CRUISING TO A STRONG FINANCIAL FUTURE
2025 GFOAT Spring Conference
April 6–8, 2025 • Kalahari Resorts and Conventions, Round Rock
Agenda
Speakers and sessions are subject to change. All events are at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions unless otherwise noted.
Handouts will not be provided on site. Downloadable files will be available HERE.
Sunday, April 6
10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Sponsor Registration
Location: Registration D
12:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.
Attendee Registration
Location: Registration E
1:00–1:50 p.m.
CGFO Committee Meeting
Chairs: Glenn Mizell, Purchasing Manager, City of Grand Prairie, and Ebony Roundtree, Budget and Compensation Administrator, City of Irving
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Location: Kalahari Salon D
2:30–5:00 p.m.
Understanding IT Like an Insider – A Non-Techie’s Guide to Understanding and Working With IT
Speaker: Robert (Bob) Scott, Deputy Town Manager, City of Prosper
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Location: Kalahari Salon E
Description: IT has quickly become omnipresent in every aspect of an organization’s operations and strategic vision and yet executive’s understanding and supervision of IT has not always kept pace. Finance, whether it supervises IT or simply helps executive management with IT budgets and internal controls, must have a basic understanding of the IT environment.
This session will:
- De-geek a highly technical topic through cliches and humor
- Create a small number of basic principles for understanding what makes IT effective by focusing on four topics: Big Picture, Personnel, Architecture/Applications, and Threats
- Provide practical explanations, examples and tools for each to obtain an efficient, effective and secure IT operation
5:00–6:00 p.m.
GFOAT Welcome Social
Location: Ballroom Foyers
6:30–9:00 p.m.
Barnacles Bash Bonanza
Location: Kalahari at “The Barn” (Located on the Lawn Behind the Convention Center)
Ahoy, mateys! Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Barnacle Bash Bonanza!
Music: Our DJ will be spinning sea-worthy tunes to keep you dancing all night long.
Taco Bar: Dive into a taco bar overflowing with a treasure trove of toppings to satisfy your nautical cravings and land-loving appetite. Get ready for a flavor voyage that will make your taste buds set sail!
Drinks: Each guest will receive 2 drink tickets for beer, wine, or soda. A cash bar will also be available for additional grog.
Games: Challenge your shipmates to a game of Corn Hole on the lawn – it’s game on!
THANK YOU, SPONSORS!
Please be sure to thank the following sponsors
for being the compasses that keep us on course and the sails that propel us forward.
Ameresco
HdL Companies
SAMCO
Texas CLASS
VC3
6:00- 9:00 p.m.
Sponsor Reception
Location: Redd’s Piano Bar
Aloha! Kick off the week island-style at our laid-back cocktail reception on Sunday evening from 6 to 9 p.m. at Redd’s Piano Bar inside the Kalahari. Enjoy tropical vibes with live music, an open bar, delicious hors d’oeuvres, and plenty of dancing. Come dressed to unwind and celebrate! Sponsored by Azavar.
Monday, April 7
7:00–9:50 a.m.
Registration
7:00–8:00 a.m.
Networking Breakfast
8:00–9:15 a.m.
Opening Session
President’s Address
Clara Santos, GFOAT President and Department Fiscal Administrator, City of San Antonio
Welcome Remarks
Executive Director Remarks– Martie Simpson, Executive Director, GFOAT
TML Update– Bennett Sandlin, Executive Director, Texas Municipal League
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Location: Kalahari Salon E
9:15–9:50 a.m.
Coffee Break/Sponsor Networking
9:50–10:45 a.m. • CONCURRENT
Navigating Rough Waters – One City’s Approach to Addressing Employee Mental Wellbeing
Speaker: David Whitt, Employee Wellness Manager, City of San Antonio
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Location: Zambezi
Description
As a filter through which the City of San Antonio views all of its employee benefits, the COSACares initiative was created in an attempt to refocus on the mental wellbeing of COSA employees and their families. The effort began in January 2024 with the migration to a new, upgraded employee assistance provider, the rollout of various forms of free mental health training, increased access to mental healthcare services, and the addition of COSACares (mental health) days.
