(Cochrane, AB) –The Town of Cochrane is proud to announce that it has been awarded the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the 2024-2026 budget. This prestigious recognition is a testament to Cochrane’s commitment to excellence in public budgeting and fiscal management.
Administered by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA), this award acknowledges Cochrane’s budget for meeting the highest standards as a policy document, a financial plan, an operations guide and a communications device. This achievement stems from the dedicated efforts of the Budget Task Force, which aimed to create a comprehensive and transparent budget serving as a cornerstone of Cochrane's fiscal policy and operational strategy.
“The budget is the single most important document Council approves each year with obvious impacts to our entire community and reflects our commitment to transparency and responsible fiscal management,” said Mayor Jeff Genung. “Council worked closely with administration to set goals for this years’ budget document and process. I am proud of our finance team and grateful that their hard work is being recognized.”
The 2024-2026 budget was rated "proficient" in all four categories, and in the 14 mandatory criteria within those categories, to receive the award. This is the first time Cochrane has received such high recognition, marking a significant milestone in the Town's financial governance.
Stacey Loe, Executive Director of Corporate Services, commented, "Balancing our community’s needs with our long-term strategic goals is a challenging process. Our Finance team, alongside various departments and Council, put in tremendous effort to meticulously plan and communicate every detail of the budget.”
The GFOA’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Award is the highest recognition in governmental budgeting. It emphasizes the importance of transparency, strategic planning, and effective communication in public financial management. With over 1,700 participants in the GFOA’s Budget Awards program, this award places Cochrane among the leading municipalities in North America for budget excellence.
The Town of Cochrane remains dedicated to upholding the principles of sound financial management, accountability, and sustainable governance, continually striving to serve the best interests of its residents.
Cochrane’s 2024-2026 budget is available online at Cochrane.ca/budget.