The dream of residing comfortably in the Conch Republic is what did it for Dorian Patton.
“We moved to Key West to enjoy the more inclusive community that the city has to offer,” said Patton, who arrived on the island with his partner of 27 years, Kevin Theriault, in 2015.
Born in Ocala, Patton, 48, wears many hats in the community in addition to his employment in the city manager’s office. He serves as a volunteer with the Key West Business Guild, is a board member of FOAM (Friends of the AIDS Memorial) and Learning Center daycare and a former Vice President of the Key West Police Department Love Fund.
Shortly before moving to Key West, Patton and Theriault were married in Hawaii. Theriault is the Executive Director of the Key West Business Guild, which produces monthly luncheons and mixers and assists with annual events such as Pride, Tropical Heat and Headdress Ball.
“We have participated in events and helped many organizations over the last eight years, which helps make Key West what it is for LGBTQ+ visitors,” Patton said. “Being able to see what happens from both sides has really opened our eyes to the great people that help make Key West what it is today.”