Monica Fernandez, CPA is a Manager in LSL’s Consulting & Advisory department, bringing more than two decades of accounting experience with a strong focus on governmental accounting and operational support for cities, counties, and special districts. She works closely with finance departments in an interim and advisory capacity, often stepping in as an Accounting Manager or senior accounting resource to help organizations maintain continuity, strengthen processes, and navigate complex accounting challenges.

Monica’s experience spans month-end and year-end close, reconciliations, accruals, audit preparation, and financial reporting. She frequently leads audits, supports accounting teams during staffing transitions, and provides technical guidance on complex transactions such as new funding sources, bond issuances, capital projects, and ERP system optimization. She is particularly experienced in capital assets, debt accounting, payroll liabilities, and project accounting, and regularly helps clients implement policies, improve procedures, and enhance internal controls.

Prior to joining LSL, Monica spent seven years working in local government, where she gained broad, hands-on experience across nearly every area of municipal accounting. Her responsibilities included grant management, capital asset tracking, debt management, capital project accounting, accounts payable and receivable, bank reconciliations, and successor agency reporting.

Monica is known for her detail-oriented approach and commitment to clean, consistent financial reporting. She enjoys working with a variety of agencies, helping finance teams strengthen documentation, improve processes, and prepare for audits with confidence. Her goal is to ensure that financial information clearly tells the story of an organization’s operations while supporting long-term sustainability.

Outside the office… Monica enjoys spending time with her large and growing family. As a mother of five and soon-to-be grandmother, family plays a central role in her life, and she enjoys gathering for family dinners, celebrations, and time with close friends. Monica is also passionate about health, nutrition, and longevity, and enjoys continuously learning about ways to support long-term wellness and healthy living.

Professional and Civic Involvement:

Firm member, PrimeGlobal

Education

B.S. in Accounting – Cal State University, Long Beach

MS, Accounting – Cal State University, Long Beach