PENTATHLON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
DISTRICT

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY REGULAR BOARD MEETING OCTOBER 18, 2023
6:00 P.M.

Special District Services, Inc. 8785 SW 165th Avenue, Suite 200
Miami, FL 33193
www.pentathloncdd.org 786.347.2700 ext. 2027 Telephone 877.SDS.4922 Toll Free 561.630.4923 Facsimile

AGENDA
PENTATHLON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT
Kendall Executive Center – Conference Room 8785 SW 165th Avenue, Suite 200
Miami, Florida 33193
REGULAR BOARD MEETING
October 18, 2023
6:00 p.m.

Call to Order
Proof of Publication…	Page 1
Establish Quorum
Additions or Deletions to Agenda
Comments from the Public for Items Not on the Agenda
Approval of Minutes
May 11, 2023 Regular Board Meeting & Public Hearing	Page 2
Old Business
Staff Report, as Required
New Business
Consider Resolution No. 2023-05 – Adopting a Fiscal Year 2022/2023 Amended Budget	Page 6
Consider Resolution No. 2023-06 – Adopting a Records Retention Policy	Page 11
Discussion Regarding Ethics Training Requirement	Page 15
Discussion Regarding 2023 Legislative Session Memorandum	Page 20
Auditor Selection Committee
Ranking of Proposals/Consider Selection of an Auditor	Page 25
Administrative Matters
Board Members Comments
Adjourn

PENTATHLON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT FISCAL YEAR 2023/2024 REGULAR MEETING SCHEDULE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Supervisors (the “Board”) of the Pentathlon Community Development District (the “District”) will hold Regular Meetings in the Conference Room at Kendall Executive Center located at 8785 SW 165th Avenue, Suite 200, Miami, Florida 33193 at 6:00 p.m. on the following dates:

October 18, 2023
November 15, 2023
February 21, 2024
March 20, 2024
April 17, 2024
May 15, 2024
June 19, 2024
September 18, 2024

The purpose of the meetings is for the Board to consider any District business which may lawfully and properly come before the Board. The meetings are open to the public and will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Florida law for community development districts. A copy of the Agenda for any of the meetings may be obtained from the District’s website or by contacting the District Manager at nnguyen@sdsinc.org and/or toll free 1-877-737-4922 prior to the date of the particular meeting.

From time to time one or two Board members may participate by telephone; therefore, a speaker telephone will be present at the meeting location so that Board members may be fully informed of the discussions taking place. Said meeting(s) may be continued as found necessary to a time and place specified on the record.

If any person decides to appeal any decision made with respect to any matter considered at these meetings, such person will need a record of the proceedings and such person may need to insure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made at his or her own expense and which record includes the testimony and evidence on which the appeal is based.

In accordance with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person requiring special accommodations or an interpreter to participate at any of these meetings should contact the District Manager at nnguyen@sdsinc.org and/or toll free 1-877-737-4922 at least seven (7) days prior to the date of the particular meeting.

Meetings may be cancelled from time to time without advertised notice.

PENTATHLON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT

www.pentathloncdd.org

PUBLISH: MIAMI DAILY BUSINESS REVIEW	10/06/23

PENTATHLON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT REGULAR BOARD MEETING & PUBLIC HEARING
MAY 11, 2023

CALL TO ORDER

District Manager Nancy Nguyen called the May 11, 2023, Regular Board Meeting of the Pentathlon Community Development District (the “District”) to order at 6:12 p.m. in the Conference Room of the Signature Flight Support Building located at 14150 SW 129th Street, Miami, Florida 33186.

PROOF OF PUBLICATION

Ms. Nguyen presented proof of publication that notice of the Regular Board Meeting had been published in the Miami Daily Business Review on April 21, 2023 and April 28, 2023, as legally required.

ESTABLISH A QUORUM

Ms. Nguyen determined that the attendance of Chairwoman Grissobelle Reyes-Obando (via conference call), Vice Chairman Andre Goins, and Supervisors Michael Hunt and Julio Obando constituted a quorum and it was in order to proceed with the meeting.

Staff in attendance included: District Manager Nancy Nguyen of Special District Services, Inc.; and District Counsel Ginger Wald of Billing, Cochran, Lyles, Mauro & Ramsey, P.A.

ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA

There were no additions or deletions to the agenda.

COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC FOR ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA

There were no comments for items not on the agenda.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
March 9, 2023, Regular Board Meeting

Ms. Nguyen presented the March 9, 2023, Regular Board Meeting minutes and asked if there were any comments and/or changes.

There being no changes and/or comments, a motion was made by Mr. Obando, seconded by Mr. Hunt and unanimously passed approving the March 9, 2023, Regular Board Meeting minutes, as presented.

NOTE: At approximately 6:13 p.m., Ms. Nguyen recessed the Regular Meeting and simultaneously opened the Public Hearing.

PUBLIC HEARING
Proof of Publication

Ms. Nguyen presented proof of publication that notice of the Public Hearing had been published in the
Miami Daily Business Review on April 21, 2023, and April 28, 2023, as legally required.
Page 1 of 4

Receive Public Comments on Fiscal Year 2023/2024 Final Budget

Ms. Nguyen opened the public comment portion of the Public Hearing to receive comments on the 2023/2024 fiscal year final budget and non-ad valorem special assessments. There being no comments, Ms. Nguyen closed the public comment portion of the Public Hearing.

Consider Resolution No. 2023-03 – Adopting a Fiscal Year 2023/2024 Final Budget

Ms. Nguyen presented Resolution No. 2023-03, entitled:

RESOLUTION NO. 2023-03

A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE PENTATHLON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT APPROVING AND ADOPTING A FISCAL YEAR 2023/2024 FINAL BUDGET INCLUDING NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

Ms. Nguyen stated that the document provides for approving and adopting the fiscal year 2023/2024 final budget and the non-ad valorem special assessment tax roll. A discussion ensued after which:

A motion was made by Mr. Goins, seconded by Mr. Obando and unanimously passed to approve and adopt Resolution No. 2023-03, as presented; thereby setting the 2023/2024 final budget and non-ad valorem special assessment tax roll.

NOTE: At approximately 6:14 p.m., Ms. Nguyen closed the Public Hearing and simultaneously reconvened the Regular Meeting.

OLD BUSINESS
Staff Report, as Required

There was no staff report at this time.

NEW BUSINESS
Consider Resolution No. 2023-04 – Adopting a Fiscal Year 2023/2024 Meeting Schedule

Resolution No. 2023-04 was presented, entitled:

RESOLUTION NO. 2023-04

A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE PENTATHLON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT, ESTABLISHING A REGULAR MEETING SCHEDULE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023/2024 AND SETTING THE TIME AND LOCATION OF SAID DISTRICT MEETINGS; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

Ms. Nguyen stated that the Signature Flight Support meeting room fees have been increased to $200 per meeting. Per the Board’s request, and to keep the District’s expenses at a minimum, the meeting venue and meeting dates have been changed for the fiscal year 2023/2024 meeting schedule. Meetings will be
Page 2 of 4

held in the Conference Room in the Kendall Executive Center located at 8785 SW 165th Avenue, Suite 200, Miami, Florida 33193 at 5:00 p.m. on the third Wednesday of select months.

A motion was made by Mr. Hunt, seconded by Ms. Reyes-Oabndo and unanimously passed to approve and adopt Resolution No. 2023-04, as presented; thereby setting the 2023/2024 regular meeting schedule and authorizing the publication of the annual meeting schedule, as required by law.

Appointment of Audit Committee & Hold Audit Committee Meeting

Ms. Nguyen stated that an audit was required for the District fiscal year ending September 30, 2023, and it would be in order for the Board of Supervisors (the “Board”) to appoint an Audit Committee to commence the auditor selection process pursuant to 218.391, Florida Statutes.

