Being elected as the mayor of Bartow on Monday was an unforgettable experience. Never in my wildest dreams as a kid growing up in this city did I think I would have the opportunity to help lead through the changes in our future. As memorable as the night was I did not have much time to savor it. We are living in unprecedented times and we have work to do.

So much has changed over the last few months. It is difficult to filter out what is most important from the white noise that seeks to distract. Even though our lives look very different today than they did on New Year’s Eve, we can’t lose sight of the things that will ensure our community keeps moving forward.

As I prepare to step into the role of Mayor for the coming year here are three areas we need to prioritize.

Leading Through Change: We need to stay focused

News of the coronavirus is omnipresent and it is tempting to become hyperfocused on it. I am very proud of the work the city’s leadership team has done to keep our residents safe. As life begins to slowly transition back to a new version of normal, I am looking forward to picking up where we left off on some important city projects.

Some of the projects are well known and greatly anticipated (Opening of the dog park, addressing the pool at Ft. Blount park, the parking lot at the golf course, etc.) other projects are less widely known but extremely important (protecting Polk County’s water resources)

As a city, we have to continue taking all appropriate precautions to keep residents safe while making sure these important projects don’t lose momentum. Several good questions were asked in last Monday’s commission meeting by my colleagues. I am glad to see we are all thinking alike.

Leading Through Change: We need to communicate clearly

Communication is never more important than when you find yourself in times of change. It is also generally when communication becomes the most difficult.

One of the priorities the Commission has established is the hire of a Communication Director for the City. This will go a long way to improving our ability to share information with our residents.

I also want to do my part. So, during my time as Mayor, I will be providing regular updates via my website including blog posts, video and audio podcasts to keep residents up to date with the activity of the Commission.

Most who know me also know that I am not a big fan of social media. However, it’s power is difficult to deny. I will share this content through my various social media channels (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and for you fellow book nerds out there – Goodreads) and I would encourage you to follow me on those platforms.

However, those services limit what content you can actually see in your timeline. There is a chance you might not see every post. So, the best way to stay current is to join the mailing list for my newsletter.

This way each time a new article, podcast, or video is published it arrives in your inbox. You can sign up using the button below.

Leading Through Change: We to act graciously

If there is one thing my work at the Department of Health has taught me over the last few months, it is that people are more scared, stressed, and lonely than usual.

Human beings are hardwired for community and connection.

We are just now feeling the effects of so much isolation. As we engage with one another we need to find ways to be gracious. We need to find ways to act with compassion. We need to look for opportunities to serve. This may never be as important as it is right now.

Living through seasons of change is always challenging. But they also opportunities to grow and adapt. For the first time in the history of the city, we held a Commission meeting virtually. It was streamed on the internet allowing residents who don’t usually attend to watch as the city’s business was conducted. Yes, it presented a few challenges but what an exciting new way to keep residents informed.

I am excited to do my part to help move the city forward. We have a great team. And, it’s like my old principal used to say, “Together We Make Great Things Happen.” Isn’t that right, Mr. Cooper?

Photo by Mark Arron Smith from Pexels