August 2022- The Herlong Public Utility District (HPUD) received the “District of Distinction - GOLD” accreditation by the Special District Leadership Foundation (SDLF) for its sound fiscal management policies and practices in district operations. There are over 2200 Special Districts in California, only 41 have applied and received their Recognition for “District of Distinction” and only 3 including Herlong PUD have reached the Gold accreditation.

“SDLF provides an independent audit review of the last three years of the district’s operations to ensure prudent fiscal practices,” said Neil McCormick, SDLF Chief Executive Officer. The committee members who review the audits are volunteers from the special district community, including district controllers, directors of finance and certified general managers.

In addition, the district’s board of directors and executive staff must also show proof of educational training in public governance, as well as compliance with ethics and harassment prevention training.

Furthermore, to receive the recognition, the district’s website must include posting of transparency requirements, including posted board meeting schedule and agendas, current district budget, most recent financial audit, and a list of compensation of board members and staff or a link to the State Controller’s webpage with the data.  

HPUD is also 1 of 161 District that have received their accreditation for Transparency Certificate of Excellence. HPUD is striving to make a difference in their community.

SDLF is an independent, non-profit organization formed to promote good governance and best practices among California’s special districts through certification, accreditation, and other recognition programs.