Two City of Knoxville departments have been recognized for their high professional standards after thorough annual evaluations by a national organization and government agency:
FINANCE DEPARTMENT
The Government Finance Officers Association, a group that promotes financial policies and best practices among professional management in government, has recognized the Finance Department for its comprehensive report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2011.
The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting was awarded to Finance because of its spirit of transparency and full disclosure in its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR).The Department has received the award for the past 25 years.
Finance Director Jim York and staff demonstrated practices that go beyond the minimum requirements of generally accepted accounting principles, according to GFOA. York was presented with a plaque at the City Council meeting Tuesday night.
In addition, the GFOA has awarded the Finance Department a Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. This award is the highest form of recognition in governmental budgeting.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
The Community Development Department has been commended for accomplishments toward implementing programs and policies outlined in the 2011 Consolidated Annual Action Plan by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Based on a risk analysis review of the City's HOME Investment Partnerships Program, the agency found no findings or concerns with Community Development activities and recognized Community Development Director Becky Wade and her staff for expending funds properly on a variety of eligible projects.
The Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report, known as CAPER, was noteworthy, according to HUD officials, who evaluated several programs. Some of the department's accomplishments included significant progress in providing safe and affordable housing; disbursing grants funds that supported five agencies to assist the homeless; and funding new façade projects that were completed to local codes.