Clerk Butterfield recognized with four awards for financial reporting excellence

In a recent meeting of the Polk County Board of County Commissioners, held on June 3, 2025, the focus was on recognizing outstanding achievements in financial reporting and transparency. The meeting began with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, setting a respectful tone for the discussions that followed.

The highlight of the meeting was a presentation by Deedee, who awarded four prestigious honors from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) to Clerk Butterfield, the Board of County Commissioners, and their respective teams. These awards underscore the county's commitment to excellence in financial management and reporting.

Clerk Butterfield and her team received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the 44th consecutive year. This award recognizes the county's audited financial statements, which provide essential checks and balances on budgetary matters. Additionally, the Clerk's office was honored for the 23rd consecutive year with the Award for Outstanding Achievement in Popular Annual Financial Reporting. This award highlights the clarity and accessibility of the county's financial data for community members.

The Board of County Commissioners also received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the 33rd straight year. This award acknowledges the county's biannual budget as a comprehensive financial plan and a key communication tool for residents. Furthermore, the combined achievements of the Clerk's office and the Board led to the rare recognition of the GFOA's Bridal Crown Medallion, a testament to their ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability.

Clerk Butterfield emphasized the collaborative effort required to produce these reports, acknowledging the contributions of various teams involved in the process. The meeting concluded with a reminder of the importance of these awards as indicators of the county's dedication to exceeding expectations in financial management.

Overall, the meeting served not only to celebrate these significant achievements but also to reinforce the county's commitment to maintaining high standards in financial reporting, ultimately benefiting the community it serves. The next steps involve continuing this tradition of excellence and ensuring that the financial information remains accessible to all residents.