UPDATE: Several local governments in Ohio, including the City of Hamilton and Miami County, have just been awarded the prestigious Auditor of State Award with Distinction for their outstanding financial practices. This significant recognition, announced by Ohio Auditor of State Keith Faber, emphasizes these entities’ commitment to fiscal responsibility and transparency.
The announcement comes as a response to the need for accurate and reliable financial reporting in local governance. The awarded municipalities, including the City of Brook Park and the City of Upper Arlington, have demonstrated exceptional diligence by filing their financial reports in a timely manner, adhering to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and maintaining “clean” audit reports devoid of any significant deficiencies or findings of recovery.
According to Auditor Faber, “By keeping accurate financial records, governing bodies demonstrate their commitment to efficient, effective, and transparent service.” This statement underscores the importance of the award, highlighting the hard work required to maintain tight financial controls in serving their communities effectively.
Achieving this award is no small feat. Entities must meet rigorous criteria, including no material citations or questioned costs. Additionally, they must maintain a management letter free from comments on ethics referrals, bank reconciliation issues, or public meetings and records concerns. This level of scrutiny ensures that only the most diligent municipalities receive recognition for their financial stewardship.
The honored municipalities, which also include City of Pataskala and Ross County, have demonstrated remarkable financial diligence, with their reports showing no material weaknesses or significant deficiencies. This achievement reflects robust governance and a commitment to serving constituents with integrity.
As the financial landscape continues to evolve, the recognition of these local governments serves as a beacon of best practices in fiscal management. The full audit reports, which provide detailed insights into each entity’s financial health, are available for public viewing on the Ohio Auditor’s website.
Citizens are encouraged to review these reports to understand the financial practices that underpin their local governments. The transparency offered by these audits not only fosters trust but also highlights the dedication of public officials in maintaining the financial well-being of their communities.
Stay tuned for further updates on fiscal practices and government accountability as more municipalities strive for excellence in financial management.
