For the 40th straight year, Suffolk County has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from a prestigious multinational group.
The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) singled out Suffolk for its annual comprehensive financial report for 2022. “The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management,” the GFOA said. “The report has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, which includes demonstrating aconstructive ‘spirit of full disclosure’ to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the report.”
Accepting the accolades for the award was Suffolk Comptroller John M. Kennedy. “I am fortunate to have such a committed, extremely knowledgeable, and highly professional staff,” he noted. “ This recognition of their accomplishments is well deserved. It is an honor for the Suffolk County Comptroller’s Office to receive this award for the 40th year in a row.”
Kennedy has recently released audits enabling the clawback of funds from companies that have overcharged the county. His report on spending by former county Executive Steve Bellone in the wake of the 2022 cyberattack detailed nearly $14 million in wasted tax dollars with a recurring hit of more than 3.5 million.
The association 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.