Leon County Government

This week, our #WOWWednesday shines a well-deserved spotlight on Carolyn Novak, Application Systems Analyst with Tallahassee-Leon County Geographical Information Systems. Carolyn has served Leon County for 12 years, and has had the opportunity to spearhead various digital initiatives across County departments. Initially working with the Web Team, she led the development of several impactful platforms, including the Emergency Information Portal and the Flood Protection site, creating critical information hubs for our community. Since her transition to GIS, she has designed and developed a suite of websites that serve as useful community resources and has worked on several engaging projects, like the "History in Your Hands" scavenger hunt which merged technology with local history to connect residents with Tallahassee's rich heritage, as well as the front end of the Property Information Sheet application, including the highly efficient print functionality often used by real estate agents. In her work-life, Carolyn finds it most rewarding that she has the opportunity to create meaningful, lasting change in people's everyday lives by listening to community needs and creating effective solutions. "Working for the county government is such a unique way to make a real, positive impact on people's lives. Being so connected to the community gives us a clear understanding of their needs, concerns, and goals," she said. "Plus, we often get to see the results firsthand—helping individuals and groups feel empowered, getting involved in decision-making, and improving quality of life." Professionally, Carolyn maintains an active membership in the International Web Association. Additionally she is able to serve on the CHSP Citizens Review Team for Services for Persons with Disabilities and contribute her personal perspective to advocacy efforts. Outside of work, Carolyn is the parent of a child with disabilities. She notes how enriched her life has become by spending her time caring for her child. "It has profoundly deepened my understanding of the human experience," she said. Carolyn serves as the graphic designer for her daughter's YouTube channel - a time-consuming labor of love, as she described it. She has also co-written two books with her daughter, both about a favorite topic: American Girl Dolls. Carolyn emphasizes that witnessing her child overcome challenges and express creativity has revealed countless blessings that might otherwise have been missed. Carolyn, it is clear that you put your whole heart into all of your work - both as a mother and as an employee. Thank you for what you do!

Serve your community and help shape its future! Leon County is looking for passionate residents to join our Citizen Advisory Committees. Your voice matters in guiding responsible growth and development. Apply today and make a lasting impact: https://lnkd.in/emi_SdG.

Prepare the future workforce by registering as an exhibitor with Leon Works! Exhibitor registration is open to companies in the Big Bend Region for the 10th annual Leon Works Expo. This exciting event, taking place on Friday, April 25, at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center, offers employers the chance to showcase their businesses to more than 500 students who will enter the workforce soon. Register by April 11, at LeonCountyFL.gov/LeonWorks. #LeonWorks #SkilledWorkforce

Ready to make a difference in our community? We're looking for passionate individuals who are committed to delivering results, exceeding expectations, and being responsible stewards of public resources. If that sounds like you, we’d love to have you on the Leon County team! New positions this week are: Housing Services Specialist and Senior Administrative Associate. Explore opportunities and apply today at LeonCountyFL.gov/Jobs.

Today, Kianna Gilley, Leon County Public Information & Communications Manager, was awarded the prestigious Innovator Award by Tallahassee Woman Magazine at the 2025 Women Who Mean Business (WWMB) Women on Fire Awards! This award recognizes remarkable achievements and excellence in pushing boundaries and driving innovation, as well the leadership and passion of the women who are making a difference in our community. Kianna’s creativity, forward-thinking mindset, and groundbreaking ideas have made a significant impact in her field and her workplace. In just three years with Leon County Government, Kianna has distinguished herself through her professionalism, leadership, and innovative approach. She manages a seven-person team responsible for disseminating Leon County news and information through various channels and coordinating news conferences and events. Her ability to turn vision into reality has set her apart as a true trailblazer and an inspiration to women everywhere. We are honored to have Kianna as part of our County team. Congratulations on this stellar recognition!

Be a part of the Land Use and Mobility Element update by providing input on the draft Goals, Objectives and Policies that reflect the community’s expressed visions, values and growth plans for the future. Public comment is needed! To provide your feedback and fill out the public comment form, visit CompPlanTLC.com.

Are you interested in serving on a Citizen Advisory Committee? Currently, applications are being accepted for the following Leon County Committees: ?? Animal Classification Committee ?? Architectural Review Board ?? Board of Adjustment and Appeals ?? Council on Culture and Arts Board ?? Joint City/County Bicycling Workgroup ?? Leon County Research and Development Authority ?? Tallahassee-Leon County Council on the Status of Men and Boys ?? Trusted People Neighborhood Engagement Steering Committee For more information on committee responsibilities, member eligibility, and committee vacancies or to complete a Committee Application, visit: https://lnkd.in/eqfT7pEP.

Today's #WOWWednesday features Ross Brand, Public Information Specialist for the LeRoy Collins Leon County Public Library System. Ross joined the County team in August of 2023 and has taken on several noteworthy projects during that time. He took the lead on editing the Bicentennial Community Cookbook and worked on developing the promotional campaign for the upcoming Library Lecture, Dante and Friendship in Modern Times, which included writing press releases, creating social media content, designing printed materials, and coordinating outreach to local media and community partners to engage a broad audience. Ross also worked with library and Community & Media Relations (CMR) staff to redesign the library’s monthly calendar, improving readability, accessibility, and visual appeal. In addition to all of his library-related projects, he also worked closely with CMR on the County's 2024 Annual Report video, where he reviewed all footage shot throughout the year and selected clips for consideration in the final editing process. When asked about what he most enjoys his job, Ross mentioned the variety of his workload. "From emergency activations and serving as a shelter coordinator to developing and promoting diverse library programming, the job is always engaging and challenges me to think creatively," he said. He continues to grow professionally and develop his career as an active member of the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA). Outside of work, Ross has an undeniable passion for music. After studying music as an undergraduate at Florida State University, he has been playing professionally ever since. He also loves reading as much as possible! Thank you, Ross, for your dedication to doing great work!

Don't miss the opportunity to showcase skilled career opportunities to hundreds of local high school students at the 2025 Leon Works Expo taking place on Friday, April 25. Students will learn from individuals with local success stories and engage with employers in person to discover the career that best fits them. The deadline to register as an exhibitor is Friday, April 11. Register today at LeonCountyFL.gov/LeonWorks. #LeonWorks #SkilledWorkforce

Leon County juniors and seniors, take your education to the next level! Apply for the Fall 2025 semester of the Leon Works Junior Apprenticeship Program! Earn a paycheck and class credit while working side by side with a Leon County staff member in a skilled career. Applications close Monday, March 31. Apply today at https://lnkd.in/eXVzWuuD.