Commissioners Mary Alford, Charles Chestnut, and Ken Cornell were recently appointed to multiple Florida Association of Counties (FAC) committees by association president Bill Truex of Charlotte County. FAC’s Policy Committees are responsible for proposing, debating, and adopting policy positions focused on improving and preserving Florida’s counties.
Commissioner Alford was appointed to the Health, Safety, and Justice Policy Committee.
Commissioner Chestnut was appointed to the FAC Presidential Select Committee on Preemption.
Commissioner Cornell’s appointments:
- The Agriculture & Rural Affairs Policy Committee
- The Federal Policy Committee
- The Finance, Tax, & Administration Policy Committee
- The FAC Water & Environmental Sustainability Policy Committee, and
- The FAC Presidential Select Committee on Preemption
“The success of the association, and by extension Florida counties, relies heavily on the role played by our policy committees,” shared FAC President Bill Truex. “I took careful time and consideration when choosing this year’s appointments, and I am confident that each leader's invaluable expertise will be an asset to represent the diverse needs of our state accurately."
“I look forward to rolling up my sleeves and working on policies that move Florida counties and their relationship with the state in a positive direction,” Cornell said. “It is always an honor to be trusted by my colleagues to serve.”
“I am pleased and honored to serve with my fellow commissioners from around the State,” added Chestnut. “It is critical for counties to stay aware and engaged with the happenings in Tallahassee next session.”
“I am honored to serve both Alachua County and counties across our state,” Alford commented. “The interactions with other Commissioners and FAC staff stimulate new ideas and solutions to some very challenging statewide issues.”
As policy leaders, Cornell and Alford will hold committee positions for one year. Throughout their terms, they will work closely with FAC’s executive committee to develop and recommend a statewide legislation platform for issues within their committee’s jurisdiction. These platforms will serve as a guide in shaping the association’s priorities for the upcoming 2024 Legislative Session.
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.
For more information, contact Alachua County Communications Director Mark Sexton at 352-264-6979 or
msexton@alachuacounty.us.
