Published on December 23, 2025
The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) has awarded Cabarrus County the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the 28th year.
The award is considered the highest form of recognition in governmental funding, satisfying nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation.
Cabarrus County received this award for the Fiscal Year 2026 budget presentation.
The budget plan was assessed as a policy document, a financial plan, an operations guide and a communications device. The County was rated proficient in all four categories and the 14 mandatory criteria within those categories.
The achievement reflects the commitment to pioneering and improving the quality of budgeting, creating an example for other governments throughout North America. As a recipient of this award, Cabarrus County is a part of the Budget Awards Program, along with over 1,900 participants.
GFOA sent the County an electronic awards package and a brass medallion. Finance Director Jim Howden presented the award at the Board of Commissioners regular meeting on December 15.
The County is already underway with planning for the FY27 budget. In February, the board will hold its annual retreat.
Budget department members include Budget Director Rosh Khatri, Senior Management Analyst Yesenia Pineda and Management Analyst Sophia Politis.
About GFOA
The GFOA advances excellence in government finance by providing best practices, professional development, resources and practical research for more than 28,000 members and the communities they serve.
To explore the Budget Book in its entirety, visit www.cabarruscounty.us/Government/Departments/Budget-and-Evaluation and select "FY26 Adopted Budget."