September 10, 2025

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE SEPTEMBER 9, 2025

COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING

These highlights will give residents a quick review of the most recent County Commission meeting and provide video, agenda, and other useful links.

Thelma Boltin Center

The County Commission voted to send a letter to the City of Gainesville, asking that it pause the demolition of the Thelma Boltin Center for 90 days and consider allowing a third party to take over the facility.

In 2023, the county and city agreed to partner on the restoration of the city-owned facility, each dedicating $1.5 million toward the building.

Read the complete highlights for this meeting.

Diesel Mechanic Training Program Ribbon Cutting Video

Last month, Santa Fe College, in partnership with Alachua County and CareerSource North Central Florida, launched a new heavy diesel mechanic training and certification program aimed at strengthening the region’s skilled labor force and supporting long-term economic development.

A ribbon-cutting and signing ceremony was held at Alachua County's Public Works to commemorate the launch of the program.

“Alachua County is proud to host this innovative training program at our Fleet Operations facility,” said Alachua County Commission Chair Charles Chestnut IV. “This partnership shows what can be accomplished when public and educational institutions come together to meet local needs, support working families and strengthen our economy.”

Watch a short video of the ribbon cutting.

Videos Highlight Innovative Agritourism Workshop

Alachua County recently hosted a free agritourism workshop on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, at the Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center (210 SE 134 Ave., Micanopy).

The event provided guidance on topics such as zoning, permitting, fire safety, marketing, and collaborative agritourism promotion for those interested in or involved with agritourism, including farmers, ranchers, landowners, entrepreneurs, and others seeking to explore or expand agritourism opportunities on their property or in the community.

Watch a short video about the workshop.

Complete sessions from the workshop may be viewed by clicking the links below:

Agritourism Workshop 2025: Intro and Zoning Regulations & Permits Session

Agritourism Workshop 2025: Alachua County Fire Rescue Fire Safety Session

Agritourism Workshop 2025: Panel Discussion

Agritourism Workshop 2025: Marketing Tools & Opportunities

Alachua County Jail entrance with text reading Alachua County Jail: Parntership Programs and the path forward

Feature Story - Alachua County Jail: Partnership, Programs and The Path Forward

Read the full feature story .

Jail is often seen only as a place of punishment, but for the men and women inside Alachua County's facility, it can also be a turning point -- a chance to confront struggles with addiction, finish an education, or prepare for life on the outside.

For nearly three decades, the Alachua County Commission has contracted with the Alachua County Sheriff's Office (ACSO) to operate the county jail. The county funds maintenance, programming and staffing, while ACSO manages daily operations and inmate care.

“We're proud of this strong partnership between county government and the sheriff's office," said Alachua County Manager Michele Lieberman. “Together, we're committed to ensuring public safety, upholding the law with integrity, and providing responsible, efficient correctional services that reflect the values of our community."

County Selected for Housing Supply Accelerator Program

Alachua County has been selected as one of 16 communities nationwide to participate in the Housing Supply Accelerator Challenge.

The Housing Supply Accelerator Challenge, launched by the National League of Cities (NLC) and the American Planning Association (APA), is designed to accelerate implementation of proven and innovative housing strategies that expand access to housing across the country.

The program helps communities tackle local housing challenges by identifying solutions to expand, preserve and improve the quantity and quality of housing.

Participating communities will take part in virtual and peer learning opportunities, receive tailored technical assistance, access best practices and tools, and connect with housing supply experts. They will also receive national recognition from NLC and APA.

“Alachua County is committed to ensuring that residents have access to safe, affordable and high-quality housing,” said Alachua County Commission Chair Charles Chestnut IV. “This program will give us more tools and strategies to expand our housing options.”

Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award image

Alachua County Procurement Office Receives National Award for Excellence

The National Procurement Institute has recognized the Alachua County Procurement Office with the 2025 Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award.

Alachua County was one of 216 agencies honored nationwide, a list that includes 85 cities, 48 counties, 23 special districts, 26 school districts, 15 higher education institutions, seven state or provincial agencies and 12 others.

The National Procurement Institute promotes excellence in governmental and institutional procurement through education, certification, professional development and networking. The annual award recognizes public procurement organizations that demonstrate innovation, professionalism, productivity, leadership and effective use of technology.

Learn more about the award.

Upcoming Florida Water Star Training for the Irrigation Industry

Alachua County, the St John’s and Southwest Water Management Districts, the Florida Nursery, Growers, and Landscape Association (FNGLA), and Irritech Training are offering Florida Water Star Accredited Professional (FWS AP) training for the irrigation industry.

The FWS Accredited Professional training is on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, from 8:30 am to 5 pm (lunch is provided), at the Waccasassa Forestry Center (5353 NE 39th Ave., Gainesville). Continuing education credits are available for Landscape Architects, FNGLA Certified Professionals, and Florida Water Star Professionals.

Find out more about the training.