3.  Final Summary of the FY 2017 – FY 2021 Strategic Plan

 

Statement of Issue:

This section provides a final summary of the FY 2017 – FY 2021 Leon County Strategic Plan.  Specifically, the section provides a progress report on the 20 Targets & Bold Goals and 104 Strategic Initiatives that comprise the County’s current five-year Strategic Plan. 

Staff Recommendation:
No Board action necessary.

Background:

The December 12, 2016 Board Retreat served to both close out the FY 2012 – FY 2016 Strategic Plan and to engage in the comprehensive plan year evaluation and development of the next five-year planning cycle.  During the Retreat, the Board reestablished the Vision Statement and Strategic Priorities, adopted an organizational Mission Statement, and established new Strategic Initiatives. The current
FY 2017 – FY 2021 Strategic Plan was enhanced by the incorporation of specific five-year Targets and Bold Goals adopted for each priority area. The Board formally adopted the FY 2017 – FY 2021 Strategic Plan on January 24, 2017.

Analysis:

The following analysis is a final status report on the County’s current Strategic Initiatives, Targets, and Bold Goals. As noted throughout this section, the progress on several of these items has been impacted by the global COVID-19 pandemic, a human tragedy of historic proportions. While Leon County has responded with organizational agility and innovation, the unprecedented economic impacts and global recession unsurprisingly made it impossible to achieve some of our goals in the priority area of the economy. Most notably, the necessary “Stay at Home” orders as well as limitations on travel and public gatherings have significantly impacted the tourism economy and local unemployment rates. Likewise, while the County found innovative ways to connect with citizens remotely, the pandemic led to the cancellation of several large, annual events like the Leon Works Expo, Press the Chest, and the Honor Flight Reunion which directly support several of our strategic initiatives. However, even and perhaps especially in these challenging times, the County has remained focused on the advancement of the County’s strategic priorities.

The following provides a final status of all the Strategic Initiatives, Targets, and Bold Goals categorized by Strategic Priority alignment (Economy, Environment, Quality of Life, or Governance). At the Retreat, staff will present a printed Impact and Progress Report summarizing the results of the
FY 2017 – FY 2021 Strategic Plan, which will be shared with the community. 

3A.  Progress Toward Bold Goals and Five-Year Targets

 

At the 2016 Retreat, staff recommended, and the Board approved the adoption of specific Targets that Leon County expects to realize as an organization over the next five-year plan cycle.  These Targets are aligned with each priority area and will communicate to the public and staff throughout the County the specific results that we expect to achieve through the collective execution of our Strategic Initiatives.

Additionally, the Board approved a Bold Goal, for each priority area. Bold Goals differ from Targets in that they are truly stretch goals which will be big and difficult to achieve but are worthy of staffs’ best efforts because they are big and difficult to achieve.  The adoption of bold goals is something the best organizations do because they recognize that all goals should not be tied to specific programs or current resources. Bold Goals, rather, require the County to explore new partnerships, identify new opportunities, and inspire new ideas.

The following sections summarize Leon County’s progress toward the Targets and Bold Goals in each of the four (4) priority areas. Each Strategic Priority section a narrative analysis of staff’s efforts. For reference, baseline data used for the development of each of the Targets and Bold goals is also included as Attachment #1. 

 

ECONOMY – Analysis of Bold Goal and Targets

 

Bold Goal: Grow the Five-Year Tourism Economy to $5 Billion   
90% Goal Attained - $4.5 Billion              
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly impacted both the local and statewide tourism economy, Leon County was on track to achieve this goal.  Leon County contracts with the research firm Downs & St. Germain for tourism research services, including determining the quarterly tourism economy.  In FY 2017, FY 2018, FY 2019, and FY 2020 the research firm estimated the total economic impact of tourism in Leon County at $895.8 million, $920 million, $1.04 billion, and $766 million respectively. For FY 2021, the annual economic impact is over $879 million, which brings the total tourism economy over the last five years to $4.5 billion, 90% of the County’s five-year Bold Goal.

The tourism economy during the first half of FY 2021 was down approximately 19% compared to
FY 2020, which also experienced significant declines due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the second half of FY 2021 saw a 68% increase in the tourism economy from the previous year. Industry experts anticipate that the omicron variant may slow the recovery of the tourism economy. However, the travel and tourism industry in Florida has been extremely resilient to changing market conditions, including in Leon County. Additionally, to help restore visitation levels and support businesses in the destination, the Board approved the use of $750,000 of American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA) revenue replacement funding to support the Division of Tourism’s Marketing/Advertising budget.  

ARPA funds have allowed the Division of Tourism to aggressively target drive-market travelers by showcasing Tallahassee-Leon County as a naturally scenic mid-sized community in Florida that is not saturated with large crowds and has an abundance of parks, greenways, inspirational art, safe events, outdoor dining options, a favorable business climate and outdoor recreation including more than 700 miles of trails for biking, hiking, paddling, and equestrian activities. To reach the targeted audience, the Division of Tourism has heavily utilized media/advertising, sports bids and events, concerts, creative asset development, and media to convey the undeniable beauty of the area and the unexpected nature of our community is better than ever.

Targets:

Attract 80 State, Regional, or National Championships across All Sports
110% Target Attained -   88 championships

In FY 2017, 16 championship sporting events were held in Leon County followed by another 17 championships in FY 2018. During this time, Leon County was also selected to host several NCAA championship events at the Apalachee Regional Park (ARP) over five (5) years including the 2018 and 2020 Division I Cross Country Regional as well as the 2021 Cross Country National Championship.  The 2021 National Championship was the first time in the race’s 78-year history that it was held in Florida.
In FY 2019, an additional 22 events were held in Leon County including the prestigious Florida High School Athletics Association (FHSAA) State Cross Country Championship, which Leon County was awarded to host the event until 2024. In FY 2020, the County hosted 13 events including the FHSAA Football Championship (1A, 2A, and 3A) and the National Junior College Athletic Association’s Cross-Country Region 8 Championship.  In FY 2021, the County hosted 20 championship sporting events bringing the total to 88 championships, 110% of the County’s five-year Target. These events include the FHSAA State Cross Country Championships, 1A – 8A FHSAA State Football Championships, Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) Cross Country National Championships AAU Track and Field Regional Championships, and the American Junior Golf Association All-Star Championships. 

 

It should be noted that an additional nine (9) championship sporting events scheduled to occur in FY 2020 and FY 2021 were cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. These events include the following:

 

Co-Create 500 Entrepreneur Ventures and 11,000 New Jobs, including 400 High-Wage Jobs in High Tech Clusters               
82% Target Attained - 412 entrepreneurial ventures

43% Target Attained – 4,680 new jobs

106% Target Attained - 422 high-wage jobs in high tech clusters

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Leon County experienced unemployment rates as high as 8.5%, which significantly impacted the County’s ability to meet the target for co-creating 11,000 new jobs.  In FY 2017, at the start of the current five-year Strategic Plan, almost 147,000 jobs were located in Leon County.  By the end of FY 2019, the number of jobs grew to almost 154,000. Following the pandemic in FY 2020, the local job market shrunk to approximately 144,500, a net loss of 2,439 jobs since FY 2017.  However, preliminary estimates by the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) show a gain of 7,119 jobs in FY 2021, for a five-year cumulative gain 4,680 jobs.

