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.
From a career shift into public finance to becoming Director of the Office of Financial Services at the St. Johns River Water Management District, Melissa "Missy" Licourt's FGFOA journey is a story of growth, mentorship, and leadership. Discover how stepping out of her comfort zone—and saying "yes" to unexpected opportunities—helped shape her career and confidence.
CLICK HERE to learn more about Missy Licourt.
Happy Fall! Click Here to see the a video message from your 2025-2026 FGFOA President
Nicole Gasparri, CGFO, PHR
Chief Administrative Officer,
Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller,
Palm Beach County
Kathleen Campbell, CPA, CGFO, and Director of Finance at the Children's Services Council of Broward County, has built her FGFOA journey on "growth, service, and leadership." From earning her CGFO in 2018 to serving as President of the South Florida Chapter—where she grew membership from 125 to 443 in just two years—Kathleen has embraced opportunities to lead, learn, and give back. As she reflects, "Helping to lift others up and investing in myself and my education through FGFOA has made me a better leader and has enabled me to leave my government better than I found it."
CLICK HERE to learn more about Kathleen Campbell.
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.
Submit a Nomination Here
Only 3 weeks to go, and there's still time to reserve your seat at one of the most dynamic events for government finance professionals—whether you're just starting out or a seasoned expert.
Get ready for a lineup of insightful, hands-on sessions, including:
- Single Audit Fundamentals
- Key Concepts in Governmental Accounting
- Strategies for Financial Transparency
- Procurement Best Practices
- Budgeting 101
- True Colors Personality Workshop
- …and so much more!
Explore the full agenda and secure your spot today by visiting the SOGF webpage. Don't miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and grow with peers from across the field.
CLICK HERE for more information.
After a full day of learning, unwind in the FGFOA Hospitality Suite, your hub for networking, laughter, and themed evening fun. Each night brings something new, so be sure to join us!
Monday, October 27
Monday Night Football & Trivia
Wear Your Team Spirit!
Kick off the week with touchdowns and trivia! Come dressed in your favorite team jersey, cheer on your squad, and test your knowledge with friends and colleagues. It's the perfect mix of football, brain teasers, and plenty of laughs.
Tuesday, October 28
Game Night
Bring Your Game Face!
Get ready for an evening of fun, laughter, and friendly competition. Whether you're a board game buff or just looking to relax, this is your chance to connect with colleagues and enjoy a variety of games.
Wednesday, October 29
Karaoke Night
Let the Good Times Roll!
Step into the spotlight! From shower singers to stage stars, everyone's welcome. Grab the mic, belt out your favorite tunes, or cheer on your fellow performers. Karaoke Night is all about fun, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
Thursday, October 30
SOGF Whodunit: Murder Mystery Night
Unravel the Mystery!
The suspects are gathered, the clues are waiting, and the suspense is building. Join us for an interactive evening of intrigue and surprises as you work with fellow guests to crack the case. Can you solve the mystery before the big reveal?
Preparing to sit for the Certified Government Finance Officer (CGFO) exam? The School of Governmental Finance offers dedicated review courses led by experienced instructors to help you succeed. These sessions cover the five exam sections—Accounting & Financial Reporting, Treasury Management, Debt Management, Operating & Capital Budgeting, and Financial Administration—providing you with essential insights, strategies, and practice.
Whether you're planning to take the exam soon or just want to strengthen your knowledge, the CGFO review courses are a valuable investment in your professional growth.
CLICK HERE to Register
Don't miss these valuable learning opportunities!
Visit the FGFOA Webinar page and click "Register Now" or log in to your member portal and go to the "Events" tab.
Upcoming FGFOA Webinars – Mark Your Calendar!
November 20, 2025
Webinar: Pension and OPEB Refresher
Time: 2:00–3:40 p.m. Eastern
CPE Credit: 1.5 hours (Technical/Business)
December 18, 2025
Webinar: Artificial Intelligence in Government Finance Update
Time: 2:00–3:40 p.m. Eastern
CPE Credit: 1.5 hours (Technical/Business)
FREE registration for current FGFOA members!
CLICK HERE to Register
Applications for FGFOA Leadership 2026 open September 8, 2025.
This immersive, five-day program is designed to elevate your leadership skills, expand your professional network, and prepare you to lead in Florida's government finance community.
Program Dates: April 13–17, 2026
Location: Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando
Member Cost: $1,495 (subsidized from $3,000)
Application Deadline: January 9, 2026
CLICK HERE for more information about the FGFOA Leadership Program!
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).
Upcoming Dates:
- 6 | Online | 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
- 16 | Online | 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
- 22 | Jacksonville (In Person) | 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
- 6 | Online | 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
- 17 | Miami Beach (In Person) | 12:30–5 p.m.
- 19 | Online | 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
- 4 | Online | 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
- Dec. 18 | Online | 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
Mark your calendars!
Government Finance Professionals Week will be celebrated March 16–20, 2026!
This weeklong event recognizes the hard work, dedication, and leadership of government finance professionals and the vital services they provide to our communities.
FGFOA has released a 2026 Toolkit with resources to make it easy to participate, including:
- A sample proclamation
- A sample media release
- Social media content and engagement tips
- Fun games and team activities
Explore the Toolkit and Resources Here
Let's take this opportunity to honor the people behind the numbers who keep our communities moving forward!
2025 Legislative Session Update
The 2025 Legislative Session brought several important changes for government finance. The FGFOA Technical & Legislative Resources Committee has prepared a comprehensive summary of bills that passed and failed, now available for members.
Read the full 2025 Legislative Summary
One item to highlight is the repeal of the sales tax on commercial rentals. The Florida Department of Revenue issued TIP #25A01-04 (July 24, 2025) confirming that, effective October 1, 2025, the state sales tax and discretionary surtax on commercial rentals under Section 212.031, F.S. will no longer apply.
Key points:
- No tax applies to rental or license periods beginning October 1, 2025 or later.
Taxes remain due for rental periods through September 30, 2025, even if payments are made after October 1.
GSA Seeks Comments on Federal Audit Clearinghouse Form
The General Services Administration (GSA) is proposing revisions to the SF-SAC Data Collection Form and associated FAC webform. Key updates include:
- An optional resubmission pathway (with fields for type, reason, and report ID).
- Structured fields within each audit finding (e.g., questioned costs, criteria, cause, effect, recommendation, response).
- New Yes/No disclosures for known or likely fraud, summary schedule of prior audit findings, and significant instances of abuse.
Applies to auditees expending $1M+ in federal awards annually.
Comments due October 27, 2025
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.