Venice proclaims April observances, officials urge water conservation and child-abuse awareness

The Venice City Council issued several proclamations designating April 2026 for records and information management, water conservation and child-abuse prevention.

Mayor Nick Pechota read a proclamation encouraging departments to review retention and disposal policies and to support public-records responsiveness as part of Records and Information Management Month. "Whereas retention and disposal schedule compliance promotes government transparency and responsible management of taxpayer funded resources," Pechota said while presenting the proclamation.

At the Water Conservation Month segment, Bruno Kapasinskas of the Southwest Florida Water Management District told the council the region is under a severe drought and estimated roughly a 14-inch deficit across the district. "We encourage citizens to do their best to conserve water," Kapasinskas said, noting that he estimated about 50% of water waste occurs in yards using potable water and directing residents to watermatters.org for conservation tips.

Vice Mayor Jim Bolt proclaimed April as Child Abuse Prevention Month and representatives from the Child Protection Center thanked the council for the designation and urged continued community engagement to identify and report suspected abuse. A speaker cited a youth-policy figure that "approximately 86 percent of all crimes against children go underreported," urging more outreach and the benefit of community outreach teams that connect law enforcement with at-risk youth.

Each proclamation was presented as a ceremonial recognition and no formal policy votes were associated with the proclamations.