Cherriots Earns National Recognition For Budget Presentation (Photo) - 10/28/26

SALEM, OR — (October 28, 2026) — Cherriots has received the Government Finance Officers Association’s (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Presentation Award, recognizing its commitment to producing a budget that clearly communicates financial plans, operational priorities and policy goals.

The award reflects the work of the Cherriots Board of Directors and staff to meet nationally recognized guidelines for effective governmental budget presentation. To earn the recognition, a budget must serve effectively as a policy document, a financial plan, an operations guide, and a communications device.

“A well-prepared budget helps our community understand not only how public dollars are allocated, but also the priorities and decisions behind those investments,” said Ian Davidson, Cherriots Board Vice President. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our staff to making the District’s financial planning clear, accessible and useful to the people we serve.”

To receive the award, budget documents must earn a rating of “proficient” in all four evaluation categories and meet 14 mandatory criteria within those categories. The recognition highlights the importance of presenting financial information in a way that supports both organizational decision-making and public understanding.

The GFOA advances excellence in government finance through best practices, professional development, resources and practical research. More than 1,900 participants take part in its Budget Awards Program, which recognizes efforts to improve governmental budgeting throughout North America.

About Cherriots
Established in 1979, Salem Area Mass Transit District (SAMTD) is a special District covering 78 square miles in the Mid-Willamette Valley between Portland and Eugene. Locally known as Cherriots, the District provides vital service to more than 450,000 residents in Marion and Polk counties. SAMTD maintains a total of 124 transit vehicles across its various services and provides approximately 3.3 million passenger trips annually.

For more information, visit www.cherriots.org.

About GFOA
The Government Finance Officers Association advances excellence in government finance by providing best practices, professional development, resources and practical research for more than 25,000 members and the communities they serve.