County Earns Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting for 43rd Consecutive Year

The Prince William County Finance Department has once again been recognized by the Government Finance Officers Association, or GFOA, for its exceptional financial management practices, receiving the prestigious “Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting” for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for fiscal year 2023. This marks the 43rd consecutive year that the county has received this prestigious award. 

To earn the certificate of achievement, organizations must submit a comprehensive financial report to GFOA’s Special Review Committee. This committee is comprised of a diverse group of public sector financial reporting experts, financial statement preparers and independent auditors, academics and other finance professionals. The committee evaluates reports using a checklist to ensure adherence to generally accepted accounting principles and program policies, with an emphasis on transparency and full disclosure. 

A Certificate is awarded only if reviewers come to consensus that the report meets or exceeds the high standards of the program. 

“This recognition reflects our department’s unwavering commitment to fiscal responsibility, transparency and accountability in managing the county’s finances,” said Michelle Attreed, Chief Financial Officer and Director of Finance for Prince William County. “Receiving the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the 43rd consecutive year is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our finance team and the trust our community places in us to manage public resources responsibly.” 

GFOA began awarding certificates in 1945 to promote best practices and encourage state and local governments to surpass the minimum requirements of GAAP in their financial reports. These comprehensive financial reports are expected to demonstrate full transparency and provide complete disclosure. 

“This is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by the governing body, its management and contributing staff,” said County Executive Chris Shorter.  “I want to thank the Finance Department for their hard work and dedication to excellence.” 

Learn more about the Finance Department at pwcva.gov/finance.