The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting has been awarded to the City of Asheville by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA).
The award is given for the City’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of government accounting and financial reporting and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by the government and its management.
“This award affirms the City of Asheville’s Finance Department staff’s commitment to high performance and financial accountability,” said Barbara Whitehorn, the City’s Chief Financial Officer.
The City of Asheville has received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting more than 30 times.
“Financial transparency is a strong value within the community and a cornerstone of good governance,” said Assistant City Manager Paul Fetherston. “Documents such as the City’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report are one way residents can see how revenues are being used.”
The Finance and Management Services Department is responsible for providing accurate and timely information regarding the city’s financial affairs.
At its June 14 meeting, City Council is slated to consider the proposed 2016-2017 budget. Once approved, a new Annual Comprehensive Financial Report will be made for the 2015-2016 year. In addition, the City partners with Code for America for creation of an online tool, Asheville Budget Explorer, that allows residents to sort through financial expenditures in an easy-to-access format.