The Media & Community Relations Department is the media and public relations arm of the City responsible for keeping all Suffolk constituents informed about the actions of their City government.

Staff promote rapport and goodwill between the City and the community through the interchange of ideas and the assessment of public opinion. In addition, the Department has the responsibility to seek public input and involvement in the affairs of City government and to establish effective two-way communications between the City and its constituents for everyone's mutual benefit.

Municipal Channel 190

The Department operates Suffolk Municipal Channel 190 on the local Charter Cable system and produces video programming of local interest. Many of the programs have been nationally and internationally recognized by industry leaders. Television coverage of many City activities and events including live broadcasts of all regular City Council Meetings and Work Session are shown on the Suffolk Municipal Channel and online.

The Director of the Department acts as City Spokesperson and Public Information Officer and responds to inquiries from the media.

Newsletter

Staff create several publications including the monthly Suffolk City e-Newsletter.

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Office

The Department serves as the City of Suffolk FOIA Office and is the point of contact for citizens and businesses seeking documents under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), and coordinates responses for all City Departments.

City Switchboard

The Department also is responsible for answering the City's main switchboard (757-514-4000) and ensuring that visitors to Suffolk City Hall (442 West Washington Street) receive a warm welcome and are provided with assistance in answering any questions and directing them to the appropriate Departments to transact business or for any other needs.

National Night Out & Other Events

Staff assists in the coordination of special events and activities in the City, including the national award winning National Night Out "Going Away Party for Crime," annual State of the City event, City facility groundbreakings, ribbon cuttings, and more. Visit www.SuffolkNNO.com for more information.

Publications

Expert assistance is also provided to fellow Departments in graphic design and photography as well as the creation of brochures, pamphlets, invitations, flyers and more. Many such publications have been recognized by industry leaders for design and content excellence.

The Media & Community Relations Department can best be described as the "go to" Department for citizens and City employees alike!