Commissioners honor Hillsborough County Fire Rescue and Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office for their hard work and service to the community.
During its Oct. 21 meeting, the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners presented a proclamation declaring October 28 as First Responders Day.
First responders include firefighters, emergency medical technicians, 911 operators, paramedics, law enforcement officers, and other emergency personnel. They stand on the front lines of the community, courageously rushing toward crisis to selflessly serve and protect the public during natural disasters, fires, accidents, medical emergencies, and other health and safety threats. Hillsborough County Fire Rescue and its more than 1,300 employees preserve and protect life and property by providing quality, timely emergency response services and enhance public safety through education, fire prevention, and emergency planning in a 909-square-mile response area.
After thanking the Board for the recognition, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Chief Jason Dougherty also showed his appreciation to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office for its efforts and accomplishments.
"I believe public safety in Hillsborough County between the Sheriff's Office and Fire Rescue…there is no men and women better to serve the community," he said. "
The Board also presented the 2026 Youth Excellence and Achievement Awards (YEA! Awards), recognizing middle and high school students who have displayed initiative, innovation, leadership, and commitment to themselves and others.
Interested in all the details about the latest BOCC meeting? Here is a full recap.
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