Nassau County Board of County Commissioners

NASSAU COUNTY EARNS FLORIDA HISTORIC PRESERVATION AWARD The Florida Trust for Historic Preservation has recognized Nassau County for its excellence in historic preservation, earning the Board of County Commissioners a 2024 Florida Preservation Award for its publication "Citizen’s Guide to Preserving Public Places in Nassau County." "The Citizen’s Guide to Preserving Public Places in Nassau County" serves as a comprehensive resource for citizens interested in historic preservation. Created in partnership with the Community Planning Collaborative, the guide is designed to fill a gap in local historic preservation and resources. It offers user-friendly information on federal, state and local historic preservation on topics such as cemeteries, house history research, historic sites, and more. Nassau County is one of Florida’s oldest counties with history dating back to indigenous communities and early European contact. The guide highlights the importance of preserving lesser-known historic towns and cemeteries, contributing to the broader understanding of Florida’s development. It also emphasizes the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor, ensuring accurate representation of this community by engaging local Gullah/Geechee National representatives. The guide is available both online and in print and has already been distributed to community stakeholders to spur local advocacy and enhance Nassau County’s preservation efforts. “This year’s Preservation Award winners are wonderful examples of the work being done around the state to protect and promote the stories that make up our shared history,” said Florida Trust Board President Mike Cosden. “On behalf of the Florida Trust, we thank these winners for the important work they are doing to protect our state’s extraordinary history – and for inspiring others to do the same in their own communities.” To view the Citizen’s Guide to Preserving Public Places in Nassau County, please visit: https://lnkd.in/entYxCvH. If you have any questions, please contact the Planning Department at (904) 530-6320 or via email at planning@nassaucountyfl.com. Pictured: Planner II Adam Olsen (Nassau County BOCC) Ennis Davis, AICP, Principal (Community Planning Collaborative) Planning Director Elizabeth Back (Nassau County BOCC) Secretary of State Cord Byrd

CREDIT RATING INCREASE Nassau County recently received its Aa1 credit rating by Moody’s Investors Services, a global risk assessment firm who analyzes the financial health of businesses, including local governments. This is an increase from its previous rating of Aa2 issued in 2021 and is considered a “high investment grade”. This means that Nassau County signifies a low-risk on investment with a high probability that we are able to meet financial commitments.    Moody’s July 19, 2024 Issuer Comment stated, “Nassau County’s issuer rating reflects the County’s growing underlying economy and prudent budget management and fiscal policies that support maintenance of strong financial reserves.” The report directly credits Nassau County’s strong financial position based on revenue growth and management's commitment to maintenance of unassigned fund balance at 16% to 20% of operating, in line with the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) recommendation of having at least two months operating expenses in Reserves.   Over the years, the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) has implemented strategies to increase its credit rating and the County’s overall financial health. These efforts have been developed through the County’s strategic plan and implemented through programs including, but not limited to, the Pavement Management Plan, Chip Seal Program, Capital Improvement Plan, and the County’s budgeting process.    BOCC Chairman John Martin stated, “Moody’s has once again recognized Nassau County’s strengthened policies and growing financial health. This further signifies the BOCC’s efforts to prioritize financial planning and its dedication to strengthening the County’s financial position. I am extremely proud of my fellow BOCC members and County staff for their hard work and dedication.” If you have any questions, please contact Chris Lacambra, Director of the Office of Management & Budget, at (904) 530-6010 or via email at clacambra@nassaucountyfl.com.  

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS NEWSLETTER FOR JUNE 2024 Below is a link to the June 2024 edition of the Board of County Commissioner's Newsletter. This monthly publication features a variety of information related to projects and activities for the departments under the Board. It also includes information about road projects, special events, adopted policies and procedures, budget discussions, and more! https://lnkd.in/edGMNBP4

