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March 1, 2005 will always be a significant date for West Park. It is when we officially became, “The City of West Park.” As we reflect on this tremendous milestone, we are at a time of change in our city — a rebirth. This year we mark West Park’s 18th anniversary. I want to share where we are as a city, and what we must do to create what we want to see – the West Park of the future.
Our first couple of years were defined by an emphasis on the essentials of the basics of good governance. We built our administration from the ground up – building relationships, building teams, building systems, building trust. We demonstrated our commitment to a collective agenda: Working together to advance our shared values and common goals.
Through these collaborations, we grew into the vibrant city we are today with ideas that were big, bold and groundbreaking. It’s that same spirit we need to tap into at this moment – to take advantage of new opportunities and meet 21st century challenges. West Park residents have big hearts, which is reflected every day. Because of this, we must lift up all communities. Now more than ever, it’s important that we work together as one city.
Our national landscape has become one that seeks to divide us – by political party, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation – and define us by who we vote for, where we were born, or what language we speak. I reject this notion. Striving for equality, celebrating our diversity, and being proud of what makes us unique is what West Park is all about. But let us never allow our differences to blind us to the common humanity we all share. We cannot achieve the goal of inclusion using the tools of division.
As your mayor, it is my sincerest desire to see a city that works for all of us – one that improves the lives of all residents in all neighborhoods. One where it doesn’t matter where you live– because we’re all One West Park. That is how we show we are stronger than the national political division. That is how we are smarter than the partisan rhetoric. And that is how we are better together than we are apart.
West Park is strong and united…we will make it even stronger! As one city, we can get these things done! All it takes is for all of us, in one clear voice, to stand up and say: “YES!”
Life is not about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself. And so, I cannot wait to see what West Park can do collectively. The future West Park is the one that we’re building today. The city we want to see is the city we need to work towards. If we envision it, we can realize it.
As we write chapter 18 together, when the final page is turned, I want everyone to feel we persevered by uniting as one against any adversity for a city’s greatness isn’t measured by what’s has been accomplished but, rather, by what has yet to be achieved.
For we are stronger together progressing; the winds of change are in our favor. Together is how we build a stronger future. Our city will continue to progress and because of you we can proudly declare that the state of our city is strong, unified and ready to take on the future.
On that note, this year’s State of the City Address will be held on Wednesday, March 15, 2023, 6:00 pm, at City Hall. This is when I will share our accomplishments of the past year and the vision for the upcoming year.
Working together will ensure a bright future for all of us. I am certain we can come together in our shared love for this city to find answers, identify solutions, remove barriers and ultimately create a healthy, respective community. I look forward to staying connected with you and invite and encourage you to engage in all that is going on in the city to help shape the policies and direction of our collective future. Stay connected with us by liking our Facebook page and signing up to receive text or email alerts. Come to your City Commission meetings on the first and third Wednesdays each month at 7pm. More importantly, participate in city events!
Yes, West Park is a small city, but with incredible potential. It is a city where good things are going to happen, and good people are making them happen! It’s a place to call home, and I look forward seeing the positive progression in the coming years of the City of West Park!
Each of us is carving a stone, erecting a column or cutting a piece of stained glass in the construction of something much bigger than ourselves. So, let’s go boldly into the next year to fearlessly face our challenges, embrace our opportunities and build on our progress as One West Park. Working together, I know we will make it happen. Let’s go do it! We are #OneWestPark!
Remember to contact me at City Hall with your ideas, suggestions or concerns. I represent you and appreciate your input into the continued success of our beloved city. I can be reached at (954) 329-8990 or email fbrunson@cityofwestpark.org.
