Mayor's Corner: City of Bradenton

September is always a time to remember the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and to recognize the first responders and service members whose courage and sacrifice continue to inspire us.

This year marked the 25th anniversary of the attacks, and I was honored to take part in two local events of remembrance. At a commemorative program hosted by Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County, we recognized Kay Daniels, the Sarasota teacher whose second-grade classroom President George W. Bush was visiting when he learned that America was under attack. I also joined our community at Rossi Park for the annual Tribute to Heroes Memorial Ceremony. Thank you to the Manatee County Fire Chiefs’ Association for continuing to bring our community together each year to remember and pay tribute.

That same sense of community extends beyond the moments when we gather together. It also means staying involved and informed about what’s happening in Bradenton. As we look ahead, there is a lot happening in our city, from projects already underway to new opportunities we’re beginning to explore.

Some of those efforts will take time, and others are already taking shape. What matters is that we continue looking ahead while taking care of the community we have today. That means maintaining our infrastructure and public spaces, supporting our businesses and neighborhoods, and considering opportunities that make sense for Bradenton’s future.