East Valley Water District Maintains Balanced Budget and Receives National Award

East Valley Water District (District) conducted a mid-year review of its 2015/16 fiscal budget and presented their findings at a regularly scheduled board meeting on Feb. 24. “Despite the challenges created by the drought emergency, the District continues to operate efficiently and advance on critical capital improvement projects,” said Board Chairman Ron Coats. “We are an organization committed to world class public service. This commitment is demonstrated by a sound financial plan and national recognition for excellence in governmental budgeting.” The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) awarded the District for the third consecutive year with a Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the 2015/16 Fiscal Year Budget. This award is the highest form of recognition in governmental budgeting and represents a significant achievement for the District. “The annual budget is the District’s guiding document, and as with all plans, it is important to evaluate progress and adjust as necessary,” said John Mura CEO/General Manager. “The mid-year presentation is an opportunity for the community to learn more about the District and see the activities taking place in the community we serve.” The mid-year budget review process examines the status of the budget half-way through the fiscal year and considers any adjustments that might be needed to meet the District’s planned operations. The six-month review process includes assessments by program managers, which completed the comprehensive review of revenues and expenditures. The GFOA’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Award is the only national awards program in governmental budgeting. The award recognizes efforts to improve the quality of budgeting and provide an excellent example for other governments in North America. To receive the award, the District satisfied nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation in the areas of policy documentation, financial plan, operations guide, and communications. One reviewer noted, “This budget document was rated outstanding overall as a policy document, with program goals contributing to strategic goals and strategies in a comprehensive manner.” The 2015/16 Fiscal Year Budget, mid-year review presentation and previous adopted budgets can be viewed on the District’s website at www.eastvalley.org/budget.