GREEN COVE SPRINGS — Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook took the time to address citizens' concerns regarding Boater Skip Day at Tuesday’s Board of County Commissioners meeting. 

The unofficial holiday took place on June 6, where nearly 1,000 boaters hit the water for a day of relaxation and fun.

Cook said she has heard of some viewing it as a waste of taxpayers' dollars when it comes to the agency's resources being assigned to the event. She said that was not the case. 

Sheriff Michelle Cook said Boater Skip Day saw only a handful of arrests and injuries.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CLAY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

With at least 12 emergency responder organizations and 120 first responders out and about, she said the agency had the perfect opportunity to test out the effectiveness of their communications, response platforms and equipment. All things she said are necessary to keep the community safe. 

“In many ways, this was a full-scale exercise for us to make sure all of those things are working, so that when — not if — but when a disaster strikes, you’ve got 12 agencies who've now worked together. And we’ve proven it."

In total, she said the day saw only a handful of arrests and injuries.

“The value in the exercise of bringing all those first responders together to work an event like that is priceless,” she said. 

Commissioners agreed with her sentiments and expressed their gratitude for the agency’s work. 

“I don’t think anyone would perceive it to be a waste of taxpayer money if their family member was in a crisis and they had a cardiac event out on the water. They would want you there as quickly as possible. So, we appreciate the fact that your agency, the Clay County Fire Rescue, takes this seriously,” said District 1 Commissioner John Sgromolo. 

Amateur Radio Week was recognized at the BCC meeting.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CLAY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

In other business, the board recognized several groups and gave one declaration. 

Lake Asbury Junior High’s Kids Helping Kids Club was recognized for their efforts in raising $5,000 to fulfill the dream of a classmate battling a life-threatening condition. 

Amateur Radio Week and Solid Waste Workers Week were also acknowledged. The board also gave a declaration for National Mosquito Control Awareness Week.