ACCESS

Alachua County Civic Education Series

Spring 2008 ACCESS Schedule

Session 1
County Overview
Monday, March 17, 2008 (8:30 am - Noon)

Session 2 
Work Release and Jail
Monday, March 24, 2008 (9 am - Noon)

Session 3
Land Use, Tourism, Information Services, and Administrative Services
Monday, March 31, 2008 (8:30 am - 2 pm)

Session 4
Public Works
Monday, April 14, 2008 (8:30 am - 2 pm)

Session 5
Judicial System, Clerk of Court, and Court Services
Monday, April 21, 2008 (9 am - Noon)

Session 6
Community Support and Health Department
Monday, April 28, 2008 (9 am - 1 pm)

Session 7
Fire/Rescue, Parks, Library, Sheriff, CDC
Monday, May 5, 2008 (8:30 am - 12:30 pm)

County Manager's Message

Dear Alachua County Residents,

We have all heard the expression, "Think globally; act locally." But what is the most effective way to act locally?

Thomas Jefferson believed an informed citizenry was democracy's greatest safeguard and we agree. Where do you go if you want to make a difference in your community, participate as an informed citizen, serve on an advisory board, run for office, learn how to get things done, or learn who does what and how it all works? Where do you start, if you are you interested in becoming more informed, or engaged and involved in the future of Alachua County? If you are new to our beautiful County, how do you learn more about your new home? ACCESS is the key.

Join us for the Alachua County Civic Education SerieS (a.k.a. ACCESS), for your ticket to a behind-the-scenes look at Alachua County Government.

You will learn about local government programs and issues, many resulting from global, national or state trends. You will meet the men and women who serve the County and learn about the services they provide, visit key County departments such as the Jail, Public Works and the Courthouse and get a behind-the-scenes look at County operations. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of County government. Each graduating class will produce a group of citizens that are equipped to become engaged in ways that help local government become more vibrant and representative of the needs of its citizenry.

ACCESS begins Monday, March 17th, 2008 from 8:30 a.m. to Noon, and runs seven sessions. ACCESS is a big commitment, but it will give you the knowledge and understanding to act locally, and be more effective in those actions, for a lifetime. ACCESS will be valuable whether you are already active or are new to government involvement. If you are an employer, please consider the value of you or someone from your business attending and becoming knowledgeable on these matters. Members of the media and other government officials are encouraged to attend. If you have recently attended, help us spread the word and encourage a friend or neighbor.

Randy Reid

In public service,

Randall H. Reid
Alachua County Manager