The Kissimmee City Commission opened its first meeting of 2026 with a mix of recognition, celebration, and a reminder of how the meetings will be conducted moving forward.

The meeting began with a proclamation recognizing January 19-26 as Community Risk Reduction Week, which focuses on preventing emergencies before they happen. Kissimmee Fire Chief Jim Walls shared that their efforts include open houses, smoke alarm installations, car-seat safety checks, evacuation planning, and outreach through social media. “We’re trying to put ourselves out of a job, and we do that by reducing the risks to the community,” Walls said, explaining that the goal is always to keep residents safe long before a call to 911 is ever needed.

The Commission also recognized the January Employee of the Month, honoring Daniel Brady from the Kissimmee Gateway Airport. Brady works as an operations coordinator, helping ensure the runways are clear, fencing is secure, and airfield traffic moves safely and efficiently. He also assists with administrative work in the department. Brady, who previously served 25 years in law enforcement, said he is grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the community in a second career.

A retirement recognition followed for Battalion Chief Eric Gentry, who is concluding more than two decades of service with the Kissimmee Fire Department. Gentry began his career as an EMT and rose through every rank, most recently serving as battalion chief for EMS and safety. Reflecting on his career, Gentry said, “I never applied to any other organization. There was not any other organization that I wanted to work for. The City of Kissimmee was the only place I wanted to work, and then when I got the job, it was more than I ever thought it would be.” 

Commissioners also heard the results of a survey and community feedback regarding a redesigned logo for the Downtown Kissimmee Community Redevelopment Agency. Josh Daniel, Strategic Communications manager, shared the results of the survey, saying that with 12,359 views on Facebook, Instagram, X, Positively Osceola, and Kissimmee Mainstreet, 220 responses were ultimately recorded. The new look will begin appearing on CRA materials and reflects continued investment in downtown identity and redevelopment efforts.

At the beginning of public comment segment of the meeting, Mayor Jackie Espinosa reminded speakers of the proper decorum for the City’s meetings. Procedures for public comment were restated, including time limits, speaking from the podium, and directing comments to the commission as a whole. The need for those expectations became apparent during one resident’s allotted time, which resulted in a heated exchange. Commissioner Janette Martinez later expressed discomfort with how the exchange had unfolded, but commissioners ultimately agreed that the rules should be applied fairly and consistently for everyone.

The next Commission meeting will be held January 20, 2026, at 6 p.m. at Kissimmee City Hall.