Information Outreach

Manatee County Information Outreach was created in 2008 to raise public awareness of the important services Manatee County Government provides its residents and visitors. This small division of the County Administrator’s Office is focused on several key areas:
 

• External Communication focuses on delivering information to the public and media on the 70-plus taxpayer-funded programs that benefit the community. We accomplish this through regular news alerts, brochures, flyers, e-mail blasts, instructional materials (forms, bus schedules, etc.), advertisements, TV graphics and public service announcements on Manatee Government Access channel and on our website, www.mymanatee.org.
   
• Internal Communication involves generating material to communicate with the county employees, including a monthly newsletter and e-mail blasts to ensure employees are aware of available programs and benefits.
   
• Information Outreach coordinates State Legislative Affairs for the Board of County Commissioners by serving as a liaison with state representatives and senators. We review proposed legislation and report the potential advantages or drawbacks to local government to Manatee County department directors and program managers.
   
• I.O. is also the County’s arm for Media Relations, responsible for partnering with journalists to disseminate accurate information on Manatee County Government. Information Outreach coordinates media interview appointments, disseminates press releases and carries out occasional public records requests.

To learn more about Information Outreach, call division coordinator Nicholas Azzara at (941) 745-3771.