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Government Finance Officers Association of the U.S. and Canada announced it has awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to the city of Franklin for its annual comprehensive financial report for the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2021.

Franklin Director of Finance Tracy Spence confirmed this is the 10th consecutive year the city’s Finance Department has received this honor.

A Government Finance Officers Association news release stated that the city’s report has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, which includes demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the report.

The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.

“We are incredibly proud of our Finance Department and all of the city staff that contribute to the attainment of this award,” Franklin City Manager Amanda C. Jarratt said.

GFOA Director of Technical Services Michele Mark Levine announced the awarding of the certificate to the city in a letter to Franklin Mayor Frank M. Rabil.

“We hope that your example will encourage other government officials in their efforts to achieve and maintain an appropriate standard of excellence in financial reporting,” Levine stated.

Rabil noted being impressed with the sustained excellence the city’s finance staff have achieved.

“We are proud of the work and accomplishments of the Finance Department and congratulate them on their continued streak of receiving the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting,” he said.

Spence said she and the rest of the department are proud to receive this award for the 10th straight year.

“This is truly a team effort and highlights the hard work and dedication of the staff to prepare an annual comprehensive financial report that evidences the spirit of transparency and full disclosure,” she said.

GFOA concluded its release by noting that it advances excellence in government finance by providing best practices, professional development, resources and practical research for more than 21,000 members and the communities they serve.