 

An entrepreneurial venture is a new business formation that is in the early stages of getting capitalized and then developing, organizing and managing a business toward initial profitability.  New entrepreneurial ventures are reported to OEV by partner organizations such as Domi Station, Innovation Park, and the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship.  Through these partnerships, 412 entrepreneurial ventures have started in Leon County over the last five years.   

 

The reported high-wage jobs in high tech clusters are the result of businesses participating in the Qualified Target Industry (QTI) program as well as other local initiatives.  Since FY 2017, 123 high-wage, high-tech jobs have been created through the QTI program, which was sunsetted by the Florida Legislature in June 2020.  Danfoss was a past participant of QTI creating 120 jobs for their 2017 research and development expansion which aligns with the applied science and manufacturing target industries. OEV also worked to with Millennium Integrated Electronics on site location needs which resulted in the creation of three (3) high-wage tech jobs, which aligns with the IT target industry.  Additionally, on December 23, 2020, it was announced that Danfoss is expanding its production facility which will create 239 new manufacturing and research jobs over the next 10 years. The IA Board voted to provide $1.4 million for the Targeted Business Program (TBP) to support the company’s expansion.  Finally, in 2021, Amazon announced that its new fulfillment center in Tallahassee would create more than 1,000 new jobs, of which 60 will fall into the category of high-wage, high-tech jobs.


The total job growth reported in Leon County since FY 2017 is a preliminary estimate based upon the Local Area Unemployment Statistics (LAUS) published by DEO.  All preliminary estimates are subject to revision the following month and at the end of the year by DEO, and annual revisions can go back several years due to methodological or geographic changes.

Connect 5,000 Students and Citizens to Middle Skilled Job Opportunities             
107% Target Attained - 5,354 Students & Citizens

Since the start of FY 2017, 5,354 students and citizens have been connected to skilled job opportunities, 107% of the County’s five-year Target. This progress was achieved through initiatives such as the EMS Student Internship Program as well as the Leon Works Expo and Junior Apprenticeship Program. Also in support of this Target, the County expanded the Leon Works Expo as a regional event.

Despite cancellation of Leon Works programs in 2020 due to the pandemic, the County was able to meet this target by hosting a virtual Leon Works Fall Preview in September 2021, which was attended by 2,676 middle and high school students. The next Expo is scheduled for April 22, 2022 at the Civic Center.

 

Host 100,000 Residents and Visitors as Part of the Amphitheater County Concert Series

58% Target Attained: 57,887 Concert Attendees

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, several concerts were either cancelled or rescheduled in 2020 and 2021. Prior to this, the County was experiencing significant annual increases in concert attendance. During 2017 and 2018, the County hosted six (6) concerts with a total of 11,203 attendees at the Capital City Amphitheater in Cascades Park: Lisa Loeb & Joan Osborne (Word of South), Shovels & Rope (Word of South), The Avett Brothers, Florida Jazz & Blues Festival, the Tedeschi Trucks Band, and the band Train. One (1) additional concert featuring Lynyrd Skynyrd was scheduled for FY 2018 but was cancelled due to a medical emergency involving Gary Rossington, one (1) of the original members of the band.

In 2019, Leon County hosted nine (9)concerts with a total attendance of 17,014, a 220% increase from the previous years.  One (1) additional concert, the Florida Jazz and Blues Festival, was cancelled by the organizers. The other concerts included the 2019 Word of South Festival featuring artist Shakey Graves and the sold-out concert of JJ Grey and Mofro. The remaining seven (7) concerts were part of the Free and Family Oriented Sundown Concert Series in partnership with the Tallahassee Downtown Improvement Authority (DIA). 

In 2020, the County hosted four (4) concerts with a total of 10,544 attendees. The concerts in FY 2020 included Third Eye Blind,  Boyz II Men, Dennis DeYoung, and  Countdown Downtown! New Year’s Eve at Cascades Park featuring Tallahassee Nights Live and Fried Turkeys. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a concert featuring the Newsboys UNITED and the DIA’s Sundown Summer Concert Series was cancelled. Four (4) additional concerts were also rescheduled.

During 2021, the County hosted nine concerts with a total of 19,126 attendees, which brings the current total to 57,887 attendees, 58% of the County’s five-year Target. The concerts held this year featured the following artists:

 

 

ENVIRONMENT – Analysis of Bold Goal and Targets

 

Bold Goal: Upgrade or Eliminate 500 Septic Tanks in the Primary Springs Protection Zone
122% Goal Attained - 610 Septic Tanks Complete or In Progress
Since FY 2019, a total of 252 septic tanks were eliminated through the completion of the Woodside Heights, Belair and Annawood Septic to Sewer Projects.  Also, as part of the launch of the Advanced Septic System Pilot Program, 37 septic tanks have been upgraded so far.  An additional 321 septic tank upgrades and eliminations are planned or in progress, for a total of 610 which is 122% of the five-year Bold Goal.

To help achieve this goal, Leon County has aggressively pursued state grant funds in addition to leveraging Blueprint water quality funds approved as part of the early passage of the sales tax extension. These funds will help eliminate approximately 520 septic tanks in the Woodside Heights, Northeast Lake Munson, and Belair/Annawood neighborhoods:

 

In addition, Leon County has worked closely with Florida Department of Environmental Protection and was awarded a stand-alone grant to implement an Advanced Septic System Pilot Program for the Wilkinson Woods Subdivision and the Wakulla Springs Basin Management Action Plan Priority Focus Area which will assist homeowners that are replacing failing or repairing septic tanks with passive technology higher performing nitrate-reducing systems. This program will remove or replace an additional 90 septic tanks, of which 37 have been completed through 2021.

Finally, Leon County is implementing the Woodville Septic to Sewer Project through the preliminary design of a central sanitary sewer collection system and transmission system from Woodville to the City of Tallahassee collection system at Capital Circle SE. Like the other projects, the Woodville Project is funded through sales tax and an FDEP grant. The completion of the construction portion of the Woodville project will eliminate an additional estimated 1,000 septic tanks, however, this is projected to occur outside of the current five-year strategic plan time horizon.      
 

