Quality Cities | Fourth Quarter 2021

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

▸ Legislative Action Agenda INSERT ▸ ARPA Update p. 34

QUALITY CITIES

▸ Recap of League’s Annual Conference p. 36

A PUBLICATION OF THE FLORIDA LEAGUE OF CITIES FOURTH QUARTER 2021

Local Voices United Expands Grassroots Advocacy Efforts Informed residents can easily communicate with state legislators See p. 30

FLORIDA MUNICIPAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS: ▸ BOCA RATON ▸ CLEARWATER ▸ JACKSONVILLE BEACH

President Phillip Walker

ARPA, DEI AND ADVOCACY p. 46

Providing local governments with

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RETIREMENT:

Protecting the Retirement of Those Serving the Public Could hidden fees be derailing your retirement plans?

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Contact Jeremy Langley Account Executive jlangley@flcities.com 859.552.5224

FLCITIES.COM

BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT Phillip E. Walker, Commissioner, Lakeland Quality Cities Magazine Volume 95 | Number 4 PUBLISHER Jeannie Garner EDITOR AND CREATIVE PROJECT MANAGER Joy Dickinson ASSISTANT EDITOR Kelli Gemmer GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Sydney Fraser Bonnie Gaupp Jena Glantz CIRCULATION Eryn Russell Stay informed: Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

Visit our website at flcities.com.

Quality Cities (formerly Quality Cities ’90) (ISSN 0892-4171) (USPS Number: 201-780) serves as a medium of exchange of ideas and information on municipal affairs for the public officials of Florida. The views expressed and the data presented by contributors and advertisers are not to be construed as having the endorsement of the Florida League of Cities unless so specifically stated. No material from this publication may be reprinted without the express permission of the editor.

The mailing address for the publishers of Quality Cities is Post Office Box 1757, Suite 300, Tallahassee, FL 32302-1757. The telephone number is 850.222.9684, and the email address is jdickinson@flcities.com. Offices are located at 301 S. Bronough St., Suite 300, Tallahassee, FL 32301. Quality Cities is published quarterly by the Florida League of Cities. Periodicals Postage Paid at Tallahassee, Fla., No. 201780.

Postmaster: Send address changes to Quality Cities, Post Office Box 1757, Tallahassee, FL 32302-1757.

The yearly MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION rate for members is $10.00, other governmental agencies – $15.00 and non-members – $20.00 for four issues.

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT Jolien Caraballo, Vice Mayor, Port St. Lucie SECOND VICE PRESIDENT Greg Ross, Mayor, Cooper City DISTRICT DIRECTORS (1) William Schaetzle, Mayor Pro Tem, Niceville (1) J.B. Whitten, Mayor, Crestview (2) Jake Hill, Councilmember, Lake City (3) Robert F. Apgar, Mayor, DeLand (3) William Partington, Mayor, Ormond Beach (4) Carol McCormack, Mayor, Palm Shores (4) Dominick Montanaro, Vice Mayor, Satellite Beach (5) Louie Davis, Mayor, Waldo (5) Cal Rolfson, Councilmember, Mount Dora (6) Joseph McMullen, Commissioner, Oakland (6) Rosemary Wilsen, Commissioner, Ocoee (7) Sam Fite, Vice Mayor, Bowling Green (7) Marlene Wagner, Vice Mayor, Lake Hamilton (8) Tyler Payne, Mayor, Treasure Island (8) Jamie Robinson, Vice Mayor, Largo (9) Susan Gibbs Thomas, Councilmember, Indiantown (10) Brian Williams, Commissioner, Palmetto (11) Fred Forbes, Councilman, Bonita Springs (12) Kimberly Glas-Castro, Vice Mayor, Lake Park (12) Lawrence Gordon, Vice Mayor, Haverhill (12) Jeff Hmara, Councilman, Royal Palm Beach (13) Traci L. Callari, Commissioner, Hollywood (13) Todd Drosky, Commissioner, Deerfield Beach (13) Bob Mayersohn, Vice Mayor, Parkland (13) Gary Resnick, Commissioner, Wilton Manors (13) Iris Siple, Commissioner, Pembroke Pines

QC

(13) Susan Starkey, Councilwoman, Davie (13) Beverly Williams, Vice Mayor, Lauderdale Lakes (14) Juan Carlos “JC” Bermudez, Mayor, Doral (14) Joseph Corradino, Mayor, Pinecrest (14) Rodney Harris, Mayor, Miami Gardens (14) Crystal Wagar, Councilmember, Miami Shores 10 MOST POPULOUS CITIES Samuel Newby, Council President, Jacksonville Ken Russell, Commissioner, Miami Joseph Citro, Councilmember, Tampa Rick Kriseman, Mayor, St. Petersburg Robert Stuart, Commissioner, Orlando Carlos Hernandez, Mayor, Hialeah John Dailey, Mayor, Tallahassee Heather Moraitis, Vice Mayor, Fort Lauderdale Stephanie Morgan, Councilwoman, Port St. Lucie John Gunter, Mayor, Cape Coral PAST PRESIDENTS Scott Black, Commissioner, Dade City Frank C. Ortis, Mayor, Pembroke Pines Joy Cooper, Mayor, Hallandale Beach Patricia Bates, Mayor, Altamonte Springs Matthew D. Surrency, Commissioner, Hawthorne Leo E. Longworth, Commissioner, Bartow Isaac Salver, Council Member, Bay Harbor Islands Antonio “Tony” Ortiz, Commissioner, Orlando AT-LARGE Roy S. Shiver, Commissioner, Florida City FCCMA EX-OFFICIO MEMBER Micah Maxwell, Assistant City Manager, Clearwater Jeannie Garner, Executive Director/CEO Kraig Conn, General Counsel

GRANTS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

This summer, the Florida League of Cities launched a grants assistance program for cities. Through a partnership with eCivis, the grants program provides Florida municipalities with FREE access to a database with more than 9,000 tracked grants.

The program offers League members the tools to make finding, applying for and managing their grants easier than ever. The program includes built-in compliance with grant guidance and oversight from certified grant management specialists at eCivis. To learn more, visit flcities.com/grants or email flcgrants@ecivis.com.

FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 3

QC contents QUALITY CITIES

VOL. 95, ISSUE 4, FOURTH QUARTER 2021

COVER FEATURE 30 Local Voices United Expands Grassroots Advocacy

Informed residents can easily communicate with state legislators

30

DEPARTMENTS Advocacy

33

Never on the Sideline FLC staff continually monitoring the legislative season

FLORIDA MUNICIPAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS 14 Bringing the Library Outdoors

Business Watch

16

Municomm

35

Boca Raton’s StoryWalk provides safe literary programming

18

Public Art Projects Engage Residents Placemaking Program beautifies Clearwater while increasing civic awareness and education

Communitywide Partnership Protects Sea Turtles Jacksonville Beach’s #CleanDarkFlat campaign keeps beaches clean

45 4 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

47

Smart Communities How do Florida cities future-proof their investment?

The Power of Video Communicators find creative ways to tell their city’s story

Research

51

Regulating Single-Use Plastics Survey shows Floridians favor Home Rule

Lifestyle

58 59

Holiday the Healthy Way Tips for staying healthy during the holiday season

Depression: Conversation Starters Tips for how to start talking about a difficult topic

FEATURES 13 QualityCities.com Launches

Online magazine offers new way to share cities’ stories

IN THIS ISSUE 7

From the President

8

QC Today

28 Protecting Your Funds

9

Meeting Calendar

34

20

Commentary

23

Employee Profile

57

statement of ownership

24

Leading by Example Florida cities set 100% clean energy goals

Are your municipality’s assets safe?

ARPA Update Helpful information for your funding questions

36

FLC Conference: Education and Networking

40

Conference Behind the Scenes

City leaders plan for the future at annual meeting

42 43 44

League and member news

Yes, We Can Agree

Dana Johnson

It’s more than cold rooms and cookies

2021 City Catalyst Grant Winners Partnership program supports projects that strengthen our communities

Meet Greg Ross FLC Second Vice President, Mayor of Cooper City

Marlene Wagner: A Lifetime of Service Lake Hamilton Vice Mayor presented with E. Harris Drew Award

45

For Cities, Competition is Tough

46

ARPA, DEI and Grassroots Advocacy

Getting back to recruiting basics with modern benefits

President Walker announces vision for the League

49 Prepare to Protect

Proper planning before an emergency can save lives

54 Helping the Homeless

Cities across the state rally to support at-risk population

INSERT

ON THE COVER: XAVIERARNAU/E+/GETTYIMAGES

2022 Legislative Action Agenda FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 5

The Florida Municipal Insurance Trust (FMIT) provides local governments with a complete Employee Benefits Package.

The Employee Benefits Package includes: ∙ Medical ∙ Dental ∙ Vision ∙ Life ∙ Disability ∙ Voluntary Employee Benefits ∙ Section 125 Administration ∙ Flexible Spending Account/ Health Savings Account/Health Reimbursement Arrangement Administration

∙ A Customized Wellness Solution ∙ COBRA Administration ∙ Full Online Eligibility and Enrollment System Contact Lindsey Larson Account Executive llarson@flcities.com 920.606.9716

FROM THE PRESIDENT

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Leading through constant change

S President Phillip Walker Commissioner City of Lakeland

LOCAL V ICES UNITED The Florida League of Cities has launched Local Voices United.

This grassroots advocacy program will arm municipal officials with the tools and

ociety is experiencing significant changes right now, and our municipal officials are leading their communities through these everchanging times. As one mayor said, “We’re the faces and the voices of our communities, and our leadership will be instrumental in bringing our communities together in order to move ahead.” Despite the challenges we’ve faced over the past year and a half, I am confident about the future of Florida’s cities.

Our cities stand to receive billions in aid from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). These essential funds will help support the recovery of our communities.

(See p. 34 for more on ARPA.) Thanks to the Florida League of Cities, we have a grants program to help us administer the funding. In the first three months of the eCivis grants program, 137 cities have signed up, 7,600 grants have been viewed, and cities have saved 250 grants to receive updates on directly to their inbox. (To learn more, visit flcities.com/grants or email flcgrants@ecivis.com.)

We’ve begun to carefully resume in-person events, including the League’s Annual Conference where we shared ideas, named the winner of the E. Harris Drew Municipal Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrated our Home Rule Heroes and set the agenda for the 2022 Legislative Session. (For more on the annual conference, see p. 36.) At the 2021 Legislative Conference, we set the foundation for cities’ involvement in the legislative process and announced the League’s grassroots advocacy program, Local Voices United. (For more information on Local Voices United, see left and p. 30.)

I’m excited for what the future holds for the League and each of us. Together with your municipal leadership and the Florida League of Cities by our side, we can build on our strong foundation and be even more impactful in the coming year – our 100th year.

Stronger together!

resources they need to engage Florida’s residents in promoting local decision-making.

To learn more, visit localvoicesunited.com.

Phillip Walker

FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 7

QC TODAY Have news to share? Send it to kgemmer@flcities.com.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CITY OF LARGO

Ocala Wetland Recharge Park.

Port St. Lucie’s Healthy U program promoted at a city park.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CITY OF OCALA (LEFT) AND CITY OF PORT ST. LUCIE (RIGHT)

WHO | WHERE | WHAT

RECOGNITION

Largo staff engaged their community with a drive-by neighborhood salute.

ENGAGEMENT

Ocala and Port St. Lucie Receive National Award

The City of Largo engaged residents with a holiday DriveBy Salute through the City’s neighborhoods. The celebration featured a decorated float in patriotic decor followed by city vehicles, including Largo Police motorcycles and a Largo Fire Rescue station truck.

City staff members across several departments participated, including the City Commission; Recreation, Parks and Arts; Police Department; Fire Rescue; Public Works; Largo Public Library and Communications and Engagement.

The City of Ocala and City of Port St. Lucie were recognized by the National Recreation and Park Association with Innovation Awards for their advancements in the field through innovative practices.

