From the President

Our city leaders find a way forward

This past year has brought us many challenges. City leaders have been under scrutiny for our pandemic responses and our policing. The pressure has been unrelenting, and city leaders bore the brunt of it. All of these situations have been on top of the normal day-to-day issues that come up.

We had to make difficult decisions to protect our economies and our citizens. We fought for the resources our communities need. We prioritized and adapted. This is who we are. As others have said, city government is closest to our home and our hearts.

Now we are finding a way forward. Businesses have reopened, and tourists are returning. We are thrilled to have federal relief coming through the American Rescue Plan Act. (See more information on the Act, p. 24.)

I couldn’t be prouder of how our elected officials and their staffs have persevered and continually develop innovative ways to help our cities succeed. Each of you responded in ways that made sense for your individual communities. When traditional events such as art exhibits couldn’t be handled safely inside, you took to the streets, sometimes literally. (See creative ways cities are using art to engage residents on p. 56.) With COVID-19 vaccinations up and cases down, many of you found innovative ways to reach our most vulnerable communities with information and vaccinations. (See the article, p. 52.) We have a new grants assistance program for cities. (For more information, see p. 40.)

Now, we have the opportunity to gather at our in-person conference Aug. 12-14 in Orlando. We have much to celebrate and share. The conference is a wonderful opportunity to network with those who are facing similar challenges. Together, we can come up with solutions. Read more about the conference, including information about some exciting keynote speakers, on p. 34.

This is our time. Let’s get to work!

Tony Ortiz

President Tony Ortiz, Commissioner, City of Orlando

GRANTS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

The Florida League of Cities has launched a grants assistance program for cities. Cities receive free access to 9,000+ grants. The program includes tools to find, apply for and manage grants. To learn more, visit flcities.com/grants or email flcgrants@ ecivis.com.