PRESS RELEASE

For release: March 12, 2026

Contact: Sylvia Ornelas, Community Affairs Supervisor

o: 951-674-3146 ext. 8274 | m: 951-670-8122 | e: sornelas@evmwd.net

EVMWD earns top state and national budget awards for fiscal years 2025-26 and 2026-27

LAKE ELSINORE, Calif. – Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District (EVMWD) has again received statewide and national recognition for excellence in public budgeting, earning awards from the Government Finance Officers Association and the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers for its fiscal years 2025-26 and 2026-27 budgets.

The Government Finance Officers Association awarded EVMWD its Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the biennium beginning July 1, 2025, recognizing the District’s commitment to transparency, clarity and long-term financial planning. EVMWD also received the Operating Budget Excellence Award from the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers for the same fiscal years.

“These awards reflect the discipline and care that go into every budget decision we make,” said EVMWD Director of Finance Scott Thompson. “They recognize the work behind the scenes to produce a clear, transparent budget that the public can trust.”

“Responsible financial planning helps us invest in reliable water service today while preparing for the future,” said EVMWD Board President Andy Morris, Division 5. “Our board remains focused on protecting public resources and meeting the long-term needs of the communities we serve.”

Both awards recognize budgets that serve as clear financial and policy documents, guide operations and communicate priorities to the public. To qualify, agencies must meet rigorous criteria that demonstrate sound financial practices, strategic planning and effective communication. 

EVMWD’s budgets for fiscal years 2025-26 and 2026-27 support critical investments in water reliability, infrastructure maintenance and regulatory compliance while maintaining a strong focus on public accountability.

The District has consistently earned recognition for its budgeting practices, underscoring its commitment to fiscal stewardship and transparent governance.

For more information about EVMWD’s budget and financial planning, visit EVMWD.com/Budget.