As the mental health landscape continues to evolve, so too will COSACares, and with it, the variety of employee mental health resources intended to meet employees wherever they may be along their health journey.
Pre-Board Check on Credit Research: Perspectives on Corporates & Banks
Speaker: Patrick Edler, Senior Credit Analyst, Texas CLASS
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Location: Nile
Description
Attendees will learn the high-level details and utilize case studies to gain an understanding of how credit analysts evaluate both nonbank corporate issuers and bank-specific issuers and how credit calls are made.
Making your Budget Public Engagement more than just Shuffle-bored
Speaker: Aaron Rector, City Manager, City of Keller; Jon Locke, Finance Director, City of San Marcos
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Location: Kalahari Salon C-D
Description
Even though it is a City’s top priority, getting public engagement on the budget is difficult and public hearings are boring. This session will provide a buffet of options for increasing public engagement on the budget. Your citizens will find the budget more exciting than party deck at midnight.
Taking Your First Solo Cruise – A Map for New Finance Officials
Speakers: Keith Dagan and Garry House, Retired Wranglers
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Location: Kalahari Salon A-B
Description
This session will help you map out your responsibilities throughout the year and make sure that key tasks are on your radar. If you’re new to government finance, join in and make sure that your first voyage is a success.
10:55–11:45 a.m. • CONCURRENT
Bingo! Scoring Big with the GFOA Distinguished Budget Award
Speakers: Meg Jakubik, Director of Budget Services, Town of Flower Mound, Ebony Roundtree, Budget and Compensation Administrator, City of Irving, and Casey Srader, Assistant Director Budget & Research, City of Plano
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Location: Kalahari Salon C-D
Description
Scared to apply for GFOA’s Distinguished Budget Award or want insights on what Reviewers are looking for? Hear from a panel of current reviewers on what they are looking for in a budget book and great examples they have seen. Come learn how you can earn the budget award or level up your current document.
Don’t Get Sidetracked with Too Many Shore Excursions: Focus on Capital Planning
Speaker: Kevin Klosterboer, Chief Financial Officer, City of Round Rock; Melena Taylor, Deputy Chief Financial Officer, City of Round Rock
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Location: Kalahari Salon A-B
Description
Long range capital planning is crucial to keeping your organization on the right path. Learn about best practices to ensure you’re working towards a consistent vision for your future.
Safety Briefing Before You Sail: Cyber Security Checklist
Speaker: Justin Stringer,
Senior Account Executive, VC3
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Location: Zambezi
Description
Do you know what it takes keep your city safe? Come hear how to make sure you’re covered.
The Human Compass: Steering Relationships, Not Data
Speaker: Sharon Frey, Human Resources Administrator, City of San Antonio
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Location: Nile
Description
We have to rely on a variety of people to make our numbers add up every day. Make sure you’re prioritizing those relationships that will help you succeed.
11:55 a.m –12:50 p.m.
Delegate Lunch and Business Meeting
Update on GFOAT business and vote on officers for next year.
Moderator: Clara Santos, GFOAT President and Department Fiscal Administrator, City of San Antonio
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Location: Kalahari Salon E
1:00–1:50 p.m. • CONCURRENT
Game Night at Sea – Business Officials Feud
Speaker: Nelson Bush, Managing Director, PFM Asset Management; Nate Smith, Director, PFM Asset Management
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Location: Kalahari Salon A-B
Description
This fun, interactive game will review terms and topics finance and treasury management professionals hear on a daily basis. Dig through your closets and dust off that accounting textbook you swore you’d use again one day and come ready to play.
No Hidden Fees, Just Smooth Seas – Navigating your Indirect Cost Allocations
Speakers: Chris Ekrut, Chief Financial Officer, NewGen Strategies & Solutions, and Matthew Garrett, Managing Director – Client Relations and Services, NewGen Strategies & Solutions
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Location: Zambezi
Description
Just like a well-planned cruise ensures smooth sailing, a well-structured Indirect Cost Allocation Plan helps finance directors navigate the complex waters of cost distribution with confidence and accuracy. This session will provide finance directors with a clear understanding of why an indirect cost allocation plan is essential, the various cost allocation methods available, and the key considerations and challenges involved in developing an effective plan.
