3/4/26 @ 9:00 a.m.

​At its meeting on February 23, 2026, the Board of County Commissioners proclaimed March 2026 as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in Nassau County. Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States among men and women combined. In 2025 alone, there were approximately 154,270 new cases and 52,900 deaths nationwide. By 2026, it is estimated to become the leading cause of cancer-related deaths for adults under age 50, underscoring that no one should assume they are too young or not at risk.

The Board emphasized that colorectal cancer is one of the few cancers that can be prevented with timely screening. Early detection dramatically improves outcomes, with a 91 percent five-year survival rate when diagnosed at stages I or II, compared to just 16 percent at stage IV. Yet, one in three eligible Americans is not up to date on recommended screenings, and individuals living in rural areas face even higher rates of diagnosis and mortality. The national goal set by the National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable is to increase screening rates to 80 percent in every community for all eligible Americans.

Through this proclamation, the Board honors patients, survivors, caregivers, those who have lost their lives to the disease, and the researchers working tirelessly toward prevention and treatment. By recognizing March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, the Board aims to raise awareness, encourage screenings such as colonoscopies, and promote education about the importance of early detection to help save lives in Nassau County.

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer

2/28/26 @ 9:00 a.m.

At the Monday, February 23, 2026 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners adopted a proclamation recognizing March 2026 as National Procurement Month in Nassau County. This designation highlights the critical work performed by the County’s Procurement Department in securing goods and services for the Board while ensuring full compliance with the County’s Purchasing Policy. From preparing and soliciting bids and requests for proposals to managing contracts and vendor relationships, the department plays an essential role in maintaining a fair, open, and transparent procurement process.
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The proclamation also underscores the importance of responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. Procurement professionals work diligently to obtain the best possible value while upholding the highest standards of integrity and service. In alignment with the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing, the Board proudly recognized Procurement Director Amber Carter, Senior Procurement Specialist Evelyn Burton, and Contracts Coordinator Colby Barcous for their dedication, expertise, and commitment to serving Nassau County residents.

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer

2/26/26 @ 6:00 a.m.

Today is Human Trafficking Awareness and Identification Day in Nassau County.

On February 23, the Board of County Commissioners approved a Proclamation recognizing this important observance and reaffirming the County’s commitment to raising awareness about this serious crime and violation of human rights. Representatives from the Jacksonville Women's Network were in attendance to accept the Proclamation. 

Human trafficking impacts individuals and families across the United States and here in Florida, which consistently ranks among the top states in the nation for reported cases. The National Human Trafficking Hotline receives thousands of trafficking-related signals annually involving both labor and sex trafficking.

Trafficking often goes unrecognized because warning signs are misunderstood, overlooked, or not associated with everyday settings. In North Florida, major transportation corridors, tourism activity, and a diverse workforce underscore the importance of public awareness, education, and vigilance within our community.

While January is nationally recognized as Human Trafficking Awareness Month, today’s local observance reinforces the importance of awareness, recognition, and identification right here at home. Community leaders, advocates, professionals, and residents are also gathering today for the Jacksonville Women's Network Annual Speakers Forum, “It Happens Here: Human Trafficking in Northeast Florida,” to promote education and engagement on this critical issue.
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Increasing public awareness and understanding the signs of human trafficking are essential first steps in prevention and strengthening community safety. The Board encourages all residents to stay informed, learn the indicators, and help ensure Nassau County remains a safe place for all.

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer

2/23/26 @ 6:00 a.m. - 

It’s National Engineers Week!

Founded in 1951, EWeek highlights the importance of building a strong, diverse engineering workforce and increasing awareness of engineering careers. Engineers use science, innovation, and problem-solving to meet society’s needs and tackle today’s technological challenges.

Here in Nassau County, engineers impact daily life in ways you may not always see. They oversee road projects, review development for safety and growth standards, and design drainage systems that help reduce flooding and protect property. Their work keeps transportation moving, supports responsible growth, and strengthens our community’s safety and resiliency.

