Sarasota County revives Civics 101 program for community education

In a recent Sarasota County Board of County Commissioners meeting, officials discussed significant developments regarding the county's facilities and community engagement programs. The meeting, held on December 13, 2024, highlighted plans for the second floor of the medical examiner facility, which has been underutilized since its construction. The county is set to commence construction soon, aiming for completion by fall 2025. This space will house the 311 service team and staff from the Office of Financial Management, who will take over the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) functions previously managed by the city of Sarasota.

Another key topic was the revival of the Civics 101 program, which had been paused during the COVID-19 pandemic. This educational initiative allows residents to engage in a year-long exploration of county operations through tours and presentations. A team from the communications department has developed a new plan to reinstate the program, which is expected to enhance community understanding of local governance.

Commissioner Mash expressed enthusiasm for the program's return and suggested incorporating a budgeting simulation game to help participants grasp the county's financial processes. This idea resonated with other commissioners, indicating a collaborative spirit aimed at enriching the educational experience for residents.

As Sarasota County moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on fostering community involvement and improving public services, ensuring that residents are well-informed and engaged in local governance.