Citrus County historical board adds “quality of life” to mission statement

The Citrus County Historical Resource Advisory Board voted to amend its mission statement to read in part: “Preserving our past to ensure the quality of life for future generations,” a change proposed during the board's regular meeting and approved by voice vote.

The change was introduced by Speaker 2, who presented the new wording as a recommended replacement for the board’s broader current statement. Speaker 2 said, “Preserving our past to ensure the quality of life for future generations, while saving and telling real stories about its places, people, and events.” The board discussed whether the language implied an outreach or advocacy role beyond the advisory and compliance responsibilities the board currently holds.

Speaker 3, speaking as staff, emphasized the board’s statutory function: it is an advisory review board charged with reviewing projects for ordinance compliance, not a programmatic outreach body. “We are a review board where we review for compliance. We are not a board for outreach,” Speaker 3 said. Several members agreed that individual members may undertake outreach on their own but should not represent the board without formal direction.

Speaker 1 made the motion to add the phrase "quality of life" to the mission statement; Speaker 2 seconded, and the board recorded voice votes of "Aye" from attending members. The motion carried.

The amendment will be reflected in the board’s materials; no further administrative steps were specified at the meeting.