At the Wednesday, February 18, 2026 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners presented a proclamation declaring February 22 - February 28, 2026 as National Engineers Week in Nassau County. The BOCC extends their since appreciation to each of them for their service and dedication to the County and its residents. 

-Sabrina Robertson 
​ Communications Officer

1/27/26 @ 5:00 p.m.  - At the Monday, January 26, 2026 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved a Proclamation declaring January 31, 2026 as American Beach Day in Nassau County, Florida. 

Founded on January 31, 1935, by the Pension Bureau of the Afro-American Life Insurance Company, American Beach was established as an oceanfront resort for its employees and shareholders at a time when African Americans were excluded from many coastal destinations. Once a thriving seaside community, American Beach now stands as a historic jewel that continues to attract visitors from near and far. 2026 marks the 91st anniversary of its founding, and the proclamation recognizes the lasting cultural, historical, and economic significance of American Beach, as well as the ongoing efforts of property owners and community advocates to preserve its legacy for future generations.

The BOCC applauds the community members whose efforts contribute to the preservation and longevity of this unique community, keeping the dream alive for 91 continuous years. 

-Sabrina Robertson 
 Communications Officer

10/28/25 @ 2:00 p.m. 

At the Monday, October 27, 2025 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners approved a Proclamation declaring the week of October 26 – November 1, 2025, as Breast Cancer Awareness Week in Nassau County, and Wednesday, October 29, 2025, as Pink Day.

Breast cancer touches the lives of Americans from every background and community. Besides skin cancer, it is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the United States, impacting 1 in 8 women. While rare, breast cancer also affects men, with an estimated 2,790 men expected to be diagnosed this year.
In attendance for the reading of the Proclamation were three inspiring breast cancer survivors: County employees Kelly Sturges and Jenny Tarpley, and Ashley Murray, wife of County employee George Murray.  Their presence served as a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection, ongoing research, and community support for those affected by this disease.

Kelly Sturges shared her story of discovering invasive breast cancer at 40 during her first, routine mammogram, stating, " My personal story is a testament to the importance of early detection. My very first mammogram detected breast cancer at 40 years old. I had no symptoms, I had no family history, no lumps that I could feel. The type of cancer I had was invasive, but because of early detection, I was able to take action before it could spread.  Last Friday, I went to my first survivorship appointment and it's now been five years since that first mammogram."  Kelly expressed her gratitude to the BOCC for providing great health insurance, however she reminded everyone that there are programs available to those who don't have insurance.  "Tell your wife, tell your daughters, tell your sisters and friends that early detection saves lives". 
This week, we encourage everyone to take part in activities that promote breast cancer awareness and to wear pink on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, in remembrance of those we have lost, in celebration of the survivors, and in support of those who continue to fight. 

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer

10/14/25 @ 11:00 a.m. - At the Monday, October 13, 2025 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners approved a Proclamation proclaiming October 2025 as Emily Adkins Blood Clot Awareness Month, in honor of Emily Adkins, daughter of Supervisor of Elections Janet Adkins and her husband Doug, who passed away unexpectedly in 2022 from a pulmonary embolism caused by a preventable blood clot. 

According to the National Blood Clot Alliance, there are an estimated 900,000 Americans affected by blood clots each year, with 100,000 lives lost annually.  Blood clots can strike anyone at any age with risk factors including surgery, pregnancy, and cancer treatment, killing more Americans than car accidents, AIDs, and breast cancer combined.  

The non-profit Emily's Promise works with medical professionals and the public to educate Floridians about the life-threatening risks associated with blood clots.  Advocacy efforts by the Adkins family have led to the enactment of the Emily Adkins Family Protection Act which now requires hospitals and certain health care providers to screen patients for blood risk clot, train staff to recognize warning signs, and report cases to statewide registry, marking the first law of its kind in the nation.  

