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1 <br /> ORANGE COUNTY <br /> BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS <br /> ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT <br /> Meeting Date: September 9, 2025 <br /> Action Agenda <br /> Item No. 2 <br /> SUBJECT: Discussion Regarding the Work of the Strategic Communications Work Group <br /> DEPARTMENT: Community Relations <br /> ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT: <br /> Wil Glenn, 919-245-2302 <br /> PURPOSE: To discuss the efforts of the Strategic Communications Work Group and provide <br /> direction to staff on the future role of the Work Group. <br /> BACKGROUND: The Strategic Communications Work Group (the Work Group) was first <br /> established on June 17, 2014, as part of a three-phased approach to developing a Strategic <br /> Communications Plan. <br /> The original Work Group included the Deputy County Manager, County department <br /> representatives designated by the County Manager, and two (2) members of the Board of <br /> Commissioners. Since that time, the Work Group has met periodically, but also experienced <br /> periods of inactivity. <br /> The current Work Group, comprised of two (2) members of the Board of Commissioners and the <br /> Community Relations Director, meets monthly. <br /> At the Board's July 8, 2025 Business meeting, Commissioner Amy Fowler (a current member of <br /> the Work Group) proposed that the Board schedule a discussion regarding the Work Group's role <br /> and future. Continuation of the Work Group as is or with an amended role are potential options. <br /> It has also been noted that the Work Group could be sunset and that the County Manager and <br /> staff could instead provide regular updates regarding the County's communications efforts at <br /> Board of County Commissioners' meetings. <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 the Strategic <br /> Communications Work Group and provide direction to staff on a preferred path forward, which <br /> could include the Work Group continuing as is, moving forward with an amended role, or <br /> sunsetting the Work Group. <br />