Targets:

Plant 15,000 Trees Including 1,000 in Canopy Roads      
109% Target Attained - 16,126 Trees with 1,226 in Canopy Roads

Since FY 2017, Leon County has planted 16,126 trees, of which 1,226 were planted along canopy roads. This total is 109% of the five-year target.  The County was able to exceed the goal through the success of programs like Adopt-A-Tree, annual Arbor Day plantings, and the Parks & Recreation Memorial Tree Program. Additional tree plantings during this time were part of planned construction projects, park improvements, as well as a 30-acre reforestation project at the J.R. Alford Greenway and plantings at the Apalachee Regional Park. To support the planting of over 1,000 trees in the canopy roads, the Board also allocated $75,000 as part of the FY 2018 to implement an active tree planting program.

 

Ensure 100% of New County Building Construction, Renovation and Repair Utilize Sustainable Design

100% Target Attained - Building Sustainability Policy Adopted December 2021  
To achieve this target, County staff worked to research and develop policies and procedures that ensure sustainable design is utilized in 100% of new construction, renovation, and repair. For instance, staff integrated sustainable design standards into the Facilities Design Guidelines which are used for new construction and large-scale renovations.  For small renovations such as painting and carpet installation, material standards have been implemented, and internal design staff have received new training in sustainable design standards. Additionally, on December 14, 2021, the Board adopted a Building Sustainability Policy for the construction and renovation of Leon County-owned and operated buildings. The Policy supports and contributes to sustainability, codifies current County practices, and establishes green, energy efficient, sustainable, resilient, and healthy building standards and expectations for renovation and new construction projects in County owned and operated buildings.

75% Community Recycling Rate  
84% Target Attained - 63% Recycling Rate in 2020           
Annual county recycling rates for the previous year are calculated and published by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) each summer. For example, Leon County will receive recycling rates for 2021 during the summer of 2022. Recycling rates for past years are provided as follows.

For 2016, Leon County had a recycling rate of 55%, making it one (1) of only 20 counties in the state to achieve a rate of 50% or higher. In 2017, the County achieved a recycling rate of 66%, the ninth highest rate in the state. This increase was due in part to staff’s efforts to work with several local construction companies who recycle and use crushed concrete and asphalt. In 2018, the County achieved a recycling rate of 62%. Despite the slight decrease in the recycling rate from 2017, Leon County had the third highest traditional recycling rate in the state and the 10th highest overall recycling rate. In 2019, Leon County’s recycling rate was 57%, a 5% decrease from the previous year. This rate decrease was due to a notable decrease in construction and demolition material recycling, specifically a decrease in one (1) local contractor’s recycled asphalt material, which had a 4% impact on the County’s rate.

In 2020, Leon County achieved a community recycling rate of 63%, the 8th highest rate in the state. This is no small accomplishment given that many counties with higher recycling rates incinerate their waste and thus receive additional waste-to-energy recycling credits. Currently, only five counties in Florida have recycling rates above 70% and most have waste-to-energy facilities.  These counties receive a significant portion of their recycling credits from this alternative landfill diversion operation. For example, in 2020, Pinellas County had a traditional recycling rate of 51% (compared to Leon County’s 60%), and yet achieved an 78% overall recycling rate when waste-to-energy credits were included. Leon County does not have a waste-to-energy facility yet has consistently achieved high recycling rates in the state in recent years.

While Leon County was unable to reach this Target in five years, efforts to increase community recycling by as much as possible will go on. For example, at the November 2020 meeting, staff presented the findings of Single-stream Recycling Study which concluded that negotiating a new agreement with Marpan was the most financially advantageous and best value option among all of the potential alternatives reviewed.  As a result, the Board authorized the County Administrator to renegotiate the contract with Marpan.  Other strategies being explored were outlined in the Annual Sustainability Program Status Report presented to the Board at the December 2021 meeting. These initiatives include diverting landfill waste through increased community composting, engaging the business community in waste reduction efforts, and expanding community education to include a Master Recyclers Training, Single Use Plastics Campaign, and single-stream recycling audits.

Construct 30 Miles of Sidewalks, Greenways and Trails 
105% Target Attained - 31.6 Miles          
In FY 2017, Leon County constructed 8.73 miles of sidewalks, greenways, and trails followed by an additional 9.7 miles in FY 2018, 1.86 miles during FY 2019, and 2.34 miles in FY 2020. Finally, in FY 2021, the County constructed 1.88 miles of sidewalks along Gearhart Road, Timberland Road, and in Apalachee Regional Park, in addition to the sidewalks constructed as part of newly constructed subdivisions. An additional 1.47 miles of trails were constructed at Coal Chute Pond, Apalachee Regional Park, Copperfield Circle, and as part of the Magnolia Drive Trail project. This brings the final total to 31.6 miles of sidewalks (14.3 mi), greenways (6.5 mi), and trails (10.8 mi), 105% of the County’s five-year Target.               

 

 

 

QUALITY OF LIFE – Analysis of Bold Goal and Targets                            

 

Bold Goal: Secure More Than $100 Million in Veteran Affairs Benefits for Veterans & their Families

118% Goal Attained - $118 Million in Veteran Affairs Benefits   
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for Leon County calculates and publishes the amount of Veterans Compensation & Pension and Medical Care Expenditures annually.  For FY 2017, over
$38.6 million in Veteran Affairs benefits were secured for Leon County veterans and their families.  This spike in funding is due in part to the opening of the Tallahassee Health Care Center, a new VA clinic opened in Leon County in October 2016.  In FY 2018, $18.2 million in Veteran Affairs benefits were secured followed by an additional $20.2 million during both FY 2019 and FY 2020. 

 

For FY 2021, staff estimates that approximately $21 million in Veteran Affairs benefits were secured. This brings the current total to over $118 million, 118% of the County’s five-year Target.  The estimate for FY 2021 is based on the projected number of Veterans Compensation & Pension and Medical Care Expenditure reported by the VA for Leon County and adjusted for the unique clients served by the County’s Veterans Office.

Targets:

Construct 100 Fire Hydrants      
102% Target Attained - 102 Hydrants

In FY 2017, 15 fire hydrants were constructed in the unincorporated area. To increase the number of hydrants constructed annually, during the June 2017 Budget Workshop, staff recommended and the Board approved revisions to Policy No. 14-2, “Criteria for the Placement of Fire Hydrants on Current Water Systems” and increased funding to implement a new cost sharing program. With the new program, a citizen or Homeowners Association (HOA) may make a request directly to the County for a fire hydrant.  In FY 2018, 17 fire hydrants were constructed, including one (1) hydrant which was installed under the County’s cost sharing program. An additional 16 hydrants were constructed in FY 2019 followed by 20 new hydrants in FY 2020.

During FY 2021, 34 new hydrants were constructed in the in the unincorporated area, which brings the total to 102 hydrants, 102% of the County’s five-year Target. To meet this Target, Public Works worked working with Talquin Electric Cooperative to expedite installation of fire hydrants on the Prioritization List. Talquin agreed to use an outside contractor to perform installations, which helped expedite installations so the County could achieve this target by the end of the fiscal year.

