Item E4 E4
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
COUNTY of MONROE i Mayor Holly Merrill Raschein,District 5
The Florida Keys Mayor Pro Tern James K.Scholl,District 3
Craig Cates,District 1
Michelle Lincoln,District 2
' David Rice,District 4
Board of County Commissioners Meeting
November 19, 2024
Agenda Item Number: E4
2023-3277
BULK ITEM: No DEPARTMENT: Commissioners Aid
TIME APPROXIMATE: STAFF CONTACT: Corie Abel
9:00 AM
AGENDA ITEM WORDING: Proclamation: Dr. Mark Whiteside Day.
ITEM BACKGROUND:
A proclamation in honor of Dr. Mark Whiteside for all of his contributions to Monroe County during
his career. Dr. Whiteside will be sorely missed after his retirement.
PREVIOUS RELEVANT BOCC ACTION:
N/A
INSURANCE REQUIRED:
No
CONTRACT/AGREEMENT CHANGES:
N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: N/A
DOCUMENTATION:
Dr. Whiteside Procla ation.pdf
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
N/A
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Dr. Mark Whiteside, MD, MPH
Monroe County Board of County Commissioners Proclamation
DR. MARK WHITESIDE DAY
WHEREAS, Dr. Mark Whiteside has been a pillar of public health in Monroe County and South
Florida for over 40 years, including nearly 40 years with the Florida Department of Health, and 16
years of distinguished service as the Medical Director for the Florida Department of Health in
Monroe County since 2008; and
WHEREAS, Dr.Whiteside's exceptional leadership and medical expertise have been critical in
safeguarding our community through his work on numerous public health crises, including the
management of flu, H1N1, Zika, HIV, and Dengue outbreaks, helping to prevent and mitigate the
impact of these diseases on the people of Monroe County; and
WHEREAS, Dr.Whiteside, trained in infectious and tropical diseases, has been at the forefront of
research and clinical work on HIV and AIDS since the early days of the epidemic and has furthered
knowledge and treatment of arboviruses, such as Dengue, contributing significantly to global public
health research; and
WHEREAS, he has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to learning and improving the health of
vulnerable populations, and has worked with local health departments in Palm Beach, Dade, and
Monroe counties throughout his career; and
WHEREAS, his outstanding service to both the community and the natural world has earned him
respect and admiration throughout Monroe County, with his work significantly enhancing the
quality of life and health for our citizens; and
WHEREAS, the true impact of Dr. Whiteside's contributions to public health is immeasurable, as his
efforts over decades have protected, improved, and saved countless lives, making him a public
health hero and a vital part of Monroe County's history;
WHEREAS, Dr.Whiteside's tireless efforts reflect a legacy of service, leadership, and dedication
that has made Monroe County a healthier and more vibrant place to live;
WHEREAS, Dr.Whiteside's dedication to public health is matched by his passion for environmental
sustainability, as he is an expert birder and advocate for the preservation of natural ecosystems,
recognizing the critical connection between a healthy environment and healthy communities; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners, in
recognition of his decades of exceptional service, does hereby proclaim November XXXXXX, 2024,
as Dr. Mark Whiteside Day in Monroe County, Florida, and encourages all residents to join in
honoring Dr. Whiteside for his immeasurable contributions to the health and well-being of our
community.
Mayor Holly Raschein
Monroe County, Florida
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