
fieldwork. This is the time when we perform most of the substantive tests on your
data and prepare our audit work papers. During this time, the auditors will:
▪▪ Perform audit tests and complete preparation of audit work papers
▪▪ Complete audit programs, procedures and conclusions
▪▪ Discuss audit findings and adjusting entries with management
▪▪ Obtain your representations and attorney letters
Throughout this phase—and throughout our entire relationship with you—Weaver will remain in close
communication with your management. Our goal is a “no-surprises” audit. Therefore, whenever there is a
question or a potential issue, we will immediately bring it to your attention, seek your confirmation of the
data, and ask about any relevant circumstances.
Substantive Procedures
Weaver determines the audit approach and the specific procedures performed for various financial
statement accounts and transactions (e.g., cash and investments, long-term debt, etc.) based on our
experience with similar entities. We tailor these procedures to your specific accounting system and controls
in order to perform the audit thoroughly and efficiently.
The financial objectives of these procedures are to provide reasonable assurance that you will be able to
accurately process, summarize and report financial data consistent with management’s assertions. Those
assertions cover classes of transactions, year-end account balances, and presentation and disclosure of
financial data.
Analytical Procedures
During your audit, we examine more than pieces of data in isolation. We also analyze the interrelationships
of financial and nonfinancial data. Our extensive use of analytical procedures offers a natural extension to
the process of understanding Town operations. As we develop this understanding, we determine what
ratios, relationships, and internal or external data management tools will be useful in identifying and
monitoring risks.
The exact analytical procedures performed for the Town will be determined during the planning process,
after we have examined your accounting systems and operations. Common procedures include trend
analysis, ratio analysis, and predictive or “reasonableness” tests.
For example, depending on the specifics of your data and processes, we may:
▪▪ Compare financial information with comparable prior periods, taking into account any known or
expected changes. For example, we will compare revenues and expenditures with comparable
previous periods and balances, looking for unexpected variations
▪▪ Compare actual with anticipated results (for example, budget-versus-actual comparison of
revenues and expenditures)
▪▪ Evaluate relationships among different elements within the period, such as receivables in relation
to billings, or revenues in relation to costs
▪▪ Analyze financial information in light of relevant nonfinancial information (growth, political
changes, new regulatory requirements, etc.)
▪▪ Perform automated data analysis (data mining) using audit command language (ACL) and
similar tools
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 19
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Use of Technology in the Audit
Weaver uses cutting-edge electronic technology to improve our efficiency throughout the audit process.
We were one of the first CPA firms to adopt the paperless environment. Now, over years of practice, we
have organized our system to create the most efficient workflow. Our paperless audit file product, CCH
engagement, is used to store, review and track all items related to the engagement. In addition, our staff is
skilled at using common software programs such as Excel, Access, and Crystal Reports when those tools are
called for.
As our client, you will have access to a portal system to exchange files—no matter how large—in a secure
environment. Our portal allows both teams to store files for instant, secure access, creating a virtual private
network where the audit team can collaborate with you.
We use data-mining software that can analyze any size and number of records. We are able to perform
analytical reviews, review general ledger information, import trial balances, review check registers, and
examine various other data obtained during the audit efficiently and effectively using ACL. Marlon Williams,
who leads Weaver’s work using technology in audits, is one of a very few ACL Certified Data Analysts
(ACDAs) in the state of Texas.
Finally, Weaver uses an instant messaging client that enables our engagement team members at different
locations to discuss work papers with supervisory personnel to look at documents together or review
findings no matter where they are physically.
Data Extraction Software (Data Mining)
Weaver uses ACL, a data extraction application used as an investigative audit tool, during our audit
engagements. ACL enables us to identify transactions with a higher-than-normal risk for errors or
irregularities. With this tool, we can analyze all transactions in a data file for particular attributes defined by
the auditor, efficiently identifying transactions that warrant further review and testing. Typically, we use ACL
to test attributes of payroll transactions, purchasing and bidding compliance, purchase cards, and
compliance with finance policies as well as other specific transactions identified during the planning
process.
Marlon Williams, ACL Certified Data Analyst (ACDA) and the partner in charge of Weaver Analytics, will be
part of the Town’s engagement team to help plan and execute these advanced analytical procedures
over your data.
Phase 4: Financial Review and Quality Control
Weaver has built multi-layered quality assurance processes into its audit
methodology. These layers give us repeated opportunities to check each other’s
work; they also ensure that the engagement partner and technical review
partner are closely involved with your audit.
