Cherriots Earns 13th Consecutive National Award For Financial Excellence - 10/30/25

Salem, OR – October 30, 2025 – The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) has awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to Cherriots (Salem Area Mass Transit District) for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

This marks the 13th consecutive year that Cherriots has received this prestigious distinction, recognizing the agency’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and excellence in financial reporting.

“On behalf of Cherriots, I’m honored to accept this award for the 13th year running,” said Denise LaRue, Chief Financial Officer. “It reflects the ongoing dedication of our finance team to uphold the highest standards of integrity and openness in public finance. We are proud to continue earning the trust of our community through transparent stewardship of public resources.”

The GFOA’s Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting. Reports earning the distinction are judged by an impartial panel to meet the program’s rigorous standards – including demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate an organization’s financial story.