Four the fourth consecutive year, MSWD was honored with the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its exceptional budget presentation. The award represents a significant achievement by the entity. It reflects the commitment of the governing body and staff to meeting the highest principles of governmental budgeting. In order to receive the budget award, the entity had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation. These guidelines are designed to assess how well an entity’s budget serves as:
- a policy document
- a financial plan
- an operations guide
- a communications device
Budget documents must be rated “proficient” in all four categories, and in the fourteen mandatory criteria within those categories, to receive the award.
MSWD also received Special Recognition for Strategic Goals and Strategies. This distinction is given only when all three budget reviewers award the highest possible score in that category, underscoring the District’s strong connection between long-term priorities, financial planning, and service to the community. There are over 1,900 participants in the Budget Awards Program. The most recent Budget Award recipients, along with their corresponding budget documents, are posted quarterly on GFOA’s website. Award recipients have pioneered efforts to improve the quality of budgeting and provide an excellent example for other governments throughout North America. Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) advances excellence in government finance by providing best practices, professional development, resources, and practical research for more than 25,000 members and the communities they serve.