BELLEVIEW, FL (352today.com) – Marion County Board of County Commissioners Chair Kathy Bryant delivered the State of the County address at the Belleview Chamber and Economic Partnership’s Belleview on the Rise at Belleview High School on Aug. 26, 2025.

There’s a lot of excitement in terms of the progress that’s being made and the sheer volume of things that are happening in Marion County as a community, said Bryant.

“We hope that you can value all of the work that we put in, the challenges we’ve overcome and the opportunities we’ve embraced, to make our community the success it is today,” said Bryant. “That’s why Progress with Purpose is this year’s focus for the State of the County. Our success is in thanks to partnerships between our municipalities. our commission, our constitutional officers, the business community, and you the citizens of Marion County.”

The partnerships strength plays a critical role, and Bryant has the pleasure of working with four other county commissioners that oversee the services that are provided to the community.

It’s expected that the county’s population will reach 500,000 by 2030.

“Our primary responsibilities include enacting ordinances and resolutions and ratifying the budgets of all the constitutional officers, to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents and visitors,” said Bryant. “We don’t do this alone. In Marion County we’re fortunate to have an amazing working relationship amongst all our elected officials also known as our constitutional officers.”

Chair Bryant went onto explain to the audience the roles the constitutional officers play in Marion County.

Wesley Wilcox, the Supervisor of Elections Wesley Wilcox’s office manages voter registration, oversees elections with the absolute of the highest of integrity, verifies petitions and ensures compliance amongst election laws.

Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods oversees law enforcement and public safety in partnership with the Cities of Belleview and Ocala and their Police Departments. Sheriff Woods also oversees the Marion County Jail operations, warrants and emergency management.

Jimmy Cowan, the Marion County’s property appraiser, recently celebrated his 33rd year at the property appraiser’s office. Cowan assesses the value of all intangible personal property for tax purposes, ensuring fair and accurate taxation.

George Albright, the Marion County Tax Collector, is responsible for managing various government services including the collection and distribution of property taxes to support local government agencies, along with a number of other services including vehicle and vessel services, registrations, titles, license plates as well as issuing and renewing drivers’ licenses and identification cards and processing renewals for concealed weapons permits.

Gregory Harrell, the Clerk of the Court and Comptroller, oversees court records, jury duty, marriage licenses, passports and official documents, as well as being the person who holds all of the money that goes through Marion County.

A video featuring Harrell and the county commissioners was shown during the presentation.

Harrell discussed the county’s current financial position, which is strong and stable, and its reserve balance, and its importance, in the event of challenging times.

Commissioner Carl Zalak, III, provided insight into the county’s transportation system and infrastructure.

Commissioner Matt McClain showcased the importance and significance of Marion County Fire and Rescue, and their role as first responders in keeping the county’s citizens safe.

Commissioner Craig Curry gave a closer look at the county’s impressive library system.

Commissioner Michelle Stone was a harbinger of what’s yet to come with the progress that’s being made with the new animal shelter, and its current state and the role animal services plays in our community.