By-Line: Julie Murphy, Flagler County Government
Flagler County Emergency Management Director Jonathan Lord completed the County Government Education program, developed by the Institute for County Government and made possible through the University of Florida|IFAS extension. He and five other program graduates from across the state were recognized at an award ceremony held during the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) Annual Conference and Educational Exhibition.
The County Government Education (CGE) program was designed for county staff to have the same educational opportunities as county commissioners offered by the Institute for County Government (ICG). The curriculum for the CGE designation consists of 45 hours of coursework encompassing a diverse range of courses, such as growth management, financial management, and ethics, as well as elective courses such as affordable housing, emergency management, and resiliency.
“I enjoyed the opportunity to expand my knowledge outside of my public safety education and experience,” Lord said. “A broader understanding within other areas of government will help me to better serve the residents of Flagler County as emergency management director.”
Before the creation of the CGE program, county staff members were allowed to audit ICG’s Certified County Commissioners program workshops, but without the ability to track progression or recognize participation.
“The CGE program offers a unique path for county staff members to learn more about the intricacies and complexities of local government,” said ICG Executive Director Eric Poole. “They can explore sectors outside of their everyday role and expand their knowledge in areas of interest, cultivating a new generation of leaders.”
Participants must fully commit to the coursework to graduate from the CGE program. This year, ICG recognized six county staff members statewide for graduating from the program.
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