4/7/26 @ 9:00 a.m.
On March 25, 2026, Nassau County proudly hosted participants from the Northeast Florida Regional Council's Regional Leadership Academy, welcoming leaders from across Northeast Florida for a full-day tour highlighting the County’s history, partnerships, infrastructure, and vision for the future.
The day began in Fernandina Beach with a tour of the Historic Nassau County Courthouse, where Judge Fahlgren provided valuable insight into the judicial court system and its role in serving the community. Commissioners Huppmann and Martin were also present to show their support and engage with regional leaders.
Participants then enjoyed a walking tour of downtown Fernandina Beach led by a costumed interpreter portraying David Yulee, offering a unique and engaging look into the County’s early history. The group continued to the marina, where representatives from the Ocean Highway and Port Authority (OHPA) and RYAM shared perspectives on the region’s maritime and coastal economy.
At Fernandina Beach City Hall, City representatives, including City Manager Sarah Campbell and City Commissioner Genece Minshew, presented updates on downtown initiatives and long-term plans to enhance the waterfront and strengthen community development efforts. The tour concluded with a working lunch at the Residence Inn hosted by Justin Taylor (Residence Inn Director of Sales & Marketing and Port Authority Commissioner), where participants heard from Maurie Dugger of the Amelia Island Convention and Visitors Bureau about the significant role tourism plays in Nassau County’s economy.
The afternoon highlighted key County initiatives, including a presentation from Dr. Taylor Clem, Conservation Lands Manager, who shared updates on conservation priorities and land stewardship efforts. Amy Bell, Operations Manager, provided an overview of the American Beach Water and Sewer Project, accompanied by a video produced by Omari Matlock, Multimedia and Communications Manager, that showcased the engineering, public engagement, and collaboration behind the project.
This immersive experience was expertly coordinated by Nassau County staff to provide regional leaders with a comprehensive view of Nassau County’s growth, infrastructure investments, and commitment to preserving its heritage and natural resources. The program was hosted and led by Brandy Carvalho and Amy Bell, whose leadership ensured a meaningful and informative experience for all participants.
The day’s agenda reflected a thoughtful progression through key aspects of Nassau County’s operations and partnerships, from the courthouse and downtown district to regional infrastructure and community initiatives.
-Joshua Macbeth
Senior Planner
On March 25, 2026, Nassau County proudly hosted participants from the Northeast Florida Regional Council's Regional Leadership Academy, welcoming leaders from across Northeast Florida for a full-day tour highlighting the County’s history, partnerships, infrastructure, and vision for the future.
The day began in Fernandina Beach with a tour of the Historic Nassau County Courthouse, where Judge Fahlgren provided valuable insight into the judicial court system and its role in serving the community. Commissioners Huppmann and Martin were also present to show their support and engage with regional leaders.
Participants then enjoyed a walking tour of downtown Fernandina Beach led by a costumed interpreter portraying David Yulee, offering a unique and engaging look into the County’s early history. The group continued to the marina, where representatives from the Ocean Highway and Port Authority (OHPA) and RYAM shared perspectives on the region’s maritime and coastal economy.
At Fernandina Beach City Hall, City representatives, including City Manager Sarah Campbell and City Commissioner Genece Minshew, presented updates on downtown initiatives and long-term plans to enhance the waterfront and strengthen community development efforts. The tour concluded with a working lunch at the Residence Inn hosted by Justin Taylor (Residence Inn Director of Sales & Marketing and Port Authority Commissioner), where participants heard from Maurie Dugger of the Amelia Island Convention and Visitors Bureau about the significant role tourism plays in Nassau County’s economy.
The afternoon highlighted key County initiatives, including a presentation from Dr. Taylor Clem, Conservation Lands Manager, who shared updates on conservation priorities and land stewardship efforts. Amy Bell, Operations Manager, provided an overview of the American Beach Water and Sewer Project, accompanied by a video produced by Omari Matlock, Multimedia and Communications Manager, that showcased the engineering, public engagement, and collaboration behind the project.
This immersive experience was expertly coordinated by Nassau County staff to provide regional leaders with a comprehensive view of Nassau County’s growth, infrastructure investments, and commitment to preserving its heritage and natural resources. The program was hosted and led by Brandy Carvalho and Amy Bell, whose leadership ensured a meaningful and informative experience for all participants.
The day’s agenda reflected a thoughtful progression through key aspects of Nassau County’s operations and partnerships, from the courthouse and downtown district to regional infrastructure and community initiatives.
-Joshua Macbeth
Senior Planner
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