Board Recognition Archive



2019 Board Recognitions

expand Date: 12/17/2019


12-17-19 Human Trafficking Awareness Month
January 2020 has been designated as National Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month by the federal government; and

WHEREAS, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and community organizations founded one of the first human trafficking task forces in the country in 2005 which continues to be actively involved in the fight against modern day slavery through the Southwest Florida Regional Human Trafficking Coalition and the U.S. Attorney's Human Trafficking Task Force; and

WHEREAS, the State of Florida is recognized as one of three states with the highest incidence of human trafficking in the nation; and

WHEREAS, federal, state and local law enforcement and local organizations such as the Southwest Florida Regional Human Trafficking Coalition, Abuse Counseling Treatment, Human Trafficking Awareness Partnerships, Florida Gulf Coast University and Florida Southwestern State College are working collaboratively to build awareness through community and educational events, prevention programs for youth and trainings for businesses and medical facilities; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim the month of January 2020 as Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month in Lee County.


 
expand Date: 12/3/2019


12-3-19 Zonta Says No
We as citizens of this community, recognize the worldwide problems of violence against women occurs even here in Lee County, Florida; and 

Whereas, violence against women is traumatic to the body, mind and spirit and can prevent people from being fully active participants at home and in the world; and

Whereas, violence against women costs the nation billions of dollars annually in medical expenses, police and court costs, shelters and foster care, sick leave, absenteeism and non-productivity; and

Whereas, in spite of some progress, we need only to look at our newspapers or watch a television newscast to see the unfortunate truth that violence against women has not yet been eliminated here in Lee County or around the world; and

Whereas, we applaud the efforts of individuals and organizations such as the Zonta Club of Fort Myers, the Zonta Club of Naples, the Zonta Club of Sanibel-Captiva, and the Zonta Club of Bonita Springs-Estero, and the Zonta Club of Cape Coral to raise awareness, stimulate discussion, and advocate for local solutions that will curb violence against women;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim that during the 16 Days of Activism starting November 25, 2019, all citizens are urged to support work to end violence against women and to eliminate the detrimental consequences it has on the well-being of our community.


 


12-3-19 Habitat for Humanity Presentation
Habitat for Humanity of Lee and Hendry Counties recognizes the County for their contribution in helping us reach a recent milestone of 1600 families served in South West Florida area. As a small token of our appreciation for this wonderful partnership we would like to present to the Council a thank you plaque recognizing the County and all they have done in supporting our mission of bringing people together to build homes, communities and hope.


 
expand Date: 11/5/2019


11-5-19 Buddy Poppy Day Web
WHEREAS, the annual distribution of Buddy Poppies by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States has been officially recognized and endorsed by governmental leaders since 1922;  and

WHEREAS, the Buddy Poppy is a simple red flower that was discovered in war devastated France in World War I; and

WHEREAS, the red poppy growing in Flanders Fields memorialized the deaths of American and Allied soldiers; and

WHEREAS, the Buddy Poppy was adopted as the official memorial flower of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States of America; and

WHEREAS, the VFW Buddy Poppies are assembled by disabled veterans and the proceeds of this worthy fundraising campaign are used exclusively for the benefit of disabled and needy veterans and the widows and orphans of deceased veterans; and

WHEREAS, the basic purpose of the annual distribution of Buddy Poppies by the Veterans of Foreign Wars is eloquently reflected in the desire to “Honor the Dead by Helping the Living”; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim that November 11, 2019, shall be known, designated and set aside as VFW Buddy Poppy Day in Lee County and urges the citizens of this community to recognize the importance of Veterans Day and to express their gratitude to the men & women of this country who have risked their lives in defense of the freedoms which we continue to enjoy as American citizens.


