What does it take to transform a small town into a regional leader in growth, transparency, and opportunity? For Dumfries, it started with a commitment to responsible governance, a focus on building trust, and a bold vision for the future. Today, I’m thrilled to share some incredible news: Dumfries has achieved its first clean audit!

This is more than just a financial milestone. It’s a turning point for our community—a sign that Dumfries is positioned to achieve big things, from national recognition to transformative projects that will shape our town for decades to come.

By the Numbers

The independent audit, conducted by Robinson, Farmer, Cox Associates, confirmed that Dumfries’ financial statements are accurate and transparent, with no material issues or concerns. But this isn’t just about the audit itself; the real story is in the numbers:

• $2,299,451 Net Position Growth: Our net position grew by an impressive 22.89%, reaching $12,344,025 by the end of the fiscal year.

• $8,743,305 Increase in Governmental Funds: Dumfries’ governmental funds balance now stands at $12,330,894, providing the financial reserves needed to support future investments.

• Prudent Debt Management: While long-term obligations rose to fund key projects, Dumfries remains well below state-imposed debt limits, ensuring financial health while investing in critical infrastructure.

Why This Milestone Matters

This clean audit is more than just a seal of approval—it’s a catalyst for Dumfries’ future:

• National Recognition: With this milestone, Dumfries is on track to earn the GFOA Triple Crown Award, a prestigious honor recognizing excellence in financial reporting, budgeting, and transparency. Achieving this recognition will highlight Dumfries as a model of financial excellence among local governments nationwide.

• Bond Rating on the Horizon: According to our financial advisors, this audit lays the foundation for Dumfries to secure its first-ever bond rating. A bond rating will allow us to borrow at lower interest rates, paving the way for major projects while keeping costs manageable for taxpayers.

• Building Community Trust: For our residents, this clean audit demonstrates that we’re managing their tax dollars responsibly, transparently, and with their best interests in mind.

Dumfries on the Move

This financial success is just one piece of a much larger story. Dumfries is growing, evolving, and laying the groundwork for a vibrant and thriving future. Here’s a look at what’s ahead:

• Route 1 Widening Project: Construction on Route 1 is set to be completed by 2030, bringing safer travel, improved accessibility, and new opportunities for businesses and residents along this vital corridor.

• The Rose Resort Project: Already contributing $5 million annually in tax revenue, the Rose Resort will soon begin its traffic study for phase two development, promising to expand its economic impact and create even more jobs and opportunities.

• Comprehensive Plan 2044: The Dumfries Town Council is in the final stages of completing the 2044 Comprehensive Plan, a visionary roadmap for the next 20 years of growth. This plan outlines ambitious goals for a reimagined Dumfries, including:

• Main Street District: A bustling center of activity, commerce, and community.

• Waterfront District: A vibrant hub for recreation, tourism, and mixed-use development.

• Gateway District: A welcoming area that showcases Dumfries as a regional destination.

• Entertainment District: A space designed for events, activities, and cultural attractions.

A Vision Coming to Life

Looking back, it’s incredible to see how far Dumfries has come. When I first ran for office, I shared a vision of building a thriving downtown community where people from all over the region would want to visit over and over again. At the time, it was just an idea—a dream of what Dumfries could become if we worked together.

Today, that dream is becoming reality. This clean audit, our financial growth, and the transformational projects we’re pursuing are proof that a shared vision, supported by belief and action, can move mountains.

But none of this would be possible without the Town Council, a group of leaders who not only see the vision but actively work to make it a reality. Their commitment to this community has helped us stay the course and achieve milestones that once seemed out of reach.

This is a blessing—a testament to what’s possible when a community believes in itself and its future. And as we continue this journey together, I know the best is yet to come for Dumfries.

Stay with us. We’re just getting started.

• Derrick