Announcements
Communications Director Mark Sexton announced that the third annual Santa Fe Springs Celebration will be held April 11 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Poe Springs in High Springs. The free event features live music, food vendors, local art, interactive educational exhibits, hands-on activities and more.
Sexton also reminded residents that signups for Cuscowilla Nature & Retreat Center’s summer day camp are underway. The camp is one of the premier summer camps in Alachua County, also available to families at an affordable rate. Interested families can also attend the open house at Cuscowilla on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. to meet with staff, ask questions and try activities. Residents are encouraged to sign up quickly, as the camp typically reaches its capacity.
Watch the announcements.
West End Park
The County Commission heard an update on the progress at West End Park and voted to move forward with the first of a multi-phase transformation, which will include adding restrooms to the property in time for the 2027 World Masters Championships.
The commission also voted to have staff begin exploring Phase 1B plans, which include a playground, pickleball and basketball courts, trails, parking, and a dog park.
Phases 1A and 1B are a multi-year process and are estimated to cost a combined $6.3 million. Later phases may include a public-private partnership and other amenities.
Watch the discussion.
Community Health Workers (Fire Rescue)
The commission approved funding to implement a Community Health Worker (CHW) Program within Alachua County Fire Rescue (ACFR). The program will be integrated into ACFR’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division and its existing Mobile Integrated Healthcare program.
The plan has been in development for six months, during which ACFR staff collaborated with the Camden Coalition to design a program tailored for success within the local community.
The CHW program is intended to improve health outcomes by supporting home visits, building relationships, assisting with resource navigation, and providing health coaching and care coordination for individuals who frequently utilize 911 for EMS services.
Initial funding for the two-year program totals $830,000 and is already included in the budget. The development plan will be finalized following a two-day workshop and will guide implementation over the first two years. Program data and outcomes will then be evaluated to inform future decisions.
Watch the discussion.
Rock Ventures
The commission approved a Comprehensive Plan amendment and a rezoning for Rock Ventures, changing the land use from institutional to commercial. The vacant property is located along Archer Road in the southwestern portion of the county, outside of Gainesville.
Watch the discussion.
History of the City of Alachua
The commission heard a presentation about the history of the City of Alachua from the Alachua County Historical Commission.
The commission voted to recognize Aug. 19 as Alachua County Community Remembrance Day, marking the 110th anniversary of the terror lynchings of six individuals in Newberry.
Watch the presentation.
NW 122nd St. road project/ ancient oak tree discussion
The commission voted unanimously to send a chair letter to Gainesville Regional Utilities asking them to reconsider allowing the county to redirect the Northwest 122nd Street through a portion of the GRU right-of-way to save nine ancient oak trees in the path of the roadway.
Watch the discussion.
Recognitions
Alachua County received a Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association. It is the highest form of recognition in governmental budgeting.
Read the award letter.
Commissioner Mary Alford proclaimed March 29 through April 1 as Zero Waste Week in Alachua County.
Read the proclamation.
Commissioner Anna Prizzia proclaimed April as Water Conservation Month.
Read the proclamation.
Commissioner Charles Chestnut IV proclaimed April 19 through April 25 as Medical Laboratory Professionals Week.
Read the proclamation.
Watch the recognitions.
See the full March 24 agenda and video.
