The request is to conduct an event in Sims Park on Sunday, January 15, 2022 to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and to waive the fees associated with the event.

Each year on the third Monday of January, America honors the life and dream of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  Since this important date is celebrated as a federal holiday most federal, state and local offices are closed as are many private employers.  The city recognizes the holiday by closing its facilities and encouraging employees to devote themselves to volunteering on some form of citizen action group.  This year however I would like to expand the focus by hosting an event in Sims Park that will be devoted to remembering Dr. King’s fight for the freedom, equality and dignity of all races and people through nonviolence.

In that respect, there has been interest expressed by several organizations in serving along with the city as program partners.  Those expressing interest include: the African American Club of Pasco County, Friendly KIA and WGHR HITS 106 FM.  At this point the proposed program platform is in a preliminary form but is planned to include: guest speakers and musical entertainment.  In order to take the planning for the proposed event to the next level I am seeking your approval to conduct the event between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 15, 2022 and additionally for the fees normally associated with special events to waived.  If this item is approved, as more details develop in relationship to this event, I will pass them along to you.