 


11-5-19 Hunger and Homelessness AwarenessWeb
Whereas, there are an estimated 2,840 people who are homeless in Lee County.  The annual census of persons who are homeless completed in January 2019 indicated that of the sampling, 27% were chronic homeless, 3% were veterans, 30% reported having a disabling condition and among the 372 sampled were 30 families with 64 children; and

Whereas, the primary causes of homelessness are poverty combined with the lack of housing that is affordable to very low-income people and inadequate access to health care further complicated by domestic violence, substance abuse and mental illness; and

Whereas, the mission of the Lee County Homeless Coalition is to advocate,
educate, and promote awareness of issues and obstacles facing homeless individuals in Lee County through community collaboration, planning
and implementing solutions; and

Whereas, the Lee County Homeless Coalition will sponsor the “Homeless Challenge-Walk a Mile in their Shoes” as an educational program providing awareness to those who participate. During this event participants will become familiar with the social services network and methods of everyday survival for those who live on the streets. This Challenge will provide an experience that has the power to effect change;
 
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida hereby proclaims the month of November 2019 as HUNGER and HOMELESSNESS AWARENESS MONTH in Lee County and recognize that this is a month of special importance and encourages all citizens to recognize that many people do not have housing and need support from citizens, and public/private nonprofit service entities.


 
expand Date: 10/22/2019


10-22-19 Working Forests Week
Florida’s forests and forest-related industries are vital for today’s living and tomorrow’s needs and cover 17.3 million acres which represent nearly half of Florida’s total land area; and

WHEREAS, Florida’s working forests help protect valuable natural areas from the threat of conversion to other uses such as residential and commercial development, and provide numerous environmental and ecosystem benefits such as improved air quality and improved wildlife habitat; and

WHEREAS, the presence of healthy sustainable forests is vital for the protection and conservation of Florida’s water resources; and

WHEREAS, Florida’s working forests provide societal benefits such as plentiful spaces for beauty and recreation; and

WHEREAS, Florida’s working forests are carefully and professionally managed to provide timber products while sustaining and protecting renewable forest resources for future generations; and

WHEREAS, Florida’s working forests generate $14.5 billion in economic activity annually, provide jobs for more than 74,500 Floridians and provide material for more than 5,000 types of consumer goods;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim that the week of October 20, 2019 be designated as Working Forests Week in Lee County.


 


10-22-19 Length of Service
10-22-19 Length of Service Awards


 
expand Date: 10/1/2019


10-01-19 4H Week
4-H is a community of young people across America who are learning leadership, citizenship, and life skills; and

Whereas, the Lee County 4-H Youth Development Program exists to develop young people, ages 5 through 18, and has served young people in our state since 1909; and

Whereas, the 4-H Program has molded itself to meet the needs of our citizens by focusing on developing rural, suburban and urban youth and, through the Florida Cooperative Extension, teaches youth by utilizing the research and knowledge base of our state's land grant institutions, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences at the University of Florida; and

Whereas, through "learning by doing" experiences, young people in the 4-H Program practice life skills with the guidance of caring adult volunteer mentors and Cooperative Extension faculty and staff; and

Whereas, 4-H provides Lee County youth the opportunities to develop positive relationships, competencies and attitudes that will assist them in making positive choices for their lives, thereby effectively preparing them to meet the challenges of becoming productive citizens; NOW,   THEREFORE.,    BE   IT    RESOLVED   THAT   the    Board    of   County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim the week of October 1, 2019 as 4-H WEEK in Lee County.


 


10-01-19 Construction Career
WHEREAS, Build My Future Lee County is an annual event designed to help increase student awareness of the career opportunities available in the construction industry; and

WHEREAS, the construction industry is one of our nation’s largest industries, employing more than 5 million individuals in the United States and one of the largest employers in Lee County; and

WHEREAS, significant voids exist in new construction professionals with an estimated 1.4 million needed by 2022; and

WHEREAS, through a collaborative effort that involves policymakers as well as local educators, opportunities should be created and promoted to provide construction career paths for all students at all academic and social levels; and

WHEREAS, Build My Future Lee County was created by the Lee Building Industry Association in partnership with the Lee County School District to educate and promote careers in construction to students within Lee County; and

WHEREAS, the goal of the Build My Future Lee County initiative is to create a positive outlook about careers in the construction industry and provide a path for students to become construction professionals, and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim that October 2019 shall be known, designated, and set aside as “Build My Future Lee County Month” in Lee County and urges all citizens to join us in promoting a career in construction.