On Monday, July 22, 2024, the Board of County Commissioners held a workshop to review the tentative budget and maximum millage rate for Fiscal Year 2024/2025. Based on the budget presented, the BOCC is proposing a structurally balanced budget which includes the fourth consecutive year of millage rate [property tax rate] reductions, while continuing to fund the critical Capital Improvement Plan, Pavement Management Plan, Chip Seal Program, and improving public safety through investments into the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office and the Nassau County Fire Department. Additionally, the budget provides funding for the staffing and operations of the new Fire Station No. 10 currently under construction.   Understanding the demands of the County residents and the future economic pressures, the tentative budget continues to focus on improving the quality of life while working within the restricted revenues of the County.    While still providing a reduced millage rate, the budget is structured to continue funding for investment into land conservation and management programs, in line with the request from the community and pursuant to the voter approved referendum in November 2022.   As the Nassau County continues to be one of the fastest growing counties in both the State and the Country, this population growth requires additional service capacity to meet these demands. The BOCC understands these growing demands and has continued to focus on supporting public safety operations through the Sheriff, Fire Rescue, Emergency Operations, and Animal Control.    The BOCC’s engagement and efforts in the budget process through the annual Winter Strategic Planning Sessions; the development of the Strategic Plan, Capital Improvement Plan, Pavement Management Plan, Chip Seal Program, and forthcoming Stormwater Management Plan; along with the annual review and updating of the guiding county policies, continues to result in smart financial planning. These actions also provide for a transparent and results driven budget process that focuses on reduction of the millage rates and improving services to county residents.    The July 22, 2024 budget workshop can be viewed online at https://lnkd.in/eTyZDaTD.   If you have any questions regarding the tentative budget for Fiscal Year 2024/2025, please contact Chris Lacambra, Director of the Office of Management & Budget, at (904) 530-6010, Option 2, or via e-mail at clacambra@nassaucountyfl.com.

ANIMAL HERO AWARDS Nassau County Animal Services (NCAS) recently recognized several outstanding Nassau County Sheriff’s Office (NCSO) Officers with the first “Animal Hero Awards,” recognizing their work in responding to a recent animal cruelty case.   As previously reported, NCAS and NCSO responded to a call on Sunday, July 7, 2024, reporting that a lady outside Target was threatening customers and mistreating a kitten. Upon arrival, NCSO reviewed the store's video surveillance footage and determined that the individual intentionally inflicted pain upon this innocent animal. NCSO arrested the individual and she has since been charged with Aggravated Animal Cruelty. Nassau County Sheriff Bill Leeper stated, "We take cases of animal cruelty very seriously, and cruelty to animals will not be tolerated in our community." The kitten, later named Bullseye, was taken by NCAS to the animal shelter where he was checked by a vet and determined to be in good health. He will remain with NCAS until the case goes to court and then will be eligible for adoption. The following NCSO Officers were awarded the Animal Hero Awards in appreciation of their efforts in rescuing Bullseye: Deputy Charles Chandler; NCSO Deputy Mitchell Spencer; NCSO Deputy Nathan Hilliard; and NCSO Deputy James Nosan.   Animal Services Director Tim Maguire stated, "During the last fiscal year, NCAS responded to 6,223 calls for service. This can be anything from animals running at large to bite cases and sometimes even animal cruelty cases. The animal cruelty calls are always the hardest to respond to but we are happy to have the support of NCSO and appreciate their efforts in ensuring animal abusers face proper punishment. It's also rewarding to watch as the animal regains its health and finds a home that will give them the best life possible." Stay tuned for updates on Bullseye, and for future awards recognizing local Animal Heroes. 

The Board of County Commissioners is currently HIRING an ADMINISTRATIVE SPECIALIST I !!! In addition to having the ability to work close to home and to serve your community, the County offers the following benefits: - Free Health Insurance (for employee) - Participation in the Florida Retirement System - Paid Time Off - 13 Paid Holidays - Educational Reimbursement

