The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting has been awarded to the City of West Columbia by Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR) for the 28th consecutive year.

The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.

Mayor Bobby Horton said, “This nationally recognized award is evidence of the excellent management of the City’s financial affairs by the City Treasurer and City Staff. “

City Treasurer and Assistant City Administrator Justin R. Black, CPA, said, “This award is obtained by satisfying the highest standards in this program. Our finance team strives for excellence and continues to prove it year after year. We are thankful to have the support of administration and council in our efforts to provide sound financial statements and information each year”.

The CAFR has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, which includes demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the CAFR.

Government Finance Officers Association is a major professional association servicing the needs of nearly 19,000 appointed and elected local, state, and provincial-level government officials and other finance practitioners. It provides top-quality publications, training programs, services, and products designed to enhance the skills and performance of those responsible for government finance policy and management. The association is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with offices in Washington, DC.