The Florida League of Cities has initiated a statewide effort to encourage all 410 municipalities to sign an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Statement of Support. League members passed a resolution in support of the National Guard and Reserve at its annual meeting held in August.
Today, the city of Tallahassee, led by Tallahassee Mayor John Marks, who is also the Florida League of Cities President, will sign a Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve at its regular commission meeting. Earlier this month, Marks sent a message to all League member cities about the importance of supporting the National Guard and Reserve, along with information about the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve.
“I believe that each and every municipality in the state of Florida will be on board with this initiative to support the patriotic men and women in the National Guard and Reserve. It is important to recognize that these individuals not only play a vital role in the functioning of our cities, but they also courageously serve our country and communities during times of critical need,” said Marks in a prepared statement. “That is why my city, Tallahassee, is proud to endorse this pledge to our National Guard and Reserve members and as the President of the Florida League of Cities, I encourage every municipality in Florida to join in support of this effort.”
The Florida League of Cities is working with the Florida Employer Support of the Guard and Reserves Committee to help Florida cities become the first state to reach the 100 percent support level.
“Today, supportive employers are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s National Guard and Reserve units,” said Phillip Speake, chairman of the Florida Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Committee, an agency of the Department of Defense. “I am so pleased that the Florida League of Cities and the City of Tallahassee, led by Mayor Marks are setting this example for others.”
Of the Guard and Reserve Marks said: “This is an admirable commitment on their part, and as employers it is essential that municipalities support the men and women who support us by ensuring that these individuals are not adversely affected in their job or work place because of that commitment. It makes sense and it is just good business.”
The Florida League of Cities is the united voice for Florida’s municipal governments. Its goals are to promote local self-government and serve the needs of Florida’s municipal governments. The League is founded on the belief that local self-government is the keystone of American democracy. For more information about the Florida League of Cities, visit www.flcities.com .