Announcements
The Alachua County Commission proclaimed 2025 as “Discover 200 Year – A Bicentennial Celebration” to honor the 200th anniversary of Alachua County’s Founding.
Read the proclamation.
As part of Alachua County’s 200th anniversary, Communications Director Mark Sexton announced that the Bicentennial Celebration will kick off with a free concert at Depot Park and Heartwood Soundstage on Jan. 11, 2025. The family-friendly event will feature 11 bands, more than 25 food trucks, fun activities for all ages and much more.
Headliners include Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Chuck Ragan, as well as Little Jake, Cliff Dorsey, The Savants and other talented musicians.
For more information, visit Alachua200.com.
Watch the proclamation presentation and announcements.
Mill Creek
The commission heard an update on the City of Alachua’s Mill Creek.
At its Oct. 1 meeting, the commission made a 14-point motion that included county staff meeting with the City of Alachua and making recommendations on how to address proposed developments that may impact the Mill Creek sink and watershed.
The county’s Environmental Protection Department is continuing to work with the City of Alachua and any applicants for projects planned around the Mill Creek area to ensure water quality and sensitive resources are protected.
Watch the discussion.
Legislative agenda
The commission heard a presentation for its 2025 state and federal legislative agenda. Among the commission’s priorities are funding requests for the restoration of Newnans Lake, the expansion of Archer Road and improvements to the Alachua County Jail.
Advocacy issues include addressing homeless camps, job training initiatives, supporting affordable housing initiatives, and regional food systems.
Watch the presentation.
Community Reinvestment Area
The commission heard an update on the Gainesville Community Reinvestment Area (GCRA). From January 2020 through 2029, the county will contribute $37.4 million to the GCRA. The City of Gainesville will contribute $33.2 million.
Watch the discussion.
Wild Spaces Public Places
The commission approved an option contract to purchase a property that contributes to a planned corridor between Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park and Morningside Nature Center.
The Lake Forest Creek property is approximately 29 acres and is estimated to cost around $220,000, funded by the voter-approved Wild Spaces Public Places surtax.
Watch the discussion.
Proclamations
Commissioner Chuck Chestnut declared Dec. 30 as Josiah Thomas Walls Day in Alachua County.
Read the proclamation.
Commissioner Mary Alford declared November 2024 as Youth HOPE Month in Alachua County.
Read the proclamation.
Watch the presentations.
See the full Dec. 10 agenda and video.
