Key West Names Dorian E. Patton III Employee of the Year

Mayor Dee Dee Henriquez presented the City of Key West Employee of the Year award to Dorian E. Patton III on December 9, 2025 in recognition of his sustained contributions to municipal event management and public service. City officials credited Patton with coordinating major public events, including the annual Holiday Parade, and with responding after hours to residents and businesses when issues arise.

City leaders noted that the Employee of the Year selection was made by a peer committee, reflecting co worker appreciation for Patton's professionalism and dependability. The award underscores the value municipal staff bring to the daily life of Monroe County, from maintaining public safety at gatherings to ensuring festivals and parades proceed smoothly for residents and visitors.

Patton's commitment extends beyond his official duties. He serves as vice president of the Friends of the Key West AIDS Memorial, and has organized World AIDS Day ceremonies and other community events that combine remembrance with outreach. That volunteer leadership reinforces local networks of support and helps sustain events that draw both local participants and visitors, contributing to the cultural vitality and economic activity in Key West.

For Monroe County residents, the recognition of a frontline coordinator matters practically and symbolically. Effective event management reduces disruptions to traffic and business, improves public safety at crowded gatherings, and helps local merchants plan for peak tourism periods. After hours responsiveness by city staff builds trust between government and community, especially in a city that hosts frequent public celebrations and seasonal visitors from across the nation and abroad.

The award also serves as an internal morale boost for city employees and a public reminder of the many unseen tasks that support community life. City officials expressed appreciation for Patton's years of service and for the civic volunteerism that links municipal work to broader community causes.