A motion was made by Mr. Goins, seconded by Mr. Hunt and unanimously passed to appoint the Board and the District Manager as the Audit Committee.

At approximately 6:19 p.m., Ms. Nguyen recessed the Regular Board Meeting and simultaneously called to order a meeting of the Audit Committee to review and approve criteria for selection of an auditor and to authorize advertising for request for proposals. Ms. Nguyen presented the selection criteria information and an outline of material for the Request for Audit Proposals for the District. A discussion ensued after which:

A motion was made by Mr. Goins, seconded by Mr. Obando and unanimously passed to approve the criteria for the selection of an auditor, as presented, and instructed the District Manager to proceed, as required, to advertise for requests for proposals (“RFP”) for the fiscal years ending September 30, 2023, 2024 and 2025; and to include in the proposal package an option for an additional 2-year renewal (2026 and 2027).

There being no further business to conduct at this time by the Audit Committee, Ms. Nguyen adjourned the Audit Committee Meeting and simultaneously reconvened the Regular Board Meeting of the District at approximately 6:23 p.m.

Ms. Nguyen stated that it would be appropriate for the Board to accept the actions of the Audit Committee as outlined herein above. A discussion ensued after which;

A motion was made by Mr. Goins, seconded by Ms. Reyes-Obando and unanimously passed to accept the actions of the Audit Committee.

ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
Statement of Financial Interest 2022 Form 1 – Filing Deadline: July 1, 2023

Board members were reminded of the importance of completing and mailing to the Supervisor of Elections within the County of residency their individual 2022 Statement of Financial Interests Form 1. The deadline for submittal is July 1, 2023.

BOARD MEMBER & STAFF CLOSING COMMENTS

Ms. Nguyen stated that unless an emergency were to arise, the Board would not need to meet until October 18, 2023 at the new location.

ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Board, a motion was made by Ms. Reyes-Obando, seconded by Mr. Goins adjourning the Regular Board Meeting at approximately 6:27 p.m. There were no objections.

Secretary/Assistant Secretary	Chairperson/Vice-Chairperson

RESOLUTION NO. 2023-05

A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE PENTATHLON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT AUTHORIZING AND ADOPTING AN AMENDED FINAL FISCAL YEAR 2022/2023 BUDGET (“AMENDED BUDGET”), PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 189, FLORIDA STATUTES; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors (the “Board”) of the Pentathlon Community Development District (the “District”) is empowered to provide a funding source and to impose special assessments upon the properties within the District; and,

WHEREAS, the District has prepared for consideration and approval an Amended Budget.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE PENTATHLON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT, THAT:

Section 1.  The Amended Budget for Fiscal Year 2022/2023 attached hereto as Exhibit “A” is hereby approved and adopted by the Board.

Section 2.  The Secretary/Assistant Secretary of the District is authorized to execute any and all necessary transmittals, certifications or other acknowledgements or writings, as necessary, to comply with the intent of this Resolution.

PASSED, ADOPTED and EFFECTIVE this 18th day of October, 2023.

ATTEST:	PENTATHLON
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT

By:			By:		 Secretary/Assistant Secretary			Chairperson/Vice Chairperson

Pentathlon Community Development District

Amended Final Budget For Fiscal Year 2022/2023
October 1, 2022 - September 30, 2023

CONTENTS

AMENDED FINAL OPERATING FUND BUDGET

AMENDED FINAL DEBT SERVICE FUND BUDGET

AMENDED FINAL BUDGET
PENTATHLON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT OPERATING FUND
FISCAL YEAR 2022/2023 OCTOBER 1, 2022 - SEPTEMBER 30, 2023

REVENUES	FISCAL YEAR 2022/2023 BUDGET 10/1/22 - 9/30/23	AMENDED FINAL BUDGET
10/1/22 - 9/30/23	YEAR TO DATE ACTUAL
10/1/22 - 9/29/23	
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSESSMENTS	68,772	69,117	69,117	
MAINTENANCE ASSESSMENTS	10,638	10,639	10,639	
DEBT ASSESSMENTS	213,808	213,810	213,810	
INTEREST INCOME	360	8,530	8,430	
				
TOTAL REVENUES	$	293,578	$	302,096	$	301,996	
				
EXPENDITURES				
ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENDITURES				
SUPERVISOR FEES	6,000	2,400	2,400	
PAYROLL TAXES (EMPLOYER)	480	184	184	
MANAGEMENT	32,676	32,676	32,676	
SECRETARIAL	3,000	3,000	3,000	
LEGAL	8,000	7,000	5,948	
ASSESSMENT ROLL	6,000	6,000	6,000	
AUDIT FEES	3,600	3,600	3,600	
INSURANCE	6,200	6,134	6,134	
LEGAL ADVERTISING	600	550	261	
MISCELLANEOUS	850	850	798	
POSTAGE	225	150	135	
OFFICE SUPPLIES	525	250	200	
DUES & SUBSCRIPTIONS	175	175	175	
TRUSTEE FEES	3,500	3,400	3,400	
CONTINUING DISCLOSURE FEE	350	350	350	
WEBSITE MANAGEMENT	1,500	1,500	1,500	
TOTAL ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENDITURES	$	73,681	$	68,219	$	66,761	
				
MAINTENANCE EXPENDITURES				
IMPROVEMENT CONTINGENCY	9,000	4,500	0	
ENGINEERING/INSPECTIONS	1,000	1,081	1,081	
TOTAL MAINTENANCE EXPENDITURES	$	10,000	$	5,581	$	1,081	
				
TOTAL EXPENDITURES	$	83,681	$	73,800	$	67,842	
				
REVENUES LESS EXPENDITURES	$	209,897	$	228,296	$	234,154	
				
BOND PAYMENTS	(200,955)	(203,805)	(203,805)	
				
BALANCE	$	8,942	$	24,491	$	30,349	
				
COUNTY APPRAISER & TAX COLLECTOR FEE	(5,864)	(2,824)	(2,824)	
DISCOUNTS FOR EARLY PAYMENTS	(11,728)	(10,898)	(10,898)	
				
EXCESS/ (SHORTFALL)	$	(8,650)	$	10,769	$	16,627	
				
CARRYOVER FROM PRIOR YEAR	8,650	8,650	0	
				
NET EXCESS/ (SHORTFALL)	$	-	$	19,419	$	16,627	

FUND BALANCE AS OF 9/30/22	
FY 2022/2023 ACTIVITY	
FUND BALANCE AS OF 9/30/23	

$213,645	
$10,769	
$224,414	

Notes
Reserve Funds Totaling $8,650 used to reduce Fiscal Year 2022/2023 Assessments. Reserve Funds Totaling $9,070 to be used to reduce Fiscal Year 2023/2024 Assessments.

AMENDED FINAL BUDGET
PENTATHLON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT DEBT SERVICE FUND
FISCAL YEAR 2022/2023 OCTOBER 1, 2022 - SEPTEMBER 30, 2023

REVENUES	FISCAL YEAR 2022/2023 BUDGET 10/1/22 - 9/30/23	AMENDED FINAL BUDGET
10/1/22 - 9/30/23	YEAR TO DATE ACTUAL
10/1/22 - 9/29/23	
Interest Income	25	9,715	9,615	
NAV Tax Collection	200,955	203,805	203,805	
Total Revenues	$	200,980	$	213,520	$	213,420	
				
EXPENDITURES				
Principal Payments	125,000	120,000	120,000	
Interest Payments	75,980	78,380	78,380	
Total Expenditures	$	200,980	$	198,380	$	198,380	
				
Excess/ (Shortfall)	$	-	$	15,140	$	15,040	

FUND BALANCE AS OF 9/30/22	
FY 2022/2023 ACTIVITY	
FUND BALANCE AS OF 9/30/23	

$309,943	
$15,140	
$325,083	

Notes
Reserve Fund Balance = $102,059*. Revenue Fund Balance = $223,024.*.
Revenue Fund Balance To Be Used To Make 11/1/2023 Principal & Interest Payment Of $162,990 - Principal Payment Of $125,000 & Interest Payment Of $37,990.
* Approximate Amounts