Train 8,500 Citizens in CPR/AEDs
87% Target Attained - 7,396 Citizens Trained

While the County did not meet this Target, the progress is outstanding considering both the 2020 and 2021 Press the Chest events were cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Historically, this annual event had an average attendance of 500 people. To encourage learning CPR at home during the height of the pandemic, EMS developed a virtual training curriculum and worked with the Library to distribute American Heart Association CPR kits which include a CPR learning manikin, visual guides, and a DVD training video. The following is an overview of the trainings held over the last five (5) years.

 

Leon County EMS held over 40 trainings in FY 2017 during which 1,572 citizens were trained in CPR/AEDs. During FY 2018, EMS held an additional 38 trainings during for 1,768 citizens followed by 59 trainings for 2,111 citizens in FY 2019. Last year, the County has hosted 23 trainings for 718 citizens, and in FY 2021 there were 19 training events attended by 1,227 people, which brings the total to 7,396 citizens trained in CPR/AEDs, 87% of the County’s five-year Target. 

 

Open 1,000 New Acres of Park Land to the Public            
106% Target Attained - 1,063 Acres Complete or In Progress

Since 2017, 318.17 acres of park land have opened to the public. An additional 745.19 acres are currently in progress, for a total of 1,063 acres (106%) including County and Blueprint funded park projects . The new park lands include the following:

 

 

In addition, to the park spaces that were opened during that last five (5) years, several park projects are currently in progress including:

 

 

Double the Number of Downloadable Books at the Library         
164% Target Attained - 22,178 New Downloadable Books

In FY 2017, Library Services added 10,002 downloadable books to their collection. This substantial increase was the result of Leon County joining the Panhandle Library Access Network (PLAN), which allows regional libraries to cooperatively purchase E-Books, Audiobooks, EMagazines, and other electronic products. In FY 2018, an additional 1,769 books were added to the Library’s collection followed by an additional 2,505 books in FY 2019 and another 2,205 books in FY 2020.

During FY 2021, the Library added 5,597 new downloadable books to meet the growing demand, which brings the Library’s the total to 22,178 new downloadable books purchased since FY 2017, 164% of the County’s five-year Target. As of the writing of this report, the net total of downloadable books currently available through Leon County Libraries is now over 39,500.

 

 

GOVERNANCE – Analysis of Bold Goal and Targets

 

Bold Goal: Implement 500 Citizen Ideas, Improvements, Solutions and Opportunities for Co-Creation
104% Goal Attained - 520 Implemented               
Since the start of FY 2017, the County has implemented 520 citizen ideas, improvements, solutions and opportunities for co-creation, 104% of the County’s five-year Target.  These ideas are actively solicited using both “high tech” and “high touch” methods. For example. included in this list are 112 recommendations voiced by citizens during LEADS Listening Sessions, 53 recommendations from citizens regarding the Welaunee Master Plan, and 16 recommendations from the post-hurricane Listening Sessions.  Several ideas were proposed by individual citizens such as Library patrons, campground visitors, and community center users. Other improvements were submitted by community organizations or citizen committees like the Commission on the Status of Women & Girls, KCCI Community Catalysts, the Miccosukee Sense of Place Working Group, and the Blueprint Citizen Advisory Committee. A list of implemented citizen ideas, improvements, and solutions is included as Attachment #2.

Targets:

Reduce By At Least 30% the Average Time It Takes to Approve a Single Family Building Permit

100% Target Attained - 30% Reduction (3 Days Faster)

Average permitting times are calculated and reported to the Board on an annual basis to determine the percent reduction in permit times.  In FY 2017, average permit times were reduced from 11 to 10 days. In FY 2018 and 2019, permit times reduced again to an average of 9 days. The reductions were achieved through the launch of the Project Dox software for online plans review, expansion of automatic email notification services to applicants, contracting with private sector plans reviewers to expedite the permit approval process, as well as the recruitment of a new chief building official.

 

In both FY 2020 and 2021, the County achieved the five-year Target by maintaining an average permit time for of 8 days for single family building permits.  In FY 2021, DSEM issued a total of 6,598 building permits that contained 619 new single-family homes, which is more than any previous year. Reductions in average permitting times were achieved through the flat fee modification approved by the Board in November 2019 as well as improvements to the electronic plan review software. Staff anticipates that single family building permits will remain at or close to the current level and will maintain or improve the 8-day permitting time through additional automation and software improvements. 

 

Achieve 90% Employee Participation in the County’s “My Rewards” Well Being Program
100% Target Attained - 90% participation

The My Rewards Program is an incentive-based wellness program designed to help employees participate in healthy lifestyle behaviors.  Employees who successfully complete the My Rewards Program each calendar year will receive a 2.5% discount off their annual health insurance premium contribution for the following year.  Participation in the program is reported annually as employees have until October 31st to complete the tasks/activities required for participation.

In FY 2017, 496 employees participated in the program. In FY 2018, 90% participation was achieved with 502 employees participating.  In FY 2019, the County maintained this level of participation with, 507 employees participating.  During FY 2020, 488 employees participated in the Program, which is 91% of eligible County employees.  Finally, in FY 2021 the County maintained 90% participation with 441 employees participation in the program.  To continue to achieve this level of participation, staff has adopted several new strategies including calculating and advertising the actual dollar savings for each health plan, offering a paper version of the application form, providing Division Directors with a report of employees who had not yet taken advantage of the program, and attending staff meetings in divisions with the largest number of employees who do not participate in the My Rewards program.

Reduce By 60% the Outstanding Debt of the County       
123% Target Attained - 73.7% Debt Reduction

The County’s outstanding debt, including principal and interest, is calculated annually at the end of each fiscal year.  Since FY 2017, the County has reduced its debt from $48.6 million to $13.5 million, a reduction of 73.7%. This target was achieved through the Board’s annual budget process as well as taking advantage of refinancing opportunities related to interest rate market reductions. It should also be noted that the County significantly reduced the remaining debt by paying off the bonds issued to acquire the Leon County Government Office Annex Building.

 

100% of Employees Are Trained in Customer Experience, Diversity and Domestic Violence, Sexual Violence & Stalking in the Workplace            
100% Target Attained - 100% County Employees Trained

Currently, 100% of Leon County employees have been trained.  Since FY 2017, Human Resources has held 107 training sessions on the topics of Customer Experience, Domestic Violence, Sexual Violence & Stalking in the Workplace, and Diversity in the Workplace.  To ensure all employees received all three (3) trainings, Human Resources developed a quarterly schedule and website for County trainings and worked with department directors to schedule their employees’ attendance.  Human Resources will continue to provide these training to new County employees.

