Dupage Policy Journal

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has received the Government Finance Officers Association’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its current fiscal year budget, marking the second consecutive year it has earned this recognition. The award underscores the District's dedication to exemplary budgeting and transparency, reflecting the commitment of its board of commissioners and staff.

The awards program acknowledges governments that excel in producing budget documents serving as policy documents, financial plans, operational guides, and communication tools. Annually, around 1,800 agencies, including states, cities, counties, special districts, and school districts, are honored for their transparency and excellence in budgeting through this award.

Additionally, the association has awarded the Forest Preserve District its Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting 36 times. This certificate recognizes the preparation of annual comprehensive financial reports that demonstrate a spirit of transparency and full disclosure.

The District's adherence to sound management principles has also earned it a AAA rating from Standard & Poor's Global Ratings.

The Government Finance Officers Association represents 21,000 public finance officials throughout the U.S. and Canada. Its mission is to advance excellence in public finance by advocating for best practices and providing guidance across various public finance disciplines. The association established the Distinguished Budget Presentation Awards Program in 1984 to assist state and local governments in preparing top-quality budget documents that meet guidelines set by the National Advisory Council on State and Local Budgeting and GFOA's best practices.

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County manages 26,000 acres of woodlands, prairies, wetlands, and waterways that contribute to cleaner air and water while providing habitats for wildlife. More than 5.5 million people visit its forest preserves annually.

For more information about the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County or its programs, call 630-933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org.