After fieldwork is complete, the engagement partner will review the entire
engagement, with particular attention to significant audit areas. In addition, the draft report and work
papers will be reviewed by the technical review partner, with the work papers available, to determine the
completeness with which the engagement has been performed. The auditor’s review will determine
whether judgments made by others are reasonable in relation to the supporting data and to generally
accepted accounting principles, auditing standards, government auditing standards and firm policy.
We discuss and confirm our findings with appropriate Town staff whenever we discover an area of potential
concern. In addition, we will review draft findings and recommendations with you throughout the
engagement. At the reporting stage, there should be no surprises.
Financial Review and Quality Control
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 20
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Review and quality control tasks include:
▪▪ Engagement partner review of all work papers to ensure compliance with technical standards
▪▪ Technical review of all work papers
▪▪ Performing any final analytical procedures
▪▪ A client conference to review financial statements, the auditor’s opinion and preliminary
management letter comments
▪ Obtaining written representations from management
Phase 5: Reporting
Throughout the audit, if we become aware of irregularities or illegal acts, we will
make an immediate, written report of those acts to the Town Council and
management.
After our internal reviews have confirmed that the audit is accurate and
complete, you have reviewed the draft reports, and we have incorporated your management responses
and related information, Weaver will issue the final audit documents, in both hard copy and electronic
form:
▪▪ A report on the fair presentation of the Town’s financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally
accepted accounting principles (GAAP), including an opinion on the fair presentation of the
supplementary schedule of expenditures of federal awards in relation to the audited financial
statements (10 copies)
▪▪ A report on the fair presentation of the Westlake Academy’s financial statements in conformity
with GAAP (10 copies)
▪▪ A report on the fair presentation of the Westlake Academy Foundation’s financial statements in
conformity with GAAP (15 copies)
▪▪ Separate reports on the fair presentation of the financial statements of the Texas Student Housing
Authority (TSHA), TSHA Ball Park Austin Project, TSHA Town Lake Austin Project, TSHA College Station
Project, and TSHA The Ridge at North Texas Project, in conformity with GAAP (10 copies each)
▪▪ A report on internal control over financial reporting and on compliance and other matters based
on an audit of financial statements performed in accordance with government auditing standards
for each entity (except the Westlake Academy Foundation)
▪▪ A report on compliance with laws, regulations, and grant requirements and on internal control over
compliance applicable to each major federal and state award program in accordance with the
U.S. Office of Management and Budget Circular A-133, if required
▪▪ Report to the Town Council and component unit governing boards and a management letter, if
necessary
Our final reports on compliance and internal controls will detail any “significant deficiencies” in internal
control (as defined by GAGAS) found during the audit. Significant deficiencies that are also material
weaknesses will be identified as such in the report. Lesser deficiencies will be reported in a separate letter
to management.
Weaver will present our findings to the parties designated by the Town. At that time, we will explain our
findings, present practical recommendations for improvement (if needed), and answer your questions.
After the end of the engagement, your engagement partner and manager will remain accessible to
answer your questions and help you prepare for the next audit. The engagement partner and audit
manager will also bring these reports to meetings as requested, including audit committees, governing
boards, or managers and administrators. This provides your leaders with the opportunity to ask questions
directly and enables us to explain our recommendations and any unusual findings.
Reporting
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 21
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
We will assure ourselves that the audit committees or governing boards are informed of the following
information, as well as any other items required by audit standards:
1. The auditor's responsibility under generally accepted auditing standards and government auditing
standards
2. Significant accounting policies
3. Management judgments and accounting estimates
4. Significant audit adjustments
5. Other information in documents containing audited financial statements
6. Disagreements with management
7. Management consultation with other accountants
8. Major issues discussed with management prior to retention
9. Difficulties encountered in performing the audit
10. Auditor’s judgments about accounting principles
Weaver will address our findings to the Honorable Mayor and
members of Town Council, the Audit Committee, the Town
Manager and Finance Director. We will also address any findings
related to the Academy and Foundation to the Academy
board, and any findings related to the TSHA and/or individual
projects to the TSHA Executive Director.
At that time, we will explain our findings, present practical
recommendations for improvement (if needed), and answer
your questions. After the end of the engagement, your
engagement partner and manager will remain accessible to
answer your questions and help you prepare for the next audit.
The engagement partner and audit manager will also bring
these reports to meetings as requested, including audit
committees, the governing boards, or managers and
administrators. This provides your leaders with the opportunity to
ask questions directly and enables us to explain our recommendations and any unusual findings.
