On July 24, 2023, the Board of County Commissioners adopted Ordinance No. 2023-021, replacing the Code Enforcement Board with a Special Magistrate, in an effort to improve the code enforcement process and better serve the community.
 
A Code Enforcement Special Magistrate is a local government attorney with demonstrated training and experience to hear and resolve code enforcement cases. In general, the code enforcement process will remain the same with notice and hearings pursuant to Florida Law but will now include the ability of the County to abate violations that threaten the health, safety and welfare of the public. 
 
The complete transition from a Code Enforcement Board to a Code Enforcement Special Magistrate will take place by April 1, 2024.
 
At this time, the County is seeking proposals from an experienced and qualified individual attorney or law firm to serve as a Code Enforcement Special Magistrate.  The selected firm or individual will fulfill duties set forth in the Ordinance by Chapter 162, Part 1, Florida Statues.
 
To view the County’s Request for Proposal #NC23-053, please visit: https://nassaufl.co/CodeMagistrate.
 
If you have any questions regarding the new code enforcement process or the need for a Special Magistrate, please contact the Nassau County Attorney’s Office at (904) 530-6100. However, if you have any questions related to the Request for Proposal or submitting a bid, please contact our Procurement Director, Lanaee Gilmore, at (904) 530-6040.
 
-Sabrina Robertson
 Public Information Officer

9/13/23 @ 9:30 a.m. 

​Nassau County recently received notification from Fitch Ratings, Inc.  (Fitch) that its Outlook has been upgraded to positive from its previous rating of stable in 2021, further demonstrating the County’s commitment to managing its debt and improving its ability to meet financial obligations.
 
Fitch is an American credit rating agency nationally recognized by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission that provides independent assessments of the County’s creditworthiness, similar to a consumer’s FICO or credit score. A Positive Outlook Rating indicates an upward trend on the rating scale and shows that the County is fiscally strong and disciplined.
 
In announcing its decision, Fitch analysts cited several key reasons for the increase including:

• Continued durability in the growth of Nassau County’s economic base
• Improved expenditure flexibility evidenced by a sustained decrease in governmental fixed carrying costs as a percentage of total government spending well below 10%

 
Board of County Commissioner’s Chairman Klynt Farmer stated, “The County has worked hard to produce sound financial policies including reducing existing debt and increasing its emergency reserves. I am very proud of this Board and its budget staff for their hard work and for being good fiscal stewards for the County.”
 
As the County’s Clerk of Courts and Comptroller, Mr. John A. Crawford is governed by statutory authority as the County’s auditor, recorder, and custodian of all funds. The Clerk works directly with the Board to ensure the County has adequate financial controls and actively manages the investment of County funds.  Following the notice from Fitch, Clerk of Courts John Crawford stated, “What great news! Fitch Ratings, an independent rating agency, has once again affirmed the County's high credit ratings and upgraded our outlook from stable to positive. I am incredibly proud of the Board (and their staff) for prioritizing financial planning and dedicating efforts to strengthen the County's financial position." 
 
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If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Management & Budget at (904) 530-6010, Option 2.

7/26/23 @ 9:15 p.m.

Please join us in welcoming Elizabeth Backe as Nassau County’s new Planning Director. Elizabeth brings with her nearly 25 years of experience in public sector work which includes community planning, growth management, transportation planning, and sustainability.
 
As Planning Director for Nassau County, Elizabeth will provide professional planning support to County departments and will serve as the technical planning advisor for the County Manager and Board of County Commissioners. Other duties will include review and implementation of the County’s Land Development Code and Comprehensive Plan; development of department goals and objectives; evaluation of planning-related legislation; reviewing all zoning applications, land-use amendments, plats and subdivisions for compliance; and providing guidance to Planning Department staff.
 
Deputy County Manager/County Engineer, Robert Companion, stated, “We are excited to welcome Elizabeth Backe to the team. With over two decades of local and regional planning experience, Elizabeth brings a wealth of knowledge to Nassau County.  I believe she will be an effective and efficient leader for the Planning Staff and serve the citizens of Nassau County well into the future.”
 
Elizabeth’s work history includes eleven years as a Senior Planner in Hillsborough County, Florida; seven years as an Environmental Planner and Sustainability Coordinator in Gaithersburg, Maryland; and most recently, five years as the Planning and Transportation Director for the Southern Georgia Regional Commission.
 
Elizabeth holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Eckerd College and a Master of Science in Planning Degree from Florida State University. Elizabeth is also a member of the American Planning Association and American Institute of Certified Planners.
 
Elizabeth expressed her enthusiasm about coming to work for Nassau County. She stated, “I’m grateful for this opportunity and look forward to collaborating with the County Manager and other staff to advance the Board’s identified strategic priorities. I also look forward to engaging with Nassau County’s residents to foster a transparent and community-based approach to County governance.”
 
