Letter from the Mayor: March 2026

March 6, 2026

You can tell a great deal about a community in two defining moments — when there is something to celebrate, and when tragedy strikes. This past month, our community faced the latter in the most heartbreaking way.

Deputy Gabriel Ramirez (EOW 02/23/2026) and Deputy Michael Hislope (EOW 02/24/2026) were taken from us far too soon, stolen from their families and their community by a senseless act of violence. Watching our brothers and sisters in law enforcement grieve the loss of two of their own has been an incredibly difficult and emotional experience for all of us.

In the midst of that grief, I have also witnessed something powerful — the character of this community on full display. The events that unfolded the evening of February 23rd through the early morning hours of February 24th stand as a true testament to the extraordinary sacrifices our men and women in uniform are willing to make so that every one of us can feel safe in the place call home. We are fortunate beyond measure to live in an area protected by the Christian County Sheriff’s Office, the Ozark Police Department, and our own Nixa Police Department.

I also want to extend my deepest gratitude to our incredible community for the outpouring of love and support shown to our entire law enforcement family. I can assure you — it did not go unnoticed. It meant more than words can express.

This month, I am asking each of you to carry the memory of Deputies Ramirez and Hislope in your hearts, and to never forget the daily sacrifices made by all of our first responders — the men and women who answer the call so that we may live safely in the community we love.

It is the honor of my life to represent the brave law enforcement officers who serve Nixa, and the compassionate, resilient citizens who make this city truly special.

With gratitude and pride,

Jarad Giddens

Mayor, City of Nixa