City Spotlight: Wasco Wins Prestigious Award for Excellence in Financial Reporting

In a significant stride toward fiscal excellence, the City of Wasco has been honored with the Government Finance Officers Association's (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its Fiscal Year 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR).

This accolade not only underscores the city's unwavering commitment to financial transparency and accountability but also positions it as a leader in exemplary financial stewardship.

"This award is a testament to our dedication to financial stability and sustainability," said Isarel Perez-Hernandez, Wasco's Finance Director. "It aligns with our City Council's goals and

signals to donors, grant agencies, and investors alike that Wasco is a trustworthy and well-managed municipality."

Earning the GFOA's highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting is no small achievement. It indicates that Wasco has met the organization's rigorous

standards for full disclosure and best practices in financial management. Such recognition enhances the city's credibility when applying for grants and also attracts and retains a talented workforce.

Perez-Hernandez highlighted the collective effort behind this accomplishment: "This award reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire finance team and city staff. We strive not only to meet but to exceed the standards set for governmental accounting." Perez-Hernandez assumed the role of Finance Director in 2020. Under his leadership, the city has achieved the prestigious Annual award for two consecutive fiscal years, 2021–2022 and 2022–2023.

This success is also a reflection of the forward-thinking leadership and unwavering support of City Manager Scott Hurlbert. His reputation for strategic oversight, coupled with his unique foresight, created an environment where innovation and professional growth could flourish. By motivating staff to strive for excellence and consistently guiding the team with his expertise, Hurlbert ensured that the city was well-prepared to achieve this milestone.

The award's significance extends beyond a certificate on the wall. It can lead to improved bond ratings, increased investor confidence, and better access to capital markets, all ontributing to the community's long-term economic health. This recognition confirms Wasco's capacity to manage additional funds efficiently a crucial factor that grant-making bodies consider.

Founded in 1906, the GFOA serves nearly 20,000 government finance professionals across North America and Canada, advancing excellence in public finance. Wasco's recognition sets it

apart as a model for other municipalities.

As cities nationwide navigate fiscal challenges, Wasco's achievement demonstrates how strategic priorities like financial stability, employee development, modernization, infrastructure improvement, economic growth, and community safety can yield tangible results.

Congratulations Wasco's Finance Department!