-Sabrina Robertson
 Public Information Officer

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
Contact:
Sabrina Robertson
Public Information Officer
(904) 530-6010
srobertson@nassaucountyfl.com                       
 
 
BOARD PROPOSES THIRD CONSECUTIVE YEAR OF REDUCED MILLAGE RATES
 
Nassau County, Florida, July 24, 2023  – On Monday, July 24, 2023, the Board of County Commissioners held a workshop to review the tentative budget and maximum millage rate for Fiscal Year 2023/2024. Based on the budget presented, the Board is proposing a structurally balanced budget which includes the third consecutive year of millage reductions, while continuing to fund the critical capital improvement plan, pavement management plan, chip seal program, and improving public safety.  Additionally, the budget provides for the development of a comprehensive stormwater management program to deliver a proactive maintenance program.
 
Understanding the community demands for parks and improved fields, the tentative budget also reallocates staff for additional field maintenance and continues to focus on improving the quality of life through the Parks and Recreation Department. 
 
While still providing a reduced millage rate, the budget is structured to include additional 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 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 Board 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 Board’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 plan, 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 24, 2023 budget workshop can be viewed online at www.nassauclerk.com/watch-meetings.
 
If you have any questions regarding the tentative budget for Fiscal Year 2023/2024, 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.

7/14/23 @ 8:45 a.m. 

Nassau County Commissioner John Martin was presented with the Advanced County Commissioner Level II (ACC II) designation from the Institute for County Government (ICG) at an award ceremony held at the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) Annual Conference and Educational Exposition in Orange County, Florida.

The ACC II designation signifies the commissioner's completion of the most senior level of a comprehensive study program designed by ICG.
​
Upon completion of the course, Commissioner John Martin stated, “I graduated from the ACC Level I course in June 2022. I found it to be so beneficial that I immediately registered for the ACC Level II course to further demonstrate my commitment to serving as County Commissioner. The ACC II program was even more in-depth and expanded on leadership development with an emphasis on the future of Florida. I highly recommend the ACC II program for any Elected Official completing the ACC I class who wants to further develop their knowledge in governmental affairs and gain valuable insight on issues affecting local governments around the State”.

Only commissioners who have completed the Certified County Commissioner Program (CCC) and the Advanced County Commissioner Program Level I (ACC I) program are eligible to pursue their ACC II designation. The ACC II program focuses on transforming counties and the state of Florida by producing strong, versatile leaders with the necessary tools to address challenges across multiple fields and governing bodies.
"As the highest designation offered by ICG, commissioners are tasked with addressing the most intricate issues confronting Florida," stated Eric Poole, the Executive Director of the Institute for County Government. "The commissioners who willingly invest their time and energy exemplify the exceptional leadership qualities found at the local level in Florida."

ACC II encourages commissioners to broaden and refine the skills they learned in previous education programs while promoting collaboration across all levels of government.

Alongside Commissioner Martin, 13 commissioners earned the ACC II designation at the award ceremony and are the fourth class of graduates to complete the program.

ACC II is made possible through a continuing partnership with the University of Florida/IFAS Extension, located in all 67 counties in the State of Florida.

To learn more about ICG and the ACC II designation, please visit flicg.org.

Founded in 1929, the Florida Association of Counties has represented the diverse interests of Florida’s counties, emphasizing the importance of protecting home rule – the concept that communities and their local leaders should make the decisions that impact their community. The Florida Association of Counties helps Florida’s counties effectively serve and represent their communities through Advocacy, Collaboration, and Education.

7/10/23 @ 3:20 p.m. 

Commissioners A.M. “Hupp” Huppmann and Klynt Farmer were both presented with the Certified County Commissioner (CCC) designation from the Institute of County Government (ICG) during an awards ceremony held at the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) Annual Conference and Educational Exposition held in Orange County, Florida.
 
The CCC designation is a voluntary program of study designed for county commissioners to learn information and enhance skills relevant to their duties and responsibilities as an elected official. 
 
Upon completing the program, Commissioner Huppmann stated, “I’m grateful that the Florida Association of Counties has this type of program in place. It allows new Commissioners such as myself to quickly gain insight and valuable knowledge in complex areas of a properly functioning local government. Education is a key element to effectively serving the citizens of Nassau County. I look forward to starting work on the Advanced County Commissioner Level I and II programs.”
 
Commissioner Klynt Farmer added, “The Certified County Commissioner program is a great resource to Commissioners. Not only does it allow us to gain knowledge that can be used to better serve our constituents, it also allows us to hear about important issues that counties are facing around the State and to learn from their experiences. I can’t say enough great things about this program. I am also looking forward to becoming an Advanced County Commissioner so I can continue to maximize my leadership skills.”
 