Dock & Roll: Navigating Your Property Tax Rate Calculation
Speakers: Susan Morgan, Retired, and John Zagurski, Chief Financial Officer, Town of Flower Mound
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Location: Nile
Description
The tax rate calculation presents several challenges for local government finance professionals that are not obvious or intuitive. Learn about the pitfalls, shortcomings, and opportunities the calculation presents so you can navigate your organization through these troubled waters.
Check the Sailing Conditions: Federal Legislative Update
Speakers: Emily Brock, Director of the Federal Liaison Center, GFOA
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Location: Kalahari Salon C-D
Description
Listen to GFOA’s expert on all the activities happening at the federal level that may impact you locally.
Procrastinators- The Time IS Now! GASB 101- Accounting for Compensated Absences
Speaker: Robert (Bob) Scott, Deputy Town Manager, City of Prosper
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Location: Kalahari Salon E
Description
Don’t be left on the dock after the ship has sailed. Procrastinators-The Time IS Now! GASB 101- Accounting for Compensated Absences is effective for Fiscal Year 2025. This session provides an overview of the standard and practical implementation approaches that you can do without needing a vacation afterwards.
2:00–3:00 p.m.
President’s Session – Navigating Change: Setting Your Compass for Success
Speaker: Clara Santos, GFOAT President and Department Fiscal Administrator, City of San Antonio; Blu Kostelich, GFOAT President Elect and CFO, Town of Waco; John Zagurski, GFOAT Past President and CFO, Town of Flower Mound; Cayce Lay Lamas, Director of Finance, Town of Westlake; Martie Simpson, GFOAT Executive Director
Location: Kalahari Salon E
Description: Much like sailors adjusting their sails to shifting winds, embracing change is about adapting to life’s uncertainties. The sea can be calm one moment and stormy the next, teaching us flexibility and perseverance. Join us for a discussion on what to do when the tide changes and you find yourself sailing on a different course.
3:00–3:30 p.m.
Refreshment Break/Sponsor Networking
Location: Ballroom Foyers
3:30–5:00 p.m.
Laughter is Medicine
Speaker: Danny Adams, Keynote Emcee
Moderator: Clara Santos, GFOAT President and Department Fiscal Administrator, City of San Antonio
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Location: Kalahari Salon E
5:00–6:00 p.m.
Networking/Sponsor Reception
Location: Ballroom Foyers
6:30–9:30 p.m.
Casino Night
Location: Kilimanjaro Ballroom
Dress to impress and prepare to be swept away with a night full of food, fun, fellowship, and of course, casino!
Tuesday, April 8
7:00–8:00 a.m.
Networking Breakfast
Location: Kalahari Salon E
8:00–8:50 a.m. • CONCURRENT
Welcome Briefing: Introduction to the CGFO Program
Speaker: Glenn Mizell, Purchasing Manager, City of Grand Prairie; Ebony Roundtree, Dept. Finance Manager, City of Irving; Anastasia Whigham, Director of Human Resources & Finance, City of Boyd
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Location: Nile
Description
Learn how to map out your journey from first mate to CGFO.
Argh! Protect the Bounty
Speaker: Pat Shinkle, Senior TDI Manager, Administration, North Central Texas Council of Governments
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Location: Zambezi
Description
Learn how to maintain and develop a local training program for effective and consistent cash handling.
Sailing Off into the Distance: Lessons Learned from Retirement
Speaker: Keith Dagan, Retired Wrangler
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Location: Kalahari Salon A-B
Description
Keith has been retired from full time work for a year and a half now. Join him as he reflects on some of the lessons learned about preparing for and transitioning to retirement.
