The Story Behind the Abdo, Eick & Meyers Government Practice
April 22, 2015
Since serving its first government audit client, City of Mankato, in 1969, Abdo, Eick & Meyers has served hundreds of local governments. Today, we audit more Minnesota cities than any other accounting firm. Here’s a brief history of the practice, what makes it unique, and where it’s going from here.
Our first government audit client came about in 1969 when Gerry Eick, one of the firm’s early partners, won the City of Mankato’s business. He continued to grow the practice and developed valuable expertise. In 1982, Gerry hired Kyle Meyers, who became his right-hand man and was instrumental in growing the firm’s government audit practice throughout southern Minnesota.
As the practice expanded to the Twin Cities, the firm continued to add key staff. Eventually the firm hired Steve McDonald, who now serves as our managing partner. With Steve’s help, the firm was able to broaden its reach and presence in the Twin Cities market.
In 2009, the firm founded AEM Financial Solutions, LLC, a practice designed to meet the specific, often changing needs of city governments, primarily as an outsourced financial director.
Today, we serve hundreds of cities, schools and other government agencies. Members of our government audit practice receive special training and work almost exclusively with government clients. This allows for a truly experienced and dedicated team. Plus, we’re able to tailor our process to these types of clients, which creates efficiencies for both the client and our team.
Consistent with our other practice areas, listening is key. We focus not only on providing a great audit but also on listening to clients to gauge their challenges. It’s how we go beyond the audit to help clients solve challenges ranging from long-term financial planning to rate and fee studies.
Looking ahead, our goal is to be the go-to firm for government audit and consulting needs throughout the entire year — not just in busy season. So let us know: How we can help your organization get to the next level?
Andy Berg, CPA, is AEM’s Government/Nonprofit Segment Leader. When he’s not fishing for ways to help governments boost efficiency, he’s casting lines for whopper muskies. You can reach Andy at 952.715.3003 or at andrew.berg@aemcpas.com.