Coachella Valley Public Cemetery District (CVPCD) has received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA). The award recognizes CVPCD’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.
Board Chair Ernesto Rosales stated, “This accomplishment, together with our other recent awards and recognitions, demonstrates our commitment to exceptional public cemetery operations and reflects the high standards our community expects and deserves.”
Fewer than 10 percent of more than 5,000 eligible government agencies in California earned this recognition in the current cycle. CVPCD is one of only two public cemetery districts in the state to receive this certificate.
General Manager Joshua Bonner acknowledged staff contributions: “I want to thank our Finance Manager, Sherry Winder, and our Auditor, David Farnsworth, for their exceptional work in producing a report that meets the highest standards. This recognition reflects the ongoing support of our Board of Trustees and the collective efforts of our entire team.”
The GFOA Certificate of Achievement program is regarded as a leading benchmark in public-sector accounting and financial reporting. Agencies must publish an accessible and well-organized annual comprehensive financial report that aligns with strict criteria to qualify for this distinction. The latest honor adds to several recent accolades received by CVPCD.
CVPCD was established on August 8, 1927, under Section 8890 of the California Health and Safety Code. The district covers about 3,450 square miles and operates independently from county or city governments as a special-purpose governmental unit. Since its formation, it has performed over 24,000 interments and placed more than 15,000 grave markers. It is among more than 265 public cemetery districts in California.
GFOA serves over 25,000 members by promoting best practices and providing professional development within government finance.
For additional information about CVPCD or its services, visit CVPCD.org

