Mayor Rich Walker
A Message from Mayor Rich Walker
Happy April, Parkland. With April upon us, our City Commission enthusiastically steps into our Strategic Planning Session. This is an opportunity that enables our commission an ideal setting to discuss the multitude of ideas presented by our residents.
We utilize these subject matters to set the stage for our Budget for the next year (which begins in October). We also set the stage for years moving forward. This is a fantastic opportunity for us to collaborate as a team and discuss important things together, ultimately setting out our Beautiful City course. We always welcome ideas and look forward to these valuable discussions.
Unfortunately, last year with the onset of Covid-19, our strategic planning session was canceled. However, we continued our progress with capital projects that will be happening later this year, such as the drainage repairs in Pine Trails Park for Fields 6, 7, 8, and 9.
April is Child Abuse Awareness Month. We need to be mindful of the multitude of stresses impacted upon our youth growing up in today’s unprecedented environment. The combination of social media, the pandemic, and an overall decrease in personal interaction can be incredibly overwhelming. This is stressful for all of us, but even more so for our children.
As a community, we can encourage and motivate one other with positive relationships, kind hearts, support, and love.
Child Abuse Prevention Guidelines:
• Never discipline your child when your anger is out of control.
• Participate in your child’s activities and get to know your child’s friends.
• Teach your child to use their voice to allow them to prevent abuse in their own life.
• Listen to them and believe what they say.
• Be aware of changes in your child’s behavior or attitude and inquire into it
Report abuses or neglect:
1-800-962-2873, Florida Relay 711 or TTY: 1-800-955-8771
On a lighter note, Let’s Play Ball!
April 1st is the start of the Major League Baseball season. To me, this is the start of the BEST season (Go Phillies!). Some of my favorite childhood memories center upon watching a baseball game with my father and younger brother. These are the traditions that I enjoy sharing with my very own family.
Upcoming Events:
Saturday, April 3, we have our Family Eggstravaganza. We will begin at 5:30 pm with fun-filled activities and culminate with a movie at 7:45 pm. We also have our fabulous Farmers Markets on Sunday, April 11 and 25, from 9-1.
Meetings:
Our Commission meetings this month are Wednesday, April 7, and Wednesday, April 21 at 7 pm in City Hall. For information and agendas for our meetings, please visit our website. cityofparkland.org
Your thoughts matter to me. Communication with our residents is vital to the overall success of our City. I encourage you to reach out to me. I can always be reached via email at rwalker@cityofparkland.org or via cell phone at 973-390-1453
Rich Walker
City of Parkland, Florida
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