The Fiscal Forum Newsletter is your monthly roundup of FGFOA news, events, and resources. Published on the first Monday of each month at 2:00 PM, the newsletter offers regular updates and highlights that help you stay connected to what’s happening across the organization.
Click Image Below to Hear a Message from Your FGFOA President
Spotlight on Leadership
William Spinelli
FGFOA Board Director
Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
William V. Spinelli, CPA, MBA, serves as Chief Financial Officer for the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, supporting a 4,000‑FTE organization with a $685 million budget. A longtime FGFOA member since 2006, William credits the association with building strong peer networks and advancing government finance across Florida. He is passionate about professional development—particularly FGFOA Boot Camp, Conferences, and the School of Government—and has shared his expertise as a speaker and leader, including serving as President of the Florida Nature Coast Chapter. A retired Navy Chief Petty Officer, William lives by the values of God, family, and country.
Committee Corner
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Call for Session Topics
FGFOA is now accepting session topic proposals for the 2026 School of Governmental Finance, taking place October 25–30, 2026, at the Sheraton Sand Key Resort in Clearwater Beach.
The School of Governmental Finance is a cornerstone FGFOA educational program, offering in‑depth, classroom‑style learning designed to strengthen technical knowledge, leadership skills, and practical application in government finance. We invite experienced professionals to share their expertise and help shape a high‑quality educational experience for participants from across Florida.
Proposed topics may include, but are not limited to:
- Budgeting and financial planning
- Accounting and financial reporting
- Auditing and internal controls
- Debt management and capital planning
- Leadership, management, and communication skills
- Emerging issues and best practices in government finance
If you have a suggestion for a session topic, please click the link below.
Annual Conference Registration Now Open!
Registration is now open for the FGFOA Annual Conference, and this is an event you won’t want to miss. From high‑quality educational sessions to valuable networking opportunities, the Annual Conference offers something for every government finance professional.
This year’s conference will take place June 13–17, 2026, at the Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando, providing the perfect setting for learning, collaboration, and connection with peers from across the state.
We are also excited to welcome two outstanding keynote speakers:
- Hoan Do, award‑winning international keynote speaker, author, and finalist on American Ninja Warrior
- Nicole Gasparri, FGFOA President, speaker, author, and respected leader within our organization
Mark your calendar and make plans to join us for an engaging and inspiring week dedicated to excellence in public finance. We look forward to seeing you there!
Webinar Registration
Looking for Additional Ethics CPE Opportunities?
The Florida Institute of CPAs (FICPA) is offering “FICPA Ethics: Protecting the Integrity of the Florida CPAs,” created with the DBPR and approved by the Florida Board of Accountancy. Sessions are available online, in-person, and on-site (live or virtually).
Member Spotlight Nominations
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond? A mentor, colleague, or chapter leader who deserves to be recognized? Nominate them for the FGFOA Member Spotlight! It only takes a few minutes, and your nomination could help highlight the inspiring work of a fellow member.
CLICK HERE to submit a nomination.
Celebrating Government Finance Professionals Week
Government Finance Professionals Week, held March 16–20, provided a meaningful opportunity to recognize the skilled and dedicated individuals who help ensure our local governments remain financially strong, transparent, and accountable. Across Florida, this week served as an important reminder of the professionalism, integrity, and commitment that finance teams bring to public service every day.
From budgeting and financial reporting to long‑term planning and compliance, government finance professionals play a critical role in supporting sound decision‑making and maintaining public trust. Their work often happens behind the scenes, yet its impact is felt throughout our communities. Government Finance Professionals Week shines a well‑deserved spotlight on these efforts and the people who make them possible.
Many government agencies across the State of Florida joined in the celebration by recognizing their finance staff through proclamations, employee spotlights, and fun activities that highlighted appreciation and teamwork. These celebrations not only acknowledged individual contributions but also reinforced the value of collaboration and excellence in public finance.
Village of Royal Palm Beach
City of Fort Myers
Palm Beach County Clerk of Circuit Court & Comptroller
CLICK HERE to view the agencies that participated and see how finance teams across Florida were recognized during Government Finance Professionals Week.
Virtual Learning Opportunities
| Stay current and connected with FGFOA’s lineup of professional development webinars! Each session is designed to provide practical insights, timely updates, and tools you can apply directly in your daily work. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your technical knowledge or expand your leadership skills, there’s a webinar for you.
· April 9, 2026 – Fraud/Data Analytics Visit the FGFOA WEBINAR PAGE and click “Register Now” or log in to your member portal and go to the “Events” tab. Don’t miss these valuable learning opportunities! |
| Looking for additional ethics CPE opportunities?
The Florida Institute of CPAs (FICPA) is offering “FICPA Ethics: Protecting the Integrity of the Florida CPAs,” created with the DBPR and approved by the Florida Board of Accountancy. Sessions are available online, in-person, and on-site (live or virtually). |
| NEW GASB VIDEO SERIES WALKS ELECTED OFFICIALS THROUGH GOVERNMENT FINANCIAL REPORTS
The Governmental Accounting Standards Board has created a New Video Series to help elected officials and other stakeholders understand the information included in government financial reports and how they can use it. The collection includes 16 Videos,each ranging from 5 to 10 minutes in length. It includes a 3-part introduction to financial reporting, followed by 13 videos that each address key areas of the annual comprehensive financial report. |
Local Chapter News
FGFOA’s local chapters are the heartbeat of our organization, offering members valuable opportunities to connect, learn, and grow within their own communities. These events range from professional development sessions and technical trainings to networking socials and community outreach initiatives.
Attending your local chapter events is a great way to stay engaged, expand your professional network, and share ideas with peers who understand the challenges and opportunities of government finance. Be sure to check your Local Chapter Calendar for upcoming local chapter events and opportunities to engage with your peers.
Monthly Events Preview
Stay up to date with what’s happening across FGFOA! The Upcoming Webinar Schedule can be found on our website.
How do I register for FGFOA Events?
- Log into your FGFOA member portal
- Go all the way to the very top. You’ll see the “event” tab. (Don’t hover over it, just click on it.) That will open up all of the events that are open for registration.
- Click on the hyperlink of the event you want to attend.