Press Releases are official public statements to promote specific, significant information. These are used to disseminate accurate, appropriate, timely information to internal and external public and the news media, improving communication effectiveness, transparency and efficiency. Centralization of public information and media relations will provide the Communications Department with the primary responsibility for those services. While each department will continue to provide information and expertise, Communications will work to ensure accuracy, timeliness, consistency and responsiveness. Establishing and maintaining a positive, professional relationship with the news media is an important link in communicating vital information to County residents and other constituencies.