At the Coachella Valley Public Cemetery District, we take great pride in the recognition we have received for our service, stewardship, and commitment to the community. Each award represents the dedication of our Board, staff, and partners who work tirelessly to preserve the dignity of our cemetery and honor the families we serve. We invite you to explore the honors and achievements that highlight our ongoing pursuit of excellence.

 

2025 - GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting

The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to the Coachella Valley Public Cemetery District for its annual comprehensive financial report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024. The report has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, which includes demonstrating a constructive "spirit of full disclosure" to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the report. The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.

 

2024  - CSDA Exceptional Public Outreach & Advocacy Award

Awarded by the California Special Districts Association (CSDA) for outstanding efforts in increasing visibility and strengthening communication with stakeholders through the District’s “What to Expect” video series. The series has been widely praised for its effectiveness in preparing families for the interment process and providing valuable guidance on the day of their service. This initiative reflects the District’s commitment to delivering clear, compassionate, and informative communication to the community.

 

2024 - CSDA General Manager of the Year

Awarded annualy by the California Special Districts Association (CSDA) to one special district general manager in California, the General Manager of the Year award recognized our general manager's commitment and contributions to the District, Special Districts across the state, and our Coachella Valley communities. The award recognizes outstanding leadership and significant contributions in community commitment, legislative advocacy, financial management, and public relations.

 

2023 - SDLF District of Distinction

The District was honored with the “District of Distinction” designation from the Special District Leadership Foundation (SDLF), one of only three cemetry districts statewide to receive this recognition. The award reflects the District’s strong fiscal management, commitment to transparency, and adherence to governance best practices, including ethics and compliance training for its board and staff. To qualify, the District met rigorous standards such as independent audits, public accessibility of budgets, financial reports, and board information, as well as transparency in election procedures. This prestigious designation underscores the District’s dedication to accountability and responsible stewardship on behalf of the community.

 

2022 -  SDLF Transparency Certificate of Excellence

The District received the Transparency Certificate of Excellence award from the Special District Leadership Foundation (SDLF). The award reflects significant investments in a new website, upgraded boardroom technology, and expanded organizational training to improve public accessibility. To earn this distinction, the District demonstrated compliance with ethics training, open meeting laws, financial reporting, audits, and best practices for public outreach. This honor highlights CVPCD’s commitment to transparent governance and empowering the community with clear and accessible information.

 

2022 - SDRMA Earl F. Sayre Excellence in Safety Award

The District received the Earl F. Sayre Excellence in Safety Award from the Special District Risk Management Authority (SDRMA) in the “Large Member” category. The honor recognizes the District’s strong safety record, low loss ratio, and long-standing participation in SDRMA’s Property/Liability program, along with achievements in the Credit Incentive Program. This award reflects the District’s ongoing investments in safety, equipment, training, and operational excellence, guided by the leadership of its Board of Trustees. It highlights CVPCD’s commitment to protecting staff, resources, and the community while continuing to provide quality service at one of California’s busiest cemetery districts.