 

 

 

 

 

 

5B.  Strategic Initiatives

 

Strategic Initiatives are action items that align with and advance the County’s Strategic Priorities to serve and strengthen the community.  Each year the Board renews the Strategic Plan by revising or adding Strategic Initiatives that represent new opportunities to advance the Strategic Priorities.  Leon County’s first five-year Strategic Plan grew to include 154 Strategic Initiatives, 148 (96%) of which were completed between FY 2012 and FY 2016. The remaining six (6) Initiatives that were still in progress were included as part of the next five-year plan.

At the December 2016 Board Retreat, the Board adopted 44 Strategic Initiatives as part of the FY 2017 – FY 2021 Plan. An additional 14 Strategic Initiatives were adopted at the December 2017 Board Retreat, followed by 17 at the December 2018 Board Retreat, and then another 13 at the January 2020 Annual Retreat. At the most recent Annual Retreat in January 2021, 16 new initiatives were adopted brining the current total 104 Strategic Initiatives. This annual process of amending or adding Strategic Initiatives ensures that the optimized resources of the organization are aligned with the Board’s priorities. 

The following sections summarize Leon County’s progress toward the Strategic Initiatives across each Strategic Priority category (Economy, Environment, Quality of Life, or Governance).  As shown in Table 1, the County has completed most of the current Strategic Initiatives.  A total of 100 (96%) of the Strategic Initiatives have been completed, with the remaining 4 (4%) in progress. The remaining Strategic Initiatives that are still in progress are recommended for inclusion in the next five-year plan.

 

Table #1 – Status of the Strategic Initiatives

 

Complete

In Progress

Total

Status as of Preparation of FY 2020-2021 Retreat

100

4

104

 

Status by Main Strategic Priority Alignment

Economy

22

0

22

Environment

21

2

23

Quality of Life

28

2

30

Governance

29

0

29

 

Please note that many of the Initiatives recorded as “Complete” do not “stop” - rather they are ongoing and will require ongoing resources and support. These items require no further Board direction and will be carried out as part of staff’s work plan.

The following is a list of completed Strategic Initiatives (and the balance of those still “in-progress”) with further detail included:

 

 

Economy - Completed

 

(2016-1) Utilizing a portion of the BP settlement funds, identify solutions for weatherization of the Capital City Amphitheater stage, inclusive of potential sound mitigation elements.

(2016-2) Continue to work with FSU on the Civic Center District Master Plan to include the potential partnership to realize the convention center space desired by the County and to bring back issues related to the County’s financial and programming roles and participation for future Board consideration.

(2016-3) Support the revision of Sec. 125.0104, F.S. to modify the eligibility for levying the local option High Tourism Impact Tax to include counties that are home to Preeminent State Research Universities in order to levy a sixth cent to support the convention center and arena district.

(2016-4) Continue to pursue opportunities for workforce development including:              
(A) Based upon the projected unmet local market for middle skill jobs, continue to host Leon Works Exposition in collaboration with community and regional partners and launch Leon County’s Jr. Apprenticeship Program.

(B) Work with partners, such as The Kearney Center and Leon County Schools, to increase access to training programs, apprenticeships, and other programs promoting middle-skilled jobs.

(2016-5) Continue to work with FSU to bid and host NCAA cross country national and regional championships at Apalachee Regional Park (ARP).

(2016-6) Implement the Economic Development Strategic Plan as adopted and may be revised by the Intergovernmental Agency.

 

(2016-7, rev. 2020, 2021) Complete and implement the joint County/City disparity study and enhancements to the MWSBE program and conduct an update to the study in 2021.

 

(2016-8) Expand our economic competitiveness by coordinating with regional partners to host an Americas Competitive Exchange on Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ACE) conference.

(2016-9) Evaluate sunsetting the Downtown CRA and correspondingly evaluate the effectiveness of the Frenchtown/Southside CRA including the County’s partnership with the City.

(2016-10) Enhance sports tourism through the exploration of an NFL Preseason game and other possible events at Doak Campbell Stadium.

(2016-11) To address issues of economic segregation and diversity, evaluate establishing a microlending program for small, minority and women-owned businesses.

 

Also in FY 2020, following revised guidance from the us Treasury, the Board voted to allocate $1 million from CARES Act Funding for a revolving loan program, known as the SmartSteps Program, to be administered by the FAMU Federal Credit Union.  The Florida Division of Emergency Management began encouraging counties to also use this strategy, and the Florida Association of Counties shared and recommended it to counties throughout the state.

(2016-12) Further enhance our competitiveness in attracting national and regional running championships by making additional strategic investments at the Apalachee Regional Park (ARP).

(2017-1) Evaluate expanding Leon Works as a regional event and to different segments of the community.

(2017-2) Explore the creation of local Enterprise Zone incentives to be managed by the Office of Economic Vitality in support of economic growth and development.

(2017-3) Continue to partner with Shop Local 850 to promote Leon County’s local businesses and entrepreneurs and develop new data sources to analyze the economic impacts of shopping local.

(2017-4) Explore ways to expand how local businesses can do business outside of the community.

(2017-5) Raise awareness of County trails through the Division of Tourism Strategic Plan.

(2018-1) To further promote Leon County as a biking community, pursue the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) Designation.

(2020-1) Conduct an updated market feasibility study and evaluation of the Fairgrounds relocation/modification.

 

(2020-2) Work with the City of Tallahassee to develop a branding strategy for the community’s trail system.

(2021-1) Continue to pursue and position the County to accept and further advance local priorities to distribute additional CARES funding in support of individual assistance, small business assistance and vaccinations

(2021-2) Evaluate potential enhancements to the Lake Talquin/Urban Fringe (LT/UF) zoning district to provide more opportunity for commercial uses that are functionally supportive and related to eco-tourism or natural resource-based activities along the southern shoreline of Lake Talquin.

 

ed

Environment – Completed

 

(2016-13) Implement the adopted Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP) for Wakulla Springs including bringing central sewer to Woodville and implementing requirements for advanced wastewater treatment.

 

As part of the seven-year Tentative Leon County Water Quality and Springs Protection Infrastructure Improvement Plan, FDEP has committed to providing approximately $31.9 million in grants through FY 2024 for wastewater projects in Leon County. This includes $4.6 million from the Springs Restoration Grant Program for the Northeast Lake Munson project and $1.75 million for the Belair/Annawood Sewer System Project. In addition, the County was awarded a four-year Federal Section 319(h) Educational Grant totaling $60,000 with a $40,000 match requirement. As part of this grant, Leon County will educate citizens on proper operation and maintenance of septic tanks and impacts to groundwater if not properly maintained.

 

In addition, Leon County staff participated in the FDEP Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems (OSTDS) Committee and as a result, in January 2019, FDEP adopted an updated BMAP for Wakulla Springs, which includes an OSTDS Implementation Plan.

 

(2016-14) Develop strategies to increase recycling and reuse rates.

