Key West Mayor Dee Dee Henriquez on Dec. 2 honored Dorian Patton III as the city’s employee of the year. Henriquez’s remarks are here:
Today, it is my honor to recognize an individual whose dedication, professionalism and heart have made a tremendous impact on the city of Key West. We are here to celebrate our 2025 Employee of the Year, Dorian E. Patton III.
Although I did not get to vote on this award — because it is chosen by a committee of his peers — I can tell you with complete confidence this recognition is truly well deserved. I have had the privilege of working with Dorian for just over a year, and in that time, I have seen firsthand the pride he takes in serving this community.
Dorian shows up early, stays late and never hesitates to go the extra mile. When the city hosts special events, you’ll find him working weekends and holidays, ensuring everything is done safely, smoothly and with the level of excellence our residents expect.
This Saturday, thousands of people will enjoy our annual Holiday Parade — an event Dorian organizes from start to finish. And that is just one of the many events he manages throughout the year as part of his role with the City of Key West.
Beyond his duties at City Hall, Dorian also serves as vice president of the Friends of the Key West AIDS Memorial. Just yesterday, he helped lead the annual World AIDS Day ceremony at the end of White Street, an important event that honors lives lost and supports our community.
What many people don’t see is that Dorian doesn’t simply “clock out” at the end of the day. He regularly fields calls after hours — not only from me and the members of the city commission, but from residents and business owners seeking help, clarity or reassurance. And he always responds with patience, professionalism and a commitment to finding answers.
Dorian embodies public service. He represents the spirit of this community. And he makes the city of Key West better every single day.
So today, it brings me great joy to congratulate Dorian E. Patton III on being selected as Employee of the Year. Thank you, Dorian, for your relentless dedication, your steady leadership, and your deep love for this island.
We wish you many more successful — and hopefully slightly less hectic — years with the city of Key West.
Congratulations, Dorian. You’ve earned this.