 


10-01-19 Navy 244 Birthday
Whereas, on October 13, 1775, the United States Navy was established by our nation’s leaders to maintain, train, and equip combat-ready Naval forces capable of winning wars, deterring aggression, and maintaining freedom of the seas; and

Whereas, for 244 years the United State Navy has answered the call of duty to protect this nation and its democratic values both in times of war and peace; and

Whereas, the United States Navy has been instrumental in presenting the ideals of fairness, equality, and courage all over the world through selfless actions of its men and women; and

Whereas, the central theme of the 2019 United States Navy birthday is, “No Higher Honor”, commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Leyte Gulf, the largest naval combat in history, where Sailors demonstrated unmatched courage and dedication to sacrifice for their country; and

Whereas, today, we celebrate the continued strength, professionalism and bravery of our resilient Navy Sailors, Personnel and Veterans, and observe October 13, 2019, as the 244th birthday of the United States Navy;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim October 13, 2019 as “The 244th Birthday of the United States Navy” in Florida and urges our citizens to commend its observance.


 
expand Date: 9/17/2019


09-17-19 Falls Prevention Awareness Day
It is estimated that 22 percent of Florida citizens are 65 years of age or older; and

Whereas, it is estimated that one fourth of people 65 and older will fall each year; and

Whereas, according to Florida Health Charts Death Count Query System, falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among people 65 and older in Florida, leading to 2,886 deaths in 2018; 57,862 hospitalizations in 2018; and 185,447 emergency department visits in 2018; and

Whereas, falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries among Florida citizens 65 years of age and older, with falls accounting for 58 percent of fatal traumatic brain injuries among older adults; and

Whereas, falls can lead to depression, loss of mobility, and loss of functional independence; and

Whereas, evidence-based programs reduce falls by utilizing cost-effective strategies, such as exercise programs to improve balance and strength, medication management, vision improvement, reduction of home hazards, and fall prevention education; and

Whereas, the Florida Falls Prevention Coalition is working to increase awareness of this issue, promote multidisciplinary strategies to prevent falls, and encourage citizens to take steps to protect those who are at an increased risk of falling;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim September 23, 2019 as “Falls Prevention Awareness Day” in
Lee County and urges our citizens to commend its observance.


 
expand Date: 9/3/2019


09-03-19 Hunger Action Month
September is Hunger Action Month nationwide, with Thursday, September 12, 2019 designated as Hunger Action Day; and

WHEREAS, Hunger Action Month is a hunger awareness campaign started by the Feeding America network of food banks, which includes the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida; and

WHEREAS, Lee County is one of five Southwest Florida counties the Harry Chapin Food Bank serves; and

WHEREAS, Lee County has about 86,050 people who are food insecure, which means they may not know where their next meal is coming from, according to Feeding America’s 2019Map the Meal Gap study; and

WHEREAS, about 26,400 of those 86,050 people are children; and

WHEREAS, the Harry Chapin Food Bank distributed nearly 11 million pounds of food in Lee County alone in the last fiscal year, and a total of 26.6 million pounds in its five-county service area; and

WHEREAS, the Harry Chapin Food Bank provides food to more than 150 nonprofit agencies throughout Southwest Florida and through its mobile pantry program, called Fulfill; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby proclaim that September be designated as Hunger Action Month in Lee County and urges citizens to continue to volunteer, advocate and donate to help end hunger in our community.


