News release

For immediate release

Saanich receives awards for budgeting and financial reporting

Saanich, BC – For the 14^th consecutive year, Saanich’s Finance Department has received the Canadian Award for Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for its 2019 financial statements. For the 12^th consecutive year, Saanich has received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from GFOA for its 2020 to 2024 Financial Plan.

“I’m delighted our Finance Department has been recognized for these tremendous efforts. It is a wonderful indication to our residents of the diligent and transparent management of our ‘financial house’ on their behalf,” said Mayor Fred Haynes. “These awards demonstrate for over 14 years how our staff strive to provide clear information about our finances to our residents.”

The Distinguished Budget Presentation Award reflects the commitment to meeting the highest principles of governmental budgeting. Award recipients have pioneered efforts to improve the quality of budgeting and provide an excellent example for other governments throughout North America. To receive the award, staff had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation. These guidelines are designed to assess how well the budget serves as a policy document, a financial plan, an operational guide and a communications device.

The Canadian Award for Financial Reporting Program was established to encourage municipal governments throughout Canada to publish high-quality financial reports and to provide peer recognition and technical guidance for officials preparing these reports. Its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.

The annual financial report has been judged by impartial Canadian Review Committee members to meet the high standards of the program, including demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” designed to clearly communicate the municipality’s financial story and to motivate potential users and user groups to read the report.

GFOA advances excellence in government finance by providing best practices, professional development, resources, and practical research for more than 21,000 members and the communities they serve.

Saanich’s draft 2021 to 2025 Financial Plan is now available for review at saanich.ca/budget. View the budget meeting schedule for opportunities to provide input.

-30-

Media contact:
Valla Tinney
Director of Finance
valla.tinney@saanich.ca
250-475-5521