St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger has chosen the firm of Brown Smith Wallace LLC to conduct a top-to-bottom audit of county government.

The contract is pending approval from the County Council, according to a news release. The goal of the audit is to find ways to reduce spending and streamline processes. Auditors will review existing controls, identify areas of high risk and evaluate internal control design and effectiveness, the release stated.

The firm will prepare a formal report to the county executive, including recommendations to strengthen controls and business practices.

“This audit is a priority for my administration,” Stenger stated in the release. “By thoroughly examining the practices of each department, we will have a road map for a more transparent and accountable government.”

A review team chose Brown Smith Wallace because of the strength of the firm’s auditors and the firm’s experience with similar requests. The audit will begin in July and conclude in four months.

All findings will be made available to the public.