The city of Dunwoody has received two top national honors from the Government Finance Officers Association, including the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the 17th straight year and the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report.

The certificate of achievement, considered the highest recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting, is awarded annually to encourage state and local governments to prepare annual financial reports that reflect transparency and full disclosure. Dunwoody has received the honor every year since incorporating as a city, according to an emailed press release.


Dunwoody’s finance department includes (front row) Damien Johnson, Dawn White, Sima Hojjaty, and Donica Williams. (back row) Kathy Florence, John Gates, Chrish Murphy, Eric Linton, Lynn Lancaster, and Richard Platto. Not pictured: Delisha Robinson and Susan Austin. (Provided)

“These awards reflect Dunwoody’s commitment to being a responsible steward of public funds,” said City Manager Eric Linton, according to an emailed release. “Residents deserve clear, transparent information about how their city plans, budgets, and reports, and this recognition shows we continue to meet that standard.”

The 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, covering the fiscal year ending Dec. 31, 2024, was evaluated by an impartial panel that assessed the city’s financial health and adherence to transparency standards.

The Distinguished Budget Presentation Award recognized Dunwoody’s adherence to nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation. GFOA gave the city special recognition in the Strategic Goals and Strategies category, with all reviewers awarding the highest possible scores.

“This recognition is a credit to the hard work and expertise of our finance team,” said Finance Director Richard Platto. “We are committed to producing documents that not only meet national standards but also help residents and city leaders clearly understand Dunwoody’s financial position and priorities.”

About GFOA
The Government Finance Officers Association, founded in 1906, represents public finance officials throughout the United States and Canada. Its more than 20,000 members include federal, state and local finance officials involved in planning, financing and implementing governmental operations.

Cathy Cobbs is Reporter Newspapers' Managing Editor and covers Dunwoody and Brookhaven for Rough Draft Atlanta. She can be reached at cathy@roughdraftatlanta.com.