Cleveland County receives national recognition for excellence in financial reporting
- Chuck Thompson
- Nov 3, 2025
- 2 min read
Staff Reports | Press Release, Cleveland County Government

The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) has awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to Cleveland County for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024.
This award recognizes governments that go beyond the minimum requirements of generally accepted accounting principles to prepare comprehensive financial reports that demonstrate transparency and a “spirit of full disclosure.” Cleveland County’s report was reviewed by an impartial panel and found to meet the program’s high standards, clearly communicating the County’s financial story and promoting understanding among residents, stakeholders, and other users.
The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting. Its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management team, reflecting their commitment to accountability, transparency, and sound financial management.
(Cleveland County financial continued below...)
Established in 1945, GFOA’s Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting Program encourages and assists state and local governments in preparing high quality financial reports that build public trust and confidence through clear and comprehensive disclosure.
“Receiving this award once again demonstrates our dedication to responsible stewardship of public funds and our ongoing efforts to maintain transparency in all financial matters,” said Philip Steffen, Finance Director. “We are proud of our finance team’s hard work and professionalism in achieving this recognition.”
Learn more about the Finance & Purchasing Team’s commitment to excellence at www.clevelandcounty.com.
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