Series 2012 Refunding Bonds Information
Original Par Amount =	$2,780,000	Annual Principal Payments Due:	
Interest Rate =	1.25% - 4.5%	November 1st	
Issue Date =	April 2012	Annual Interest Payments Due:	
Maturity Date =
Par Amount As Of 9/30/23 =	November 2033
$1,720,000	May 1st & November 1st	

RESOLUTION 2023-06

A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE PENTATHLON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT PROVIDING FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF A RECORDS MANAGEMENT LIAISON OFFICER; PROVIDING THE DUTIES OF THE RECORDS MANAGEMENT LIAISON OFFICER; ADOPTING A RECORDS RETENTION POLICY; DETERMINING THE ELECTRONIC RECORD TO BE THE OFFICIAL RECORD; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

Whereas, the Pentathlon Community Development District (the “District”) is a local unit of special-purpose government created and existing pursuant to Chapter 190, Florida Statutes; and

Whereas, Chapter 190, Florida Statutes, authorizes the District to adopt rules to govern the administration of the District and to adopt resolutions as may be necessary for the conduct of District business; and

Whereas, Section 257.36(5), Florida Statutes, requires the District to establish and maintain an active and continuing program for the economical and efficient management of records and to provide for the appointment of a records management liaison officer (“Records Management Liaison Officer”); and

Whereas, the District desires for the Records Management Liaison Officer to be an employee of the District or an employee of the District Manager; and

Whereas, the District desires to authorize the District’s records custodian to appoint a Records Management Liaison Officer, which may or may not be the District’s records custodian; and

Whereas, the District desires to prescribe duties of the Records Management Liaison Officer and provide for the assignment of additional duties; and

Whereas, the District’s Board of Supervisors (“Board”) finds that it is in the best interests of the District to adopt by resolution a records retention policy (the “Records Retention Policy”) for immediate use and application.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE PENTATHLON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT, THAT:

SECTION 1. The District hereby authorizes the District’s records custodian to appoint a Records Management Liaison Officer and report such appointment to the appropriate State of Florida agencies. A Records Management Liaison Officer shall be an employee of the District or the District Manager. The Board, and the District’s records custodian, shall each have the individual power to remove the Records

Management Liaison Officer at any time for any reason. Immediately following the removal or resignation of a Records Management Liaison Officer, the District’s records custodian shall appoint a replacement Records Management Liaison Officer.

SECTION 2. The duties of the Records Management Liaison Officer shall include the following:

Serve as the District’s contact with the Florida Department of State, State Library and Archives of Florida;

Coordinate the District’s records inventory;

Maintain records retention and disposition forms;

Coordinate District records management training;

Develop records management procedures consistent with the Records Retention Policy, as amended as provided herein;

Participate in the development of the District’s development of electronic record keeping systems;

Submit annual compliance statements;

Work with the Florida Department of State, State Library and Archives of Florida to establish individual retention schedules for the District, from time to time and as may be necessary; and

Such other duties as may be assigned by the Board or the District’s records custodian in the future.

SECTION 3. The District hereby adopts as its Records Retention Policy the applicable provisions of Section 257.36(5), Florida Statutes, the rules adopted by the Division of Library and Information Services of the Department of State (“Division”) pursuant to Section 257.36, Florida Statutes, and the General Records Schedules established by the Division. However, the District will retain certain records longer than required by the General Records Schedules established by the Division as set forth in Exhibit A. To the extent the above statute, rules or schedules are amended or supplemented in the future, the District’s Records Retention Policy shall automatically incorporate such amendment or supplement provided that such automatic amendment shall not reduce the retention times set forth in Exhibit A. The Records Retention Policy shall remain in full force and effect until such time as the Board amends the Policy.

SECTION 4. In accordance with section 668.50, Florida Statutes, and section 119.01, Florida Statutes, the Board finds that the electronic record shall be considered the official record and any paper originals are hereby duplicates which may be disposed of unless required to be preserved by any applicable statute, rule or ordinance.

SECTION 5.  If any provision of this resolution is held to be illegal or invalid, the other provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

SECTION 6. This Resolution shall become effective upon its passage; shall replace, supplant, and supersede any prior policy or resolution of the District regarding records retention; and shall remain in effect unless rescinded or repealed.

Passed and Adopted at a meeting of the District Board of Supervisors, this 18th day of October, 2023.

ATTEST:	PENTATHLON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT

Print name: 		Print name: 	 Secretary / Assistant Secretary			Chair / Vice Chair

Exhibit A:	Amendments to General Records Schedules Established by the Division

Exhibit A

Amendments to General Records Schedules established by the Division

ADVERTISEMENTS: LEGAL (Item #25)
The District shall retain mailed and published legal advertisements, and corresponding affidavits, relating to proceedings under uniform method of collection of debt assessments permanently. The District shall retain mailed and published legal advertisements, and corresponding affidavits, relating to the levy of assessments securing bonds for five (5) fiscal years provided applicable audits have been released, or until three (3) calendar years after related bonds are redeemed, whichever is later.

AUDITS: INDEPENDENT (Item #56)
The District shall retain the record copy of independent audits for ten (10) fiscal years or until three (3) calendar years after all related bonds are redeemed, whichever is later.

DISBURSEMENT RECORDS: DETAIL (Item #340)
The District shall retain the record copy of disbursement records relating to the use of bonds for five (5) fiscal years provided applicable audits have been released or until three (3) calendar years after related bonds are redeemed, whichever is later.

DISBURSEMENT RECORDS: SUMMARY (Item #341)
The District shall retain the record copy of disbursement records relating to the use of bonds for ten (10) fiscal years provided applicable audits have been released or until three (3) calendar years after related bonds are redeemed, whichever is later.

FINANCIAL REPORTS: LOCAL GOVERNMENT ANNUAL REPORTS (Item #107)
The District shall retain the record copy of disbursement records relating to the use of bonds for ten (10) fiscal years provided applicable audits have been released or until three (3) calendar years after all related bonds are redeemed, whichever is later.

INCIDENT REPORT FILES (Item #241)
The District shall retain incident reports for five (5) anniversary years from the date of the incident.

MINUTES: OFFICIAL MEETINGS (PRELIMINARY/AUDIO RECORDINGS/VIDEO RECORDINGS
(Item #4)
The District shall retain audio recordings of board of supervisor meetings for five (5) calendar years after adoption of the official minutes.

PROJECT FILES: CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT (Item #136)
The District shall retain the record copy of project files for projects funded with bonds for ten (10) fiscal years after completion of the project provided applicable audits have been released or until three (3) calendar years after all related bonds are redeemed, whichever is later.

REAL PROPERTY RECORDS: CONDEMNATION/DEMOLITION (Item #364)
The District shall retain the record copy of project files for condemnation/demolition projects funded with bonds for five (5) anniversary years after final action or until three (3) calendar years after all related bonds are redeemed, whichever is later. The record copy of deeds and easements shall be kept permanently.

REAL PROPERTY RECORDS: PROPERTY ACQUIRED (Item #172)
The District shall retain the record copy of documents related to property acquisitions funded with bonds for three (3) fiscal years after final disposition of the property provided applicable audits have been released or until three (3) calendar years after all related bonds are redeemed, whichever is later. The record copy of deeds and easements shall be kept permanently.

