Students explore government services during Florida City Week

Students explore government services during Florida City Week

Published on October 27, 2025

As part of Florida City Week October 20-26, Gainesville city leaders welcomed area fifth-graders on a field trip to City Hall, giving students an inside look at the people, programs and services that keep their community running smoothly.

Mayor Harvey Ward greeted students selected as Alachua County Public Schools Citizens of the Month for October, along with their parents, and proclaimed Oct. 22, 2025, as "Celebrate City Government Day" in the City of Gainesville. During their visit, the group learned about the city charter, which establishes the Gainesville City Commission as the governing body, defines the roles of the city's charter officers, and outlines the services available to residents, including police and fire protection, parks and recreation, mosquito control and public works.

"I learned there are seven commissioners and five charter officers," said student Audrey Offei. She and fellow students met Mayor Ward, Gainesville City Clerk Kristen Bryant, and City Commissioners Bryan Eastman and Ed Book, who shared that Gainesville is the 13th largest of Florida's 411 municipalities by population as well as other fun facts.

"I appreciate the opportunity to learn about where I grew up my whole life," said parent Jerleesha Law.

Soon it was off to Regional Transit System (RTS) headquarters where the students viewed live traffic camera feeds and spotted city buses along their daily routes. As young passengers, the students are eligible to ride for free as part of the RTS Fare-Free Transit Program for those age 18 and younger.

At the Gainesville Police Department, students met Chief Nelson Moya and police officers, who emphasized their dedication to public safety.

"It's all about teamwork and collaboration," said Lt. Christopher Cardwell. "We work with the University Police Department, the Sheriff's Office and other agencies. We're more effective, more efficient this way and our goal is to always get the bad guy."

Officers also demonstrated some of the tools used in law enforcement, including an armored vehicle, ballistic shields and a police drone.

"The drones can fly up high and see people in the dark," said student Kingston Chang.

The final stop was Gainesville Fire Rescue Station 1 where the group toured the firehouse kitchen, weight room and sleeping quarters. They also witnessed a Gainesville firefighter quickly put on approximately 50 pounds of protective equipment.

"I had never been there before," said student Kennedy Garner. "It was fun, and I think I might work there when I get older."

Now in its 19th year, Celebrate City Government Day is a partnership between the City of Gainesville and Alachua County Public Schools. This year's students represented 12 public elementary schools throughout the county.

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