The Harford County Department of the Treasury announced it has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada, or GOFA, for its comprehensive annual financial report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2010.

According to GFOA, the certificate is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.

The award was presented to Deputy Treasurer Rick Pernas, who was Acting Treasurer during the preparation of the 2010 report.

"I am pleased that our Treasury Department has received this award, as it recognizes the positive steps we have taken to provide transparency and accountability for Harford County's finances," County Executive David R. Craig said in a press release. "I appreciate the hard work, diligence, and attention to detail that the entire department puts into this annual report, as well as in their day-to-day duties."

"Despite being challenging financial times for local governments across the country, we are proud to show that Harford County remains fiscally sound, as evidenced by our AAA bond rating, which was attained during the period covered in this report," Craig added.