Ocala’s Water Resources Department received the Innovation in Conservation Award for the Ocala Wetland Recharge Park, an environmental landmark that features educational kiosks, two and one half miles of walking trails and scenic boardwalks. Port St. Lucie’s Parks and Recreation Department received the Innovation in Health Award for their Healthy U: A Series of Conversations program that integrated mental health awareness messages into traditional parks and recreation programming.

Largo Salutes Residents In Neighborhood Drive-By

KUDOS

Doral Awarded for Technology The City of Doral received a 2021 FutureEdge 50 Award for their Real Time Operations Center Innovative Technology that the Doral Police Department recently implemented. The award from CIO digital magazine recognizes organizations that push the edge with new technologies to advance their business for the future. Doral was the only city among the award winners.

In addition, the City was also awarded the International Organization for Standardization 37122 Indicators for Smart Cities Certification from the World Council on City Data. Doral is the first American city to achieve this certification and is among a handful of early adopters worldwide.

8 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

TODAY

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MEETING CALENDAR PHOTO COURTESY OF VILLAGE OF KEY BISCAYNE

NOVEMBER 12, 15-19 National League of Cities City Summit (Virtual) citysummit.nlc.org Contact Allison Payne NOVEMBER 18-19 Florida Municipal Communicators Association Annual Conference Luminary Hotel & Co., Fort Myers Contact Selina Smith

Magical Park players explore different augmented reality worlds through their device at the Village’s community park.

RECREATION

Key Biscayne Opens Digital Playground The Village of Key Biscayne launched Magical Park, the world’s first digital playground.

Key Biscayne is one of the first communities in the country, alongside the City of Coral Gables, partnering with GEO A.R. Games to implement augmented reality games that get children ages 6-11 years old physically active outdoors within safe boundaries.

The City of Port St. Lucie’s Communications Department staff.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF PORT ST. LUCIE

RECOGNITION

Port St. Lucie Communications Wins National Award The City of Port St. Lucie Communications Department received the Sharman Stein Award for Storytelling Changemakers from Results for America, lead partner of the What Works Cities Bloomberg Philanthropies initiative.

Port St. Lucie is the first city in Florida to receive the award, which recognizes a city official or team that draws on the power of public communication to cultivate trust and collaboration between local government and residents.

JANUARY 24-27, 2022 Florida Local Government Information Systems Association Winter Symposium Embassy Suites Orlando Lake Buena Vista South Contact Becky Brennan FEBRUARY 2-4, 2022 Florida City and County Management Association Winter Institute Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront Contact Carol Russell FEBRUARY 8-9, 2022 Florida League of Cities Legislative Action Days Tallahassee Contact Mary Edenfield MARCH 17-18, 2022 Florida Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials Annual Conference Embassy Suites Orlando Lake Buena Vista South Contact Nykierama Cooper MAY 30-JUNE 4, 2022 Florida City and County Management Association Annual Conference Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld Contact Carol Russell JUNE 19-23, 2022 Florida Association of City Clerks Summer Conference and Academy Renaissance Vinoy Hotel, St. Petersburg Contact Rachel Embleton JUNE 23-29, 2022 Florida Government Finance Officers Association Annual Conference Rosen Shingle Creek, Orlando Contact Jill Walker JULY 24-28, 2022 Florida Local Government Information Systems Association Annual Conference Diplomat Beach Resort, Hollywood Contact Becky Brennan

flcities.com/education-and-

GO TO: events/calendar-of-events or call

850.222.9684 for more information.

FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 9

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TODAY DID YOU KNOW …

Florida is Home to Several ‘Moon Trees’?

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CITY OF KEYSTONE HEIGHTS

Keystone Heights’ Moon Tree located next to City Hall.

When Apollo 14 launched in 1971, astronauts weren’t the only thing sent to the moon. Hundreds of tree seeds packed in small containers were brought on board by astronaut Stuart Roosa, a former U.S. Forest Service (USFS) smokejumper.

The seeds orbited the moon with Roosa in his personal kit as part of an informal USFS project to study seed germination and growth.

The seeds were chosen from five types of trees – loblolly pine, sycamore, sweetgum, redwood and Douglas fir – representing each of the country’s regions. Upon their return from space, the seeds were to be germinated by the USFS but exploded from the pressure once opened. While scientists weren’t sure if any tree seeds would still germinate, some proved successful. Most of the viable seedlings were donated in the late 1970s as part of the nation’s bicentennial celebration and planted throughout the United States. They are referred to as “Moon Trees.”

Few records were kept, since this experiment was not a formal one. However, the NASA Space Science Data Coordinated Archive has compiled a list of believed Moon Tree locations, including several Florida cities. Those locations and types of trees are: ▸ Brevard County – Kennedy Space Center, sycamore* ▸ Gainesville – University of Florida, sycamore and two loblolly pines* ▸ Keystone Heights – Keystone Heights Public Library, sycamore ▸ Perry – Forest Capital State Park, loblolly pine ▸ Tallahassee – Cascades Park, sycamore, and Doyle Conner Office Complex, loblolly pine.

Brevard County’s Moon Tree was blown over in 2017 by Hurricane Irma. In 2019, it was replaced with a Moon Tree Garden in the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center courtyard. In the garden are pieces made from the original tree and 12 of the tree’s descendants, including statues carved from the tree’s wood and paintings made using the tree’s sawdust. The City of Gainesville’s two loblolly pines are no longer alive, but the sycamore tree still exists on campus.

The City of Keystone Heights received its Moon Tree as a donation from the University of Florida. The tree is located prominently next to City Hall and outside the City’s library. The City of Perry’s Moon Tree is located at the Forest Capital Museum State Park in front of the ranger’s homestead. A plaque identifies the City of Tallahassee’s Moon Trees in their locations in the northwest corner of Cascades Park and at the Florida Forest Service, Doyle Conner Office Complex.

The Moon Trees stand today across Florida and the United States as a monument to the nation’s moon expeditions. Florida was and continues to be a home for innovation and ingenuity in the Space Age. *Trees no longer alive Reference: nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov

Clermont’s Waterfront Park Beach.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF CLERMONT

10 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

RECOGNITION

Clermont Ranked Top 15 Among Lake Towns The City of Clermont was named one of America’s 15 best lake towns by Travel + Leisure magazine.