The consultant’s final report and recommendations were presented to the Board on November 17, 2020. The study concluded that negotiating a new agreement with Marpan was the most financially advantageous and best value option among all of the potential alternatives reviewed.  As a result, the Board voted to authorize the County Administrator to renegotiate a contract with Marpan Recycling for single-stream recycling services and to present a draft agreement to the Board for approval in early 2021

 

(2016-15) Implement the Apalachee Landfill closure process in an environmentally sensitive manner which complements the master planning for the site.

(2016-16) Convene the Leon County Sustainable Communities summit on a bi-annual basis.

(2016-17, rev. 2020) In partnership with the Canopy Roads Committee, update and implement the long-term management plan for the Canopy Roads including an active tree planting program.

(2016-19) Successfully launch a commercial and residential Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program and identify opportunities, including the Leon County Spring Home Expo, to train industry professionals on sustainable building practices for participation in the PACE program.

(2016-20) Add environmental education kiosks, trail markings/mapping at Greenways and Parks.

(2016-21) Explore new opportunities for solar on County facilities.

 

(2016-22) Support the protection of Lake Talquin.

(2016-23) Reduce nitrogen impacts in the PSPZ (primary springs protection zone) by identifying cost effective and financially feasible ways including:

  1. Develop a septic tank replacement program.

(2017-6) Work with Sustainable Tallahassee and community partners to evaluate developing a community-wide climate action plan.

(2017-7) Continue to work with the State as a host community in evaluating pilot technologies for new advanced wastewater treatment septic tanks.

(2017-8) Continue to work with the State to seek matching grants to convert septic to sewer systems.

(2018-2, rev. 2020) Develop and enact the County’s Integrated Sustainability Action Plan to further reduce the County Government’s carbon footprint.

(2018-3) To increase information available to the public regarding blue-green algae blooms, fishing advisories, invasive species, and general water quality, add education kiosks at Leon County boat landings.

(2018-4) Pursue NACo’s SolSmart designation.

(2020-4) To further reduce litter and trash in rural areas and the Apalachicola National Forest, launch a targeted public outreach effort encouraging the use of County Rural Waste Service Centers.

To further encourage use of the County’s Rural Waste Service Centers as a means to reduce littering and illegal dumping in the Apalachicola National Forrest, additional strategies were implemented in January 2021.  These strategies were all targeted to households bordering the Forest and included designing and mailing an informational postcard, social media posts using the Nextdoor app, and printed materials placed at branch libraries.   

(2018-5) Ensure County’s water quality and stormwater regulations, programs and projects are evaluated and implemented holistically to advance the County’s adopted strategic priority: to protect the quality and supply of our water.

(2018-6) Develop and enhance communications strategies to inform citizens of the County’s overall water quality and stormwater policies, as well as emergent issues impacting individual water bodies or ground water.

(2020-3) Implement zoning changes that allow for solar energy farms in the unincorporated area while preserving the rural character of our community.

(2021-3) Develop a policy and criteria for adding County roads to the canopy road system.

 

(2021-4) Develop a Sustainable Business Recognition Program.

Environment – In Progress


(2016-18) Complete an evaluation of transportation fee alternatives to replace the existing concurrency management system of mobility fees.

Reduce nitrogen impacts in the PSPZ (primary springs protection zone) by identifying cost effective and financially feasible ways including:

(2016-23B) Evaluate requiring advanced wastewater treatment (AWT) for new construction.

 

Quality of Life - Completed

 

(2016-24) Continue to expand recreational amenities to include:

(A) Develop and implement a master plan for the Apalachee Regional Park.

 

(B) Develop a program to establish a signature landscaping feature with a regular blooming season.

 

(C) Implement the Tallahassee-Leon County Greenways Master Plan.

 

(D) Evaluate additional trail expansion opportunities.

 

(E) Work with partners to utilize rights-of-way and utility easements to further expand the trail system.

(F) Identify opportunities to create dog parks in the unincorporated area.

(2016-26) Continue to evaluate emergency medical response strategies to improve medical outcomes and survival rates.

(2016-27) Work with the City of Tallahassee to develop a new CHSP process in light of the United Way’s decision to conduct a separate funds distribution process.

(2016-28, rev. 2017) Implement the Joint County-City Affordable Housing Work Group’s recommendations to develop a holistic plan for the redevelopment of a multifamily affordable housing project and identification of additional transitional housing opportunities through community partnerships.

(2016-29) Continue to serve our seniors through programs and partnerships, including:

(A) As Florida's first Dementia Caring Community, support the Florida Department of Elder Affairs in the further development of the pilot program, provide enhanced paramedic training and engage local partners in making the County a more dementia-friendly community.

(B) Exploring opportunities to address fraud/scams targeted towards seniors.

(C) To continue to support Choose Tallahassee’s efforts to market our community as a retirement destination.

 

(2016-30) Identify and evaluate pretrial alternatives to incarceration for low level and nonviolent offenders through regional partnerships and state and national efforts, including data-driven justice initiatives.

 

In partnership with the State Attorney's Office (SAO), Leon County facilitated modifications to the adult civil citation program by working with local law enforcement agencies and other agencies throughout the 2nd judicial circuit to support a uniform circuit-wide program. A memorandum of understanding establishing the program was signed by all parties in April 2017, and a Status Report on the Adult Civil Citation Program in Leon County was presented to the Board at the November 28, 2018 meeting.

 

Additionally, in April 2018, representatives from IDA, Leon County Sheriff's Office, 2nd Judicial Court Administration, and the local behavioral health service provider attended the Best Practices Implementation Academy sponsored by SAMHSA to learn about efforts throughout the nation to reduce the number of individuals with behavioral health issues in the criminal justice.

(2016-31) Work with community partners to expand appreciation of local veterans including recognition of National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.

(2016-32) Increase safety in the unincorporated area through the development of a new street lighting program and evaluation of the need for additional signage.

(2016-33) Improve pet overpopulation by engaging vested community partners in the implementation of spay and neutering strategies.

(2016-34) Continue County support of primary healthcare through participation in Carenet in order to increase access to affordable healthcare for those in need.

(2016-35) Explore opportunities to increase to high-speed internet access through a “mobile hot spot” library lending program.

(2017-9) Continue to work with the Florida Department of Transportation for safety improvements on State and County roadways to include accessibility enhancements, street lighting installations, sidewalk additions, safety audits, and intersection improvements.

(2017-10) As part of sense of place initiative for Miccosukee, evaluate the opportunity to combine activities from the existing community center into the Old Concord School.

(2018-7) Enhance partnership with CareerSource to increase job and economic opportunities for local veterans.

 

The County’s partnership with Career Source Capital Region has also been strengthened through the implementation of new programs or services designed to increase job and economic opportunities for local veterans. In April 2019, Human Resources began sending welcome letters to veterans applying for employment with the County to first, thank them for their service to their country and community and secondly, to provide information on programs and services available to them at the local, state, and federal levels. To effectively measure the impact of these initiatives, CSCR has developed a local code in the state’s Employ Florida database that will identify individuals served, provided services, and participant outcomes for veterans referred from Leon County Government to CSCR for assistance.

