Business Context and Reporting Period
This Form 8-K is filed by the Black Hills Corporation Retirement Savings Plan (the "Plan") on May 24, 2002. The report discloses a change in the Plan's independent certifying accountant.
Key Financial Metrics
The filing text does not provide specific financial metrics such as revenue, profit, cash flow, margins, debt, or liquidity. The document focuses exclusively on the administrative change of auditors.
Material Changes
- Dismissal of Auditor: The Board of Directors approved the dismissal of Arthur Andersen LLP as the independent auditor effective May 24, 2002.
- Engagement of New Auditor: Deloitte & Touche LLP was engaged to serve as the independent auditor for the Plan's 2002 fiscal year, subject to normal client acceptance procedures.
Management Commentary, Risks, and Contingencies
Management confirmed that during the two most recent fiscal years ended December 31, 2001, and the interim period through May 24, 2002:
- There were no disagreements with Arthur Andersen regarding accounting principles, financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope.
- There were no "reportable events" as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K.
- Arthur Andersen's reports for the last two fiscal years did not contain adverse opinions, disclaimers, or qualifications regarding uncertainty, audit scope, or accounting principles.
- The Plan did not consult with Deloitte & Touche regarding accounting principles or audit opinions during the specified periods.
Investor Verification Checklist
- Verify the effective date of the auditor change (May 24, 2002).
- Confirm the identity of the new auditor (Deloitte & Touche LLP).
- Review the letter from Arthur Andersen LLP filed as Exhibit 16 for any additional context.
- Note that this filing pertains to the Retirement Savings Plan, not the operating company's consolidated financial results.