MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) has once again recognized the City of Muscatine with its Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for excellence in budgeting. This marks the 41st consecutive year the City has received the award – the longest streak for any government entity in the state of Iowa.
“The award represents a significant achievement,” GFOA noted in its announcement. “It reflects the commitment of the governing body and staff to meeting the highest principles of governmental budgeting.”
To qualify, budget documents must meet nationally recognized guidelines and demonstrate effectiveness in four key areas:
- Policy document
- Financial plan
- Operations guide
- Communications device
All budget submissions are evaluated against 14 mandatory criteria within those categories, and only those rated “proficient” in each area receive the award.
The award also includes a Certificate of Recognition for Budget Presentation, presented to the City of Muscatine Finance Department for its leadership in preparing the City’s budget.
City Administrator Matt Mardesen said the recognition highlights the City’s long-standing commitment to financial transparency and accountability.
“Receiving this award for the 41st consecutive year is a testament to the dedication of our Finance Department and the entire City team,” Mardesen said. “It reflects Muscatine’s commitment to responsible stewardship of public resources and to providing our community with clear, accessible financial information.”
More than 1,900 state and local governments participate in the GFOA’s Budget Awards Program, which was established in 1984 to encourage excellence in budget preparation and presentation. Award recipients are recognized as setting a standard of best practices for other governments across North America.
The Government Finance Officers Association represents over 20,500 members and provides resources, training, and research to advance excellence in public finance.