Professional and Operational Audit Services

The 22nd District Agricultural Association (District) is releasing this solicitation with the intent to award a single contract for professional financial and operational audit services for the 22nd District Agricultural Association and its Blended Components that includes the State Race Track Leasing Commission (SRTLC) and Del Mar Race Track Authority (RTA), collectively referred to as the District. The District is seeking a qualified public accounting firm to conduct the audits in conformity with Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS) and shall express an opinion on the fairness of the financial statements in conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). The audits shall be conducted in conformance with GAAS as published by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Statements on Auditing Standards. The scope of the audit shall include an evaluation of internal controls and recommendations for improvements of accounting and related procedures. Services include, but are not limited to, providing financial and operational audit services for fiscal years ending December 31, 2025, with two (2) one-year renewal options, at the sole and absolute discretion of the District, for fiscal years ending December 31, 2026, and December 31, 2027 in accordance with the specifications listed in this RFP and as directed by the District's Executive Management. Contractor shall also perform special audits on an as-needed basis at the request of the District. The District, as a California state institution, is not bound by Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX); however, the District recognizes SOX as a community standard for best management practices and, as such, follows SOX-style practices (e.g., audit committee independence, whistleblower protections, and auditor independence), where feasible, to strengthen governance and public confidence. Accountability comes through the State Leadership Accountability Act (SLAA) and the State Administrative Manual (SAM). The use of Subcontractors will not be allowed for this Agreement. The District board and staff have been actively engaged in a strategic planning process that has elaborated on its purpose, mission, vision, and organizational values in pursuit of ensuring a quality experience to guests and patrons of the District properties including the Del Mar Fairgrounds, Surf &Turf Recreation Center, and Del Mar Horsepark. Proposer is encouraged to elaborate on its alignment with the District's strategic direction.