Doug Adkins addressed the Commission stating, "You may not think a Proclamation is that important but it is. It's very important for your local community to take a stand. When you go to the ER ask them, "Am I going to get the Emily Adkins Family Protection Act Screening?" They are required to have policy and are required to train their staff. This is a family bill, the first of its kind in the nation, and other states are looking to copy what we've done here in Florida. Thank you for being heroes. What you do makes a difference everyday and we're thankful for your sacrifice."

The Board urges all health care professionals, community leaders, and the public to dedicate efforts to spread awareness, educate on prevention, and recognize the serious threat blood clots pose to lives across Nassau County and beyond. 

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer

10/01/25 @ 9:00 a.m.

At the Monday, September 22, 2025 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners approved a Proclamation declaring the month of October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Nassau County, Florida. 

In the United States, it is believed that all citizens have a fundamental right to safety in their lives, homes and community. However, statistics show that 24 people become victims of domestic violence every minute. Studies have also revealed that domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women between the ages of 18-34. 

​Domestic violence plays a key role in other social problems including homelessness, pregnancy outcomes, mental health decline, substance abuse, child abuse, and unemployment. The provision of education on community services available for victims is one of the most important life-saving services a community can provide.  Coordination between law enforcement, the Department of Children and Families, civil and criminal courts, health care providers, batterers intervention programs, domestic violence centers, and the community has proven to be the best way to provide for the safety of victims. 

Representatives from Micah's Place, Nassau County's only certified domestic violence center, were in attendance to accept the Proclamation. Executive Director Tracie Fasel stated, "Recognition like this allows us to spread awareness to the community. We are hopeful we can make the statistics go way down. We attempt to do that everyday through our shelter,  our outreach services, and with our community partners. Micah's Place remains committed to working with those survivors every single day, not just during the month of October. Thank you so much for recognizing us and bringing awareness to this issue and for supporting those survivors and their families." 

The Board of County Commissioners encourages all residents to take part in raising awareness of domestic violence and supporting survivors in their journey toward safety and healing. By working together as a community, we can break the cycle of abuse, promote healthy relationships, and create a safer, stronger Nassau County for everyone.

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer 

9/18/25 @ 2:00 p.m. 

At their meeting on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) issued a Proclamation recognizing September 2025 as National Service Dog Month. This designation helps raise awareness of the many ways service dogs transform lives and highlights the important laws that protect the rights of their handlers.
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Across the United States, more than 70 million adults live with a disability, yet there are currently only about 16,200 service dogs from accredited programs nationwide, a number far below the growing demand. Organizations such as Canine Companions are working to close this gap, training highly skilled service dogs that empower individuals with greater independence while also providing invaluable companionship and support.

The Board of County Commissioners is proud to join communities across the nation in recognizing the life-changing impact of service dogs and the remarkable bond they share with their handlers. By raising awareness, the BOCC reaffirms its commitment to supporting accessibility, independence, and inclusion for all residents of Nassau County.

-Sabrina Robertosn
​ Communications Officer

9/17/25 @ 2:00 p.m. - At today's meeting, the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) recognized Gary "Scott" Hemmingway on his upcoming retirement after 30+ years of service. Hired as a part-time Firefighter/Emergency Management Technician (EMT) on April 25, 1995, Scott has served in a variety of positions throughout his career including Engineer/EMT; Engineer/Paramedic; Lieutenant; Assistant Fire Chief, and Fire Inspector/Investigator. 

Chief Brady Rigdon thanked Scott for his service stating, "When I started here, Scott was the Assistant Chief. He guided me, stood beside me and helped me get my feet on the ground, and I appreciated that. Thank you, Scott, for all you've done for the County, and thank you for 30 years." 

Scott also took the podium stating, "Thank you to the Board for the recognition this morning and thank God for keeping me safe for 30 years. Thank God for keeping my family safe while I was away from home."  He thanked his wife for her unwavering support and for caring for their family during the long hours he spent serving the community, often working shifts lasting up to 48 hours.

Scott will retire from Nassau County Fire Rescue on October 3, 2025, and will be greatly missed by the BOCC, his fellow firefighters and paramedics, and the citizens of Nassau County who benefited from his decades of commitment and service.