MEMORANDUM

TO:	District Manager

FROM:	Billing, Cochran, Lyles, Mauro & Ramsey, P.A. District Counsel

DATE:	June 6, 2023

RE:	Required Ethics Training

On May 24, 2023, the Governor signed CS/HB 199 into law as Chapter 2023-121, Laws of Florida. Section 112.3142, Florida Statutes, requires that specified constitutional officers, elected municipal officers, and commissioners complete four (4) hours of ethics training annually. This requirement is noted on page 1 of the Form 1, Statement of Financial Interests. This legislation provides that beginning January 1, 2024, elected and appointed commissioners of community redevelopment agencies and local officers of independent special districts are now required to complete four (4) hours of ethics training annually. The training must address, at a minimum, s. 8, Art. II of the Florida Constitution (ethics for public officers and financial disclosure), the Code of Ethics for Public Officers and Employees, and the Florida Public Records Law and Open Meetings laws. The legislation specifically provides that this training requirement may be satisfied by completing a continuing legal education class or other continuing professional education class or seminar if the required subject matter is covered therein.

For current supervisors and officers, it is recommended that this training requirement be completed by July 1, 2024, so that the supervisor or officer can verify compliance with the required training on his or her Form 1, Statement of Financial Interests (2023). Elected local officers of independent special districts that assume office on or before March 31st must complete annual ethics training by December 31st of the year the term begins; however, if the term starts after March 31st, the officer is not required to complete the required ethics training until December 31st of the following year. The Legislature intends for those elected officers to receive the required training as close as possible to the date that he or she assumes office. The chart below can be used as a reference:

Date elected or appointed	Annual Training Completed By	
Current Officer/Supervisor	December 31, 2024 (recommend completion by
July 1, 2024)	
January 1 – March 31, 2024	December 31, 2024	
April 1 – December 31, 2024	December 31, 2025	

The legislation also amends Section 112.313(a), Florida Statutes, clarifying the conflicts exception for public officers or employees of water control districts (Chapter 298, Florida Statutes)

or a special tax districts created by general (i.e. community development districts) or special law and which is limited specifically to constructing, maintaining, managing, and financing improvements in the land area over which the district has jurisdiction. Employment with or entering into a contractual relationship with a business entity is not prohibited and is not deemed a conflict per se; however, conduct by such officer or employee that is prohibited by or otherwise frustrates the intent of Section 112.313(7), Florida Statutes, including conduct that violates subsections (6) (misuse of public position) and (8) (disclosure of information not otherwise available to the public for personal benefit) thereof is deemed an impermissible conflict of interest.

For convenience, we have included a copy of the legislation referenced in this memorandum. We request that you include this memorandum as part of the agenda packages for upcoming meetings of the governing boards of those special districts in which you serve as the District Manager and this firm serves as District Counsel. You can expect our traditional legislative memorandum in the coming weeks, where we will summarize other legislation from the 2023 Legislative Session relevant to special districts.

CHAPTER 2023-121

Committee Substitute for House Bill No. 199

An act relating to ethics requirements for officers and employees of special tax districts; amending s. 112.313, F.S.; specifying that certain conduct by certain public officers and employees is deemed a conflict of interest; making technical changes; amending s. 112.3142, F.S.; requiring certain ethics training for elected local officers of independent special districts beginning on a specified date; specifying requirements for such training; providing an effective date.

Be It Enacted by the Legislature of the State of Florida:
Section 1.	Subsection (7) of section 112.313, Florida Statutes, is amended to read:
112.313 Standards of conduct for public officers, employees of agencies, and local government attorneys.—
CONFLICTING EMPLOYMENT OR CONTRACTUAL RELATION- SHIP.—
No public officer or employee of an agency shall have or hold any employment or contractual relationship with any business entity or any agency which is subject to the regulation of, or is doing business with, an agency of which he or she is an officer or employee, excluding those organizations and their officers who, when acting in their official capacity, enter into or negotiate a collective bargaining contract with the state or any municipality, county, or other political subdivision of the state; nor shall an officer or employee of an agency have or hold any employment or contractual relationship that will create a continuing or frequently recurring conflict between his or her private interests and the performance of his or her public duties or that would impede the full and faithful discharge of his or her public duties.
When the agency referred to is that certain kind of special tax district created by general or special law and is limited specifically to constructing, maintaining, managing, and financing improvements in the land area over which the agency has jurisdiction, or when the agency has been organized pursuant to chapter 298, then employment with, or entering into a contractual relationship with, such business entity by a public officer or employee of such agency is shall not be prohibited by this subsection or be deemed a conflict per se. However, conduct by such officer or employee that is prohibited by, or otherwise frustrates the intent of, this section, including conduct that violates subsections (6) and (8), is shall be deemed a conflict of interest in violation of the standards of conduct set forth by this section.
1

Ch. 2023-121	LAWS OF FLORIDA	Ch. 2023-121

When the agency referred to is a legislative body and the regulatory power over the business entity resides in another agency, or when the regulatory power which the legislative body exercises over the business entity or agency is strictly through the enactment of laws or ordinances, then employment or a contractual relationship with such business entity by a public officer or employee of a legislative body shall not be prohibited by this subsection or be deemed a conflict.
This subsection shall not prohibit a public officer or employee from practicing in a particular profession or occupation when such practice by persons holding such public office or employment is required or permitted by law or ordinance.
Section 2. Paragraphs (d) and (e) of subsection (2) of section 112.3142, Florida Statutes, are redesignated as paragraphs (e) and (f), respectively, present paragraph (e) of that subsection is amended, and a new paragraph
(d) is added to that subsection, to read:
112.3142 Ethics training for specified constitutional officers, elected municipal officers, and commissioners of community redevelopment agen- cies, and elected local officers of independent special districts.—
(2)
(d) Beginning January 1, 2024, each elected local officer of an indepen- dent special district, as defined in s. 189.012, and each person who is appointed to fill a vacancy for an unexpired term of such elective office must complete 4 hours of ethics training each calendar year which addresses, at a minimum, s. 8, Art. II of the State Constitution, the Code of Ethics for Public Officers and Employees, and the public records and public meetings laws of this state. This requirement may be satisfied by completion of a continuing legal education class or other continuing professional education class, seminar, or presentation, if the required subject matter is covered by such class, seminar, or presentation.
(f)(e) The Legislature intends that a constitutional officer, or elected municipal officer, or elected local officer of an independent special district who is required to complete ethics training pursuant to this section receive the required training as close as possible to the date that he or she assumes office. A constitutional officer, or elected municipal officer, or elected local officer of an independent special district assuming a new office or new term of office on or before March 31 must complete the annual training on or before December 31 of the year in which the term of office began. A constitutional officer, or elected municipal officer, or elected local officer of an independent special district assuming a new office or new term of office after March 31 is not required to complete ethics training for the calendar year in which the term of office began.
Section 3.	This act shall take effect July 1, 2023.

Ch. 2023-121	LAWS OF FLORIDA	Ch. 2023-121

Approved by the Governor May 24, 2023.
Filed in Office Secretary of State May 24, 2023.

MEMORANDUM

TO:	District Manager

FROM:	Billing, Cochran, Lyles, Mauro & Ramsey, P.A. District Counsel

DATE:	July 20, 2023

RE:	2023 Legislative Update

As District Counsel, throughout the year we continuously monitor pending legislation that may be applicable to the governance and operation of our Community Development District and other Special District clients. It is at this time of year that we summarize those legislative acts that have become law during the most recent legislative session, as follows:

Chapter 2023 – 134, Laws of Florida (SB 346). The legislation requires contracts for construction services between a local government entity and a contractor to include a “punch list”1 of items required to render complete, satisfactory, and acceptable the construction services contracted for, which punch list outlines the estimated cost of each item necessary to complete the work. The law requires local governments to pay all portions of the contract balance, except for 150 percent of the portion of the contract balance attributed to those projects on the punch list, within 20 days after the punch list is created, subject to certain exceptions. The legislation limits a local government’s ability to withhold payment of certain amounts under the contract to only those subject to a written good faith dispute or claims against public surety bonds. The law clarifies that a local government must pay the undisputed portions of a contract within 20 days of the request for payment. Lastly, the legislation amends the definition of “public works project” in section 255.0992, F.S., to include any construction, maintenance, repair, renovation, remodeling, or improvement activity that is paid for with state-appropriated funds. The effective date of this act is July 1, 2023.

