The Kensington Fire Protection District has recently been re-accredited as a District of Distinction and they have also received the District Transparency Certificate of Excellence. Sherry Sterrett Special District Leadership Foundation and CSDA Board member made this presentation at the January Contra Costa Special Districts Association January 27, 2014 meeting.

In a time where proper fiscal management and responsibility in public agencies is paramount and the task of governing these agencies has become even more complex, regulated and costly, it has become increasingly important to demonstrate to constituents that districts have sound fiscal management policies and practices in place among other areas of importance in district operations.

The accreditation criterion gets to the heart of best practices in public agencies and demonstrates that the Kensington Fire Protection District:
• Understands and respects the responsibilities inherent in providing essential public services.
• Has clean financial audits and operates in a fiscally responsible and transparent manner.
• Is conscious of the ever-changing operating environment by having current and relevant policies and procedures in place that conform to all statutes and regulations under state law.
• Places an emphasis on continuing education completed by having each of the district’s board members and executive staff in ethics, governance and leadership training.
• Focuses on having sound policies in the areas of governance, board conduct, district finances, transparency and reserves.
The District of Distinction accreditation is designed as a way for districts to highlight their prudent fiscal practices along with other areas important to effectively operate and govern a special district.