Dunwoody touts awards for excellence in financial reporting

DUNWOODY, Ga. — Dunwoody announced March 24 it earned awards from the Government Finance Officers Association for excellence in financial reporting. 

City staff said Dunwoody has received a certificate of achievement every year since its 2008 incorporation. 

In a press release, Dunwoody says an excellence designation for its annual comprehensive financial report is considered the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting.

According to Government Finance Officers Association, an impartial panel judged the report to meet the high standards of the program, which includes “demonstrating a constructive ‘spirit of full disclosure’ to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the report.”

This year’s certificate was for the fiscal year ending Dec. 31, 2023.

The association was founded in 1908 and includes 20,000 members across North America with a mission to foster excellence in public finance. 

This year, the city’s Financial Department also received a 2025 Distinguished Budget Presentation Award and special recognitions for the presentation of its strategic goals and strategies, as well as its Capital Improvement Program.

City Manager Eric Linton touted the efforts of Communications Director Jennifer Boettcher and Finance Director Richard Platto and their teams earlier this year for putting together the 2025 report, which is easy to follow. 

“These are significant accomplishments and extremely prestigious awards for our finance team,” Linton said. “These awards are reflective of the commitment by the Dunwoody City Council and staff to meet the highest principles of government budgeting and reporting.”

To view the 2025 budget report, visit the Dunwoody Finance Department’s webpage.

The city also has an “open checkbook” through ClearGov, a budgeting software showing city expenditures, available on the same webpage.

“Our goal is to produce financial and budget reports that are accessible, understandable, and transparent,” Platto said. “We hold ourselves to the highest standards, and these awards reflect our team’s dedication and hard work.”

While Dunwoody continues to receive accolades for its financial reporting, some residents are concerned with stalled projects in the city’s Capital Improvement Plan, the looming shortfall in operational funds and a proposed tax hike.

— Hayden Sumlin