Chambers, Changes & Conversations - the official podcast of Manatee County Government

Latest Episodes:

Ep. 11: Manatee County Clerk Angel Colonneso Aug 25, 2025

Show notes

What does the Clerk of Court actually do - and why does it matter to every resident in Manatee County? In this episode of Chambers, Changes, and Conversations, we sit down with Clerk of Court & Comptroller Angel Colonneso to pull back the curtain on one of our most important constitutional offices.

Clerk Colonneso, the first woman ever elected to serve as Clerk in Manatee County, has been in office since 2015. She shares how her legal background prepared her for a role that touches nearly every corner of county life, from keeping official records and managing finances to overseeing jury duty, traffic cases, and even weddings.

We also hear some lighter stories from behind the scenes: her favorite historical artifact housed in the Clerk’s office, and the surprising second life of an old gumball machine.

Whether you’ve interacted with the Clerk’s office before or not, you’ll come away with a new appreciation for the history, responsibility, and humor that come with “doing work that matters” in this constitutional role.

🎧 Tune in to learn more about Clerk Colonneso’s journey and the office she leads at the heart of our county government.

https://www.manateeclerk.com

Ep. 10: Commissioner Amanda Ballard Aug 18, 2025

Show notes

What does it take to turn ideas into action? Commissioner Amanda Ballard, who represents Manatee County’s District 2, shares how her background as a child welfare attorney fuels her passion for protecting children, supporting families, and uplifting vulnerable residents.

In this episode, Commissioner Ballard reflects on the challenges she witnessed in as a lawyer in the child welfare system and how those experiences now guide her approach to local solutions. With Under One Roof, a women’s shelter opening in Manatee County in Fall 2025, to partnerships with Helping Up Mission and community health teams, she highlights how government can serve as a connector to existing nonprofit and private-sector resources.

We also dive into her advocacy for community gardens, the County’s recent purchase of Mixon Fruit Farm, and the vision to keep agricultural education thriving in Manatee.

If you’re interested in homelessness, child welfare, sustainable food systems, or smarter local government, this conversation offers an inspiring look at leadership rooted in service.

🎧 Tune in to hear how Commissioner Ballard is helping shape a healthier, stronger, and more connected Manatee County.