 

As the County continues enhancing this partnership, staff have collaborated with CareerSource to highlight national events for veterans such as “National Hire A Veterans Day” as well as local events such as CSCR’s “Veterans Connect Sessions” providing an environment for veterans to network, talk, and learn about benefits.

(2018-8) Develop a formal policy to implement the private dirt road safety stabilization program to be funded through L.I.F.E. (2% of sales tax extension).

Given the significant limited financial ability of some neighborhoods to properly maintain their roads, the Policy and the associated Resolution established the paramount public purpose to dedicate a portion of L.I.F.E. funding for the repair and improvement of private dirt roads in which property owners are deemed low-income without sufficient financial means to properly maintain their roads to a safe minimum standard.

 

Of the remaining 25 applications, eight (8) did not meet the minimum program eligibility criteria and 17 are pending further evaluation. Public Works staff is currently working with these applicants to submit the required right-of-entry and income verification forms.

(2018-9) Conduct a comprehensive human service needs assessment in order to align CHSP funding with the highest human services needs in the community.

It is important to note that with the exception of the Promise Zone category, the Board’s action maintained the existing CHSP human service categories and current funding allocations assigned to each category.

Subsequently, on January 29, 2020, the City Commission was presented the CHSP Needs Assessment Report and provided similar options by City staff as presented in the agenda item. The City Commission approved the following options:

On February 11, 2020, the Board requested a status report on the options approved by the Board and the City Commission. On February 25, 2020 following several requests from UPHS, the Board directed staff to draft an agenda item for consideration of coordinating with the City to engage the FSU Askew School of Public Policy to conduct a peer review of the Needs Assessment, evaluate the programs funded by CHSP, and provide recommendations for uniform outcome measures to determine the effectiveness of the programs in addressing the highest human service needs in the community.

On December 14, 2021, the Board adopted the uniform performance measures developed by the FSU Askew School of Public Policy. These measures will go into effect during the upcoming two-year funding cycle (FY 2023 and FY 2024). Additionally, at this time, the Board authorized the County Administrator to develop a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Tallahassee and the Children’s Services Council of Leon County to partner on opportunities to collaborate and coordinate on the funding, program delivery, program evaluation, and outcome measures for children and family services, for consideration by the Board at a future meeting.

(2018-10) Implement practices and strategies to further enhance the response to mass casualty incidents; including, the delivery of Stop the Bleed campaign training which teaches citizens how to assist someone suffering from major bleeding.

(2018-11) Continue to evaluate the effectiveness of our existing County supported re-entry programs, explore other opportunities to further enhance re-entry efforts, and work with the Supervisor of Elections to assist former felons with registering to vote.

To support the Supervisor of Elections’ efforts to assist former offenders with voter registration, Supervisor Early was invited to present at the Board’s February 12, 2019 meeting. During the presentation, Supervisor Early advised the Board that no additional guidance from the Legislature was needed for his office to proceed with voter registration; however, his office will continue to work with the Legislature and the State in providing data. IDA also collaborated with the Supervisor of Elections Office to distribute information regarding voter rights restoration in the IDA office and website.                              

(2018-12) Implement a minimum grid bicycle route network.

(2020-5) Implement text-to-911 in coordination with the Consolidated Dispatch Agency so that individuals in emergency situations may text 911 call takers.

(2020-7) Coordinate with community partners to implement training for parents and students on the safe use of online applications.

(2021-5) Coordinate with the City of Tallahassee in pursuing designation as an AARP Age-Friendly Community Network to enhance the community’s livability for residents of all ages.

(2021-6) Relocate the proposed Northeast Park to the Welaunee area and support Blueprint accelerating the funding of the project in coordination with the Northeast Gateway project.

(2021-7) Evaluate and implement options to address chronic speeding and traffic issues in the Northeast and along Deer Lake Road.

 

However, the County has been able to move forward with some traffic safety enhancements that do not require a petition. For example, asphalt curbing was installed from Killearn Point Ct south to Deer Lake Elementary School to separate the sidewalk from the edge of pavement. In addition, a speed study was performed by staff and considers the installation of speed feedback signs at the bottom of the hill between Golden Eagles entrance and Kinhega Drive to make drivers more aware of their speed.

(2021-8) Implement targeted outreach and education to minority communities to encourage vaccinations.

 

On March 9, 2021, the Board then voted to authorize the County Administrator, in working with community partners, to immediately utilize an additional $500,000 to support targeted outreach and engagement in communities of color in order to build trust and confidence in the COVID-19 vaccine.  Immediately following Board’s decision, the County began convening coordinating calls with the Vaccination Community Education and Engagement Task Force, Bond Community Health Center, Neighborhood Medical Center, and Florida Department of Health in Leon County. As a result of these meetings, the group established the goal of reaching 10,000 households in in targeted neighborhoods that FDOH has identified in their vaccine hesitancy assessment.

 

Additionally, in the less than a week following the Board’s direction, County staff executed an agreement with Dr. Elaine Bryant to administer the outreach program and employ 30 community health advocates in street teams. Leon County also amended the agreements with Bond and Neighborhood for COVID-19 testing to include vaccination clinics in targeted communities. As a result of these efforts, the County has reached over 23,500 households, vaccinated more than 4,500 people in underserved communities, and reached almost 5,000 attendees at expos, town halls, and other community meetings.

 

During the May 25, 2021 Budget Workshop, the Board approved the expenditure of $331,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to continue supporting vaccine hesitancy engagement and promotion efforts in partnership with the Vaccination Community Education and Engagement Task Force. The City has also allocated $269,000 for a total of $600,000 to support this initiative until December 30, 2021.

(2021-9) Develop a plan to address poverty and inequities in 32304 in collaboration with the City and other community partners.

(2021-10) Create a Citizen’s North Monroe Street Task Force with City of Tallahassee participation, staffed by the City/County Planning Department charged with identifying opportunities to reduce crime and improve conditions along the North Monroe Corridor between Fred George Road and Tharpe Street.

 

(2021-11) Working with community partners, develop possible options for those struggling with food insecurity by utilizing the results of Feeding Florida’s recent study on food insecurity that provides granular information down to the neighborhood block group level.

 

Quality of Life – In Progress

 

(2016-25) Complete a comprehensive review and revision to the Land Use Element of the Comprehensive Plan, including a review of inclusionary housing.

(2020-6) In coordination with the Leon County Health Department, work to identify an operator for a local Syringe Exchange Program.

 

During the summer of 2021, staff from the County and the Health Department reconvened with Bond to discuss the statutory requirements for operating a syringe exchange program as well as the anticipated program costs. County staff also coordinated meetings with both Bond and Palm Beach County to discuss their new program to outreach, operations, and methods to meet the deliverables of the statutory requirements. Unfortunately, in August 2021, Bond informed the County that it did not have the resources to establish this type of program given that Florida Statue prohibits the use of state, county, or municipal funds to operate an exchange.

