The Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) is proud to announce that, for the first time in its history, it has earned the “District of Distinction” Silver Level accreditation by the Special District Leadership Foundation (SDLF) for its sound fiscal management policies and practices in district operations.

“SDLF provides an independent audit review of the last three years of the district’s operations to ensure prudent fiscal practices,” said Neil McCormick, SDLF Chief Executive Officer. The committee members who review the audits are volunteers from the special district community, including district controllers, directors of finance, and certified general managers. In addition, the district’s board of directors and executive staff must also show proof of educational training in public governance, as well as compliance with ethics and harassment prevention training.

Furthermore, to receive the recognition, the district’s website must include posting of transparency requirements, including: election procedure and deadlines, posted board meeting schedule and agendas, current district budget, most recent financial audit, and a list of compensation of board members and staff or a link to the State Controller’s webpage with the data. 

The Cambria Community Services District provides water, wastewater, fire protection and emergency services, parks, recreation, and open space, for our community in a safe, cost-effective, and environmentally sensitive manner.

SDLF is an independent, non-profit organization formed to promote good governance and best practices among California’s special districts through certification, accreditation, and other recognition programs. Special districts are public agencies created to provide one or more specific services to a community, such as water service, sewer service, parks, fire protection, and others. The District of Distinction Accreditation is one of California’s most respected recognitions for special districts. To qualify, a district must demonstrate sound fiscal management policies and practices and comply with legal requirements and best practices in governance. To maintain the designation, accreditation must be renewed every three years.

The Cambria Community Services District is honored to be among only 47 out of nearly 2,000 special districts in California to receive this prestigious recognition. 

In addition to this achievement, CCSD was awarded the Transparency Certificate of Excellence by SDLF in both 2021 and 2024, further affirming the District’s commitment to open and accountable government. Furthermore, General Manager McElhenie earned the distinguished Certified Special District Manager (CSDM) designation in 2024, demonstrating his dedication to excellence in public service and leadership within special districts.

For more information about the Special District Leadership Foundation's programs, including the District of Distinction visit, http://sdlf.org/programs.