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer

6/26/25 @ 3:00 p.m.-

At their meeting held on Monday, June 23, 2025, the Nassau County Board of County Commissioners approved a proclamation declaring the week of July 26 – August 2, 2025, as Gullah/Geechee Nation Appreciation Week in Nassau County, Florida.

First established in 2012, Gullah/Geechee Nation Appreciation Week celebrates the living legacy of the Gullah/Geechee people—their history, heritage, and enduring cultural contributions. In Nassau County, their influence is deeply rooted in the stories of Amelia Island, Old Town, Yulee, Nassauville, Franklintown, and American Beach, reflecting both the painful legacy of enslavement and the powerful journey toward self-determination.

This legacy has been preserved and promoted thanks in large part to Queen Quet, Chieftess of the Gullah/Geechee Nation, a native of St. Helena Island. For decades, Queen Quet has worked tirelessly to raise awareness of Gullah/Geechee history and to advocate for the protection of cultural heritage, human rights, and land and water access. The year 2025 marks her 25th Anniversary as Head pun de Bodee (Head of State) of the Gullah/Geechee Nation.
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This year’s theme, “25 Years of Self-Determination: Celebrating the Roots and Legacy of the Gullah/Geechee Nation,” honors her leadership and the resilience of the Gullah/Geechee people.

The Board extends its sincere appreciation to Queen Quet for attending the meeting and for sharing the profound importance of the Gullah/Geechee legacy and its lasting impact on Nassau County. 

​Residents can learn more about the Gullah/Geechee Nation by visiting https://gullahgeecheenation.com/.

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer

5/22/25 @ 9:00 a.m. - Each year in May, Mental Health Awareness Month is recognized to support efforts at fighting the stigma associated with mental illness, providing support, educating and the public, and advocating for equal care. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), studies show that there are an estimated 57.8 million adults aged 18 and older in the United States which represents 1 out of every 5 adult Americans who experience mental illness each year, with 1 in 20 adults experiencing serious mental illness each year. However, due to limited or no knowledge of the need, barriers to care, or fear and shame, 60% of adults and 50% of youth do not receive the treatment necessary for their mental health needs and the average delay between onset of mental illness symptoms and treatment is 11 years.

At the Wednesday, May 21, 2025 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners presented a Proclamation declaring May 2025 as Mental Health Awareness Month in Nassau County, Florida. Representatives from Starting Point Behavioral Health and NAMI were both in attendance to accept it. NAMI Executive Director Suzanne Mailloux stated, "We recently expanded our services to Nassau County and we're grateful to be here, grateful to serve the community and grateful to guide individuals through peer support, and help them find the treatment and services they need." Dr. Laureen Pagel thanked the Board of County Commissioners to for their continued support and expressed her excitement about having NAMI as a new community partner in Nassau County to help serve the residents.

Recognizing the impact of awareness and education, access to services, and acceptance of the importance of mental health to a person's overall success is important in the fight against the stigma associated with mental illness. The Board of County Commissioners joins the efforts of Starting Point Behavioral Health and NAMI in promoting mental health, wellness and community understanding of support and services with a focus on prevention and early intervention. 

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer

5/16/25 @ 11:30 a.m. - At the Monday, May 12, 2025 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners issued a Proclamation declaring May 18 - May 24, 2025 as National Emergency Medical Services Week in Nassau County, Florida.  

EMS services are a vital public service and members of EMS teams are ready to provide lifesaving care to those in need twenty-four hours per day, seven days per week. Access to quality emergency care dramatically improves the survival and recovery rate of those who experience sudden illness or injury. EMS services have grown to fill a gap by providing important out of hospital care, including preventative medicine, follow-up care, and access to telemedicine. 

This year's theme is "EMS: We Care. For Everyone". It is appropriate to recognize the value and the accomplishments of emergency medical services providers. 