Record Retention
Weaver will retain all working papers and reports, at our own expense, for at least five years from the report
date. We will make these documents and working papers available, on request, to authorized parties or
their designees, including successor auditors. Otherwise, we will protect them as confidential information.
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 22
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Staff Segmentation
The following table includes the hours necessary to complete audits for the Town, Academy, Foundation,
and Texas Student Housing Authority entities.
Planning and
Risk Assessment
Control Testing
and Single
Audit/
Preliminary Field
Work
Final Field
Work/
Financial Audit
Financial
Review, Quality
Assurance,
Reporting and
Presentations
Total
Partner(s) 10 5 10 30 55
Senior
Manager(s) 10 10 40 30 90
Senior
Associate(s) 25 25 110 20 180
Associate(s) 15 50 195 0 260
Total 60 90 355 80 585
*Due to the interwoven nature of activities in Phases 4 and 5 of our audit methodology, these phases have been
combined for the purposes of depicting hourly segmentation.
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 23
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Potential Audit Problems
Based on the information provided by the Town, we do not anticipate any audit problems.
Technical Assistance and Education Offered Our Clients
Your engagement partner and management remain available to the Town throughout the year to answer
questions. We also provide timely technical updates and consultation to ensure that you have the
guidance and services necessary to help meet your changing needs over time.
Weaver’s most immediate and ongoing professional development and technical assistance offered to
clients occurs in the course of our work with you, during the audit and throughout the year. Our partners
and managers will inform you of pending regulations and requirements, evolving industry standards and
new best practices as we become aware of them. Additionally, we are available for technical accounting
questions as needed at any time.
Weaver routinely offers half-day to full-day continuing professional education (CPE) classes to targeted
sectors of our client base, including governmental entities. These classes are led by the dedicated, industry-
specific, professionals within our firm. We offer them at no cost to you; these opportunities are part of our
commitment to add value to the Town. Weaver is a registered provider of CPE to the Texas Society of CPAs
and these classes count as CPE hours for Texas-licensed CPAs.
Please plan now to attend Weaver’s Free CPE Day, which is targeted specifically to the concerns of cities
and other governmental entities. The North Texas session is planned for August 7, 2014, and we will send
formal invitations in July.
“Senior manager John DeBurro has always
made himself available to us, not just during
the field work of our audit, but all year long.
Sometimes he feels more like a mentor than an
auditor!”
- CFO, Weaver Municipal Audit Client
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 24
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Tax Approach
Simply complying with all of the current tax laws is a
challenge for many organizations, but it is only one step in
our approach to providing tax services. We also work to
identify emerging tax issues and represent you before the
IRS as your organization needs our assistance. We
accomplish this by:
▪▪ Offering the highest quality of prompt,
professional, and technically innovative advice
▪▪ Building and maintaining close client relationships
to ensure we consistently provide tax solutions
that are of the greatest benefit to you
We also understand the importance of communication,
with you and the tax authorities, and integrate it
throughout every step of the process. We believe
consistent and structured communication throughout the
year is the key to a smooth tax return process.
Tax partner Ira Nevelow, who leads tax compliance and
planning services for many local nonprofit organizations,
will work with you to help ensure that all state and national
requirements are met and the Academy Foundation is
prepared for looming changes.
Form 990
Tax exempt organizations are required to file IRS Form 990.
While there is no tax liability to consider there are
numerous responses that if not answered correctly can draw IRS scrutiny. In addition, Form 990 is a public
record and is available for viewing by potential donors and other interested parties. Proper completion of
the form can be an important tool to market the organization.
Weaver provides tax planning, tax return preparation and IRS representation services for approximately180
Form 990 filers and 75 private foundations. Weaver employs tax professionals who utilize their experience
and judgment to prepare your Form 990 with both your donors and the IRS in mind. Our reputation is one of
varied and in-depth experience, even during times of complicated tax reform. You can be confident that
your best interests will be addressed faithfully and accurately.
TAX SERVICES FOR NONPROFIT
COMPONENT UNITS
•• Prepare tax returns for nonprofit
organizations and split interest
trusts
•• Identify areas of tax exposure,
such as unrelated business
income or excise taxes
•• Consult regarding proper
reporting to donors of the tax-
deductible portion of their gifts
•• Help organizations best utilize their
chart of accounts and their
accounting software’s report
writing abilities to capture
financial information in the format
required for tax reporting
•• Assist with special projects, such
as accounting policy
development and
implementation or accounting
software set up
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 25
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Proposed Schedule
A preliminary, high-level schedule is provided below, based on our understanding of your needs and the
work plan described in this proposal.
