In a remarkable display of financial transparency and excellence, Los Alamos County has once again been recognized for its outstanding achievements in governmental finance. The Administrative Services Finance Division recently received the prestigious Triple Crown Honor from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA). This award acknowledges governments that have excelled in three critical areas: financial reporting, budget presentation, and popular annual financial reporting. Additionally, the county was honored by the New Mexico Office of the State Auditor and New Mexico Counties for its consistent dedication to ethical financial practices. These accolades underscore the county's commitment to maintaining high standards of fiscal responsibility and accountability.
Triple Crown Honor and State Recognition
On a crisp winter day, January 28, 2025, the Los Alamos County Council convened to honor the members of the Administrative Services Finance Division. The ceremony took place at the county’s administrative headquarters, where key personnel gathered to celebrate their remarkable accomplishments. Among those present were Helen Perraglio, Director of Administrative Services, and several councilors including Randall Ryti, Beverly Neal-Clinton, and Melanee Hand. The Finance Division staff, led by Alex Lerma, Erika Thomas, Sonya Ortiz, and Nicholle Cordova, were commended for their relentless dedication and meticulous work.
The Triple Crown Honor is awarded to governments that have achieved three significant milestones: the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), the Popular Annual Financial Reporting Award (PAFR), and the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. This year marks the 33rd consecutive year that the Finance Division has earned the ACFR award, the 32nd year for the Budget award, and the 9th year for the PAFR award. These achievements highlight the division's unwavering commitment to transparency and excellence.
Beyond the GFOA recognition, Los Alamos County was also celebrated by the New Mexico Office of the State Auditor (OSA) and New Mexico Counties (NMC) for its exemplary audit performance. At the 2025 NMC Legislative Conference on January 23, 2025, the county received the joint Audit & Accountability Award for the ninth consecutive year. This award recognizes counties that demonstrate a steadfast dedication to ethical financial practices and maintain high standards in safeguarding public assets.
Helen Perraglio expressed her gratitude to the Finance Division staff, emphasizing their hard work and dedication. She also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of various departments, staff members, and the County Council, all of whom contribute to achieving these honors. Perraglio highlighted the importance of working cohesively under stringent compliance standards to uphold the county's reputation for excellence.
From a journalist's perspective, this recognition serves as a testament to the county's commitment to financial integrity and transparency. It sets a benchmark for other local governments to follow, demonstrating that with diligent effort and a focus on excellence, it is possible to achieve sustained success in financial management. The awards not only reflect the hard work of the Finance Division but also instill confidence in the community about the responsible stewardship of public funds. This achievement should inspire continued dedication to ethical practices and serve as a model for others to emulate.