The Government Finance Officers Association has once again honored the Newcastle Finance Department with the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award.

In order to receive the award, Newcastle had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation. The guidelines are designed to assess how well an entity’s budget serves as a policy document, financial plan, operations guide and communications device.

The award, which honors the City's fiscal year 2020 budget, is considered the highest form of recognition in governmental budgeting. Award recipients have pioneered efforts to improve the quality of budgeting and provide an excellent example for other governments throughout North America.

“It’s truly an honor to win this award and a testament to our Finance Department’s hard work and dedication. Newcastle is dedicated to providing a full accounting of tax dollars and the annual budget serves as an important tool in managing the city's finances,” said City Manager Rob Wyman. 

When an entity receives the award, a certificate of recognition is also presented to the individual(s) or department designated as being primarily responsible for having achieved the award. This was given to Don Palmer, the City's Finance Director.

“This award represents a significant achievement and reflects the highest standards and principles of governmental budgeting,” Director Palmer said.

The Government Finance Officers Association serves 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.