Deloitte was commissioned last year to forensically examine council practices after complaints from two whistleblowers and it is now preparing a follow-up report about possible improvements to processes.
No financial irregularities were established by the investigation, the council has said.
Deloitte’s investigation fees were $247,900.82, including GST, until the end of March, the council said.
The council’s legal fees in relation to the matter were $58,483.45, including GST, to the end of March.
The investigation involved Deloitte reviewing a wide range of electronic records, emails, financial records, briefing papers and meeting minutes, and interviewing staff and other people.
However, the firm’s report about the investigation has not been shared with councillors.
The Otago Daily Times understands no serious wrongdoing was found under the Protected Disclosures Act, but the council has declined to confirm this.
It also declined a Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act request from the ODT for a copy of the report and other content.
The council did provide updated cost figures and reiterated audit and risk subcommittee independent chairman Warren Allen gave instructions for Deloitte to carry out its inquiry.
At the end of January, Deloitte investigation costs had added up to $205,657.18, including GST.
Fees from law firm Anderson Lloyd were $46,795.80, including GST, at that time.
Combined costs were $252,452.98 back then.
The council has said improvements to processes and a plan for "actioning" them would be reported through the audit and risk subcommittee.
All councillors had access to audit and risk papers.
