Knox County has again achieved one of the highest honors in the arena of governmental accounting and finance reporting, winning what is considered the “triple crown” for finance departments.

The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) recently recognized the county for receiving all three of its awards:

• The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting Award

• Distinguished Budget Presentation Award

• Popular Annual Financial Reporting Award

GFOA, a non-profit founded in 1906, studies and reviews the planning, financing, and implementation of more than 21,000 checkpoints of governmental operations throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Knox County is one of about 300 governments to receive the honor. 

“I’m extremely proud of our finance department, which I believe is among the best in the state,” said Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs. “Winning these awards once again proves just how good they are.”

In their review of the county reports, the GFOA took a thorough look at every aspect of the files from cover to cover. Each of the reports adhered to every applicable accounting standard in effect by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB). They also graded on reader appeal and understandability.

GFOA officials also praised the county finance department’s hard work.

“The Triple Crown designation represents a significant achievement,” said Natalie Laudadio with GFOA. “To qualify, each entity must meet the high standards of all three separate award programs. Each award program recognizes governments that produce reports which communicate their financial stories in a transparent manner and meet applicable standards.”