City hears updates from county and Gilmore Academy
By: Shelia Mader
In keeping open communication between the county and the city with various projects, Jackson County Board of County Commissioners Public Communications Officer, Mary Smith, provided an update to ongoing matters affecting the county to the Marianna City Commission at their regularly scheduled meeting last week.
Smith confirmed that Wilanne Daniels’ final day as County Administrator was June 3. The board is expected to begin discussions on how to fill the position during its June meetings. Smith said that Daniels’ departure marks a significant transition point for the county's leadership.
Grady Snell Jr.
She told that progress was continuing on the Shangri La Boardwalk project, which is now targeting an August completion date. The timeline was previously extended due to weather-related and shipping delays. Once completed, the boardwalk is expected to enhance recreational opportunities and attract visitors to the area.
The county has also reinstated its private road grading policy. Under the updated guidelines, residents can now request grading of private roads at their own expense. Requests must meet specific conditions and be scheduled within the county’s maintenance operations.
Another major item on the board’s agenda is the update of the county’s comprehensive plan, which is due by June 25. Smith noted that the updated plan is expected to be adopted at the next board meeting. Commissioners are also scheduled to attend the upcoming Florida Association of Counties (FAC) conference and complete state-mandated ethics training.
Radio station tower replacement moving forward
In response to a local contractor’s inquiry, the board discussed the status of a radio station tower that was destroyed during a severe weather event several years ago. The tower was covered by insurance, and the funds are currently held in a restricted account.
The city council has authorized staff to begin the process of replacing the tower by issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) within the next 30 days. Officials are also considering whether to include space for internet-based radio stations on the new tower. Members of the public emphasized the value of maintaining a local station to support businesses and provide community updates. Despite the loss of the tower, WTYS continues to operate in the region.
Gilmore Academy update
Grady Snell Jr., President of Gilmore Academy, addressed the board to clarify previous remarks that had been interpreted as critical of the commission. Snell expressed that his comments were not intended as an attack and affirmed the board's authority.
He reported that the Academy spent $17,000 in legal fees to resolve two lawsuits. Additionally, community surveys have been conducted to gather input and support the council’s decision-making. Snell also announced an upcoming youth basketball league championship game and shared sample surveys with the board, noting that additional results would be provided in the coming weeks.
The board thanked the public for their continued involvement and reaffirmed their commitment to transparency and responsiveness as county projects and issues move forward.