For the 31st consecutive year, the City of Knoxville’s Finance Department has been recognized for the transparency and clear communication of its annual financial reporting.

The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) has awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to the City’s Finance Department. GFOA is a professional association representing and serving almost 19,000 local and state government officials and finance practitioners.

GFOA touts the award as the “highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting,” adding that “its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.”

Finance Director Jim York credits the expertise and dedication of his staff for the unbroken string of 31 GFOA awards.

“The Finance Department staff exemplifies a culture of openness and responsiveness to citizens,” York said. “We serve the public, and a major part of that is clearly communicating the City’s financial state, which is very strong.”

The City’s General Fund balance is $84 million, and the City’s bond rating – assigned by Fitch, Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s – is at its highest level ever.