Marion Minute

Tourist Development Director Loretta Shaffer

Loretta Shaffer is Marion County's Tourist Development Director and the head of the Ocala - Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau.
In this episode, Shaffer discusses how her experience as a Disney cast member led her on a tourist development path, the importance of tourism to Marion County's economic outlook, the benefits residents see from tourists entering Marion County, how her agency was able to respond to the coronavirus pandemic, and what she's excited about in the coming months.

Building Safety Director Michael Savage

Michael Savage is the Director of Marion County's Building Safety Department.
In today's episode, Savage discusses his path from the U.S. Army to the building inspection profession, the importance of hiring a licensed contractor, breaking down the potentially adversarial relationship between builders and inspectors, technological innovations like Remote Video Inspections (RVI), and the role his department plays in Marion County's incredible rate of growth. 

Parks and Recreation Director Jim Couillard

Jim Couillard serves as Marion County's Parks and Recreation Director.In this episode, Couillard talks about his journey from serving as a U.S. Army infantryman to a park designer, the diversity and complexity of his department, how Parks & Rec grappled with the pandemic, the importance of providing physical education opportunities to kids in virtual school, and how crucial it is to protect Marion County's unique natural resources.

Commissioner Kathy Bryant

Kathy Bryant is a Marion County Commissioner serving District 2.In today's episode, Commissioner Bryant discusses what got her into politics, what's changed in Marion County since she first took office in 2010, how she handled chairing the Commission during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and how she's always willing to take time out to speak to Marion County residents -- even after a kayaking trip on the Rainbow River!

County Administrator Mounir Bouyounes

Mounir Bouyounes serves as County Administrator for Marion County, Fla. He holds the top administrative position in Marion County's government and oversees the daily operations for 24 county departments as well as the preparation of the county's budget.In this episode, Mr. Bouyounes discusses his path to the County Administrator position, the magnitude of the role and the process of preparing an agenda and working with the County Commission, the challenges and opportunities facing Marion County in 2021, and the benefits of the Penny Sales Tax.Mounir also delivers a message to Marion County employees, the Board of County Commissioners, and to the residents of this great county.

Commissioner Michelle Stone

Marion County Commissioner Michelle Stone represents District 5.
 
In this episode, Commissioner Stone discusses the collaboration between commissioners and county staff, the challenges of COVID-19, Marion County's Farmland Preservation Area, the 2020 Census and economic opportunities in Marion County.

Commissioner Carl Zalak, III

Marion County Commissioner Carl Zalak represents District 4 and currently serves as the commission's Vice Chairman.
In this episode, Commissioner Zalak talks about how he got into politics, the commission's role in mitigating the coronavirus pandemic, economic wins in the community, the World Equestrian Center and the natural resources that make Marion County great.

Commissioner Craig Curry

Craig Curry is a Marion County Commissioner representing District 1.
The newest County Commissioner, Curry talks about settling into his role, what the County Commissioners' job entails, the importance of preserving history and what he loves about Marion County.

Commission Chairman Jeff Gold

Marion County Commissioner Jeff Gold represents District 3 and currently serves as Commission Chairman.
In this episode, Commissioner Gold discusses public safety, government transparency, the challenges of 2020 and what he's excited about heading into 2021.

Marion Minute - Introduction

An introduction to the podcast.
 
This is what Marion Minute is all about.