Charting Your Course: Leveraging Long-Term Financial Planning to Ensure Smooth Sailing
Speaker: Scott Catlett, Director, Eide Bailly
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Location: Kalahari Salon C-D
Description
Comprehensive financial management for local governments requires focus on more than just proper budgeting and accounting. Putting in place a policy-based framework of sound long-term financial planning is an essential component of successfully running a Finance Department and proactively preparing for the future.
Whether this is your first time thinking about long-term financial planning or you already have a plan in place but would like to enhance it, this session will provide attendees with key knowledge regarding policies and practices that will ensure the successful development of a comprehensive and useful long-term financial plan.
9:00–9:50 a.m. • CONCURRENT
The Bermuda Triangle of Budgeting: Steering Clear of Budget Games
Speaker: Shayne Cavanaugh, Senior Manager of Research, GFOA
Moderator: Meg Jakubik, Director of Budget Services, Town of Flower Mound
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Location: Kalahari Salon C-D
Description
Local government budgeting is about deciding how to distribute resources among different needs. This can lead to competition among departments when a local government is deciding who gets what. This competition results in “budget games,” where departments engage in strategies to secure more resources. The most common game is “padding the budget,” where departments ask for more money than they actually need. There are many other such games as well.
In this session we’ll explore how effective gamesmanship requires bending if not breaking the rules of the budget process so that requestors can attain more money than necessary to avoid scrutiny. You’ll learn to identify these games and how to defend against them!
Making Waves: Hot Topics
Speakers: Sergio Villasana, Director of Finance, City of Corpus Christi, and Steven Glickman, Chief Financial Officer, City of Addison
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Location: Nile
Description
Join this interactive session to chat about topics you’re seeing in your communities and make connections with other GFOAT members in the same boat.
Relax in the (Risk) Pool
Speaker: Scott Houston, Intergovernmental Relations Manager, Texas Municipal League Intergovernmental Risk Pool
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Location: Kalahari Salon A-B
Description
Did you know TML operates a program to help you manage your different areas of risk? From workers comp to cyber security insurance, there’s lots of different life rafts to grab onto.
Upgrade Your View: Enhancing Your Investment Program & Portfolio Strategies
Speakers: Nick Vaccari, Regional Director, Financial Services, Meeder, and Barry Baughier, Director, Advisory Services, Meeder
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Location: Zambezi
Description
This session will establish a foundational understanding of investing public funds. We will cover the importance of having a clear investment plan, how to identify idle excess carryover funds, and strategies for right-sizing your investment portfolio. Additionally, we’ll review the costs associated with maintaining liquidity, explore common investment strategies used in Texas, and conclude with an economic overview.
9:50–10:10 a.m.
Coffee Break/Sponsor Networking
Location: Ballroom Foyers
10:10–11:40 a.m.
The Magic of Showing Up: What Show Business Taught Me About Bringing Out the Best in Myself and Others
Speaker: Joshua Lozoff, Magician
Moderator: Clara Santos, GFOAT President and Department Fiscal Administrator, City of San Antonio
Location: Kalahari Salon E
Description: In entertainment and in life, real magic happens when we are genuine, curious, and present. Through personal stories and key insights, Joshua Lozoff shares what a life in show business has taught him about building meaningful connections. He explores simple but powerful ways to break through barriers to authenticity and make every interaction more meaningful.
11:40–12:00 p.m.
Farewell Address
Speaker: Clara Santos, GFOAT President and Department Fiscal Administrator, City of San Antonio
Location: Kalahari Salon E
12:00–5:00 p.m.
Bruce Testa Semi Annual Golf Outing
Last Spring, there were 40 players. You do not have to attend the conference to play.
TO PLAY: Please email [email protected].
- Shot Gun Start – 1 PM
- Texas 4 player scramble – Par is your friend
- 4-Par 3 Contest
- Long Drive Contest – Men and Women
- Tiger and Bubba Drive Hole – Player will be hitting from their second shot, 100 yards from Green\
- Cost – $75 per player (includes green fee, cart fee, and range balls)
- Prizes – Awarded to first, second, and third place teams