Blog: Building a stronger city through sound financial stewardship

Published on May 04, 2026

Good government depends on trust. One of the most important ways we earn that trust is by being responsible stewards of public funds. That is why I am proud to share that the City of North Port has once again been recognized for excellence in financial reporting.

For the 29th consecutive year, the City has received the Government Finance Officers Association’s Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. This award is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting. It reflects our commitment to transparency, accuracy and accountability in how we manage your tax dollars.

This recognition does not happen by chance. It is the direct result of the hard work and dedication of our Finance Department, led by Director Irina Kukharenko. Her team works year-round to ensure that our financial records are clear, complete and easy to understand. Their efforts help residents, elected officials and stakeholders make informed decisions about our community’s future.

While we celebrate this achievement, we also recognize the challenges ahead. Our team is already working on the Fiscal Year 2027 budget in a time of rising costs, potential declining revenues and uncertainty about the future of property taxes. Many of these factors are outside of our control. However, our focus remains the same: to deliver a balanced budget that lives within our means while continuing to provide the services our residents expect.

This means making careful, thoughtful decisions. It means looking for ways to improve efficiency without sacrificing service. And it means aligning our financial choices with the strategic goals set by the City Commission.

At the same time, strong financial management goes hand in hand with strong internal processes. That is why our City Attorney’s Office is also playing a key role in improving how we operate. Under the leadership of City Attorney Michael Fuino, the legal team is reviewing and updating our City Code to ensure it is clear, current and effective.

City Attorney Fuino recently completed his first six months in North Port and received high marks from the City Commission in his performance evaluation. As one of the three Charter officers appointed by the Commission, his role is critical in helping carry out the policies and vision set by our elected leaders. His work helps protect the City’s legal interests while also making sure our processes are efficient and aligned with best practices.

Together, these efforts reflect a larger commitment. We are focused on building a local government that is transparent, efficient and responsive to the needs of our community. Recognition like the GFOA award is an important milestone, but it is not the finish line. It is a reminder that we must continuously improve and adapt in a changing environment.

North Port is a growing city with a bright future. By strengthening our financial practices and internal operations today, we are helping ensure the City remains strong and sustainable for years to come.

Jerome Fletcher is the North Port City Manager. He can be reached at jfletcher@NorthPortFL.gov