Port of Cleveland Recognized with Auditor of State Award for Financial Excellence in 2024

The Port of Cleveland has been recognized for its continued commitment to financial transparency and accountability, earning the prestigious Auditor of State Award for the 2024 fiscal year.

Presented by the Ohio Auditor of State’s Office, the award is given to public entities that achieve a “clean” audit report—meeting rigorous standards for financial reporting, internal controls, and compliance. To qualify, entities must file timely financial reports in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), produce a comprehensive Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), and receive an audit free of findings, material weaknesses, or significant deficiencies.

The Port of Cleveland is proud to have received this prestigious award in two of the last three years— a distinction earned by only a small percentage of the more than 5,900 public entities audited across Ohio each year.

Additionally, award recipients must demonstrate strong fiscal management practices, including maintaining accurate records, avoiding questioned costs, and ensuring full compliance with public accountability requirements. The Port met all criteria, with no financial or operational concerns noted in its audit.

“This recognition reflects the diligence, integrity, and discipline our finance team brings to their work every day,” said Chief Financial Officer, Carl Naso. “Achieving a clean audit at this level takes an incredible amount of coordination and attention to detail. I’m especially grateful for the outstanding efforts of Margaret Rivalsky, Justina Dugan, and Renee Snipes, whose dedication and consistency make accomplishments like this possible.”

The Auditor of State Award underscores the Port of Cleveland’s commitment to responsible stewardship of public resources and reinforces its role as a trusted economic driver for the region.

About the Port of Cleveland

The Port of Cleveland is a key economic driver for Northeast Ohio, generating over $7 billion in annual economic activity and supporting more than 23,000 jobs. As a leading hub for international and Great Lakes shipping, the Port handles roughly 12 million tons of cargo each year. Established in 1968, the Port also advances regional growth through infrastructure improvements, shoreline resiliency projects, and development financing that supports both public and private investments. Guided by a nine-member board, the Port’s mission is to foster job creation, economic vitality, and global competitiveness for the Greater Cleveland region.

For more information on the Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority, visit www.portofcleveland.com.