The Village of Park Forest has once again received the Government Finance Officers Association (G.F.O.A.) Achievement in Financial Reporting Award, marking 28 consecutive years of this achievement.

The award signifies an accomplishment for Park Forest, reflecting the dedication of Village elected officials and staff members to uphold the highest governmental auditing standards.

A panel has evaluated the report to ensure it meets the program's standards. These include conveying a transparent financial narrative and encouraging potential readers to engage with the report.

Deputy Village Manager and Finance Director Mark Pries said receiving the award shows Park Forest's commitment to being a fiscally responsible community. 

"This award for our annual audit is only possible because of the collective efforts across all departments in the Village," Pries said. "I want to thank my excellent and dedicated staff for their efforts, particularly Sharon Floyd, the Assistant Finance Director, for all of her efforts on the audit process."

Park Forest has won the Achievement in Financial Reporting Award 28 times, including 28 consecutive years. Park Forest had to meet nationally recognized standards for effective audit presentation to qualify for this award.

These standards encourage and assist state and local governments to go beyond the minimum requirements of generally accepted accounting principles to prepare annual comprehensive financial reports evidencing transparency and full disclosure.

Currently, there are more than 4,000 participants in the Achievement in Financial Reporting (AFR) Program across the nation. The most recent recipients of the AFR Award, as well as their associated budget audit documents, are published quarterly on GFOA's website. These award recipients have led the way in enhancing auditing quality and serve as a commendable example for other governments throughout North America.

The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) promotes excellence in government finance through best practices, professional development, resources, and practical research for over 20,000 members and the communities they serve.