 


09-03-19 Walk Like MADD
“Walk Like MADD” is the signature fund raising event of MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving), the nation’s premier organization working to end drunk driving, help fight drugged driving, support victims of this violent crime and to prevent underage drinking; and

WHEREAS, MADD support drunk and drugged driving victims and survivors at no charge, serving one person every 8.6 minutes through local MADD Victim Advocates and their national call center.  In 1980, the year MADD was founded, 21,000 people were killed in drunk driving crashes.  Since then, the deadly total has been cut in half in the United States; and

WHEREAS, Southwest Florida MADD provides victim support services, community education, and youth programs that work to eliminate underage drinking and drunk driving throughout the Southwest Florida community; and

WHEREAS, On Saturday, September 28, 2019, Southwest Florida MADD will host the 4th annual “Walk Like MADD 5K Run/Walk” at JetBlue Stadium; and

WHEREAS, Unlike many other causes, drunk driving does not need a cure – the cure is awareness and education so that every driver drives sober or designates a driver; and

WHEREAS, Lee County encourages all citizens to make responsible decisions and take appropriate measures to prevent impaired driving; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby designates Saturday,     September 28, 2019 as “Walk Like MADD Day”.


 
expand Date: 8/20/2019


LengthofService8-20-19
Length of Service Awards 8/20/2019


 
expand Date: 6/18/2019


06-18-19 Breastfeeding Awareness
The breastfeeding of a baby is an important and basic act of nurture which must be encouraged in the interests of maternal and child health and family values; and

WHEREAS, a mother may breastfeed her baby in any location, public or private, where the mother is otherwise authorized to be; and

WHEREAS, the health benefits to breastfed children and their mothers, results in lower health care costs for employers, less employee time off to care for sick children, and higher productivity and employee loyalty; and

WHEREAS, mothers who breastfeed have a decreased risk of breast, uterine and ovarian cancer, postpartum depression, and osteoporosis later in life; and

WHEREAS, the nutrients exclusive to human milk are vital to the growth, development, and maintenance of the human brain and cannot be manufactured; and

WHEREAS, employers, employees, and society benefit by supporting a mother’s decision to breastfeed and by helping to reduce the obstacles to initiating and continuing breastfeeding;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby recognize the unique health, economic, and societal benefits that breastfeeding provides to babies, mothers, families, and the community and affirms that barriers to initiation and continuation of breastfeeding should be removed.


 


06-18-19 MangoMania
MANGO MANIA Tropical Fruit Festival was originated by the Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce and held at the Catholic church on Pine Island in July 1995; and

WHEREAS, establishing the festival was an effort to help the growers on Pine Island sell their fruit and plants during harvest time when the location of Pine Island was known by very few people; and

WHEREAS, the Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce decided not to hold the festival for the next two years due to the fact there was no suitable site on the island.  By popular request of Pine Islanders, the MANGO MANIA Tropical Fruit Festival was reinstated in 1998 utilizing the facilities of the KOA Campground in St. James City; and

WHEREAS, the festival is used as fundraisers by the Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis, M.O.T.I. and Calusa Land Trust to enable them to make contributions to Pine Island Elementary School, scholarship programs, F.I.S.H. and other charities; and

WHEREAS, MANGO MANIA was such a success that by 2001 it had outgrown the KOA facilities, and since there were no other suitable locations on the island, the decision was made to move the festival to the German-American Club to allow for continued growth that saw more than 10,000 attendees last year;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby extend their best wishes for a successful 2019 MANGO MANIA Tropical Fruit Festival being celebrated July 13-14, 2019.


 


06-18-19 Cliff Smith Retirement
United Way formed as an organization in 1957 to be a grassroots, volunteer driven, neighbor helping neighbor movement that solves community problems and continues with that same philosophy today; and

WHEREAS, Cliff Smith served the United Way of Lee County for 26 years, expanding its programs to Hendry, Glades, and Okeechobee Counties and growing its workforce to over 40 employees; and

WHEREAS, he helped to raise more than $157 million in campaign donations; and

WHEREAS, he increased the number of United Way partnering agencies to 96 and increased the United Way network of neighborhood houses to 19; and

WHEREAS, Cliff created United Way 211 for our community that fields tens of thousands of calls each year connecting individuals to needed programs and services; and

WHEREAS, he worked to bring Mission United to better serve our veterans; had the knowledge and vision to help start programs such as We Care and Beyond School Walls; identified and encouraged programs such as VITA, Reading Pals, and United Gifts in Kind; and

WHEREAS, Cliff led the community during its times of need for events such as Hurricane Irma, Hurricane Charley, the Water Quality Crisis, and the federal shutdown; and

WHEREAS, he acted as a source of wisdom and vision for community leaders and agency directors along with countless hours and non-tangible benefits that will touch our community for years to come; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby recognize the respected and loved, Cliff Smith, President of the United Way of Lee, Hendry, Glades, and Okeechobee Counties for his dedicated service to the community.


