From the President

At long last, we have hope

Cities have much to celebrate after months of being tested by the pandemic and legislative preemptions.

The American Rescue Plan Act provides federal funds to help us address the financial blows presented by the virus. For the time being, the worst of layoffs and service delivery reductions have eased.

A multitude of preemptions and unfunded mandates were killed or watered down during the Legislative Session.

Vaccinations have been distributed throughout the state, bringing hope of increased tourism and in-person meetings and festivals. When our local businesses and economies are successful, our cities and state are stronger.

Our city leaders have played vital roles in facing these challenges. You lobbied Congress to pass the Rescue Plan Act. You’ve played critical roles in getting your residents vaccinated.

When COVID restrictions made it more difficult to meet in person with legislators, you and your citizens stepped up. You fought for Home Rule by telling legislators to let local voices make local choices. For more information about the session, see the article on p. 32.

For every challenge thrown at you, whether it came from the virus or state lawmakers, you found a way forward. I know it has required every ounce of strength and creativity you have, but you persevered.

Now we turn our attention to establishing and strengthening relationships with our legislators. This is the time to bring the power of government back to the people, but we can do it only with your help. Our residents can assist. See the article on p. 46 and find more information for them and for you at BuildingStrongerCities.com.

Our challenges are not over, but we feel hopeful. We look forward to meeting in person at the annual League conference in August in Orlando. It will be an excellent opportunity to learn and network. See more about the conference on p. 29.

This is our time. Let’s get to work!

Tony Ortiz

President Tony Ortiz, Commissioner, City of Orlando

The Florida League of Cities has created an online Resource Center for the American Rescue Plan Act. Go to flcities.com/rescueplan. For more information, contact Allison Payne at apayne@flcities.com.