The second Washington County 101 class received recognition from Mayor Joe Grandy and Washington County Commissioners during the August 26 Washington County Commission meeting. The class received certificates noting their completion of the four-week interactive program that is designed to enhance citizen awareness and understanding of government’s role in the community. Sheriff Keith Sexton provided all class members with Washington County 101 tee-shirts.
The class of 21 participants took part in a four-week program that met every Tuesday evening from July 9 through July 30 at various locations including the Washington County Health Department, The Historic Courthouse, the George Jaynes Justice Center and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. Speakers heard from elected officials, members of the judiciary, the Administrator of Elections, the Director of the Health Department, officials with the Sheriff’s Office and other county leaders.
“Judging by the participation we had and the evaluations we received, the program was a great success,” said Grandy. “We had a wonderful cross section of folks from all over the county who showed a true interest in how our county operates.”
“Getting more people engaged with county government has been a long-term goal of the commission’s,” said Commission Chair Greg Matherly. “Now, in its second year, the Washington County 101 program is a great way to get people involved with our government. Perhaps some of these graduates will seek elected office themselves.”
In anonymous evaluations received after the final class, one participant said, “I was very impressed with the professionalism, dedication and helpfulness of all the Washington County representatives,” while another participant said, “I absolutely loved all the presentations, Q&As, and tours that we got to experience over these four weeks.” 100 percent of survey respondents agreed with the statement: “I would recommend Washington County 101 to others to learn about our county in the future.”
The County Commission voted to approve the Washington County 101 pilot program at their May meeting. Applications were opened online for a two-week period with submissions outnumbering available slots available 2 to 1. Applicants for the program were selected on a first-come, first-serve basis, by district. Additional information will be made available at https://www.washingtoncountytn.org/208/County-Commission.