Chapter 2023 – 17, Laws of Florida (SB 102). The legislation makes various changes and additions to affordable housing related programs and policies at both the state and local level. With regard to local governments, the law:

Preempts local government requirements regarding zoning, density, and height to allow for streamlined development of affordable housing in commercial and mixed- use zoned areas under certain circumstances. Developments that meet the requirements may not require a zoning change or comprehensive plan amendment.

1 The punch list is created within a contractually-specified timeframe after the contractor reaches substantial completion of the construction services as defined in the contract, or if that is not defined, then after the project reaches beneficial occupancy or use. If the contract is valued at less than $10 million, then the punch list must be developed within 30 calendar days; if the contract is valued at $10 million or more, then the punch list must be developed within 45 calendar days.

Removes a local government’s ability to approve affordable housing on residential parcels by bypassing state and local laws that may otherwise preclude such development, while retaining such right for commercial and industrial parcels.
Removes a provision that allows local governments to impose rent control under certain circumstances, preempting rent control ordinances entirely.
Requires counties and cities to update and electronically publish the inventory of publicly owned properties, for counties including property owned by a dependent special district, which may be appropriate for affordable housing development.
Authorizes the Florida Housing Finance Corporation, through contract with the Florida Housing Coalition, to provide technical assistance to local governments to facilitate the use or lease of county or municipal property for affordable housing purposes.
Requires local governments to maintain a public written policy outlining procedures for expediting building permits and development orders for affordable housing projects.
Provides that the Keys Workforce Housing Initiative is an exception to evacuation time requirements and that comprehensive plan and land use amendments approved under that initiative are valid.

The effective date of this act is July 1, 2023.

Chapter 2023 – 31, Laws of Florida (SB 1604). The law makes a number of changes relating to comprehensive plans and land development regulations. Of interest to special districts, section 4 of the legislation amends section 189.031, F.S., to preclude independent special districts from complying with the terms of any development agreement, which is executed within three months preceding the effective date of a law, which modifies the manner of selecting members of the governing body of the special district from election to appointment or appointment to election. The newly elected or appointed governing body of the special district must review within four months of taking office any such development agreement and vote on whether to seek readoption of the agreement. The law applies to any development agreement that is in effect on, or is executed after July 1, 2023, which is the effective date of this law. Section 4 of the Act expires July 1, 2028, unless reviewed and reenacted by the Legislature.

Chapter 2023 – 28, Laws of Florida (HB 3). This legislation codifies and extends the policy adopted by the Trustees2 requiring all investment decisions relating to the state retirement system be based solely on pecuniary factors3. The law extended that policy to all funds managed by the State Board of Administration (SBA), all funds of the state Treasury, all local government retirement plans, investments of local government surplus funds, and investments of funds raised by citizen support and direct-support organizations. Investment managers who invest public funds on behalf of any of these entities may not sacrifice investment return or take additional investment risk to promote any non-pecuniary factor. The law requires any contract between a governmental

2 The Governor, Chief Financial Officer, and Attorney General serve as the SBA’s Board of Trustees.
3 The term “pecuniary factor” is defined as a factor that is expected “to have a material effect on the risk or return of an investment based on appropriate investment horizons consistent with applicable investment objectives and funding policy. The term does not include the consideration of the furtherance of any social, political, or ideological interests.”

entity4 and an investment manager executed, amended, or renewed on or after July 1, 2023, to contain a provision requiring the investment manager to include a disclaimer in an external communication, if the communication is to a company in which the investment manager has invested public funds and discusses social, political, or ideological interests. The required disclaimer must state: “The views and opinions expressed in this communication are those of the sender and do not reflect the views and opinions of the people of the state of Florida.” All contracts with investment managers executed, amended, or renewed on or after July 1, 2023, may be unilaterally terminated if certain communications of an investment manager include discussion of social, political, or ideological interests and omit the required disclaimer.

In addition, the legislation prohibits bond issuers5 from issuing an environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) bond or paying for a third-party verifier that certifies or verifies that a bond may be designated or labeled as an ESG bond6, renders opinions or produces a report on ESG compliance, among other ESG-related services. Issuers are also prohibited from contracting with a rating agency whose ESG scores for the issuer will have a direct, negative impact on the issuer’s bond ratings.

The act further prohibits consideration of social, political, or ideological beliefs in state and local government contracting, and explicitly notes that this includes all political subdivisions of the state. Specifically, the law prohibits an awarding body from (1) requesting documentation or considering a vendor’s social, political, or ideological beliefs when determining if the vendor is a responsible vendor; or (2) giving a preference to a vendor based on the vendor’s social, political, or ideological beliefs.

Lastly, the legislation amends the definition of a “qualified public depository” to prohibit government entities from depositing funds in banks that make it a practice to deny or cancel services of their customers based on a person’s political opinions, speech, affiliations, lawful ownership or sales of firearms, production of fossil fuels or other factors related to ESG. Pursuant to current law, all public deposits may only be deposited in a qualified public depository. The effective date of this legislation is July 1, 2023.

Chapter 2023 – 32, Laws of Florida (SB 258). The legislation bans the use of prohibited applications7 on devices issued to an employee or officer by a public employer, or otherwise used on a network that is owned, operated, or maintained by a public employer. This law requires the Department of Management Services (DMS) to create and maintain a list of prohibited applications of any Internet application that it deems to present a security risk in the form of

4 The law defines “governmental entity” to mean a state, regional, county, municipal, special district, or other political subdivision whether executive, judicial, or legislative, including, but not limited to, a department, division, board, bureau, commission, authority, district, or agency thereof, or a public school, Florida College System institution, state university, or associated board.
5 Any public body corporate and politic authorized or created by general or special law and granted the power to issue bonds.
6 An ESG bond is any bond that has been designated or labeled as a bond that will be used to finance a project with an ESG purpose, including, but not limited to, green bonds, Certified Climate Bonds, GreenStar designated bonds, and other environmental bonds marketed as promoting a generalized or global environmental objective; social bonds marketed as promoting a social objective; and sustainability bonds and sustainable development goal bonds marketed as promoting both environmental and social objectives. It includes bonds self- designated by the issuer as ESG-labeled bonds and those designated as ESG-labeled bonds by a third-party verifier.
7 A “prohibited application” is defined as any application that participates in certain activities, such as conducting cyber-espionage against a public employer, and that is created, maintained, or owned by a foreign principal.

unauthorized access to, or temporary unavailability of the public employer’s records, digital assets, systems, networks, servers, or information. Public employers must block access to any prohibited application via their wireless networks and virtual private networks; restrict access to any prohibited application on any government cell phone, laptop, desktop computer, tablet computer, or other electronic device that can connect to the Internet that has been issued to an employee or officer for a work-related purpose; and retain the ability to remotely wipe and uninstall any prohibited application from any such device that is believed to have been adversely impacted by a prohibited application. The legislation requires an employee or officer of a CDD to remove any prohibited application from his or her government-issued device within 15 days of the DMS’ publication of its list of prohibited applications, and within 15 days of any subsequent update to the list of prohibited applications. The effective date of this legislation is July 1, 2023.

