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Rethinking Budgeting in Action: Orange County, Virginia
When Orange County, Virginia, began moving away from line-item budgeting, the change wasn’t just about modernizing financial processes. It was about rethinking budgeting itself, to tell a clearer story about what local government does and how it serves residents. GFOA had the chance to sit down with several of the leaders driving this change to discuss how the county is implementing program budgeting in a way that best serves its resources and culture.
Register by January 31 to Secure Early Savings
In 2026, GFOA celebrates 120 years of advancing public finance at its 120th Annual Conference, June 28–July 1, at McCormick Place in Chicago. Join thousands of professionals for more than 80 CPE-accredited sessions, inspiring keynotes, leadership training, networking, and a robust exhibit hall. This milestone event is the place to gain practical insights and engage in meaningful conversations about the future of public finance.
Awards for Excellence Winner: Charleston County School District, South Carolina
In just one year, CCSD strengthened relationships with departments, modernized financial practices, and implemented long-range forecasting and strategic reforms. These changes closed a budget gap, supported student-focused investments, and helped make CCSD the highest-paying public K–12 system in the Southeast, with zero teacher vacancies for the first time in its history and record-setting student achievement.
"No Tax on Overtime" FAQs Published
GFOA’s Federal Liaison Center team has published a new series of FAQs related to implementation of the new, temporary “No Tax on Overtime” deduction and the applicability of Fair Labor Standards Act requirements. Although the IRS has granted government employers with relief from separately reporting FLSA-qualified overtime in 2025, employers will need to begin accounting for deductible overtime in 2026 to meet statutory reporting requirements.
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Apply to Serve on GFOA's Executive Board
Don’t miss your chance to take on a meaningful leadership role within GFOA. Serving on the Executive Board is an opportunity to apply your expertise in public finance, help shape the future of the organization, and support members in building thriving communities. Board members serve a three-year term and are expected to attend all meetings, including three on-site meetings per year and GFOA's committee meetings. Applications are due by February 6.
CPFO Spotlight
Allison Clements
Allison Clements, director of finance for the Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority in Georgia, pursued the CPFO designation to clearly demonstrate her commitment to government finance and mastery of public sector best practices. While her journey included a pause for maternity leave and the challenge of returning to study as a new mom, the process reinforced her confidence and resilience while strengthening her technical expertise, particularly in debt management as she prepared to lead her organization’s first debt issuance. Becoming a CPFO has allowed Allison to lead by example, inspiring a member of her staff to begin the certification process and reinforcing her goal of encouraging continuous learning within her team. She recommends the CPFO to anyone seeking a well-rounded understanding of government finance, especially those in leadership roles, noting that the knowledge gained prepares professionals for future responsibilities even beyond their current positions.
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Be part of a powerful community of 26,000+ public finance professionals across the U.S. and Canada. GFOA’s inclusive, organization-based membership model makes it easier than ever to connect, learn, and grow—whether you’re representing a government agency or joining as an individual.
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Membership in GFOA connects you to the tools, knowledge, and network you need to excel in public finance. Explore the valuable benefits below and see how joining our community can help you advance your skills, strengthen your organization, and make a greater impact in your community.
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Spotlight on GFOA's Young Professionals Network
GFOA’s Young Professionals Network (YPN) encourages and promotes young professionals’ careers in public finance through education and networking opportunities. YPN is open to any active GFOA government member under 40 years old. This is a free member benefit with no additional fees or volunteer requirements. Spread the word! Invite colleagues to join this opportunity to collaborate and build skills with fellow young professionals.
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GFOA's best practices identify specific policies and procedures that contribute to improved government management.
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We're taking a deep dive into budgeting, revenue, and financial reporting.
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2024 GAAFR
The 2024 edition of the GAAFR is your go-to resource for the latest accounting rules and how to implement them.
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Need more in-depth guidance in local government accounting, auditing, and financial reporting? GFOA’s GAAFR Plus offers important resources to help navigate the ever-changing world of public finance. Take advantage of this subscription today!