 

Following Bond’s decision, the eligible healthcare partners were reconvened on September 30, 2021 to discuss the establishment of a syringe exchange program. They were also asked to notify County staff by October 22, 2021 if their organizations were interested exploring the opportunity to become the County’s program operator. Only Big Bend Cares responded and notified staff that their board of directs planned to hold several meetings to discuss the topic. Their next meeting is scheduled for January 25, 2022 and will include a presentation from University of Miami on Miami-Dade County’s program. 

Governance – Completed

(2016-36) Alongside community partners, engage citizens of diverse backgrounds, education, and age on issues that matter most to them through the Citizen Engagement Series and Club of Honest Citizens.

 

(2016-37) Continue to Support Commissioner Desloge during his term as NACo President.

 

(2016-38) In accordance with the Leon County Charter, convene a Charter Review Committee to review the Leon County Home Rule Charter and propose any amendments or revisions which may be advisable for placement on the general election ballot.

 

(2016-39) Implement migration from Groupwise to Microsoft Outlook to better integrate with other software applications that utilize automated notifications, workflows and approvals.

 

(2016-40) Continue the deployment of an updated permitting system that is modernized to use mobile and online technologies.

(2016-41) Continue County sponsorship of employees’ participation in the Certified Public Manager (CPM) training.

 

(2016-42) Seek opportunities for partnerships through NACo and FAC’s enterprise programs.

Leon County Administration also continues to regularly discuss and evaluate new opportunities for partnership through their respective enterprise programs.

(2016-43) Continue to explore opportunities for efficiency and cost savings through intergovernmental functional consolidation where appropriate.

 

During the first half of the year, the County also worked extensively with the City to identify any remaining community needs resulting from the COVID-19 public health emergency. As a result, the County and City worked to develop and jointly fund several programs on a countywide basis. The cost-sharing arrangement with the City allows both entities to leverage a significant portion of their American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to address food insecurity, small business needs, and homelessness support as part of a highly coordinated, communitywide plan.

 

(2016-44) Evaluate establishing a living wage for County employees and continue to provide opportunities for industry certifications and training for those employees in skilled craft, paraprofessional, and technician positions.

 

(2017-11) Partner with the Federal Alliance for Safe Housing (FLASH) to become the nation’s first #HurricaneStrong county.

 

(2017-12) As part of Leon County’s Citizen Engagement Series, conduct an annual “Created Equal” event to strengthen the County’s commitment in tackling difficult subjects.

 

(2017-13) Continue to support Commissioner Maddox in his efforts to become Florida Association of Counties President.

 

(2017-14) Implement the recommendations of the Hurricane Irma After-Action Report.

 

 

 

(2018-13) Develop an emergency management plan for controlled release of water at the C. H. Corn hydroelectric dam.

 

(2018-14) Implement the recommendations of the Hurricane Michael After-Action Report.

 

(2018-15) Pursuant to the approved ballot initiative amending the County Charter, adopt an Ethics Ordinance by December 2019.

 

(2018-16) Explore ways to promote and build upon Leon County’s success in citizen engagement by identifying additional ways to increase the quantity and quality of citizen input opportunities.

 

 

 

(2018-17) Evaluate incorporating social infrastructure into the comprehensive plan land use element update.

 

(2020-8) Complete an updated Building Permit fee study.

 

(2020-9) Implement the Leon County Essential Libraries Initiative.

(2020-10) To celebrate Leon County/Tallahassee bicentennial in 2024, the County will coordinate and enhance local planning efforts with government agencies, businesses, organizations, and citizens.

 

During 2021, the Committee met three (3) times to discuss marketing options as well as a logo and website for the Bicentennial.

 

(2020-11) Participate in the MIT Sloan School of Management USA Lab to explore opportunities to further enhance re-entry efforts.

 

The program concluded in May 2020 with County staff attending a final virtual discussion with the students, faculty, and other community hosts on the long-lasting impacts of Coronavirus on America both socially and economically. The student teams also presented their final reports detailing their findings and recommendations on best practices and improvements to local reentry efforts. Intervention & Detention Alternatives (IDA) staff presented the final report to stakeholder groups to assist in implementing strategies to improve local reentry efforts such as more actively working with employers to hire returning citizens. Additionally, as recommended in the report, IDA began coordinating with the Big Bend AFTER Reentry Coalition (BBARC) and the Leon County Detention Facility’s Reentry and Inmate Programs for the planning and implementation of the Sheriff’s Reentry Innovative Services & Empowerment (RISE) Center. The RISE Center will provide a centralized location for returning citizens to receive case management services and provide direct connections with community organizations for services such as housing, transportation, and employment assistance.

 

(2020-12) In coordination with community partners, celebrate the centennial of women’s right to vote by conducting a multimodal public information/education campaign culminating with a special community event.

(2020-13) Support the Complete Count Committee in educating the community and promoting the 2020 Census.

(2021-12) Conduct the redistricting process as mandated by the Florida Constitution to ensure Leon County's Commission districts reflect the results of the 2020 Census.

(2021-13) Become a member of the Government Alliance on Race and Equity (GARE) organization and integrate initiatives and resources of GARE in human service programs such as CHSP where possible.

 

As staff continues to explore and incorporate the Toolkit into the CHSP process, where opportunities are found that might serve other departments or Countywide, HSCP will share resources and invite other departments to participate in training opportunities.  For example, while exploring the GARE website, staff shared an issue brief with the Library that GARE produced, Advancing Racial Equity in Public Libraries, that identifies best practices undertaken by public libraries to advance equity in its policies and procedures.  More information in the use of these practices will be provided in future updates regarding the Essential Libraries Initiative.

 

(2021-14) In working with community partners, bring greater community awareness of Florida Emancipation Day (May 20th).

 

Leon County promoted the calendar of events for Florida Emancipation Day hosted by these organizations. The County also held its own Emancipation Day events including a virtual Created Equal event in coordination The Village Square and the Florida Humanities Council.  Additionally, the Library launched Poets for Freedom, a program where citizens submitted videos or recordings of original poems on the topic of freedom. Book & media displays were also installed at all libraries, and staff curated a list of downloadable e-books, e-audio and online films on the topic of emancipation.

 

(2021-15) Provide the Children Services Council a loan to support its initial operations.

 

The CSC borrowed a total of $150,000 which was repaid in full to the County in December 2021.

(2021-16) Develop a public engagement coordination and planning process with the City and Big Bend Continuum of Care for the siting of all future homeless shelters and support facilities.

 

 

 

 

Attachments:

  1. Baseline Data for FY 2017 – FY 2021 Targets & Bold Goals
  2. Implemented Citizen Ideas, Improvements, Solutions and Opportunities for Co-Creation