Valued City Residents, Business Owners, Neighbors and Visitors:

As you prepare to usher in 2016, please do not use firearms in a celebratory fashion. Discharging a firearm in this manner is illegal and, more importantly, highly dangerous. Law-enforcement officials will have their hands full protecting our roadways and neighborhoods; these types of senseless acts only create a much more dangerous environment for our residents and public-safety personnel.

 

With some of the acts of violence that have been experienced all over the world, it is incumbent that we no longer remain voiceless. If we see something, we must say something. Help us encourage and promote "Bullet Free Skies" and inform law enforcement of individuals who choose to use firearms in an improper way that can jeopardize the safety and well-being of innocent people. I assure you that law-enforcement agencies throughout the country will be vigilant this evening and will catch those who choose to act inappropriately and jeopardize the safety and well-being of our communities.

 

Lastly, on behalf of the Haines City family, we wish you a safe, happy, and prosperous 2016. Remember: If you've consumed ANY alcohol, please take the necessary steps to ensure that you have adequate transportation to and from wherever you choose to usher in the New Year. Don't ruin your life or jeopardize the lives of others because 2015 is coming to a close. Thank you for your attention, and please share this message. See you all in 2016!

Respectfully submitted, 

Jonathan E. Evans, MPA, MBA, ICMA-CM

City Manager