Northbrook Park District Earns Budget Award For 24th Consecutive Year

NORTHBROOK, IL — Every year since 2000, the Northbrook Park District has received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association an did again this year. The award goes to state and local governments that adhere to the highest principles of governmental budgeting, according to officials.

"This recognition underscores our dedication to providing our stakeholders with budgets that not only meet high standards, but also reflect our organization's commitment to sound financial management," Park District Executive Director Chris Leiner said. "It's a symbol of our ongoing dedication to serving our community with financial integrity and accountability."

The selection process examines how well budgets serve as policy documents, financial plans, operations guides and communications devices, according to a news release. The budget was led by Mike Tokar, director of finance and technology, and Ellen Drahos, business manager.

The park district’s budget begins Jan. 1 and ends Dec. 31. The budget process kicks off in September with fine-tuning in October and November. The final budget document is publicly presented in December for approval from the Northbrook Park District board of commissioners. The latest GFOA award recognized the district’s 2023 budget.

The Northbrook Park District also has received the GFOA’s Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting each year since 1993.