Auditor of State Mary Taylor preented West Geauga Local School District officials with the "Making Your Tax Dollars Count" award for their fiscal year 2009 audit. Fewer than five percent of all Ohio government agencies are eligible for this award.

"It is an honor to recognize West Geauga Local School District officials for their commitment to strong financial accountability," Taylor said. "Congratulations on your hard work and for being trustworthy stewards of taxpayer dollars."

Certain criteria must be met to receive the "Making Your Tax Dollars Count" award. Standards include:

The entity must complete and submit a Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR).
There must be no findings or issues present in the audit report.
There must be no other financial concerns involving the entity.

West Geauga Local Schools Treasurer Michele Tullai and Superintendent Anthony Podojil, Ph.D. accepted the award.