Chapter 2023 – 33, Laws of Florida (SB 264). The legislation restricts the issuance of government contracts or economic development incentives to foreign entities that are owned by, controlled by or organized under the laws of a foreign country of concern8. The law further prohibits a foreign principal9 from owning or acquiring agricultural land or other interests in real property on or within 10 miles of a military installation or critical infrastructure facility. A foreign principal that owns agricultural land acquired before July 1, 2023, may continue to hold such land and must register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (DACS) by January 1, 2024. If the property owned or acquired before July 1, 2023, is on or within 10 miles of a military installation or critical infrastructure facility, the foreign principal must similarly register with the Department of Economic Opportunity by December 31, 2023. The law prohibits the People’s Republic of China, the Chinese Communist Party, its officials and members, other political party official or members, other legal entities or subsidiaries organized under the laws of, or having a principal place of business in, China or its political subdivisions, or other persons domiciled in China, who are not U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents of the United States, from purchasing or acquiring an interest in, real property in Florida. Finally, the act amends s. 836.05, F.S., relating to criminal threats and extortion, to provide that a person who violates the statute while acting as a foreign agent for the purpose of benefitting a foreign country of concern, commits a first degree felony. The effective date of this legislation is July 1, 2023.

Chapter 2023 – 264, Laws of Florida (SB 7008). The legislation amends Section 119.071(3)(c)1., F.S., to save from repeal, the public records exemption for information relating to the following information held by an agency:

Building plans;
Blueprints;
Schematic drawings; and

8 The People’s Republic of China, The Russian Federation, The Islamic Republic of Iran, The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, The Republic of Cuba, The Venezuelan Regime of Nicolas Maduro, or The Syrian Arab Republic, including any agency of or other entity within significant control of such foreign country of concern.
9 “Foreign principal” means: The government or any official of the government of a foreign country of concern; A political party or member of a political party or any subdivision of a political party in a foreign country of concern; A partnership, association, corporation, organization, or other combination of persons organized under the laws of, or having its principal place of business in, a foreign country of concern, or a subsidiary of such entity; or o Any person who is domiciled in a foreign country of concern and is not a citizen or lawful permanent resident of the United States.

Diagrams, including draft, preliminary, and final formats, which depict the internal layout or structural elements of an attractions and recreation facility, entertainment or resort complex, industrial complex, retail and service development, office development, health care facility, or hotel or motel development.

The effective date of this act is October 1, 2023.

Chapter 2023 – 75, Laws of Florida (HB 7007). The legislation removes the scheduled repeal date of the public record and public meeting exemptions for security or fire safety system plans under Sections 119.071(3)(a) and 286.0113(1), F.S., thereby maintaining the public record and public meeting exemptions for such plans. The effective date of this act is October 1, 2023.

For convenience, we have included copies of the legislation referenced in this memorandum. We request that you include this memorandum as part of the agenda packages for upcoming meetings of the governing boards of those special districts in which you serve as the District Manager and this firm serves as District Counsel. For purposes of the agenda package, it is not necessary to include the attached legislation, as we can provide copies to anyone requesting the same. Copies of the referenced legislation are also accessible by visiting this link: http://laws.flrules.org/.

October 18, 2023

RE: Pentathlon Community Development District

The Pentathlon Community Development District is required to select an auditor to perform the audit for the district for the years ending September 30, 2023, September 30, 2024 and September 30, 2025; with an option for an additional two-year renewal.

In accordance with the Auditor Selection procedures as outlined by Florida Statute 218.391, the District has established the auditor selection criteria and has placed a legal advertisement requesting proposals from qualified audit firms.

The current auditor for the Pentathlon Community Development District is the firm of Grau & Associates.

Grau & Associates was the only firm to respond to the legal advertisement requesting proposals to perform the fiscal year ending September 30, 2023, September 30, 2024 and September 30, 2025 audits. The proposed fee for the audit for fiscal year ending September 30, 2023 is $3,400.00. The proposed fee for the audit for fiscal year ending September 30, 2024 is $3,500.00. The proposed fee for the audit for fiscal year ending September 30, 2025 audit is $3,600.00. The proposed fee for the audit for fiscal year ending September 30, 2026 (option year) is $3,700.00. And the proposed fee for the audit for fiscal year ending September 30, 2027 (option year) is $3,800.00. The approved fee for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022 audit, which Grau & Associates has completed, was $3,600.00. The proposed Audit Fee budget for Fiscal Year 2023/2024 is
$3,700.00.

Management would like to report that it is pleased with the professionalism and the competence of the Grau and Associates, partners and supporting staff.

It is recommended at this time that Grau & Associates be hired to perform the September 30, 2023, September 30, 2024 and September 30, 2025 annual government audits and also be selected, subject to fee adjustments for inflation, to perform the fiscal year end audits for the following two years (FYE 9/30/26 and 9/30/27).

Special District Services, Inc.

Proposal to Provide Financial Auditing Services:
PENTATHLON
Community Development District

Proposal Due: August 23, 2023 4:00PM

Submitted to:
Pentathlon
Community Development District c/o SDS
2501A Burns Road
Palm Beach Gardens, Florida 33410

Submitted by:
Antonio J. Grau, Partner Grau & Associates
951 Yamato Road, Suite 280 Boca Raton, Florida 33431 Tel	(561) 994-9299
(800) 229-4728
Fax	(561) 994-5823
tgrau@graucpa.com www.graucpa.com

Table of Contents

PAGE

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY / TRANSMITTAL LETTER	1
FIRM QUALIFICATIONS	3
FIRM & STAFF EXPERIENCE	6
REFERENCES	11
SPECIFIC AUDIT APPROACH	13
COST OF SERVICES	17
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION	19

August 23, 2023

Pentathlon Community Development District C/o SDS
2501A Burns Road
Palm Beach Gardens, Florida 33410

Re:	Request for Proposal for Professional Auditing Services for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2023-2025, with an option for two (2) additional annual renewals.

Grau & Associates (Grau) welcomes the opportunity to respond to the Pentathlon Community Development District’s (the “District”) Request for Proposal (RFP), and we look forward to working with you on your audit. We are an energetic and robust team of knowledgeable professionals and are a recognized leader of providing services to Community Development Districts. As one of Florida’s few firms to primarily focus on government, we are especially equipped to provide you an effective and efficient audit.

Special district audits are at the core of our practice: we have a total of 360 clients, 329 or 91% of which are special districts. We know the specifics of the professional services and work products needed to meet your RFP requirements like no other firm. With this level of experience, we are able to increase efficiency, to provide immediate and continued savings, and to minimize disturbances to client operations.

Why Grau & Associates:

Knowledgeable Audit Team
Grau is proud that the personnel we assign to your audit are some of the most seasoned auditors in the field. Our staff performs governmental engagements year round. When not working on your audit, your team is refining their audit approach for next year’s audit. Our engagement partners have decades of experience and take a hands-on approach to our assignments, which all ensures a smoother process for you.

Servicing your Individual Needs
Our clients enjoy personalized service designed to satisfy their unique needs and requirements. Throughout the process of our audit, you will find that we welcome working with you to resolve any issues as swiftly and easily as possible. In addition, due to Grau’s very low turnover rate for our industry, you also won’t have to worry about retraining your auditors from year to year.

Developing Relationships
We strive to foster mutually beneficial relationships with our clients. We stay in touch year round, updating, collaborating and assisting you in implementing new legislation, rules and standards that affect your organization. We are also available as a sounding board and assist with technical questions.

Maintaining an Impeccable Reputation
We have never been involved in any litigation, proceeding or received any disciplinary action. Additionally, we have never been charged with, or convicted of, a public entity crime of any sort. We are financially stable and have never been involved in any bankruptcy proceedings.

Complying With Standards
Our audit will follow the Auditing Standards of the AICPA, Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards, issued by the Comptroller General of the United States, and the Rules of the Auditor General of the State of Florida, and any other applicable federal, state and local regulations. We will deliver our reports in accordance with your requirements.

This proposal is a firm and irrevocable offer for 90 days. We certify this proposal is made without previous understanding, agreement or connection either with any previous firms or corporations offering a proposal for the same items. We also certify our proposal is in all respects fair, without outside control, collusion, fraud, or otherwise illegal action, and was prepared in good faith. Only the person(s), company or parties interested in the project as principals are named in the proposal. Grau has no existing or potential conflicts, and anticipates no conflicts during the engagement. Our Federal I.D. number is 20-2067322.

We would be happy to answer any questions or to provide any additional information. We are genuinely excited about the prospect of serving you and establishing a long-term relationship. Please do not hesitate to call or email either of our Partners, Antonio J. Grau, CPA (tgrau@graucpa.com) or Racquel McIntosh, CPA (rmcintosh@graucpa.com) at 561.994.9299. We thank you for considering our firm’s qualifications and experience.

Very truly yours, Grau & Associates
Antonio J. Grau

Firm Qualifications

Grau’s Focus and Experience

Our Team

3
Partners

10
Professional Staff

2
Administrative Professionals

9/13
Employees are CPAS

Year founded

Services Provided

297

Community Development Districts Served

Properly registered and
licensed professional corporation by the state of FLORIDA

9
Professional Groups

We are proud Members of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
&
the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants

See next page for report and certificate

 External quality review program: consistently receives a pass
 Internal: ongoing monitoring to maintain quality

AICPA | FICPA | GFOA | FASD | FGFOA

Firm & Staff Experience

GRAU AND ASSOCIATES COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT EXPERIENCE BY MANAGEMENT COMPANY

OTHER
19

PFM
12

WRATHELL
30

GMS
78

INFRAMARK
38

SDS
60

RIZZETTA
47

MERITUS
23

Profile Briefs:

Antonio J GRAU, CPA (Partner)
Years Performing Audits: 35+
CPE (last 2 years): Government Accounting, Auditing: 24 hours; Accounting, Auditing and Other: 58 hours
Professional Memberships: AICPA, FICPA, FGFOA, GFOA

Racquel McIntosh, CPA (Partner)
Years Performing Audits: 18+
CPE (last 2 years): Government Accounting, Auditing: 38 hours; Accounting, Auditing and Other: 56 hours
Professional Memberships: AICPA, FICPA, FGFOA, FASD

“Here at Grau & Associates, staying up to date with the current technological landscape is one of our top priorities. Not only does it provide a more positive experience for our clients, but it also allows us to perform a more effective and efficient audit. With the every changing technology available and utilized by our clients, we are constantly innovating our audit process.”
-	Tony Grau
“Quality audits and exceptional client service are at the heart of every decision we make. Our clients trust us to deliver a quality audit, adhering to high standards and assisting them with improvements for their organization.”
-Racquel McIntosh

YOUR ENGAGEMENT TEAM

Grau’s client-specific engagement team is meticulously organized in order to meet the unique needs of each client. Constant communication within our solution team allows for continuity of staff and audit team.

Grau contracts with an outside group of IT management consultants to assist with matters including, but not limited to; network and database security, internet security and vulnerability testing.

An advisory consultant will be available as a sounding board to advise in those areas where problems are encountered.

The assigned personnel will work closely with the partner and the District to ensure that the financial statements and all other reports are prepared in accordance with professional standards and firm policy.
Responsibilities will include planning the audit; communicating with the client and the partners the progress of the audit; and
determining that financial statements and all reports issued by the firm are accurate, complete and are prepared in accordance with professional standards and firm policy.

The Engagement Partner will participate extensively during the various stages of the engagement and has direct responsibility for engagement policy, direction, supervision, quality control, security, confidentiality of information of the engagement and communication with client personnel. The engagement partner will also be involved directing the development of the overall audit approach and plan; performing an overriding review of work papers and ascertain client satisfaction.

Antonio ‘Tony ‘J. Grau, CPA
Partner
Contact: tgrau@graucpa.com | (561) 939-6672
Experience
For over 30 years, Tony has been providing audit, accounting and consulting services to the firm’s governmental, non-profit, employee benefit, overhead and arbitrage clients. He provides guidance to clients regarding complex accounting issues, internal controls and operations.
As a member of the Government Finance Officers Association Special Review Committee, Tony participated in the review process for awarding the GFOA Certificate of Achievement in Financial Reporting. Tony was also the review team leader for the Quality Review of the Office of Management Audits of School Board of Miami-Dade County. Tony received the AICPA advanced level certificate for governmental single audits.

Education
University of South Florida (1983) Bachelor of Arts
Business Administration

Clients Served (partial list)

(>300) Various Special Districts, including:		
Bayside Improvement Community Development District Dunes Community Development District
Fishhawk Community Development District (I,II,IV) Grand Bay at Doral Community Development District Heritage Harbor North Community Development District	St. Lucie West Services District
Ave Maria Stewardship Community District Rivers Edge II Community Development District Bartram Park Community Development District
Bay Laurel Center Community Development District	
Boca Raton Airport Authority Greater Naples Fire Rescue District
Key Largo Wastewater Treatment District Lake Worth Drainage District
South Indian River Water Control		

Professional Associations/Memberships
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Florida Government Finance Officers Association Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants Government Finance Officers Association Member City of Boca Raton Financial Advisory Board Member

Professional Education (over the last two years)
Course	Hours
Government Accounting and Auditing	24
Accounting, Auditing and Other	58
Total Hours	82 (includes of 4 hours of Ethics CPE)

Racquel C. McIntosh, CPA
Partner
Contact: rmcintosh@graucpa.com | (561) 939-6669
Experience
Racquel has been providing government audit, accounting and advisory services to our clients for over 14 years. She serves as the firm’s quality control partner; in this capacity she closely monitors engagement quality ensuring standards are followed and maintained throughout the audit.
Racquel develops in-house training seminars on current government auditing, accounting, and legislative topics and also provides seminars for various government organizations. In addition, she assists clients with implementing new accounting software, legislation, and standards.

Education
Florida Atlantic University (2004) Master of Accounting
Florida Atlantic University (2003) Bachelor of Arts:
Finance, Accounting

Clients Served (partial list)

(>300) Various Special Districts, including:		
Carlton Lakes Community Development District Golden Lakes Community Development District Rivercrest Community Development District South Fork III Community Development District TPOST Community Development District	Westchase Community Development District Monterra Community Development District
Palm Coast Park Community Development District Long Leaf Community Development District Watergrass Community Development District	
East Central Regional Wastewater Treatment Facilities Indian Trail Improvement District
Pinellas Park Water Management District Ranger Drainage District
South Trail Fire Protection and Rescue Service District	

Professional Associations/ Memberships

American Institute of Certified Public Accountants	FICPA State & Local Government Committee	
Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants	FGFOA Palm Beach Chapter	

Professional Education (over the last two years)
Course	Hours
Government Accounting and Auditing	38
Accounting, Auditing and Other	56
Total Hours	94 (includes of 4 hours of Ethics CPE)

References

We have included three references of government engagements that require compliance with laws and regulations, follow fund accounting, and have financing requirements, which we believe are similar to the District.

 Dunes Community Development District		
Scope of Work	Financial audit	
Engagement Partner	Antonio J. Grau	
Dates	Annually since 1998	
Client Contact	Darrin Mossing, Finance Director 475 W. Town Place, Suite 114
St. Augustine, Florida 32092
                    904-940-5850		

 Two Creeks Community Development District		
Scope of Work	Financial audit	
Engagement Partner	Antonio J. Grau	
Dates	Annually since 2007	
Client Contact	William Rizzetta, President 3434 Colwell Avenue, Suite 200
Tampa, Florida 33614
                   813-933-5571		

 Journey’s End Community Development District		
Scope of Work	Financial audit	
Engagement Partner	Antonio J. Grau	
Dates	Annually since 2004	
Client Contact	Todd Wodraska, Vice President 2501 A Burns Road
Palm Beach Gardens, Florida 33410
                   561-630-4922		

Specific Audit Approach

AUDIT APPROACH
Grau’s Understanding of Work Product / Scope of Services:
We recognize the District is an important entity and we are confident our firm is eminently qualified to meet the challenges of this engagement and deliver quality audit services. You would be a valued client of our firm and we pledge to commit all firm resources to provide the level and quality of services (as described below) which not only meet the requirements set forth in the RFP but will exceed those expectations. Grau & Associates fully understands the scope of professional services and work products requested. Our audit will follow the Auditing Standards of the AICPA, Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards, issued by the Comptroller General of the United States, and the Rules of the Auditor General of the State of Florida and any other applicable Federal, State of Local regulations. We will deliver our reports in accordance with your requirements.