The CCC educational program is an initiative comprising 45 hours of coursework. This program's curriculum encompasses a diverse range of courses, such as growth management, financial management, and ethics, as well as elective courses such as affordable housing, emergency management, and resiliency.
 
“Due to the voluntary nature of the CCC program, a commissioner who dedicates themselves and their time is making a profound commitment to their community,” shared Eric Poole, the Executive Director of the Institute for County Government.  “Their pursuit reflects their determination to challenging themselves to be the most effective public servant possible.”
 
Alongside Commissioners Huppmann and Farmer, 19 commissioners earned the CCC designation at the FAC award ceremony. A total of 554 commissioners have graduated from the program since its inception in 1996.
 
The CCC program is made possible through a continuing partnership with the University of Florida/IFAS Extension, located in all 67 counties in the State of Florida. 
To learn more about ICG and the CCC designation, please visit flicg.org.
 
Founded in 1929, the Florida Association of Counties has represented the diverse interests of Florida’s counties, emphasizing the importance of protecting home rule – the concept that communities and their local leaders should make the decisions that impact their community. The Florida Association of Counties helps Florida’s counties effectively serve and represent their communities through Advocacy, Collaboration and Education. 

​

7/7/23 @ 12:45 p.m.

​We are excited to announce that Julie Cannavino has been selected to serve as our next Library Director. You may already be familiar with Julie as she previously served as a Branch Librarian and as Assistant Library Director. Julie has also been serving as the Interim Library Director since February 2023 following the retirement of long-time Director, Dawn Bostwick.
 
During her time as Interim Director, Julie has proven to be resourceful, professional and dedicated to serving the residents through planning and management of library activities and daily operations. In addition to managing the Library staff, Julie has been working on developing libraries policies, coordinating adult library programs, and promoting of all the wonderful services the library system has to offer our community.  Another important role is working closely with the various Friends of the Library groups, supporting their mission to promote literacy and lifelong learning through programs, advocacy and fundraising for the library branches.    
 
Upon being selected as the new Library Director, Julie stated, “As I step into the Library Director role for Nassau County Public Library, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of excitement. The opportunity to serve this vibrant community and foster a love for knowledge, exploration, and lifelong learning is an honor beyond measure. Together, we will continue our tradition of ensuring Nassau County Public Library is a sanctuary of curiosity, a gateway to endless possibilities, and a source of knowledge for all who seek to embark on intellectual adventures”.
 
Julie’s education includes a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Studies from Bethel College and a Master of Arts degree in Education Media Technology from the College of St. Scholastica. A true public servant, Julie has served her community as a member of the local Amelia Island Sea Turtle Watch Group. Julie also served our Country as a member of the United States Air Force and the Minnesota National Guard.
 
Director of Strategic Advancement, Brandy Carvalho, stated, “Working with Julie over the past year, I have witnessed her passion and dedication to not only the Nassau County Public Library System, but the community as a whole. Her authentic, creative and collaborative approach to ensuring the success of the library makes her an invaluable resource to the County”.
 
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If you have any questions, please contact Nassau County Human Resources at (904) 530-6075.
 
 
 

6/26/23 @ 2:15 p.m. - The Department of Health- Nassau has issued a Press Release commemorating National HIV Testing Day which is observed annually on June 27th. This year's theme is "Take the Test and Take the Next Step", which emphasizes knowing your HIV status. The Release includes information on HIV prevention, as well as information on where to get tested. 

If you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Bothast with DOH-Nassau at (904) 832-2644 or via e-mail at Jennifer.Bothast@flhealth.gov. 

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Public Information Officer

6/23/23 @ 11:30 a.m. - The Department of Health-Nassau has issued a Press Release in recognition of National Cancer Survivor Month and celebrating cancer survivors. It also includes information about the Cancer Connect Collaborative, a team of medical professionals assembled in February 2023 to analyze and rethink Florida's approach to combating cancer. 

If you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Bothast with the Department of Health-Nassau at (904) 832-2644 or via e-mail at Jennifer.Bothast@flhealth.gov. 

-Sabrina Robertson
 Public Information Officer

5/30/23 @ 2:50 p.m.

The water and sewer conversion project at Amerian Beach is underway. The contractor, U.S. Water Services Corporation, has advised the County of the need to close the drive-on access to American Beach at Lewis and Gregg Streets this Thursday, June 1, 2023, from 8:00am - 10:00am, to install a water main connection.
 
We apologize for the short notice on this closure and appreciate your patience as we work to establish water and sewer services for the American Beach community. If you have any questions, please contact the County Manager’s Office at (904) 530-6010. 

-Sabrina Robertson
 Public Information Officer