The City offers fishing piers, playgrounds, picnic areas, a scenic boardwalk, a splash park and a white sand beach along its waterfront. Various events occur near or in the lake, including triathlons, festivals, rowing, canoe and kayak championships, dragon boat races and more.

TODAY PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF TALLAHASSEE

Representatives from City of Tallahassee Utilities were honored in Orlando.

AWARD

Tallahassee Named No. 1 Public Utility The City of Tallahassee received the 2021 E.F. Scattergood System Achievement Award from the American Public Power Association designating the City the top public utility in the country.

The City was recognized for its commitment to clean energy, customer-focused initiatives and mutual aid.

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KUDOS

Naples and Sarasota Named Top Places to Live in the U.S. The Cities of Naples and Sarasota have been named two of the top 10 Best Places to Live in the U.S. News & World Report 2021-2022 rankings.

Naples ranked No. 7 while Sarasota ranked No. 9. The 150 most populous metro areas were ranked based on their value, living desirability, job market and quality of life.

Obituaries Clearwater City Manager Bill Horne

Clearwater City Manager Bill Horne

died August 14 at age 72. A retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, Horne began his career with the City of Clearwater in 1998 as General Support Services Administrator. He became Assistant City Manager the next year and was named Interim City Manager in 2000. The following year, he became City Manager and served in that position for two decades with plans of retiring in September.

“We lost a patriot, mentor, leader, public servant, veteran and role model. I lost my friend,” said Mayor Frank Hibbard. “Our community was richer for having Bill Horne, and today we are poorer for having lost him. His impact in Clearwater and beyond will live on tangibly and in our hearts.”

Former Palm Shores Councilman William (Bill) Carl Blucker

Former Palm Shores Councilman William (Bill) Carl Blucker died August 21

at the age of 88. He served on the Town Council from 1998-2012 and remained active in the Town long after retirement. A U.S. Air Force veteran, Blucker was honored to serve as a volunteer representing the Town as a member of the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office and the City of Melbourne’s Community Policing. He also served as President of the Palm Shores Estate Homeowners Association. “Bill Blucker loved Palm Shores and was always willing to undertake any task,” said Mayor Carol McCormack. “He was known as ‘Mr. Honorable’ long after he retired. He will be missed.”

Jacksonville Council Member Tommy Hazouri

Jacksonville Council Member Tommy Hazouri died September 11 at age 76.

Hazouri was a second-term At-Large City Council Member, first seated in 2015, and was elected Council President in 2020. He served as the City’s Mayor from 1987-1991, where he led efforts to eliminate the tolls from Jacksonville’s roads and bridges and enact environmental regulations. Hazouri was also a member of the Florida House of Representatives from 1974-1986 and a Duval County School Board member from 20042012. “Our city mourns the loss of a true Jacksonville champion,” said Mayor Lenny Curry. “Tommy, I will always value your friendship, leadership and passion for our community.”

Perry Councilman William Michael (Mike) Deming

Perry Councilman William Michael (Mike) Deming died September 21 at

age 59. Deming was first elected to the City Council in 2012 and reelected in 2016 and 2020. He also served as Mayor in 2015 and 2016. Deming served in numerous volunteer positions in community and governmental agencies for nearly two decades, including the Florida Workforce Development Association. “Councilman Mike Deming was a true patriot and public servant,” said Mayor Alan Hall. “He has served our community in many other ways, as a volunteer with committees and work groups, always trying to make Perry a better place.”

FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 11

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TODAY

Obituaries Former Largo City Manager Norton (Mac) Craig II

Former Largo City Manager Norton (Mac) Craig II died August 2 at age 84.

Craig began his career with the City as Environmental Services Director in 2000 following his retirement from the U.S. Army. He served as Assistant City Manager for two years and then as City Manager from 2007-2016. During his time as City Manager, several improvements were made to city infrastructure, including the building of the Highland Recreation Complex and the Largo Community Center. “Mac was a calm and compassionate leader,” said Mayor Woody Brown. “His many contributions to our City will be frequent reminders of his generosity and his love for Largo.”

St. Cloud City Council Member Charles (Chuck) Cooper

St . Cloud City Council Member Charles (Chuck) Cooper died June

11 at age 72. Cooper’s service to the City spanned nearly four decades. He served on the City Council from 19851988, 1994-1995 and 2016-2021 and was reelected in November 2020. He also served on the City’s Code Enforcement Board from 2003-2016 and was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. “Chuck Cooper was passionate about the City of St. Cloud,” said City Manager William Sturgeon. “He didn’t hesitate to let you know when he disagreed with you, and I respected that. He always did what he thought was best for the citizens and the City.”

Apalachicola Mayor Kevin Begos Jr.

Apalachicola Mayor Kevin Begos Jr.

died June 19 at age 63. Prior to being elected Mayor in 2019, Begos was an award-winning journalist whose career began with the Apalachicola Times.

His passion for seafood led him to Apalachicola, and he was an active member of the community.

He led the City through the aftermath of Hurricane Michael and the COVID-19 pandemic and helped stabilize the City’s finances.

“Mayor Begos’ leadership style may have been unorthodox, but he was passionate and expected the same type of passion from his colleagues and staff,” said Mayor Brenda Ash. “Although he served a short period, the effect he had on the City of Apalachicola and the Franklin County community will never be forgotten.”

12 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

Former Islamorada Mayor Mike Forster

Former Islamorada Mayor Mike Forster died September 6 at age 61.

Forster served on the Village Council for five terms from 2008-2020. He was appointed Mayor for two of those terms and Vice Mayor for another two terms. He was currently serving as a Monroe County Commissioner and was a well-known restauranteur in the Florida Keys. In a released statement, the Village said, “Mike’s service as an Islamorada Council Member, Mayor, business owner and all the charitable work he engaged in to support his fellow community members and to sustain our natural environment will long be remembered.”