Nassau County Fire Rescue serves Nassau County with pride, integrity and compassion to anyone in need. During the last fiscal year, NCFR responded to 8,629 medical calls including car accidents, cardiac arrest, drug overdoses, and other emergency situations where they provided quick and efficient care, often saving the lives of residents and guests of Nassau County. We greatly appreciate their service and dedication.

We also extend a special thank you to the Fernandina Beach Fire Department (FBFD) for their service to City residents and providing support to NCFR when needed. We are grateful for the partnership and the ability to work together for the betterment of the community. 

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer

5/13/25 @ 1:30 p.m. - May 15th was designated by Presidential Proclamation in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy as Peace Officer Memorial Day and the week on which it falls as National Police Week. This was designated to honor those officers, Federal, State and local, who have been killed or disabled in the line of duty.  

National Police Week has become widely recognized throughout the United States of America as a new way for citizenry to pay tribute and express their gratitude to those who serve, and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. At the Monday, May 12, 2025 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) issued a Proclamation proclaiming May 11 - May 17, 2025 as National Police Week and Wednesday, May 15, 2025 as Peace Officers Memorial Day in Nassau County, Florida. 

There are currently over 800,000 law enforcement officers nationwide, including the dedicated members of the Nassau County Sheriff's Office and the City of Fernandina Beach Police Department. Since the first recorded death in 1786, there are currently more than 24,000 law enforcement officers in the United States who made the ultimate sacrifice and have been killed in the line of duty, including thirteen Law Enforcement Officers from Nassau County: 8 from the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office, 1 from the City of Fernandina Beach Police Department, 1 Florida Highway Patrol Officer, 2 from the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Law Enforcement, and 1 Hilliard Constable.

Nassau County Sheriff Bill Leeper and various personnel from the Sheriff's Office were in attendance to accept the Proclamation, as well as Commander Jim Norman accepting on behalf of the FBPD. 

The BOCC acknowledges and commends all law enforcement personnel in Nassau County for their service and dedication to the residents. The BOCC also encourages citizens to know and understand the duties, responsibilities, and sacrifices our local law enforcement officers make for our community and to credit them for their efforts in safeguarding life and property and protecting us from violence and disorder. 

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer

5/5/25 2:00 p.m. - At the Monday, April 26, 2025 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved a Proclamation declaring May 2025 as Lupus Awareness Month in Nassau County, Florida. 

Lupus is an unpredictable and misunderstood autoimmune disease that can cause severe damage to the tissue and organs of the body and in some cases, can also cause death. The Lupus Foundation of America estimates that 1.5 million Americans, and at least 5 million people worldwide, suffer the devastating effects of this cruel and mysterious disease. Each year, over a hundred thousand young men, women and children around the world are newly diagnosed. 

Medical research efforts into lupus and the discovery of safer, more effective treatments for lupus patients are underfunded in comparison with diseases of comparable magnitude and severity. Additionally, many physicians worldwide are unaware of symptoms and health effects of lupus, causing people with lupus to suffer for many years before they obtain a correct diagnosis and medical treatment. As such, there is an urgent need to increase awareness in communities worldwide of the debilitating impacts of lupus. 

Resident Sebrina Henry was in attendance to accept the Proclamation and stated, "Thank you for proclaiming May as Lupus Awareness Month. I stand as a representative from the Lupus Foundation, representing the southeast region, and for the millions of people, including myself, that have been diagnosed with lupus. The one thing I want to leave you with today is that someone you know and love may have lupus. Be an advocate for them. When they are tired, they're not lazy. Love them and be patient with them. Even though it's hard to diagnose, it's even more hard to live with. We call ourselves lupus warriors because we fight 24/7." 

The BOCC is pleased to declare May 2025 as Lupus Awareness Month in Nassau County and joins The Lupus Foundation of America in raising awareness of this significant public health issue. The BOCC also extends their gratitude to Ms. Henry for sharing her story with us and explaining how lupus impacts the day-to-day lives of those living with the disease. 

To learn more about lupus, please visit the Lupus Foundation of America website. 

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer