RFSQ - External Audit Services for Harris County, the Harris County Flood Control District, and Related Entities

Harris County is soliciting proposals for external audit services covering Harris County, the Harris County Flood Control District, and related entities for a one-year term beginning approximately August 1, 2026, with the potential for four one-year renewal options under the same terms and pricing. The solicitation, numbered 26/0010, is governed by the Texas County Purchasing Act and requires strict adherence to competitive bidding procedures. Proposals must be submitted via Bonfire or as a hard copy by June 22, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Houston time, with no late submissions accepted under any circumstances. The NAICS code is 541211, and the contract is subject to Texas law, with exclusive venue in Harris County and no binding arbitration permitted. The award will go to the vendor deemed the best evaluated offer after negotiation, based on a weighted evaluation of accounting firm qualifications (unspecified weight), personnel experience (50%), and quality control results from the most recent peer review (45%), with pricing considered only after qualification and not used in scoring. All proposals must include required certifications and forms, including a completed Conflict of Interest Questionnaire, Certificate of Interested Parties (Form 1295), Certification Regarding Debarment, Tax Residence Certification, and Harris County Minimum Wage Policy Certification, with a mandatory minimum wage of $21.65 per hour for all workers. Vendors must be registered in Texas with a valid Franchise Tax Identification Number and must not owe any debts to Harris County. Any entity that contributed to the development of the RFQ is disqualified from responding. The audit services must be performed under a fixed, not-to-exceed fee structure with detailed billing rates by staff level, estimated hours, and fixed, not-to-exceed expense allowances requiring prior approval and receipt documentation. Final reconciliation of hours, rates, fees, and expenses is required upon completion. Invoices must be submitted monthly to the Harris County Auditor’s Office via mail or email, supported by itemized details, weekly/monthly reports, and time sheets for time-and-materials work, and can only be paid upon receipt of a duly signed Harris County purchase order. Vendors must maintain required insurance coverage including public liability and property damage, and if the contract exceeds $25,000, a payment bond covering the full contract amount must be provided and remain active for the contract term. All services must comply with the highest standards of materials and workmanship,