Highlights from the Feb. 24, 2026 County Commission Meeting
Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026
Last Updated: Wednesday, Aug. 05, 2026
Announcements
Communications Director Mark Sexton announced that the annual Alachua County Youth Fair and Livestock Show will be held March 5-10 at the county’s Agriculture and Equestrian Center in Newberry.
The free event is an educational platform for local youth interested in agriculture and their livestock and non-livestock 4-H & FFA projects. For the schedule and more information, visit www.acyfls.com.
Gun Violence Prevention Alliance
The County Commission heard a presentation from the Community Gun Violence Prevention Alliance about its five-year strategic plan. The alliance is a partnership between the county, City of Gainesville, Santa Fe College and Children’s Trust.
The alliance has multiple goals, including reducing firearm-related injuries and juvenile gun-related arrests; reducing recidivism; educating people on proper gun storage; strengthening family stability; and working with the School Board of Alachua County on prevention efforts by creating a coordinated “system of care” to provide programs and resources for area youth.
County staff will continue planning and collaborating as an alliance member to help prioritize the plan's strategies.
Economic Development Advisory Committee
The commission heard a presentation about the Economic Development Advisory Committee’s accomplishments from 2025 and its work plan for this year.
Residential development
The commission approved a rezoning in the western portion of the county, off Southwest 143rd Street in Jonesville, just south of Tara Estates. The site, by right, allowed for 10 residential units, but will now allow up to 20.
Climate Advisory Committee
The commission heard an annual update from the Citizen Climate Advisory Committee, which includes implementing the county’s Climate Action Plan.
Recognitions
Commissioner Anna Prizzia proclaimed April 25, 2026, as The Great American Cleanup Day in Alachua County.
Read the proclamation.
Commissioner Marihelen Wheeler proclaimed Feb 23-March 1 as Hazardous Materials Awareness Week.
Read the proclamation.
Commissioner Charles “Chuck” Chestnut IV proclaimed March 2-6 as Newspaper in Education Week.
Read the proclamation.
Graduates of the 2025 Leadership Academy were recognized.
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Watch the presentations.
If you have a disability and need an accommodation in order to participate in a County program, service or public meeting, please contact the Alachua County Equal Opportunity Office at 352-374-5275 at least 2 business days prior to the event. TTY users please call 711 (Florida Relay Service).
