The Marion County Board of County Commissioners held a significant meeting on June 3, 2025, celebrating the graduation of the 2025 Citizens Academy class. This program, now in its fifteenth year, aims to educate residents about local government operations and the effective use of tax dollars.

Public Relations Director Bobbie Perez opened the meeting by acknowledging the contributions of key individuals who helped facilitate the program, including Roger Waddell, Carlos Medina, and Matthew Bridal. The Citizens Academy, which spans three months, provides participants with insights into various county departments, enhancing their understanding of local governance.

During the meeting, two graduates, Bill McCrell and Nadine Escobar, shared their experiences. McCrell highlighted the friendly and informative nature of county employees, noting the transparency regarding the use of sales tax for community projects. Escobar expressed her appreciation for the program, particularly enjoying visits to the library and learning about the county's planning for growth and conservation.

The meeting also included a proclamation declaring June 2025 as Faith and Family Month in Marion County. This initiative, proposed by community member Louine Eck, aims to honor the role of faith and family in building strong communities. The proclamation was accepted by Eck, who emphasized the importance of family and faith in fostering a supportive environment.

The meeting concluded with a call for graduates to become ambassadors for Marion County, encouraging them to share their newfound knowledge and assist fellow residents in navigating local government resources. The commissioners expressed gratitude for the participants' commitment to understanding and engaging with their community.