The City of Knoxville has again been recognized by its North American peers for leading by example in effective budget presentation. The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) has awarded the City’s Finance Department a Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the 32nd year in a row.

The award “reflects the commitment of the governing body and staff to meeting the highest principles of governmental budgeting,” according to GFOA. GFOA further says the award represents “the highest form of recognition in governmental budgeting.”

In receiving the award, Knoxville satisfied established guidelines that are designed to assess how well a budget serves as a policy document, a financial plan, an operations guide and as a means of communications.

City Chief Financial Officer Susan Gennoe credits her Finance Department staff’s professionalism – but also, the City’s culture and commitment to transparency.

“Clearly presented budget documents are how Mayors and City Councils convey their priorities and values,” Gennoe said. “The City is committed to openness in how we prepare and manage a budget of roughly $400 million. This fosters meaningful engagement with the residents and business owners we serve. The employees in the Finance Department are proud of our role in supporting good dialogue as part of each year’s budget preparation.”