Cave Creek receives national budget and financial reporting awards

By Jeff Wendt
Mail

The Town of Cave Creek received two national awards from the Government Finance Officers Association, a government finance professional organization that represents more than 25,000 members across North America.

Cave Creek was presented with the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award and the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, the highest forms of recognition in governmental budgeting and accounting.

“Receiving these two nationally recognized awards speaks to Cherie White’s leadership as the director of the Finance Department,” said Town Manager Grady Miller in a news release. “Cherie and her staff work diligently to maintain the highest standards of fiscal responsibility for the Town.”

White thanked her whole department for the job they have done.

“I am grateful for the recognition, but these awards truly reflect the work of our entire Finance Department team,” White said. “Our staff is dedicated, detail-oriented, and committed to excellence every day. Every team member contributes to the accuracy, clarity, and professionalism of our financial documents. These honors are a testament to their hard work and the pride they take in serving the community.”

The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting was awarded for the Town’s annual comprehensive financial report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025. The report was reviewed by an impartial panel and judged to meet the program’s strict criteria, including a commitment to full disclosure and clear communication of the Town’s financial story.

The Distinguished Budget Presentation Award recognizes the Town’s commitment to the highest principles of governmental budgeting. To earn this honor, Cave Creek’s fiscal year 2026 budget was evaluated against nationally recognized guidelines for serving as a policy document, financial plan, operations guide and communications device.

“These awards are incredibly meaningful for the Town of Cave Creek,” White said. “They validate our commitment to strong financial management, transparency, and responsible stewardship of public funds. Being recognized at a national level reinforces that we are meeting the highest standards in both budgeting and financial reporting, which ultimately builds trust with our residents, businesses, and partners.”

Jeff Wendt
Reporter | Phoenix/Cave Creek

jwendt@iniusa.org

Meet Jeff
Jeff Wendt started at Independent Newsmedia in January 2023, after 25 years working for Gannett and The Arizona Republic. Started as a high school sports scoretaker, worked up to reporting high school sports and then became an associate high school sports editor in 2002. Also worked in the Design Studio as a copy editor.

Community: Jeff serves on the Board of Elders at his local church.

Education: Arizona State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication

Random fact: Attended Game 2 of the 2001 World Series.

Hobbies: Playing video games (yes still the kid in me), watching reality TV, playing poker.