18 Participants to Be Recognized During Oct. 27 County Commission Meeting
The Washington County 101 program has successfully concluded its latest four-week session, giving 18 residents an in-depth, hands-on look at the functions of their county government.
The third session, held on Oct. 7 at the George Jaynes Justice Center, provided participants with insight into the judicial branch of county government. Attendees heard from top judicial and court officials, including Circuit Court Clerk Brenda Downes, Chancery Court Chancellor John Rambo, Sessions Court Judges Johnathan Minga and William Monk, Circuit Court Judge James Edwin ‘Eddie’ Lauderback, and Criminal Court Judges Stacy L. Street and Lisa Rice. The presentations covered the circuit, chancery, sessions and criminal courts, with a focus on specialized programs like mental health court and recovery court.
The final session on Oct. 14 at the Washington County Sheriff’s Office centered on criminal justice, safety and emergency response. Attendees heard an overview of critical dispatch operations from 911 Special Project Coordinator Randall Lewis. Sheriff Keith Sexton also led a presentation that included a tour of the detention center, providing the citizens with a firsthand look at the county's law enforcement facilities.
The opening session on Sept. 23 focused on transparency and community engagement, introducing participants to several county offices and officeholders at the historic Washington County Courthouse.
The second session on Sept. 30 covered health, elections and emergency response, with speakers from the Washington County Health Department, emergency medical services and emergency management, as well as the administrator of elections.
Mayor Joe Grandy praised the program's role in connecting citizens with their local governance.
“This year’s Washington County 101 has been a tremendous success,” Grandy said. “We’ve connected with citizens, showcased the critical work done by our dedicated county employees, and fulfilled our mission to inform residents about how their county operates. It’s an investment in a more engaged and informed citizenry.”
The class will officially “graduate” during the Washington County Commission meeting on Monday, Oct. 27. County officials plan to offer the program again and encourage residents to consider applying for the next session.
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