Town Of Richmond Wins Award For Financial Reporting

RICHMOND, RI — Municipal finance directors generally don't get much acknowledgment, even though their work is essential to city and town government. And while many residents snooze through agenda items relevant to the town budget, taxpayers can rest assured if they know there are trusted financial officers in place.

According to the Government Finance Officers Association, Richmond Finance Director Laura Kenyon is serving the public well. For the eighth year in a row, her office has been granted a Certificate of Achievement by the GFOA for "excellence in financial reporting."

"It's just part of the job," said Kenyon when reached by telephone. "Residents deserve transparent financial reporting."

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Richmond's comprehensive audited financial statement for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2019 was judged by an impartial panel to demonstrate a "constructive spirit of full disclosure" to clearly communicate the town's financial story, the association declared.

Kenyon said former finance director David Krugman started submitting annual audited financial reports for consideration back in 2014, and that her office kept up the tradition. Kenyon said she's been on the job for about three years, and enjoys serving the public.

"This Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management," the award announcement stated.

The mission of the GFOA is to advance excellence in government finance by providing best practices, professional development, resources, and practical research for more than 21,000 members and the communities they serve.