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1 <br /> ORANGE COUNTY <br /> BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS <br /> ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT <br /> Meeting Date: April 7, 2026 <br /> Action Agenda <br /> Item No. 7-b <br /> SUBJECT: Discussion on Strategic Communications Approaches <br /> DEPARTMENT: Community Relations <br /> ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT: <br /> Presentation Wil Glenn, 919-245-2302 <br /> PURPOSE: To discuss and consider possible approaches to the County's Strategic <br /> Communications efforts and provide direction to staff. <br /> BACKGROUND: The County formed a Strategic Communications Work Group (Work Group) on <br /> June 17, 2014, as part of a three-phased approach to developing a Strategic Communications <br /> Plan. The original Work Group included the Deputy County Manager, County department <br /> representatives designated by the County Manager, and two members of the Board of <br /> Commissioners. The Work Group met periodically, but also experienced periods of inactivity. The <br /> Work Group, as most recently comprised, included two members of the Board of Commissioners <br /> and the Community Relations Director. <br /> The BOCC discussed the Work Group at its November 11, 2025 work session and agreed by <br /> consensus to sunset the Work Group's work. <br /> This item provides the opportunity for the Board to discuss possible approaches to the County's <br /> Strategic Communications efforts for the future and provide direction to staff. <br /> FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item. <br /> ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports: <br /> • GUIDING PRINCIPLE — COMMUNICATION AND AWARENESS <br /> We provide information and opportunities for engagement in a transparent manner so that <br /> all in our community have knowledge, understanding, and a voice. <br /> RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board discuss and consider <br /> possible approaches to the County's Strategic Communications efforts and provide direction to <br /> staff. Potential pathways could include: <br /> • directing the County Manager and staff to provide regular communications updates at <br /> BOCC Business meetings; <br /> • directing the Community Relations staff to create alternative collaborative opportunities <br /> with residents, in alignment with the Strategic Communications and Engagement Plan <br /> currently in development; <br /> • reestablishing a Work Group with designated members and responsibilities; or <br /> • other opportunities as may be proposed. <br />