El Paso County, CO – The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) recognized El Paso County Public Health with its highest honor for transparency in budgeting with the 2022 Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. The award was in recognition of the 2022 Budget Book.
The achievement honors state and local governments that prepare budget documents of the highest quality that reflect the guidelines established by the National Advisory Council on State and Local Budgeting and GFOA best practices. Documents are evaluated in four categories as a policy document, financial plan, operations guide and communications device. To receive recognition, documents must be rated “proficient” or “outstanding” in those four categories, as well as 14 additional criteria within those categories.
“As our agency continues to respond to COVID-19 and fulfill our statutory and public health core services, it has done so with the strongest commitment to financial transparency and accountability,” said Susan Wheelan, MBA, director of El Paso County Public Health. “It’s an honor to share this recognition with our public health staff and budget team who remain steadfast in delivering services in a fiscally responsible manner.”
The 2022 Budget Book was prepared by the Budget Division of El Paso County Financial Services. The 2022 budget outlines areas of focus in the ongoing COVID-19 response, data and analytics, addressing the determinants of health, community mental health support, youth health and wellness, workforce resiliency and support for local economic recovery and growth.
“It is a rigorous and detailed process to earn this award, and for the team to receive it three consecutive years is a direct reflection of their commitment to excellence in accounting and budgeting principles,” said Nikki Simmons, chief financial officer for El Paso County. “I’m proud of the team of professionals who have made this an integral part of their standard operations.”
The GFOA advances excellence in government finance by providing best practices, professional development, resources and practical research for more than 22,500 members and the communities they serve.
###