Proposed segmentation of the engagement
Our approach to the audit engagement is a risk-based approach which integrates the best of traditional auditing techniques and a total systems concept to enable the team to conduct a more efficient and effective audit. The audit will be conducted in three phases, which are as follows:

PHASE I:
Preliminary Planning

PHASE II:
Execution of the Audit Plan

PHASE III:
Completion and Delivery

Phase I - Preliminary Planning
A thorough understanding of your organization, service objectives and operating environment is essential for the development of an audit plan and for an efficient, cost-effective audit. During this phase, we will meet with appropriate personnel to obtain and document our understanding of your operations and service objectives and, at the same time, give you the opportunity to express your expectations with respect to the services that we will provide. Our work effort will be coordinated so that there will be minimal disruption to your staff.

During this phase we will perform the following activities:
» Review the regulatory, statutory and compliance requirements. This will include a review of applicable federal and state statutes, resolutions, bond documents, contracts, and other agreements;
» Read minutes of meetings;
» Review major sources of information such as budgets, organization charts, procedures, manuals, financial systems, and management information systems;
» Obtain an understanding of fraud detection and prevention systems;
» Obtain and document an understanding of internal control, including knowledge about the design of relevant policies, procedures, and records, and whether they have been placed in operation;
» Assess risk and determine what controls we are to rely upon and what tests we are going to perform and perform test of controls;
» Develop audit programs to incorporate the consideration of financial statement assertions, specific audit objectives, and appropriate audit procedures to achieve the specified objectives;
» Discuss and resolve any accounting, auditing and reporting matters which have been identified.

Phase II – Execution of Audit Plan
The audit team will complete a major portion of transaction testing and audit requirements during this phase. The procedures performed during this period will enable us to identify any matter that may impact the completion of our work or require the attention of management. Tasks to be performed in Phase II include, but are not limited to the following:
» Apply analytical procedures to further assist in the determination of the nature, timing, and extent of auditing procedures used to obtain evidential matter for specific account balances or classes of transactions;
» Perform tests of account balances and transactions through sampling, vouching, confirmation and other analytical procedures; and
» Perform tests of compliance.
Phase III - Completion and Delivery

In this phase of the audit, we will complete the tasks related to year-end balances and financial reporting. All reports will be reviewed with management before issuance, and the partners will be available to meet and discuss our report and address any questions. Tasks to be performed in Phase III include, but are not limited to the following:

» Perform final analytical procedures;
» Review information and make inquiries for subsequent events; and
» Meeting with Management to discuss preparation of draft financial statements and any potential findings or recommendations.

You should expect more from your accounting firm than a signature in your annual financial report. Our concept of truly responsive professional service emphasizes taking an active interest in the issues of concern to our clients and serving as an effective resource in dealing with those issues. In following this approach, we not only audit financial information with hindsight but also consider the foresight you apply in managing operations.

Application of this approach in developing our management letter is particularly important given the increasing financial pressures and public scrutiny facing today’s public officials. We will prepare the management letter at the completion of our final procedures.

In preparing this management letter, we will initially review any draft comments or recommendations with management. In addition, we will take necessary steps to ensure that matters are communicated to those charged with governance.

In addition to communicating any recommendations, we will also communicate the following, if any:

» Significant audit adjustments;
» Significant deficiencies or material weaknesses;
» Disagreements with management; and
» Difficulties encountered in performing the audit.

Is the recommendation cost effective?

Is the recommendation the simplest to effectuate in order to correct a problem?

Is the recommendation at the heart of the problem and not just correcting a symptomatic matter?

Is the corrective action taking into account why the deficiency occurred?

Our findings will contain a statement of condition describing the situation and the area that needs strengthening, what should be corrected and why. Our suggestions will withstand the basic tests of corrective action:

To assure full agreement with facts and circumstances, we will fully discuss each item with Management prior to the final exit conference. This policy means there will be no “surprises” in the management letter and fosters a professional, cooperative atmosphere.

Communications
We emphasize a continuous, year-round dialogue between the District and our management team. We regularly communicate through personal telephone calls and electronic mail throughout the audit and on a regular basis.
Our clients have the ability to transmit information to us on our secure client portal with the ability to assign different staff with separate log on and viewing capability. This further facilitates efficiency as all assigned users receive electronic mail notification as soon as new information has been posted into the portal.

Cost of Services

Our proposed all-inclusive fees for the financial audit for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2023-2027 are as follows:

  Year Ended September 30,			Fee		
2023	$3,400	
2024	$3,500	
2025	$3,600	
2026	$3,700	
2027	$3,800	
TOTAL (2023-2027)	$18,000	

The above fees are based on the assumption that the District maintains its current level of operations. Should conditions change or additional debt is issued the fees would be adjusted accordingly upon approval from all parties concerned.

Supplemental Information

PARTIAL LIST OF CLIENTS

	Governmental Audit	Single Audit	Utility Fund	
Current Client	
Year End	
Boca Raton Airport Authority					9/30	
Captain's Key Dependent District					9/30	
Central Broward Water Control District					9/30	
Collier Mosquito Control District					9/30	
Coquina Water Control District					9/30	
East Central Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility					9/30	
Florida Green Finance Authority					9/30	
Greater Boca Raton Beach and Park District					9/30	
Greater Naples Fire Control and Rescue District					9/30	
Green Corridor P.A.C.E. District					9/30	
Hobe-St. Lucie Conservancy District					9/30	
Indian River Mosquito Control District					9/30	
Indian Trail Improvement District					9/30	
Key Largo Waste Water Treatment District					9/30	
Lake Padgett Estates Independent District					9/30	
Lake Worth Drainage District					9/30	
Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District					9/30	
Old Plantation Control District					9/30	
Pal Mar Water Control District					9/30	
Pinellas Park Water Management District					9/30	
Pine Tree Water Control District (Broward)					9/30	
Pinetree Water Control District (Wellington)					9/30	
Ranger Drainage District					9/30	
Renaissance Improvement District					9/30	
San Carlos Park Fire Protection and Rescue Service District					9/30	
Sanibel Fire and Rescue District					9/30	
South Central Regional Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Board					9/30	
South-Dade Venture Development District					9/30	
South Indian River Water Control District					9/30	
South Trail Fire Protection & Rescue District					9/30	
Spring Lake Improvement District					9/30	
St. Lucie West Services District					9/30	
Sunshine Water Control District					9/30	
West Villages Improvement District					9/30	
Various Community Development Districts (297)					9/30	
TOTAL	332	5	3	327		

ADDITIONAL SERVICES

CONSULTING / MANAGEMENT ADVISORY SERVICES

Grau & Associates also provide a broad range of other management consulting services. Our expertise has been consistently utilized by Governmental and Non-Profit entities throughout Florida. Examples of engagements performed are as follows:

Accounting systems
Development of budgets
Organizational structures
Financing alternatives
IT Auditing	Fixed asset records
Cost reimbursement
Indirect cost allocation
Grant administration and compliance	

ARBITRAGE

The federal government has imposed complex rules to restrict the use of tax-exempt financing. Their principal purpose is to eliminate any significant arbitrage incentives in a tax-exempt issue. We have determined the applicability of these requirements and performed the rebate calculations for more than 150 bond issues, including both fixed and variable rate bonds.

73

Current Arbitrage Calculations

We look forward to providing Pentathlon Community Development District with our resources and experience to accomplish not only those minimum requirements set forth in your Request for Proposal, but to exceed those expectations!

For even more information on Grau & Associates please visit us on www.graucpa.com.