Read Charlotte Nash's State-of-the-County Address

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State of the County 2013 -1- 1/16/2013

State of Gwinnett County 2013 by Charlotte J. Nash, Chairman

Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners

As prepared for delivery on January 16, 2013, to Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce and Council for Quality Growth

Hello, everyone. Happy 2013 and thank you for being here.

As many of you know, I have deep roots in Gwinnett County, and I’m fascinated by its history.

I don’t intend to go too far into the past today, but I will say that Gwinnett’s story has been filled with ups and downs and plot twists along the way. The last few chapters were painful at times, and a few characters have been removed. But overall, Gwinnett’s story is a tale of success and a testament to those who made it happen.

As we begin 2013, I believe we’ve reached a turning point. And today, I’m going to ask you to join me in shaping Gwinnett’s next chapter.

But first, I need to thank the Council for Quality Growth and the Chamber of Commerce for organizing this event year-after-year.

Thank you, Jim Maran, for your service to the Chamber. Enjoy retirement.

I want to ask my fellow commissioners – who will be key players in the next

chapter – to stand and be recognized for their service and leadership…

 from District One, Jace Brooks…

 from District Two, Lynette Howard…

 from District Three, Tommy Hunter…

 and from District Four, John Heard.

If you'll join me in thanking these folks.

It takes teamwork to move the County government forward – including the leadership of other elected officials… such as prosecutors, judges, and constitutional officers. As these other elected County officials stand, join me in showing our appreciation.

We are blessed with great education assets in Gwinnett. Would those of you serving as leaders in our education community – board of education member, superintendent, college president, board of regents member, and other educators – please stand so we can recognize your accomplishments?

I know many representatives from Gwinnett’s 16 cities are here today. Would all city officials please stand and let us show our appreciation for your service to your communities?

With the General Assembly in session today, I suspect that our state legislators are at the Capitol – but if any are here, please stand so we can acknowledge your service as well.

I also want to give a shout-out to our Congressional representatives and senators. They truly have some big challenges ahead.

I'm honored that Commissioner Mike Berg from Dawson County is here today. Mike is the incoming President of the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia and a former Gwinnett district commissioner. Mike, please stand. My fellow commissioners and I wouldn’t get much done without the support of our staff and employees.

Glenn Stephens, County Administrator, leads the efforts of the County employees. Glenn, would you stand and be recognized please?

Also, would County department directors and other senior staff stand?

If you’ve ever called my office, you’ve probably spoken with Debbie Savage, who does her best to keep me organized. Debbie – thank you for the support and help you give me every day.

Finally, I won’t make you stand, but I want to say thank you to the business community for your role in Gwinnett’s success. As you build your businesses, you create jobs and boost our economy. I especially appreciate the efforts and contributions of the four community improvement districts in Gwinnett.

Now, let’s talk about Gwinnett’s story……

You know how – when you’re reading a good story – some chapters are better than others? Some bring joy and celebration, while others are full of defeats and loss.

The past few chapters in Gwinnett, frankly, have not been our best. From the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression to wrongdoing by now-former commissioners, Gwinnett has taken hard hits over the last few years.

Read the complete speech on Lawrenceville Patch.