COMMISSIONERS HUPPMANN AND FARMER ACHIEVE ADVANCED COUNTY COMMISSIONER LEVEL I DESIGNATION   Commissioners A.M. “Hupp” Huppmann and Klynt Farmer were both presented with the Advanced County Commissioner Level I (ACC I) designation from the Institute for County Government (ICG) at an award ceremony held at the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) Annual Conference and Educational Exhibition in Orange County, Florida. The ACC I designation is the first level of leadership achievement in the Advanced County Commissioner Program offered by ICG and signifies the completion of 27 hours of coursework. “The ACC courses help prepare a commissioner for the complex challenges they will face during their time in office,” stated Eric Poole, Executive Director of ICG. “By striving to earn this designation and completing the coursework involved, they exemplify great leadership and a commitment to bettering their community.” Upon completing the program, Commissioner Huppmann stated, “I found the ACC I program to be greatly beneficial. It provided us with an opportunity to meet with representatives from around the State and share information on issues of mutual concern. It also provided invaluable knowledge that will guide me in serving Nassau County to the best of my abilities. I greatly appreciate ICG for making this great program available.” Commissioner Klynt Farmer added, “Receiving the ACCI designation is an honor and a testament to my commitment to serving the residents of Nassau County. The program’s comprehensive curriculum has equipment me with invaluable skills to tackle the complex challenges our community faces.”  The ACC I education program was launched in 2006 and commissioners must fully commit to the coursework to graduate from the program. Participants are challenged to act, think and lead during times of uncertainty and adversity. Alongside Commissioner Huppmann, twelve commissioners earned the ACC I designation at the award ceremony. ACC I is made possible through a continuing partnership with the University of Florida/IFAS Extension. To learn more about ICG and the ACC I designation, please visit www.flicg.org.     

The Board of County Commissioners is currently HIRING an ASSISTANT LIBRARY DIRECTOR !!! In addition to having the ability to work close to home and to serve your community, the County offers the following benefits: - Free Health Insurance (for employee) - Participation in the Florida Retirement System - Paid Time Off - 13 Paid Holidays - Educational Reimbursement

NASSAU COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICES MAINTAINS NO-KILL STATUS IN 2023   Nassau County, Florida, July 9, 2024 -  Nassau County Animal Services maintained no-kill status in 2023, according to Best Friends Animal Society’s annual data report. Shelters receiving the no-kill recognition award saved more than 90% of the dogs and cats in their care in calendar year 2023.    Best Friends Animal Society, a leading national animal welfare organization dedicated to ending the killing of dogs and cats in America’s shelters in 2025, recognizes this incredible achievement as one that can be replicated by other shelters in around the State.   “This award represents extraordinary leadership, both within your organization and the broader animal welfare movement,” said Julie Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society, “I want to acknowledge and thank the organizations around the country who work tirelessly to save lives, helping move us closer to ending the killing of cats and dogs in shelters in 2025.”   NCAS Director Tim Maguire stated, “We are excited that our hard work is being recognized. I am very proud of all the NCAS employees who work tirelessly to find homes for animals entering the shelter. I am also grateful for the many volunteers who work everyday to help us in our mission to promote responsible pet ownership, compassion towards animals, and safe human-animal interactions.”   A variety of methods are used to maintain our no-kill status including hosting numerous adoption events each month, transferring of pets to rescue groups, and returning pets to owners, when possible. To learn more about NCAS, please visit: https://lnkd.in/e_Ftj2G8.   *A 90 percent save rate is the nationally recognized benchmark to be considered “no-kill,” factoring that approximately 10 percent of pets who enter shelters have medical or behavioral circumstances that warrant humane euthanasia rather than killing for lack of space.   ** Qualifying criteria for receiving the award required the presence of a brick-and mortar shelter and availability of twelve months of 2023 data as of April 2024.   About Best Friends Animal Society   Best Friends Animal Society is a leading animal welfare organization working to end the killing of dogs and cats in America’s shelters and make the country no-kill in 2025. Founded in 1984, Best Friends is a pioneer in the no-kill movement and has helped reduce the number of animals killed in shelters from an estimated 17 million per year to 415,000 last year. Best Friends runs lifesaving programs across the country, as well as the nation’s largest no-kill animal sanctuary. Working collaboratively with a network of more than 4,700 animal welfare and shelter partners, and community members nationwide, Best Friends is working to Save Them All®. For more information, visit bestfriends.org.

Below is a link to the May 2024 edition of the Board of County Commissioners Newsletter. This monthly publication features a variety of information related to projects and activities for the departments under the Board. It also includes information about road projects, special events, adopted policies and procedures, budget discussions, and more! https://lnkd.in/efn2DuiN