POST FALLS — The city of Post Falls received the highest award in government accounting and financial reporting for its comprehensive annual financial report.

The report demonstrated a constructive spirit of full disclosure to clearly communicate the city’s financial story, representing a significant accomplishment by the city government and its finance director, Jason Faulkner.

The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to the city of Post Falls.

“There are very few municipalities that actually participate in the state of Idaho so for Post Falls to participate and receive the award is a huge accomplishment for the city,” Faulkner said.

The city also received the Outstanding Achievement in Popular Annual Financial Reporting Award for its reporting to the general public in a condensed, user-friendly guide to the city’s financial statements for interested parties who do not necessarily have a background in public finance.

Faulkner estimated that it took him 200-300 hours to compile the report.

“It’s a huge undertaking, but it’s important for the citizens to be transparent and for our rating agencies to see what kind of work we are doing in Post Falls,” Faulkner said.

The report helps the city receive lower interest rates on issued bonds and to fund its growth appropriately.

Faulkner has been with the city for seven years.

“Post Falls is a small government and we wear many hats,” Faulkner said. “The department heads of the city are working heads. They are doing the work.”