Former South Pasadena Mayor Lawrence (Larry) Crowley

Former South Pasadena Mayor Lawrence (Larry) Crowley died June 20 at

age 58. Crowley served as Commissioner from 2004-2012 and as Mayor from 2012-2013. Dedicated to public service, Crowley was also a board member and President of both the Boys and Girls Club of the Suncoast and the Rotary Club of St. Petersburg West and served on the University of Florida Advisory Board of the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center. “Larry Crowley’s passing is a tremendous loss for our entire community,” said Mayor Arthur Penny. “As a member of the City Commission, he helped carry the City through difficult times while maintaining financial stability. As a friend, he was always there with a kind word and smile on his face.”

Fort Pierce City Commissioner Rufus Alexander III

Fort Pierce City Commissioner Rufus Alexander III died July 28 at age 72.

Alexander was first elected to the City Commission in 2001 and served for 20 consecutive years as the District 1 representative. As a third-generation funeral director and General Manager and Vice President of the family-owned business, Alexander was always committed to helping families in need. In a released statement, the City said, “Commissioner Alexander truly embraced the meaning of community – having so much love for the people of Fort Pierce and his hometown. The City of Fort Pierce will be forever grateful and humbled by the legacy that he left.”

FEATURE

QC

COMMUNICATION

FLC Legislative Action Days

Online magazine offers a new way to share cities’ stories

February 8-9, 2022

QualityCities.com Launches

by Kelli Gemmer Florida League of Cities

T

he Florida League of Cities magazine has been sharing the great work of Florida’s cities since 1928. Quality Cities magazine reports on legislation impacting cities, current issues affecting municipalities and innovative local government programs, services and events. Now, the League is offering a new way to share the magazine and showcase the impacts cities are having in their communities. In conjunction with this year’s Florida City Government Week, the League launched QualityCities.com, an interactive website that brings city stories to life beyond print.

As Florida’s municipalities have evolved, so have their ability to communicate. Technology provides a powerful, simple and cost-effective way to inform residents. To help cities tell their stories, the League has created an online presence that allows cities to share QC magazine in a digital space and reach more residents. The best part? Municipalities and residents can easily share articles directly to social media with just one click.

The new website features a digital version of the print magazine with easy-to-navigate pages, clickable links for more information, embedded videos within the same interface and mobile-optimized stories that make sharing and reading content easier than ever before.

QualityCities.com includes an interactive calendar section where municipalities can publicize their events, festivals, carnivals and more. The site also has a City Spotlights section highlighting municipal initiatives, from innovations and technology to festivals and new public safety programs.

Next year, we celebrate the League’s 100th anniversary, further reinforcing the importance of recognizing and empowering municipalities. Engage in this new way of telling our local stories, whether sharing an article you’ve been featured in, adding an event to the festival calendar or sending us initiatives to include in future editions. Visit QualityCities.com today to get started.

A unique opportunity for city officials from across the state to gather in Tallahassee.

Discuss the latest legislative issues and developments affecting municipalities.

Meet face to face with your legislators to provide a valuable city perspective.

Registration will be available at flcities.com.

Kelli Gemmer is the Assistant Editor for the Florida League of Cities. QC

FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 13

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CITY SPOTLIGHT

The Pondhawk StoryWalk welcomed over 3,000 patrons of all ages in 2020.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CITY OF BOCA RATON

Boca Raton Public Library staff members select books every two months for the StoryWalk program and display them in the library.

CITY SPIRIT AWARD

Bringing the Library Outdoors Boca Raton’s StoryWalk provides safe literary programming

by Anne Marie Connolly City of Boca Raton

M

arch 2020 marked the beginning of an unprecedented time that changed how all local governments do business and provide programs and services to their communities. Realizing the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in the South Florida region, the City of Boca Raton, a coastal community, sprang into action and quickly declared a state of emergency that closed city facilities, including libraries, parks and community centers.

Department and division leaders citywide started to have conversations about the future of doing business with the City and began implementing virtual services and programming. One of the City’s facilities, the Boca Raton Public Library, has always been known for its in-person offerings available to residents.

With a variety of courses, programs and initiatives, the library served all populations from children to seniors with books, takehome activities and more.

As Boca Raton continued to monitor the pandemic, the library staff members realized an important need within the community: 14 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

BOCA RATON Palm Beach County Pop. 95,139

providing patrons the opportunity to enjoy city services while outside, especially considering most residents were taking advantage of the outdoors. After much consideration, they introduced the StoryWalk program, an innovative way for children and adults to enjoy reading and the outdoors.

“Given the number of families visiting the library for storytimes and summer reading, we knew the StoryWalk program would be popular,” said Shilo Perlman, Library Assistant III. “Once the pandemic closures started, and so many families had to struggle through online learning, it became more urgent to offer a healthy outdoor activity.”

The program’s location was selected as a result of a partnership between the library and Palm Beach County Environmental Resources Management Department. The Palm Beach County’s Pondhawk Natural Area, a short walk away from the Spanish River Library, became the location of the first StoryWalk after it was approved through the County’s Adopt-A-Natural-Area program.

CITY SPOTLIGHT The library staff worked diligently along with County staff and volunteers to install aluminum posts throughout the area.

Library staff members then installed aluminum frames onto the posts generously donated by the Friends of the Boca Raton Public Library, a nonprofit volunteer and membership organization. They inserted the laminated pages from a children’s book into each frame. The team also came up with fun facts and physical activities for each story page for children and parents to enjoy.

“The StoryWalk at Pondhawk Natural Area was the realization of a shared vision,” said Ellen Randolph, Manager of Library Services. “This exciting project would not have been possible without our innovative partnerships with Palm Beach County Environmental Resource Management and our wonderful Friends of the Library group.

They all loved the idea immediately and have been actively involved in every step of this initiative.”

As the program progressed, the library staff made necessary changes to enhance the success of the program. Initially, staff decided to switch to a new book every three months; however, the Pondhawk StoryWalk was so popular, there became a demand to change the books every two months.

The StoryWalk program also created an opportunity to collaborate with other city facilities and departments to bring awareness to the different functionalities of local government and the work city staff members do daily. For example, the

QC

Gumbo Limbo Nature Center sea turtle rehabilitation facility reworked their Sea Turtle Month celebration events to be virtual during the pandemic. The library worked with the Center to match the theme and provide a StoryWalk book related to sea turtles.

