Council issues proclamations for Disability Employment Awareness, National Night Out, Fire Prevention Week and Public Power Week

Lexington City Council used its Sept. 23 meeting to issue several community proclamations and to announce neighborhood and utility outreach events.

Mayor Jason Hayes read and signed a proclamation designating October 2024 as Disability Employment Awareness Month and presented it to Teresa McKeon, executive director of the ARC of Davidson County. ARC staff and program participants attended and thanked the council for recognition of inclusive employment efforts.

Council proclaimed Oct. 1, 2024 as National Night Out. Police Captain Ronnie Best invited residents to four neighborhood events from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Fourth Street Park, Grimes Park, Lester Skate Park and Washington Park and said the department will provide snacks and drinks at those locations.

Mayor Pro Tem Watkins read a Fire Prevention Week proclamation and Interim Fire Chief Tufano announced Fire Prevention Day at the fairgrounds on Oct. 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., describing it as a free, family-friendly event. The proclamation reiterated national messages about smoke-alarm placement and practicing home escape plans.

Council also honored Public Power and Natural Gas Week (Oct. 6–12). Utility Services Director Tracy White described a customer appreciation event on Oct. 8 at 425 Carolina Avenue including demonstrations and a simulator, and noted an Oct. 10 invitation-only key accounts event at the municipal club for the city's industrial customers.

The proclamations are ceremonial recognitions; no council action beyond presentation and scheduling of outreach events was required.