We are committed to meeting the timelines indicated in the RFP. During the initial planning stage, we will
work with you to finalize detailed, mutually agreeable schedules and the timing for receipt of information
being provided by the Town. Adjustments can be made at that time to accommodate your needs,
preferences and staff availability. The schedule may also be affected by any findings made during initial
fieldwork.
Town of Westlake
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 26
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Westlake Academy and Foundation
Texas Student Housing Authority and TSHA Projects
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 27
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Concluding Remarks
Weaver offers deep qualifications in all the areas most important to the Town:
▪ Recognized knowledge and experience in governmental auditing, both by the firm as a whole
and by your specific audit team
▪ Experience with component units, charter schools, and nonprofit tax reporting
▪ Excellent track record of success helping clients receive the GFOA Certificate of Achievement for
Excellence in Financial Reporting
▪ Local presence and responsive service
▪ Competitive fees
What else makes Weaver special?
Offering the resources of a national or international firm
without the excessive fees
Our local headquarters, combined with strategic national and
international affiliations, allows us to offer you the resources of a
large firm without the fees required to support national or
international overhead.
Committed to your complete satisfaction
The only goal you can’t accomplish is the one you don’t go after!
Our mission is to help you identify and achieve your financial goals.
As such, we promise to deliver professional services that add
measurable value.
Providing unmatched client service
Members of your engagement team, including senior
management, will communicate with you in a timely and
courteous manner all year long, not just during your engagement.
As a firm and as individuals, we place great value on building long-
term relationships, and providing outstanding service is one way we
accomplish this.
Understanding your needs
As your professional services provider, we have a responsibility to learn your business and understand your
needs. To accomplish this, we utilize comprehensive, industry-specific research tools to identify and address
the issues facing you.
Recognizing knowledge is power
Each member of our client-serving staff participates in a rigorous program of continuing professional
education so we can help you translate complex information into knowledge, and knowledge into
decisions. We also have several specializations represented within the firm, including accredited business
valuators, accredited estate planners, certified financial planners, certified fraud examiners, certified profit
enhancement consultants, licensed attorneys and personal financial specialists.
Taking a proactive stance on your behalf
We strive to help you reach your financial goals, seize the opportunities and conquer the challenges along
the way. Weaver works to keep you informed of changes in the law or services we can offer that will help
you meet your goals. In addition to accounting, audit, tax and advisory services, we offer numerous
specialized services, including some focused on specific industries.
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 28
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
GFOA and CAFR Experience
The firm is the auditor of more than 40 entities who have regularly receive the GFOA Certificate of
Achievement (not all of whom are listed). We understand the reporting requirements of the GFOA and
have the knowledge to help you with the reporting required.
Nine Weaver staff members are currently members of the Special Review Committee of the GFOA that
evaluate CAFRs for eligibility with Certificate of Achievement Program requirements.
Weaver maintains internal quality control standards that will help ensure the Town’s receipt of the
Certificate of Achievement. We conduct the following procedures:
▪▪ The CAFR goes through an initial review to ensure it agrees to the working trial balances that were
audited.
▪▪ Once it is determined that all schedules agree to the trial balance (and to other schedules or notes
within the report, where applicable), the CAFR is reviewed in relation to the GFOA checklist,
financial disclosure checklist, MD&A checklist, and financial reporting checklist. Any
suggestions/comments noted during our reviews will be communicated to Town staff.
▪▪ Prior-year GFOA comments are reviewed with the staff to ensure they are appropriately addressed
during the preparation of the CAFR.
▪▪ The revised report is then reviewed by our staff for grammatical, format and other technical issues
that may not have been observed during the first review.
Our Involvement in the GFOA
Jerry Gaither, audit partner, and John DeBurro, audit senior manager, are both members of the GFOA.
Including them, nine Weaver professionals are members of the Special Review Committee, including:
▪▪ Jerry Gaither, partner
▪▪ James Fitts, partner
▪▪ Kevin Sanford, partner
▪▪ Adam McCane, partner
▪▪ John DeBurro, senior manager
▪▪ Sara Dempsey, senior manager
▪▪ Sarah Roberts, manager
▪▪ Greg Peterson, manager
▪▪ Jackie Gonzalez, manager
Jerry Gaither is also a Certified Government Financial
Manager and a former member of the Technical Issues
Committee of the AICPA as liaison to the Governmental
Accounting Standards Board. This not only provides him with
knowledge of new governmental standards before
enactment, but also a role in helping shape those
standards.
