Mayor Rich Walker
A Message from Mayor Rich Walker
Now that December is here, we can all move on from the flurry of the election season and take a much-needed break.
Regardless of your brand of politics, we can all work together—as a City and as a community—to find ways to collaborate, listen to each other, and move forward with a common goal of focusing on Parkland’s bright future.
As the Mayor of Parkland, I am reminded every time I step into City Hall of my purpose as it relates to the City and our residents. I recently spoke to third-graders during Florida City Government Week earlier this fall, and each group of inquisitive listeners shared a common question: “What do you do as Mayor?” The simplicity of an 8-year-old’s question helps you get right to the point. I responded to our third-graders with this – “As Mayor, I work for Parkland residents by listening, answering questions, making connections, and helping others.”
This post-election and holiday season, I encourage Parkland residents to do the same.
We would all do better to focus on our similarities for a while, and rally around to make each other’s lives a little better. If you know your neighbor is struggling with something that you can help them with, do it. If you are a student who is good at a particular subject and you know someone who isn’t and would like the help, tutor them. Be the first to raise your hand to volunteer. And think about the little things, like practicing car line etiquette. Sharing the road or opening the door for someone goes a long way.
When it comes to community, think like a third-grader. Let’s be about the business of working together – not only on the local, County, and State levels, but on the home, neighborhood, and community levels. Without connections, friendships, and strong partnerships, we don’t have much.
There is plenty of need out there and much of that need can disappear if we just pay attention. We all have something that speaks to us, something we connect with. This month, just take a little time to open your ears and your heart to it.
Enjoy your families and take care of yourselves, and each other.
If you would like to share your thoughts, I would love to hear from you. I can be reached via e-mail at rwalker@cityofparkland.org or via cell phone at (973) 390-1453. Of course, I am frequently available monthly at Parkland businesses and love to talk with residents there. I encourage you to visit the City’s website, cityofparkland.org, and click on the social media icon that you prefer, to ensure that you stay informed on events and helpful information.
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