“By combining and leveraging resources, we were able to provide a new amenity and activity for Boca and Palm Beach Residents which accomplishes several positive outcomes for everyone involved,” said Michael Kalvort, Recreation Services Director.

The Pondhawk StoryWalk became a local attraction welcoming over 3,000 patrons of all ages. With an enormous amount of recognition on social media as well as successful participation numbers, StoryWalk expanded to a second location. After scouting several places, the team decided on the Serenoa Glade Preserve inside George Snow Park. To date, hundreds of patrons participate in both StoryWalks each month.

“I could not be prouder of the Boca Raton Public Library and all of our City of Boca Raton departments and divisions, all of whom worked with such dedication to meet the increased needs of our residents during these unprecedented times,” said Mayor Scott Singer. “The StoryWalk has provided an engaging, educational outlet that many people in our community continue to enjoy.”

Anne Marie Connolly is the Communications and Marketing Manager for the City of Boca Raton. QC

(From left) FLC Ambassador Shwanda Barnette presents the Municipal Achievement Award to Friends of the Boca Raton Library President Tracy Wasserman, Boca Raton Public Library Manager of Library Services Ellen Randolph, Boca Raton Recreation Services Director Michael Kalvort and Boca Raton Mayor Scott Singer.

Boca Raton Wins a Florida Municipal Achievement Award The City of Boca Raton recently received the Florida League of Cities City Spirit Award.

The award recognizes a specific citywide effort that successfully addresses a local need. A collaborative effort between the Boca Raton Public Library and the Palm Beach County Environmental Resources Management Department, the StoryWalk Program places a children’s book along a popular walking route in the community.

Boca Raton Mayor Scott Singer (left) alongside city, county and library staff with the FLC’s Municipal Achievement Award.

PHOTOS AND GRAPHIC COURTESY OF CITY OF BOCA RATON

FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 15

QC

CITY SPOTLIGHT

PHOTOS COURTESY OF STEVEN HIRSCHFIELD, IONTB.COM (LEFT) AND CITY OF CLEARWATER

A bird’s-eye view of the “Peace, Love, and Harmony” mural designed, painted and named by residents.

Storm drain mural painted by a resident.

CITIZENSHIP AWARD

Public Art Projects Engage Residents

CLEARWATER Pinellas County Pop. 118,017

Placemaking Program beautifies Clearwater while increasing civic awareness and education

by Jordan Morang City of Clearwater

T

he City of Clearwater’s tagline, “Bright and Beautiful – Bay to Beach,” encapsulates more than the City’s beaches, recreational opportunities and the natural environment. It also captures the unique aesthetics and cultural amenities that are created through the City’s Placemaking Program. Comprised of 10 individual project opportunities, the Placemaking Program encourages neighbors to work toward the common goal of infusing the built environment with public art. The opportunities within the program include: ▸ Paint the Pavement (Street Murals) ▸ Dumpster Murals ▸ Sidewalk Rain Art ▸ Signal Box Murals ▸ Little Free Libraries ▸ Storm Drain Murals ▸ Wall Murals ▸ Adopt-a-Park ▸ Adopt-a-Street ▸ Sidewalk Poetry.

Each of the 10 projects within the Placemaking Program is open to residents and Clearwater organizations. The City provides the materials and logistical support necessary to ensure each project is successful and produces something that volunteers will be proud of.

16 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

Over 100 examples of community art, designed and fabricated by neighbors, can now be found on Clearwater’s sidewalks, streets, infrastructure and walls. The grassroots nature of the program motivates neighborhood residents to work together to create art that represents them and their experience in the City. The resulting artwork is diverse in color, subject matter and meaning.

Hundreds of volunteers and dozens of community organizations alongside city staff have collaborated to make Clearwater more beautiful and inviting through the Placemaking Program.

A marked increase in social capital and togetherness has improved the community’s resilience, especially amid the tumultuous COVID-19 pandemic.

BEYOND BEAUTY: ACTIVATING THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

Pinellas County is the most densely populated county in Florida, and as a result, the City of Clearwater must be creative when developing public art initiatives. Fortunately, there are blank canvases ready to be splashed with color along every street, sidewalk and corner of Clearwater. By using the existing infrastructure – intersections, building walls, sidewalks, signal boxes and storm drains – the City can offer opportunities to all who wish to participate. Instead of a storm drain or signal box that fades into the background, residents have created active and eye-catching art pieces. This program makes the pedestrian environment safer

CITY SPOTLIGHT

QC

A Clearwater resident’s poem made concrete from the Sidewalk Poetry project.

Residents paint an inspiring message on a dumpster at their local park.

and more enjoyable for those who travel Clearwater’s streets, sidewalks and trails.

The program also promotes education and environmental stewardship through the Little Free Library, Rain Art and Storm Drain Mural programs. On each painted drain is a short quote promoting environmental stewardship, such as encouraging neighbors to keep trash out of the waterways and only letting rain down the drain. These small reminders, along with the Adopt-a-Park and Adopt-a-Roadway, foster an understanding of ownership and the responsibility that each community member has in keeping Clearwater “bright and beautiful.”

SENSE OF PLACE

While the community artwork is attractive, educational and inspiring, the driving force behind the program’s inception proved greater than just the physical enhancements. The Placemaking Program acts as a catalyst for interaction and collaboration between neighbors, the City, community partners and local organizations. The sense of place created by residents and groups working side-by-side on the planning, design and execution of each project is deep and lasting.

One of the primary objectives is to ensure that the program is both equitably available and accessible to all neighborhoods so that residents – regardless of age, skill level, amount of free time or financial capacity – have the opportunity to put their stamp on the

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CITY OF CLEARWATER

Community members beautify a storm drain.

community. Allyson Leja, an art teacher at a local high school who led a group of students beautifying storm drains, conveyed her appreciation of the opportunity for her students to express themselves artistically while also sharing an impactful and positive message.

