City of Joplin honored for excellence in financial reporting for 33rd year in a row

(From the City of Joplin)

For the 33rd year in a row, the City of Joplin has been awarded the Government Finance Officers Association’s Certificate of Achievement in Excellence in Financial Reporting. This honor was announced during the May 6, 2024, City Council meeting, recognizing the City’s annual comprehensive financial report for the fiscal year ending October 31, 2022.

As stated in the GFOA press release, “The report has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, which includes demonstrating a constructive ‘spirit of full disclosure’ to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the report.”

 

GFOA notes the 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.”

Following this announcement, Finance Director Leslie Haase introduced Jon Nibarger, Vice President Assurance, with Allen, Gibbs & Houlik. L.C. to present their report of the independent audit he and his company conducted for the last fiscal year ending October 31, 2023.

The City must undergo an annual financial audit that examines financial records, accounts, business transactions, accounting practices, and internal controls to ensure compliance with financial standards and regulations.

Nibarger told the Council, “We gave the City an unmodified opinion, which is the highest and best opinion a city can receive and I feel this reflects very highly on the management of the city.”

As part of an audit, the independent auditor has access to all the City’s financial records and verifies bank accounts and balances, tests internal controls, and confirms that the financial statements are materially true and accurate. The purpose of an audit is to provide an assurance that the City’s financial records are materially accurate.

“In closing, we greatly appreciate all of the assistance and cooperation of the City Staff. An audit is a huge undertaking, and they (the Finance Department) were well prepared.”
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