Colorado’s Most Honored Fire Agency for Fiscal Responsibility

Lakewood, CO – For the 27th consecutive year, West Metro Fire Protection District has been honored with the prestigious Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA). This award, given for the district’s 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), highlights West Metro’s commitment to financial transparency and responsible stewardship of public funds.

The recognition assures residents and businesses within West Metro’s service area that the district adheres to the highest standards in documenting financial activities. The ACFR demonstrates that revenues are efficiently allocated to fulfill the mission of protecting lives and property while maintaining strong financial health.

An impartial GFOA panel determined that West Metro’s ACFR met the program’s rigorous criteria, including a “spirit of full disclosure”—ensuring that financial information is clearly communicated and readily accessible to the public. West Metro is the only Colorado fire agency to have been consistently honored by the GFOA.

"At West Metro, we believe financial transparency is essential in maintaining the trust of our community," said West Metro Fire Chief Don Lombardi. "Our residents deserve to know how their tax dollars are being managed to support life-saving emergency services and public safety initiatives."

To uphold its commitment to openness, West Metro provides comprehensive financial information on its website, including the ACFR, the latest budget document, and real-time financial data via OpenGov. The district was one of Colorado’s first agencies to implement an accessible, digital financial transparency platform for the community.

The GFOA’s Certificate of Achievement represents the highest distinction in governmental accounting and financial reporting. West Metro’s Finance Division has received multiple GFOA honors, including awards for Distinguished Budget Presentation, Excellence in Government Finance, and Excellence in Financial Reporting.