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 29
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Cost of Services Schedule
Weaver prides itself on offering the capabilities of a much larger firm without the expense. With our
streamlined operations, we can provide the knowledge and experience you need, combined with a
personal touch and individual attention.
One of the most important factors in Weaver’s ability to perform cost-efficient services is our function-
specific approach to rendering professional services. Weaver can field a team with experience at every
level. As a result, we can apply staff time at the most cost-effective levels and rates.
All-Inclusive Maximum Price
Service FY2014 FY2015 FY2016 FY2017 FY2018
Financial audit for the Town of
Westlake for the fiscal year
ending September 30
$27,000 $27,675 $28,350 $29,050 $29,750
Financial audit for the Westlake
Academy for the fiscal year
ending August 31
$12,500 $12,800 $13,100 $13,400 $13,750
Preparation of IRS Form 990 for
the Westlake Academy
Foundation for the fiscal year
ending August 31
$500 $525 $550 $575 $600
Financial audit for the Westlake
Academy Foundation for the
fiscal year ending August 31
$3,500 $3,600 $3,700 $3,800 $3,900
Financial audit for Texas Student
Housing Authority for the fiscal
year ending August 31
$5,000 $5,125 $5,250 $5,375 $5,500
Financial audit for Texas Student
Housing Authority, Ballpark
Austin Project, for the fiscal year
ending August 31
$10,000 $10,250 $10,500 $10,750 $11,000
Financial audit for Texas Student
Housing Authority, the Ridge at
North Texas Project, for the fiscal
year ending August 31
$10,000 $10,250 $10,500 $10,750 $11,000
Financial audit for Texas Student
Housing Authority, Town Lake
Austin Project, for the fiscal year
ending August 31
$10,000 $10,250 $10,500 $10,750 $11,000
Financial audit for Texas Student
Housing Authority, College
Station Project, for the fiscal year
ending August 31
$10,000 $10,250 $10,500 $10,750 $11,000
TOTAL $88,500 $90,725 $92,950 $95,200 $97,500
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 30
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Our Investment in the Engagement
A considerable amount of time is required during the first year of any engagement to train and familiarize
staff with the nuances of your accounting and operations and to create necessary plans, programs and
internal documents. Weaver will provide these hours of service without charge, as an investment in building
a long-term relationship with you.
Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Weaver will not bill any additional costs for travel, lodging, subsistence or other expenses. The all-inclusive
fee includes expenses.
Additional Services
If the Town requests additional services outside the established scope of work, Weaver will first discuss the
services and associated costs with you. The costs will be negotiated based upon the timing of the work and
skill level required.
Determining Fees
Although hourly rates are a convenient measure of effort and therefore costs, Weaver considers many
factors to arrive at a fair and competitive fee. Such factors include the timing of the work, availability of
professionals with suitable experience, associated risk factors, characteristics of the prospective client and
its operations and our interest in working with that client. The fee proposal offered here was developed with
all of these factors in mind.
Manner of Payment
Weaver will submit monthly invoices based on hours of work completed.
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 31
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Appendix A:
Engagement Team Resumes
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 32
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Jerry L. Gaither, CPA, CGFM
Partner-in-Charge, Public Sector Services
Partner, Assurance Services
Professional Experience
▪ More than 36 years of public accounting experience
▪ Extensive experience in the government and nonprofit industries providing financial audits, risk
advisory services, forensic and litigation accounting support and consulting
▪ Directs Weaver’s strategic plans for the public sector practice, including the development of staff
training, audit methodology and market development
▪ Develops Weaver’s audit methodologies for financial auditing of government entities including
cities, regional governments and public school districts, providing single audits meeting the
requirements of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) A-133
▪ Engagement partner for four of the 25 largest Texas cities and three of the 15 largest Texas school