Since the creation of the program, it has been an expressed goal to promote each placemaking opportunity in historically underinvested neighborhoods. Consequently, some of the most impactful projects have been the ones where the beautification became secondary to the improved sense of place and camaraderie in the community. At the Lake Belleview Paint the Pavement event, Valerie Ingram Hinkley, President of the Lake Belleview Neighborhood Association , discussed the impact the project had on her neighborhood and the commitment her community showed to improvement by coming together and giving their time, effort and artistic prowess to the intersection mural.

Creating these ties among residents – and among residents and city staff – has fostered relationships that continue long after the paint dries. These relationships will continue to promote thoughtful discourse and positive action throughout Clearwater and at City Hall. The City will continue expanding the program and offering residents innovative ways of beautifying and activating the often-overlooked parts of “bright and beautiful” Clearwater.

Jordan Morang is the Neighborhoods Coordinator for the City of Clearwater. QC

Clearwater Wins a Florida Municipal Achievement Award The City of Clearwater recently received the Florida League of Cities Florida Citizenship Award.

The award recognizes a city project or program that increases civic awareness and education and promotes active participation in local government among residents. The Placemaking Program is a citywide initiative that engages the community in a series of public art projects while beautifying public spaces.

FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 17

CITY SPOTLIGHT

Photos submitted by residents who participated in the #CleanDarkFlat campaign.

COLLAGE COURTESY OF BEACHES SEA TURTLE PATROL

QC

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP AWARD

Communitywide Partnership Protects Sea Turtles Jacksonville Beach’s #CleanDarkFlat campaign keeps beaches clean

by Jacob Board City of Jacksonville Beach

T

he City of Jacksonville Beach, home to a vast stretch of beaches, serves as the “playground” to the Jacksonville Metro area that encompasses a population of almost 1.6 million.

Embodying their newly adopted vision statement, “a vibrant coastal community that embraces ‘the beach life,’” the City recently partnered with government organizations, nonprofits and local businesses to prioritize natural resources and the environment.

Florida’s coast is the world’s largest nesting area for endangered Northwest Atlantic Ocean Loggerheads. Not many get the opportunity to see these precious beach creatures hatch and scurry down to the ocean, but it is a sight to behold. The journey for these turtles, although exciting to witness, is not an easy one, and a thriving beach community doesn’t necessarily make it any easier.

When a sea turtle hatches on coast, it immediately begins crawling toward the moon or morning sun to reach the ocean. House lights and public streetlights near the beach can confuse the turtles into crawling the wrong way and never making it to the water. Holes and sandcastles can also trap tiny turtles.

18 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

JACKSONVILLE BEACH Duval County Pop. 23,394

The #CleanDarkFlat public awareness campaign was launched in partnership with the City, Beaches Energy Services, Beaches Sea Turtle Patrol (BSTP) and several local coffee shops to protect sea turtles during the 2020 nesting season. The campaign’s objectives included raising awareness and educating residents on safety practices to protect nesting sea turtles, engaging local businesses to promote the campaign and actively engaging the community at large in efforts to protect these sea turtles.

Launched just before July 4, one of the largest beachgoing weekends in the community, the campaign featured a custom #CleanDarkFlat coffee mug/sticker pack sold in six partnering local coffee shops for $10, with proceeds going to BSTP. The #CleanDarkFlat messaging reiterated the importance for the sea turtles to have the following: ▸ Clean – Keep the beaches free of litter and personal items. ▸ Dark – No lights at night for the safety of hatchlings. ▸ Flat – Fill in holes and knock down sandcastles that trap turtles, and do not disturb turtle nests.

CITY SPOTLIGHT

Jacob Board is the Communications Manager for the City of Jacksonville Beach. QC

Residents enjoy coffee in their #CleanDarkFlat mugs.

A BSTP outreach volunteer at the kickoff event.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BEACHES SEA TURTLE PATROL, IMAGE COURTESY OF CITY OF JACKSONVILLE BEACH

Amid a global pandemic when so many residents were experiencing fear and uncertainty, the community was ready for a positive mission that brought them outside to support their favorite natural space: the beach. The mugs sold out within two months and had residents asking for more.

“The program was well-executed, beautifully produced and promoted and, most importantly, created positive results,” said Mayor Chris Hoffman . “In the 2020 sea turtle season, I’m ecstatic to share that there were ZERO sea turtle deaths on our beaches. This is, of course, not 100% because of the #CleanDarkFlat campaign, but it certainly made a large contribution to such a wonderful statistic.”

The campaign brought a new, exciting way for residents to support and learn about sea turtle safety and brought much-needed foot traffic to local businesses that had seen a significant decrease in customers due to previous stay-at-home mandates. The existing sea turtle preservation hashtag, #CleanDarkFlat, sounds reminiscent of a latte a barista would take pride in serving. It also provided a unique way to reintroduce the hashtag and build excitement in the community.

“I’m so proud of the City of Jacksonville Beach, Beaches Energy, the Beaches Sea Turtle Patrol and six of our local coffee shops partnering together to educate the public in an engaging, educating and fun way by starting the #CleanDarkFlat campaign,” said Hoffman.

The Jacksonville Beach community will continue to embrace the beach life by ensuring that our beaches remain clean, dark and flat!

QC

A resident purchases two mugs at her local coffee shop.

Jacksonville Beach Wins a Florida Municipal Achievement Award The City of Jacksonville Beach recently received the Florida League of Cities Environmental Stewardship Award.

The Environmental Stewardship Award recognizes a city program that promotes conservation, improves and protects environmental conditions and/or provides environmental education and outreach programs. The #CleanDarkFlat public awareness campaign was aimed at protecting sea turtles during the 2020 nesting season.

It highlighted the importance of keeping beaches clean of any litter or trash, dark without any light at night and flat without any holes.

FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 19

COMMENTARY

“

Some speculate that polarization in the American public is driving the polarization in Congress. However, there are strong reasons to believe that the polarization in Congress

primarily comes from other sources.

”

Source: “Common Ground of the American People: Policy Positions Supported by Both Democrats and Republicans.” Program for Public Consultation, School of Public Policy, University of Maryland, July 2021.

FRANCKREPORTER/ISTOCK/GETTYIMAGESPLUS/GETTY IMAGES

QC

PARTISANSHIP

Yes, We Can Agree Most Americans can find common ground

by Scott Paine Florida League of Cities

I

f one merely reads or watches the leading stories in the news or follows politically engaged folks on social media, one might be excused for imagining that we, the American people, are as deeply and distantly divided as the opposite sides of the Grand Canyon.

