The Branson Board of Aldermen renewed two five-figure outside contracts during its regular meeting Oct. 12.
The board approved funding for the fourth year of a five year contract for its Jefferson City lobbyist R.J. Scherr & Associates and for the final year of a four-year contract with Kansas City-based auditing firm Cochran Head Vick and Co.
The board allotted $30,240 for lobbyist Randy Scherr, a 5 percent increase from the $28,000 a year annual payment during the first three years. According to the contract, the compensation will increase another 5 percent in 2012, said Jerry Adams, city public information director.
The city's lobbyist represents Branson in Jefferson City, actively lobbying for the passage or defeat of bills on which the city has established a position, among other legislative duties, Adams said.
The city has had a lobbyist in Jefferson City for 12 years. After the contract is up, the city will again accept bids.
The board also approved the fourth and final year of the contract with Cochran Head Vice and Co., which provides auditing services on the city's financials.
The contract calls for a $37,152 payment, which has been consistent throughout the four years, Adams said.
Independent auditors allow for unbiased accountability, he said.
"An outside audit insures that all funds are accounted for and that prudent financial procedures are followed in the collection and dispersement of public money," Adams said. "An independent audit also strengthens the confidence of citizens that their tax money is being correctly and properly collected and spent."
When the contract is complete, a similar bidding process will be made.
Funding for both lobbyists and independent auditors come from the city's general fund.[[In-content Ad]]
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