Educational Tools Provide Map for Residents

Government services can be hard to navigate with all the acronyms, department names and various ordinances. Stafford provides tools to make government more accessible to residents - Blu's Academy and the Neighborhood Services Program. Blu's Academy is an online educational series designed to familiarize residents with government functions. The Neighborhood Services Program brings neighborhoods, particularly Homeowners' Associations (HOAs) and local government together.

Stafford has created informational videos highlighting each department's function in Stafford County and a study course to help you learn more. Named after Stafford's mascot Blu the Great Blue Heron, Blu's Academy consists of an online section of Stafford's website with videos highlighting the duties of each department in Stafford County Government. A worksheet is provided to answer simple questions. Once a student watches all the videos, he/she "graduates" and is awarded a special prize. Find out more at Blu's Academy.

Stafford County has a Neighborhood Services Program that was established to serve as a bridge between neighborhoods and the County, ensuring residents have the resources they need to thrive. The program aims to assist and assess community needs while promoting active engagement. Its primary goal is to build partnerships with neighborhoods, equipping them with the tools and knowledge necessary to enhance their communities.

Sign up for the "In the Know" quarterly newsletter, specifically for neighborhoods and homeowners, which provides updates on policies, community news, and issues affecting residents. Homeowners' Associations (HOAs), property managers, and individuals can subscribe at https://staffordcountyva.gov/neighborhoodservices. The program's webpage also provides essential information, including building permits, zoning regulations, bill payments and more. Staff members are available to provide short presentations to HOA meetings on topics of interest.

Do your research today and use these tools to make Stafford County Government more familiar to you.