districts
▪ Serves as audit engagement partner for school districts with total assets up to $1.5 billion and total
revenues up to $825 million
▪ Serves as audit engagement partner for governmental entities with government wide assets up to
$1.3 billion and government wide revenues up to $350 million
Representative Client Experience
▪ City of Allen
▪ City of Azle
▪ City of Carrollton
▪ City of Crowley
▪ City of Desoto
▪ City of Denton
▪ City of Duncanville
▪ City of Frisco
▪ City of Grand Prairie
▪ City of Greenville
▪ City of Haltom City
▪ City of Highland Village
▪ City of Killeen
▪ City of Lancaster
▪ City of Lewisville
▪ City of McKinney
▪ City of Rockwall
▪ City of Rowlett
▪ City of Sachse
▪ City of University Park
▪ Town of Addison
▪ Town of Highland Park
▪ Town of Little Elm
▪ Town of Trophy Club
▪ Town of Westlake
▪ Birdville ISD
▪ Carrollton–Farmers Branch ISD
▪ Fort Worth ISD
▪ Duncanville ISD
▪ Highland Park ISD
▪ Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD
▪ Irving ISD
▪ Lancaster ISD
▪ Lewisville ISD
▪ Mansfield ISD
▪ Mesquite ISD
▪ Richardson ISD
▪ Plano ISD
▪ North Central Texas Council of Governments
▪ Central Texas Council of Governments
▪ Central Texas Workforce Development
Board
▪ Greenville Electric Utility
▪ Texas Municipal Power Agency
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 33
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Jerry L. Gaither, continued
Professional Involvement and Recognition
▪ Member, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
▪ Member, Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants (TSCPA), Dallas chapter
▪ Member, Association of Government Accountants (AGA)
▪ Member, AICPA Government Audit Quality Center (GAQC)
▪ Member, Special Review Committee, Government Finance Officers Association of Texas (GFOAT)
(More than 30 years)
▪ Associate Member, Association of School Business Officials (ASBO), Former member, Panel of
Review
▪ Former Member, Technical Issues Committee to AICPA as a liaison to the Government Accounting
Standards Board
▪ Former member, Strategic Planning committee, Town of Addison
▪ Former member, Charter Review committee, Town of Addison
Education and Certifications
▪ Certified Public Accountant, Texas
▪ Certified Government Financial Manager, AGA
▪ Bachelor of Business Administration, Accounting, Texas Christian University
▪ Currently meets continuing professional education required by Generally Accepted Government
Auditing Standards and Texas State Board of Public Accountancy
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 34
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Shawn M. Parker, CPA
Partner-in-Charge, Dallas Assurance Services
Professional Experience
▪▪ More than 25 years of experience in public accounting, including more than 16 years with Weaver
▪▪ Focus on auditing and accounting for government entities including water districts, municipalities
and school districts, as well as employee benefit plans, closely held businesses and nonprofit
organizations
▪▪ Industry experience includes government, estates and trusts, manufacturing/distribution,
construction, healthcare and staffing services
Representative Client Experience
▪▪ City of Cedar Hill
▪▪ City of Southlake
▪▪ Mesquite Independent School District
▪▪ North Texas Municipal Water District
▪▪ Trinity River Authority
▪▪ Town of Trophy Club
▪▪ Trophy Club Municipal Utility District
▪▪ Central Texas Workforce Development Board
▪▪ Central Texas Council of Governments
▪▪ North Central Texas Council of Governments
Professional Involvement and Recognition
▪▪ Member, Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants (TSCPA), Dallas chapter
▪▪ Member, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
▪▪ Member, Special Review Committee, Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA)
▪▪ Member, Nebraska Society of Certified Public Accountants (NSCPA)
Education and Certifications
▪▪ Certified Public Accountant, Texas
▪▪ Bachelor of Science, University of Nebraska at Kearney
▪▪ Currently meets continuing professional education required by Generally Accepted Government
Auditing Standards, and the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 35
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
John DeBurro, CPA
Senior Manager, Audit Services
Professional Experience
▪ Seventeen years of experience in public accounting
▪ Practice emphasis in accounting and auditing for governmental and nonprofit entities, including
municipalities, public school districts, counties, municipal power agencies, and transportation
districts.
