First Sessions of Washington County 101 Highlight Transparency and Community Engagement
Washington County officials, led by Mayor Joe Grandy, recently welcomed 18 residents to the first two sessions of Washington County 101. Designed to give citizens an inside look at their county government, the course connects participants with county leaders and provides first-hand insight into how local government operates.
“Washington County 101 is about making government transparent and approachable,” Grandy said. “When people see how decisions are made and meet the individuals responsible for carrying them out, they gain both understanding and confidence in the process.”
The opening session, held at the historic Washington County Courthouse on Sept. 23, introduced participants to several county offices and officeholders, including: Mayor Joe Grandy, Trustee Rick Storey, Clerk and Master Sarah Lawson, County Clerk Cheryl Storey, Chief Deputy Register of Deeds Chelsie Summey, Property Assessor Robbie McGuire, Planning Director Angie Charles and County Archivist Donna Briggs.
In addition to learning about the operations of these county offices, participants were educated about the history of the county and the town of Jonesborough during a downtown walking tour led by Paul Harris from the Heritage Alliance.
On Sept. 30, the class met at the Washington County Health Department for a session focused on health, elections and emergency response. Speakers included Washington County Health Department Director Katie McClellan, Administrator of Elections Chuck Vest, Branden Chambers - Emergency Medical Services and Emergency Management Director Evan Clyburn.
Each presentation highlighted essential county services, followed by opportunities for participants to ask questions and engage directly with department leaders. McClellan also led the group on a tour of the health department.
Washington County 101 will continue through October with sessions on budgeting, law enforcement and infrastructure. The county plans to offer the program again in 2026, and Grandy encourages residents to consider applying next year.
“Programs like this build stronger communities,” he said. “Citizens walk away better informed, and county leaders benefit from hearing the questions and perspectives of the people we serve. It’s a two-way exchange.”
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