 


06-18-19 Parks and Recreation Month
The National Recreation & Parks Association has declared July as National Parks & Recreation Month; and

Whereas, Lee County Parks and Recreation touches the lives of individuals, families, groups, and the entire community, positively impacting upon the social, economic, and environmental quality of our county; and

Whereas, parks, greenways, and open spaces provide a welcome respite from our fast paced, high tech lifestyles while protecting and preserving our natural environment; and

Whereas, parks, playgrounds, nature trails, open spaces, community and cultural centers, as well as historic sites make a community attractive and desirable places to live, work, play and visit; and

Whereas, Lee County Parks and Recreation activities and leisure experiences provide opportunities for young people to live, grow, and develop into contributing members of society; and
 
Whereas, parks and recreation agencies provide outlets for physical activities, socialization and stress reducing experiences;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim July 2019 as PARKS & RECREATION MONTH  in Lee County and urges all citizens to visit the parks, especially on the weekend of July 28 and 29 when all parking fees will be waived at Lee County regional parks and boat ramps. There will also be free admission at the county pools.


 


06-18-19 Larry Kiker Preserve
Lee County acquired the 3,922 acre parcel that is located in Lee County's Density Reduction I Groundwater Resource (DR/GR) area, which is east ofl-75, south of Corkscrew Road and north ofWellfield Road; and

WHEREAS, Edison Farms is an agriculturally zoned land in southeast Lee County's DR/GR containing significant
natural flow-ways and critical species habitat; and

WHEREAS, Lee County Commissioners made preserving Edison Farms a top legislative priority and after acquiring the parcel in 2017 created it as a Conservation 20/20 preserve to protect the environmentally critical land from
future development; and

WHEREAS, Edison Farms is ranked as the second-largest  acquisition approved by the Board since the purchase of Bob Janes Preserve; and

WHEREAS, Conservation 20/20, which has preserved more than 29,000 acres since its inception, is Lee County's environmental acquisition and management program. Preservation lands help the county protect drinking water, provide nature-based recreational opportunities, protect areas from flooding and provide wildlife habitat; and

WHEREAS, Lee County Commissioner Larry Kiker, a longtime public servant and champion for the local community, was first elected to the Lee Board of County Commissioners in 2012 and reelected in 2016. Prior to his election as 􀁡ounty commissioner, he served on Fort Myers Beach Town Council for a total of six years, five of those years as mayor; and

WHEREAS, During his time on the commission, Commissioner Kiker was a strong advocate for the people and businesses of Lee County through his leadership and support of issues such as improving water quality, and preserving land; and

WHEREAS, Commissioner Kiker received numerous awards and honors during his distinguished public service career. In 2009, he received the Outstanding Citizen award from the Greater Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce. In 2013, he was a finalist for the News-Press' People to Watch and in 2014 for the newspaper's Public Official of the Year award. In 2014, the Florida Association of Counties presented him with the Presidential Advocacy A ward; and

WHEREAS, Commissioner Kiker will be remembered for seeking innovative and meaningful solutions to the challenges his community faced, working to make the quality of life better; and

WHEREAS, The Lee Board of County Commissioners wishes to name the Edison Farms property as the Larry Kiker Preserve in memory of Commissioner Kiker, who passed away April 23, 2019.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that those lands in southeast Lee County, owned by Lee County and known as Edison Farms, shall henceforth and forever be known as the: LARRY KIKER PRESERVE To recognize and honor the enormous commitment of Commissioner Kiker to the county he loved and to acknowledge the love of his constituent citizens for Commissioner Kiker.

FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED that all legal steps necessary to record this action shall be taken immediately by Lee County Government. MOREOVER, the County Lands Department is hereby authorized and directed to provide appropriate signage on or near the LARRY KIKER PRESERVE so that all might see, recognize and enjoy those lands Commissioner Kiker fought to save for all generations.


 
expand Date: 5/21/2019


5-21-19 Allen Park Elementary Odyssey of the Mindweb
WHEREAS, students from Allen Park Elementary School recently won the Division IA 2019 State of Florida Odyssey of the Mind Competition; and
 
WHEREAS, through their extraordinary efforts, this dynamic team, comprised of Richelle Britto, Victoria Busch, Nishini Fernando, Hailey Hartley, Jack McLean, Peyton Sidwell, and Finley Weirda, along with their coaches Jen Brooks and Sunshine Weirda spent many months preparing; and
 
WHEREAS, these students developed an 8-minute performance shedding light on three arguments that are representative of ongoing global issues that continue to divide humans: racial inequality, economic inequality, and religious division; they achieved this task and more through their commitment and countless hours of practice; and

WHEREAS, the Lee County Commissioners are pleased to publicly commend these exceptional students, their parents and school for their fine efforts; and
 
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim and congratulate the “Allen Park 2019 Division IA Odyssey of the Mind Florida State Champions”.

Duly executed this 21st day of May 2019.             


 


5-21-19 Trauma Awareness Monthweb (2)
Whereas, Trauma Awareness Month is designed to raise regional attention to trauma and what must be done to reduce the devastating impact of traumatic injuries; and

Whereas, trauma is the leading cause of death for all Floridians between the ages of 5 and 46; with someone in Florida being traumatically injured every 12 minutes; enough every year to fill Hertz Arena 6 times; and

Whereas, motor vehicle crashes and falls resulting in blunt force trauma make up more than 70% of all trauma cases treated in our trauma district area each year; and

Whereas, national studies show that patient mortality is reduced by 15 – 20% when the patient is treated for traumatic injuries in a Trauma Center rather than in a non-trauma center; and

Whereas, nearly 1 million people reside in the Lee County Trauma Services District comprised of Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry and Lee Counties; serviced by the only Trauma Center on the Florida Gulf Coast between Sarasota and Miami; and

Whereas, the Trauma Center at Lee Memorial celebrates 25 years of service and has provided lifesaving care to over 42,000 injured patients in the five county region; and

Whereas, recognition is due for the accomplishments and contributions to improve public welfare by providing quality trauma care for all residents and visitors;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby extend greetings and best wishes to those observing Trauma Awareness Month during the month of May 2019.

Duly executed this 21st day of May 2019.


 


5-21-19 Motorcycle Awareness Monthweb
WHEREAS, motorcycle riding in the Sunshine State is considered to be some of the best in the nation because of the climate and scenery in Florida and motorcycle riding is an energy-efficient form of transportation, increasingly used for commuting, touring and recreation; and
 
WHEREAS, more than 1.2 million drivers in Florida have a motorcycle endorsement on their driver license; and
 
WHEREAS, thousands of visitors come from northern states in the winter months to ride our roads and enjoy our beautiful weather and scenery; and

WHEREAS, findings show a greater need for public awareness due to the increased numbers of motorcycles on the streets and highways of Florida, and all motorists should be vigilant in their efforts to share the road and ensure the safety of everyone; and

WHEREAS, Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is intended to encourage other motor vehicle operators to share the roadways, be cautious, and check twice for motorcycle;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim that May 2019 shall be known, designated and set aside as 

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

in Lee County and urges all motorists to heighten their awareness of motorcyclists.

Duly executed this 21st day of May 2019.


 
expand Date: 4/16/2019


04-16-19 Child Abuse Prevention Month
The Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida is a non-profit agency that provides services to children who have been abused or neglected including medical exams, family assessments, parent and community education, and therapeutic treatment for child victims and parents; and

Whereas, child abuse and neglect results in significant trauma to the child, family and society as it causes children to suffer serious illness and injury resulting in impairment of physical, intellectual and emotional functioning and well-being or even death; and

Whereas, through a national effort, Lee County community members are encouraged to join together to raise awareness throughout the month of April for those children fallen victim to abuse and neglect; and

Whereas, this effort will give abused and neglected children in our community, and around the country, a chance for a safe and positive future;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim the month of April 2019 as CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH in Lee County and urges all citizens to join the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida in the national effort to raise awareness and help prevent child abuse and neglect.