▪ Manages the annual financial audit for four governmental entities with government-wide net
position in excess of $200 million
▪ Prepares the CAFR and A-133 single audit report, state single audit report, and accountant’s
reports on debt coverage ratios, when applicable, for approximately seven entities, all of which
receive the GFOA award
▪▪ Supervises and reviews the work of engagement team staff
▪▪ Researches proper accounting for complex transactions and assists clients with implementation of
new accounting standards
Representative Client Experience
▪▪ City of Denton
▪▪ City of Southlake
▪▪ City of McKinney
▪▪ City of Frisco
▪▪ City of Greenville
▪▪ City of Lewisville
▪▪ City of Wylie
▪▪ City of Midlothian
▪▪ Town of Little Elm
▪▪ Town of Trophy Club
▪▪ Plano ISD
▪▪ Frisco ISD
▪▪ Cedar Hill ISD
▪▪ Highland Park ISD
▪▪ Wylie ISD
▪▪ Texas Municipal Power Agency
▪▪ Texas Coalition for Affordable Power
▪▪ Reeves County
Professional Involvement and Recognition
▪▪ Member, Texas Society of Public Accountants and its Dallas chapter
▪▪ Member, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
▪▪ Member, Government Finance Officers Association
▪▪ Member, Government Finance Officers Association of Texas
▪▪ Member, Special Review Committee of the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA)
▪▪ Member, Planning Committee, Texas School Districts Annual Accounting and Auditing Conference
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 36
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
John DeBurro, continued
Presentations and Publications
▪▪ Speaker, Texas School Districts Annual Accounting and Auditing Conference, “GASB Update,”
June 2013 and 2014, San Antonio, Texas
▪▪ Speaker, GFOAT Spring Institute, “Cash Flow Statements”, April 2013, Austin, Texas
▪▪ Speaker, GFOAT Fall Conference, “Single Audit / Grants Management Compliance”, October
2012, San Marcos, Texas
▪▪ Speaker, Summer 2012 Conference, GASB Update, June 2012, Allen, Texas
▪▪ Speaker, GFOAT Fall Conference, “Intermediate Government Accounting”, November 2011,
Conroe, Texas
▪▪ Speaker, Annual Weaver CPE Event, “GASB 54”, “GASB Update,” 2011–2013
▪▪ Speaker, Texas School Districts Annual Accounting and Au diting Conference, “Audit Findings under
OMB Circular A-133 and GAS”, June 2010, San Antonio, Texas
▪▪ Speaker, GFOAT Spring Institute, “Accounting for Capital Assets: Using the New GFOA Manual”,
April 2010, Austin, Texas
Education and Certifications
▪▪ Certified Public Accountant, Texas
▪▪ Bachelor of Business Administration, University of New Hampshire
▪▪ Master of Science, New Hampshire College
▪▪ Currently meets continuing professional education required by Generally Accepted Government
Auditing Standards and Texas State Board of Public Accountancy
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 37
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Meredith Churchill, CPA
Senior Associate I, Audit Services
Professional Experience
▪ Three years of experience in public accounting
▪ Practice emphasis in accounting and auditing for a wide array of nonpublic, nonprofit, and
governmental entities including private foundations and schools, real estate management and
investment companies, communication device providers, school districts, cities, and employee
benefit plans
▪ Plans and performs audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards (GAAS), and
with the Single Audit Act and OMB Circular A-133, where applicable, to the aforementioned
entities.
▪ Supervises and reviews the work of engagement team staff
▪ Supervises the annual audits of nonpublic companies with total assets up to $53 million and
revenues of $100 million
▪ Supervises the annual audits of employee benefit plan options with up to $13 million in net assets
▪ Performs the annual audit of cities and school districts with more than $1 billion in assets and
$29 million in annual net income
Representative Client Experience
▪ City of Denton, Texas
▪ City of Wylie, Texas
▪ Town of Addison, Texas
▪ Highland Park ISD
▪ Denton County Fresh Water Supply Districts
Professional Involvement
▪ Member, Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants (TSCPA)
Education and Certifications
▪ Certified Public Accountant, Texas
▪ Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Abilene Christian University
▪ Masters of Business Administration with a focus in Accounting, Abilene Christian University
▪ Currently meets continuing professional education required by Generally Accepted Government
Auditing Standards and Texas State Board of Public Accountancy
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 38
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Ira L. Nevelow, CPA, AEP, JD
Partner-in-Charge, Estate, Gift and Trust Taxation Services
Professional Experience
▪ More than 30 years of experience in public accounting with concentrations in taxation of estates
and trusts, nonprofit organizations and individuals
▪ Extensive experience working with individuals to strategically manage tax compliance
responsibilities related to business and personal matters, including gift and estate planning and
Texas separate property issues as a result of divorce
▪ Counsels nonprofit organizations regarding compliance responsibilities, unrelated business income,
private foundation excise tax and gift substantiation issues
▪ Provides individual and business Internal Revenue Service proceeding representation
▪ Significant experience providing tax and financial consulting to privately-held and owner-
managed businesses in a variety of industries, including investment partnerships, professional
services organizations and real estate entities
Representative Client Experience
▪▪ America Can!
