Cape Coral Financial Services Director Mark Mason was named as one of five finalists Wednesday for the Finance Official of the Year award by the Florida League of Cities.

“I’m honored that the Florida League of Cities would look favorably on the nomination,” Mason said.

Mason said his staff submitted a nomination, which included a narrative essay and other information, through City Manager Terry Stewart that was approved by the city council.

The award is part of the fifth annual Florida Cities of Excellence Awards. Nominees are judged on initiative, integrity, innovation, professionalism, commitment, citizen relations and judgement.

Mason gave his staff credit, calling it a team effort.

“I’m humbled, my staff does so much of the work,” Mason said.

He pointed to the way they handled the budget process in the face of falling home values as one of the main accomplishments of his department over the past year.

“I’m proud of what I do,” Mason said.

The only other city official in Southwest Florida named as a finalist for an award was Sarah Marie Adams of Fort Myers for City Clerk of the Year.

Winners will be announced at a Nov. 21 luncheon in Orlando.