 


04-16-19 Try Transit Day
The State of Florida is dedicated to improving air quality, reducing traffic congestion, promoting health and physical fitness, and reducing energy consumption; and

WHEREAS, the Florida Department of Transportation, District One, through its Commuter Services Program, contributes to these state goals by reducing traffic congestion and lowering greenhouse gas emissions throughout the region, by promoting the use of alternative commute modes; and

WHEREAS, Lee County Government and Lee County Transit, LeeTran,  are promoting “Try Transit Day” on April 22, to raise awareness of our destinations and routes in Lee County; and

WHEREAS, LeeTran will offer free rides on “Try Transit Day” on Monday, April 22, on all LeeTran fixed routes to encourage residents and visitors to use public transit;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim Monday, April 22, 2019 to be REGIONAL TRY TRANSIT DAY in Lee County and encourages residents and visitors to try alternative forms of transportation to work, school, shopping, or play.


 


04-16-19 Length of Service Awards
04-16-19 Length of Service Awards


 
expand Date: 4/2/2019


04-02-19 Paulette Burton Citizen of the Year Awards
04-02-19 Paulette Burton Citizen of the Year Awards


 


04-02-19 Keep Lee County Beautiful
Lee County is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty and many miles of pristine coastline; and

Whereas, it is incumbent upon all Lee County residents to maintain and preserve our beautiful natural resources and to enhance our environment and quality of life; and

Whereas, litter degrades the appearance of our neighborhoods, attracts crime, lowers property values, impacts economic development opportunities, harms land and wildlife; and

Whereas, litter prevention and cleanup efforts empower citizens to take a greater responsibility for making a visible difference in Lee County; and

Whereas, the Lee County Board of County Commissioners joins with Keep Lee County Beautiful, Keep Florida Beautiful, Florida Department of Transportation, and hundreds of other communities around the United States to participate in the National Great American Cleanup and the Keep Lee County Beautiful Great American Cleanup to assist in maintaining the beauty of our community;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida proclaims April 13, 2019 as KEEP LEE COUNTY BEAUTIFUL GREAT AMERICAN CLEANUP DAY in Lee County and encourages all citizens to participate in cleaning up litter in all areas of Lee County.


 


04-02-19 Safe Kids Day
Unintentional injury is the number one killer of kids in the U.S.; and

WHEREAS, the death rate from unintentional injuries in the U.S. declined by 60% from 1987 to 2018; and

WHEREAS, in Lee County, injury is the leading cause of death among children aged 1 to 19; and

WHEREAS, in Lee County, the number one cause of death from unintentional injury involves kids ages 1-19 involved in motor vehicle crashes; and

WHEREAS, suffocation deaths are the second most common cause of injury deaths among children in Lee County; and

WHEREAS, by joining together, we can prevent the preventable injuries and fatalities; and

WHEREAS, Safe Kids Day is an opportunity for all Southwest Floridians to come together for the cause of preventing childhood injury and death; and

WHEREAS, Safe Kids Southwest Florida is a local coalition that works every day to help parents and caregivers prevent unnecessary childhood injuries and fatalities; and

WHEREAS, Safe Kids Southwest Florida Coalition unites firefighters, first responders, medical professionals, children’s hospitals, pediatricians, police officers, parents, and other committed citizens;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim April 27, 2019 as SAFE KIDS DAY in Lee County and calls upon the residents of Lee County to join in learning about and teaching others ways to keep our kids safe at the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Offices.


 
expand Date: 3/5/2019


03-05-19 Intellectual and Developmental Disability Month
There are thousands of children and adults in Lee County who have intellectual and developmental disabilities; and

Whereas, the Lee Association for  Remarkable  Citizens,  known  as  LARC,  has been advocating and serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Lee County since March 12, 1954, and will celebrate 65 years of service on March 12, 2019; and

