Positively Osceola asked a number of positive leaders in the community to share their hope and their plans for the new year, and how we can encourage and support each other in 2022.  We asked Bill Litton, Director of Osceola County Office of Emergency Management, to share his hope and outlook for 2022.
 
 

Happy New Year… Osceola County! 2021 continued to challenge Osceola, but we are resilient and spirited people – especially including the staff of the Osceola County Office of Emergency Management.

2021, like many previous years, was a very active season for tropical weather. The third most active season on record, it really drives home the fact that being ready to respond is critical – both in your community and in your home. 2022 will likely continue that trend, so we will continue to make sure residents and visitors are provided the most timely and informative safety messaging so that they can make the decisions to protect themselves, their family, and their property. Visit http://readyosceola.org for what you will need to make a plan, build a kit, stay informed, and take action.

We look forward to partnering with the Osceola County Library System for the annual Severe Weather Awareness Week art contest next month, and to hosting the annual Osceola Hurricane Expo in May. A continued challenge we face is providing access to resources in response to COVID-19 and its variants, including testing and vaccination opportunities, and financial support for those impacted by the virus.

For information, visit www.osceola.org/covid19. Personally, in 2022 I look forward to continuing my involvement with the Boy Scouts of America, including planning the next National Scout jamboree event in 2023.

I also look forward to completing the National Emergency Management Executive Academy this year.

 
Bill Litton

Director, Osceola County Office of Emergency Management