SPARKS — The city of Sparks’ 2009-2010 Annual Report recently was recognized as a finalist for the Cashman Good Government Award by the Nevada Taxpayer’s Association. Washoe County’s Interactive Budget Planning Model was selected as the winner for the award.

“The recognition from the Nevada Taxpayer’s Association is a real testament to the hard work of the city of Sparks team,” said City Manager Shaun Carey. “The city developed this annual report by engaging the city staff across all levels of the organization. The document illustrates the success the city has had in providing priority services while finding innovative ways to keep costs down for our residents,” he said. “We congratulate Washoe County on being selected.”

The Cashman Good Government Award was established by the Nevada Taxpayer’s Association in 1997. It recognizes those state and local governments who make strong and consistent efforts to spend taxpayer dollars wisely and efficiently. Finalists are chosen from counties, cities and towns, schools and state government. The association uses strict criteria to determine the finalists which include the effective, open and accountable practice of creating user-friendly government, and the degree to which the achievement provides tangible results.