The month of April is a time to celebrate the most cherished aspects of the great City of Parkland – a place where natural beauty, diversity, and inclusivity converge to create a vibrant community unlike any other.
Starting with Earth Day, this month serves as a reminder of the significance that our environment has had on the fabric of our City’s DNA. From our roots as a rural agricultural community, Parkland has long recognized the importance of protecting and conserving our natural resources. Indeed, our city’s seal reads “Environmentally Proud” as a reflection of our deep-seated values and unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship.
Whether it’s strolling along the trails through the Doris Davis Forman Wildlife Preserve, admiring the majestic beauty of the Everglades, or simply enjoying our last Farmers’ Markets of the season (April 7 & 21), take a moment to appreciate our city’s unparalleled opportunities to explore the wonder of the great outdoors and do what you can to affirm your commitment to environmental responsibility.
With April being Autism Awareness Month, it’s also the perfect time to reflect upon our community’s other greatest natural resource that truly sets Parkland apart – its people. As Vice Mayor, I’m proud to say that Parkland was the first city in Broward County to be recognized as autism-friendly by the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern Center for Autism & Related Disabilities. Our City staff completed robust training on how to foster an environment that allows individuals with autism and their families to reach their full potential.
This is one of the things I love most about Parkland. We embrace inclusivity as a core value that enriches our community and create an environment where everyone feels valued, respected and empowered to thrive. The diverse tapestry of voices and perspectives is what makes our city so uniquely special.
Speaking of making our city special, this month, our City Commission will be conducting our annual Strategic Planning Session, where we set the project, program, and work priorities for the upcoming year and beyond. This exercise is vital in preserving Parkland’s character and charm that makes it one of the greatest places to live in the country, while also preparing our city for the future. We value your input in this process, so please do not hesitate to reach out.
Finally, I’d like to wish a Happy Passover to all who celebrate. Enjoy your time with your loved ones, and remember that together, we can sow seeds of kindness, cultivate compassion, and grow a brighter, greener future for generations to come.
If you have any questions, comments, or ideas, I would love to hear from you. I can be reached via e-mail at jisrow@cityofparkland.org or via cell phone at (561) 376-1014.
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