BRADENTON, Fla. — In recognition of Sunshine Week, celebrated March 11-17, the Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller has launched a directory of public records contact information through the Florida Court Clerks and Comptrollers and is encouraging Manatee County citizens to learn about the public records resources available to them through the Clerk’s office.
The directory on flclerks.com helps citizens connect with the appropriate Clerk’s office department or search records online and will be available through each Court Clerk’s office in the state.
Florida’s Sunshine Laws are among the strongest in the country, giving everyone access to important public information. These laws protect a citizen’s right to remain informed and engaged, making data such as financial reports, Board of County Commission meeting minutes and court records available to all.
In honor of Sunshine Week, Clerk’s office employees will be wearing yellow on Monday, March 12, and staff members have been undergoing annual training on Florida’s Sunshine and Public Records laws.
“We are fortunate to live in a state that promotes open government and encourages citizens to be engaged members of their communities,” said Angelina “Angel” Colonneso, the Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller. “During Sunshine Week this year, I hope we can inspire more people to learn about what is available to them.”
Sunshine Week is held annually, but for Clerks, upholding government transparency with accurate recordkeeping and efficient reporting is a priority every day.
Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers encourages constituents to take full advantage of the information they have at their disposal year-round. For more information about public records and Sunshine Week, visit www.sunshineweek.org.
About the Manatee County Clerk of the Court
The Florida Constitution established the Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller as a public trustee, independently elected to protect public funds and public records while executing the functions of Clerk of the Circuit Court, County Comptroller, Treasurer and Auditor, Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners and County Recorder. The Clerk oversees a staff of more than 275 people, responsible for performing nearly 1,000 constitutional or statutory functions or duties, representing the broadest and most diverse mantle of responsibility of any locally elected official. The citizens of Manatee County elect the Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller to a four-year term. Currently, Angelina M. Colonneso serves as the Clerk of the Court. For more information, call 941-749-1800 or visit www.ManateeClerk.com.
About Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers
Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers (FCCC) is a statewide nonprofit member association composed of the Florida Clerks of the Circuit Court and Comptrollers. The association provides local government support services, technical assistance and accreditation opportunities for all members. For more information, visit www.flclerks.com.