Letter to the Community - Weathering Every Storm Through 'Strength of Community'

Letter to the Community
October 15, 2024

Weathering every storm through ‘Strength of Community’

Floridians are no strangers to hurricanes. Each hurricane season we plan and prepare. This year, the experts predicted an “extraordinary” season. Thankfully, our Brevard community was spared the full force of Hurricanes Helene and Milton and the resulting devastation. However, many of our friends, neighbors and colleagues were not so lucky. The hardest hit communities are facing a long recovery and restoration road ahead. And, while city, county or state lines may divide us, we are united in understanding that it takes the strength of community to weather every type of storm—before, during and after.

I have lived in Brevard for 28 years and together we have weathered many storms. In that time, I have witnessed the strength of this community time and time again. Neighbors helping neighbors. City, county, state and federal barriers to aide removed. Competitors becoming collaborators. Good Samaritans’ acts of kindness and compassion.

Among the many sources of strength in our community is the manner in which our city, county and state officials organize and activate our emergency response systems. Brevard County Emergency Operations Center (BCEOC), in close communication with the State’s EOC, serves as our “mission control” when an emergency is declared. The women and men supporting the BCEOC answer the call of duty, without fail and with a common purpose—to serve and protect. From planning to preparation to response and recovery, nearly every available service agency (local, regional and state), is part of the response team. The list is far too expansive to list each agency by name, but each is expertly coordinated through our BCEOC. Through BCEOC, citizens and pets were ensured a safe place to shelter from the storm; safe evacuations were orchestrated; wellness checks of the frail and elderly were made; restoration crews mobilized; and countless other community services and resources deployed to every corner of our community.

For those leaders that reached out to us before, during, and/or after the storm, we express our boundless appreciation. Your expressions of concern will not be forgotten. Our Care Partners were uplifted knowing that all that they had to sacrifice was recognized.

To quote from The Wisdom of the Bullfrog, “Leadership is accomplishing a task with the people and resources you have while maintaining the integrity of your institution.” You all lead with great conviction, courage, passion and honor. Thank you!

I know Hurricane season is not yet finished with us. However, I felt it important to recognize and acknowledge what we have proven is that together we are better; together we are Brevard strong.

With gratitude,

George Mikitarian, Jr.
President/CEO