Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools hires outside firm as CFO retires

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) has hired an outside financial consulting firm, HIL Group, as Chief Financial Officer Kelly Kluttz prepares to retire at the end of the year, WBTV reported.

The district's leaders say HIL Group has decades of experience supporting North Carolina school districts, including Gaston County Schools, and will assist with financial operations, budgeting, and financial reporting.

CMS issued a Request for Information asking firms to propose their own rates rather than setting a fixed price. The initial contract period runs from November 2026 through February 2027, with possible extensions through July 2027.

CMS expects up to 220 hours of consulting services monthly during this period. While the firm provides behind-the-scenes support, someone within CMS will present financial information to the Board of Education starting in January.

WBTV noted that district leaders have promised transparency during the transition but have not yet disclosed how much taxpayer money will be spent on the arrangement. The outlet is continuing to seek details on the contract cost.