BELLEVIEW, FL (352today.com) – The City of Belleview has received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for its 2024-2025 budget.
Describing the award as the “highest form of recognition in governmental budgeting,” the city emphasizes that it marks a “significant milestone” and reflects the city’s “commitment to excellence, transparency, and accountability in financial management.”
Established in 1984, the GFOA Distinguished Budget Presentation Awards Program aims to encourage state and local governments to produce budget documents of the “highest quality,” as outlined on the GFOA’s website.
To earn this distinction, budgets must meet specific criteria, excelling as a policy document, financial plan, operations guide, and communication tool.
The GFOA estimates that 1,800 governments, including states, cities, counties, special districts, school districts, and more have been recognized for their budgeting efforts since the award’s establishment in 1984.
Furthermore, the City of Belleview received special recognition from the GFOA for its long-range operating financial plans, highlighting its approach towards planning for the City’s future needs.
“This award is a tremendous honor for our City and a direct result of the dedication and professionalism of our Finance Department, led by Finance Director Marge Strausbaugh,” said Mayor Christine Dobkowski. “This recognition isn’t just about financial excellence—it’s about building trust with our residents and showing them that their local government is being a responsible steward of their tax dollars. We are committed to maintaining this standard of excellence and continuing to invest in Belleview’s future.”
Finance Director Marge Strausbaugh followed suit, “Receiving this award is a validation of the hard work and meticulous planning that goes into creating a budget that reflects the City’s priorities and long-term vision. I am incredibly proud of the Finance Department team and grateful for the support of the City Commission and staff. Our goal has always been to provide a transparent and strategic budget that serves as a foundation for growth, and we are honored to receive this recognition from the GFOA.”
Belleview joins a select group of governments nationwide that have achieved this recognition, highlighting its status as a leader in sound financial practices. Information on the city’s financial practices, as well as its budget process, is found on its website.