CORNELIUS – The Government Finance Officers Association has given its top award to the Town of Cornelius Finance Department for its 2009-10 comprehensive annual financial report.

Mayor Jeff Tarte presented the association’s Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to town Finance Director Jackie Huffman and Town Accountant Julie Niswonger at the regular town board meeting Monday, Aug. 1.

The 2009-10 report was more comprehensive than previous annual financial reports, Huffman said. One addition is about 20 pages of data documenting trends for up to 10 years, including major employers today versus previous years, how much the town spent by department over the years and debt information. Niswonger “personally prepared that statistical section, performing the research and then preparing the schedules. Her work on the report was invaluable,” Huffman said.

In its letter to the town, the finance officers group said the award signifies “the highest recognition in government accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant by a government and its management.”

Tarte put it another way: “In Cornelius, we say the best accounting is Jackie accounting.”

The normally reserved Huffman told the board: “I appreciate the support of the staff and the town board. … This award is very persuasive to the bond markets and very important to the town. This is a big deal.”