Whereas, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities frequently require specialized services, treatment and support for extended periods of time during their lives, and due to improved care their lifespans often exceed that of their parents and caregivers; and

Whereas, the support provided by family members, caregivers, friends, professionals and concerned citizens enables individuals with intellectual  and  developmental  disabilities  to  participate  more  freely in education, employment, and community living; and

Whereas, this month we join with LARC to recognize and support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their right to achieve the universally desired goals of self-fulfillment, purposeful engagement and inclusion in their communities so that they may reach their fullest potential;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim March 2019 as INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY AWARENESS MONTH in Lee County and recognizes the many achievements made by these citizens.


 
expand Date: 2/5/2019


02-05-19 Jill Turner Recognition
Jill Turner has dedicated her entire professional life to improving the lives of children; and

WHEREAS, Jill has actively served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida, providing admirable and devoted service for 38 years; and

WHEREAS, Jill has been influential in bringing awareness of child abuse to the community by advocating for children and providing them a safe place to be heard; and

WHEREAS, Jill has lent her expertise to the Florida Network of Children’s Advocacy Centers where she previously served as Board Chair and Treasurer; and

WHEREAS, Jill’s team approach to putting an end to child abuse and neglect has been reflected in the agency’s strong working relationships with the Department of Children and Families, local law enforcement agencies, the State Attorney’s Office, and funding partners such as United Way and Lee County Human & Veteran Services; and

WHEREAS, Jill has announced her plan to retire on March 1 of this year;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby convey our appreciation for her service and outstanding contributions to Lee County and wants to thank Jill Turner for her hard work and commitment to our community.


 


02-05-19 Stephen B. Russell Recognition
Since 1976, Stephen B. Russell has served the citizens of Charlotte, Collier, Hendry, Glades and Lee Counties as a dedicated and focused prosecutor with the Office of the State Attorney, Twentieth Judicial Circuit, prosecuting more than 2,000 criminal cases and supervising the prosecution of tens of thousands more; and

Whereas, Stephen B. Russell’s “victims first” attitude and tenacious support of law enforcement were rewarded in September 2002 when voters elected him as the State Attorney for the 20th Judicial Circuit, and then reelected him time-and-time again, until his retirement in 2018; and

Whereas, under his direction, the State Attorney’s Office unfailingly supported strong and effective mental health and drug courts, Veterans Courts, diversion programs, vigorously prosecuted elder exploitation crimes, and challenged the scourge of human trafficking; and

Whereas, under Stephen B. Russell’s leadership, our five-county circuit enjoys the lowest crime rate of all the 20 judicial circuits, including violent crime, in the State of Florida;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim February 5, 2019 as STEPHEN B. RUSSELL DAY in Lee County and wishes to express its recognition and respect for the invaluable contributions that Stephen B. Russell has made to our community. 


 
expand Date: 1/15/2019


01-15-19 Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month
January 2019 has been designated as National Human
Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month by the federal
government; and

Whereas, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and community organizations founded one of the first human trafficking task forces in the country in 2005 which continues to be actively involved in the fight against modern day slavery through the Southwest Florida Regional Human Trafficking Coalition and the U.S. Attorney's Human Trafficking Task Force; and

Whereas, the State of Florida is recognized as one of three states with the highest incidence of human trafficking in the nation; and

Whereas, federal, state and local law enforcement and local organizations such as the Southwest Florida Regional Human Trafficking Coalition, Abuse Counseling Treatment, Catholic Charities, Human Trafficking Awareness Partnerships, FSW State College, FGCU, Hodges University and Lee Memorial Health System are working collaboratively to build awareness through community and educational events, prevention programs for youth and trainings for businesses and medical facilities; and

Whereas, a program for youth, “Prevention Power” will be held at the Stars Complex on January 12, 2019; FSW will be hosting an outdoor community exhibition, “Bought and Sold” January 16 through February 1, 2019;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Board of County Commissioners of Lee County, Florida does hereby proclaim the month of January 2019 as Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month in Lee County.


 


01-15-19 Length of Service Awards
01-15-19 Length of Service Awards


 
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