▪▪ Dallas Lighthouse for the Blind
▪▪ Senior Citizens of Greater Dallas
▪▪ Community Council of Greater Dallas
▪▪ St. Paul Medical Foundation
▪▪ YWCA of Metropolitan Dallas
Professional Involvement and Recognition
▪ Member, Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants (TSCPA)
o Member, Nonprofit Organizations Conference committee
o Former Chairman, Taxpayer Education committee, Dallas chapter
▪ Member, Gulf States Area TEGE (Tax Exempt and Governmental Entities) Council
▪ Member, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
▪ Member, State Bar of Texas and Dallas Bar Association
Education and Certifications
▪ Certified Public Accountant, Texas
▪ Accredited Estate Planner
▪ Licensed Attorney, Texas
▪ Juris Doctor, University of Houston
▪ Bachelor of Business Administration, Accounting, The University of Texas at Austin
▪ Currently meets continuing professional education required by the Texas State Board of Public
Accountancy
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 39
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Marlon B. Williams, CPA, ACDA
Partner, Assurance Services
Professional Experience
▪▪ More than 17 years of experience in public accounting
▪▪ Leads the Weaver Analytics practice group, developing sophisticated data-mining and
automated tools that can identify anomalies and potential areas of concern in large volumes of
electronic data
▪▪ Directs Weaver’s use of ACL, a software tool used to analyze financial and other data during audits
▪▪ Practice emphasis in auditing and consulting with numerous nonprofit organizations, municipalities
and independent school districts
▪▪ Significant experience in accounting and auditing of companies in the manufacturing,
wholesale/distribution, financial services and service industries
▪▪ Member of Weaver’s Technical Integration Task Force
Representative Client Experience
▪▪ City of Duncanville
▪▪ Garland ISD
▪▪ Irving ISD
▪▪ Allen ISD
▪▪ North Texas Regional Water District
▪▪ Lake Cities Municipal Utility Authority
▪▪ City of Cedar Hill
▪▪ City of Greenville
▪▪ City of Lancaster
▪▪ City of McKinney
Professional Involvement and Recognition
▪▪ Member, Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants (TSCPA)
▪▪ Member, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
▪▪ Member, Texas ACL User Group
Education and Certifications
▪▪ Certified Public Accountant, Texas
▪▪ ACL Certified Data Analyst
▪▪ Bachelor of Business Administration, Accounting, Abilene Christian University
Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P Page 40
Proposal for Independent Auditing Services Town of Westlake, Texas
Brittany George Teare, CISA
Senior Manager, Advisory Services
Professional Experience
▪▪ Nearly 10 years of experiencing performing IT audit, security and consulting services, including
more than six years of public accounting experience
▪▪ Experience in oversight of the planning and performance of many of Weaver’s most significant IT
controls engagements, which have a heavy focus on information security
▪▪ Practice emphasis in internal and external IT audits including risk assessment, planning and
execution
▪▪ More than two years of experience in KPMG’s Information Technology Advisory practice and two
and a half years with TXU/Capgemini Energy
▪▪ Managed System, Integration and User Acceptance testing activities across multiple project teams
for projects sponsored by ERCOT (Energy Regulatory Commission of Texas) involving market
participants across Texas while at TXU/Capgemini Energy
▪▪ Responsible for the oversight and management of the development and maintenance of annual
IT audit and security project plans for multiple Fortune 500 companies. Additional experience in
leading compliance engagement sections/phases, including the documentation of controls
design and testing of controls
▪▪ Industry experience includes: technology solutions, utilities, oil and gas, municipalities,
telecommunications, financial services, healthcare, food services, banking, government
▪▪ Documented and evaluated (SAP) internal general and application controls for compliance with
security policies
▪▪ Oversight and coordination with external auditors and other outside consultants to ensure timely
completion of SOX attestation, assistance in planning and coordinating SOX training sessions and
SOX planning/status meetings
▪▪ Professional IT experience includes security controls testing performed in SAP, JD Edwards, Oracle
Database, UNIX / LINUX, and Microsoft (SQL Server, Windows Server and Active Directory)
environments
Representative Client Experience
▪▪ Garland ISD
▪▪ City of Denton
▪▪ Baptist General Convention of Texas
▪▪ Frisco ISD
▪▪ City of Fort Worth
Professional Involvement and Recognition
▪▪ Board Member, Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA)
▪▪ Member, Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)
▪▪ Member, AFCOM
▪▪ Member, Metroplex Technology Business Council (MTBC)
▪▪ Steering Committee Member, Cloud Computing Special Interest Group of the MTBC
▪▪ Member, Cloud Security Alliance (CSA)
Education and Certifications
▪▪ Certified Information Systems Auditor
▪▪ SAP Certified Consultant
▪▪ Bachelor of Business Administration, Management Information Systems, University of Oklahoma
Town of Westlake
Item # 3 –
Adjournment
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