The board shall at least once a year appoint an expert accountant or firm of accountants who shall make an examination in detail of all books and accounts of the board to cover the period since the preceding examination and make a full report in writing, under oath, to the board of its findings at the board's first meeting after completion of such report, a copy shall also be furnished the governing body of the municipality, and the same shall be spread upon the minutes of the board, but the same person or firm shall not be appointed or authorized to make such examination twice in succession. For this service said accountant shall be paid such reasonable and proper sum as may be agreed upon.
Ala. Code § 11-50-500 (1975)