Regardless of the topic, it seems as though Americans immediately line up on opposing sides that resist all efforts at reconciliation.

While there is some undeniable truth to this image, I feel a need to push back against it.

Yes, on the hot button issues of the day, we persistently and consistently divide along a set of fault lines. The most popular of these, in media circles, is partisanship. Survey after survey reveals that the distributions of Republican and Democratic opinions on all sorts of contentious issues are mirror images of each other, with those who profess not to align with either party somewhere in between. But we also divide by where we live (urban/suburban/rural), education, race/ethnicity, gender, age and region of the country, just to name a few.

Given this all-too-familiar refrain of division, it may come as a surprise to discover that most of us agree about many important policy ideas.

A series of 35 surveys conducted over five years, with over 90,000 respondents, reveals that more than two-thirds of Americans, regardless of party, agree on many specific policy measures across a range of policy areas. Those areas include prescription drugs, health insurance, immigration, social security reform,

20 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

tax reform, food assistance programs, federal jobs programs and campaign finance reform. Some of these policies are more popular with the right, others with the left, but partisans of both parties support them by sizable majorities. (For more information on these surveys, see box, p. 21.)

I’m not suggesting that there is agreement about every element of these policy debates, only that there is solid, bipartisan agreement among voters about many meaningful policy choices Congress could make.

I’m not sure whether this finding naturally leads to the question “Why so much emphasis on division?” or “How can that be, given the polarized state of American politics?” I’ll deal with both.

Long before social media, the various existing media understood that controversy draws an audience. Samuel Adams famously declared the death of several colonists the “Boston Massacre.” Most of them had been involved in a confrontation with a beleaguered, outnumbered and poorly prepared squad of Red Coats. His flair for the sharp-tongued critique of British actions made its own not insignificant contribution to the growth of revolutionary fervor in Boston.

Party-supported newspapers of the 19th century were filled with inflammatory (and often false) stories about the other party’s candidates and officials. Even as something like modern journalism began to gain sway, news outlets didn’t abandon dramatic headlines and scandal-mongering stories.

COMMENTARY

QC

largely unproductive) antagonisms that we see play out in the And the public loved it. We still do. talking heads of Washington and in the posturing for the next Even mainstream journalism thrives on controversy; it’s what election cycle at the state and federal level. attracts an audience. That we see this same phenomenon on steAlternatively, confident that most of our residents, regardless roids in social media should come as no surprise. It’s where we of partisanship, share some common values about how people react with a click, and “clickbait” generates engagement and should be treated, how government should work and what govshares. The surprise is that Americans agree on lots of importernment should work on, we could frame our actions in terms ant public policy options, at least when given the opportunity to of one or more of these values. This approach is likely to excite understand the policy, not merely told which side is their side. less opposition which, in turn, will mean that our actions will As I scan the policies supported by at least two-thirds of Amerexcite less attention. If we’re icans of both the Republican hungry for notoriety, that’s a and Democratic stripe, I begin disappointment. However, if to detect some patterns. I’m we long for progress on the imnot making any strong statistiportant issues in our commucal claim here. I’m just sharing nity (and for a little peace and what seem to be some of the quiet for our private selves), value claims most of us agree this approach is likely to yield with and that underly many of considerable satisfaction. these policies on which there is In this period of divisions, widespread agreement. we desperately need to be re▸ Elected officials should be Republicans And Democrats Agree minded that we have a comaccountable to the people mon destiny. A healthy local who elect them.

Selected policies on which 66% or more of Republicans economy will be better for ▸ Individuals, communities and Democrats surveyed agree: most of us, regardless of parand our nation have the “Raise taxes on various tobacco products” tisan leaning. For residents right to reasonable meaand law enforcement officers sures of self-protection.

“Allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices” alike, safe streets and neigh▸ People and organizations “Make changes to the patent system to allow borhoods will allow most of with a great deal more regeneric drugs to get on to the market more quickly” us to enjoy life more and lonsources than most should ger. Having compassion for contribute a bit more to Source: “Common Ground of the American People: Policy Positions humans in their weaknesses the common good.

Supported by Both Democrats and Republicans.”

Program for Public will help us hear and under▸ When the government Consultation, School of Public Policy, University of Maryland, July 2021. stand the needs of those who acts on behalf of Amerstruggle and help us discover icans as a group, it may more effective ways to provide them with a second chance. exercise powers that others (businesses, private individThat approach will be better for them and, in a variety of ways, uals) cannot. better for us, too. ▸ People make mistakes and often ought to get a second If we embrace our duty to promote the public good, meanchance. ing that which is good for the public as a whole, we will be less ▸ Policies based on outdated assumptions should be changed, tempted by the small number of people who don’t want to play though changes should be made, when possible, to give by the rules.

We’ll be more clear-minded about how to weigh the people and businesses time to adjust to them. competing claims before us. We’ll make better decisions. ▸ Government should incentivize at least some private beAnd we’ll sleep better at night. havior to achieve public goods.

Which essentially all of us agree would be good.

These are my perceptions; you might come away with different ideas. But I think that each of these, based on the evidence, tends Scott C. Paine, Ph.D., is Director of Leaderto speak to some values and beliefs about government that, even ship Development and Education for FLC today, most Americans across the political landscape share … if University. He previously worked at the only they get a chance to think about what they value and believe, University of Tampa as Associate Profesnot just what the voices on their side of the aisle say. sor of Communication and Government I think there’s a lesson here for local leaders. and served for eight years on Tampa’s City We can, of course, frame everything we do in terms that resCouncil. He can be contacted at spaine@ onate with the partisan divide of our day. This approach will flcities.com. QC mobilize supporters and detractors; we will have chummed the political water for partisans, and we’ll undoubtedly attract a feeddrscottpaine.com to read ing frenzy of them. The raging conflict that ensues will make our GO TO: Scott Paine's regular blog. city halls and streets reverberate with the same passionate (and THERESATIBBETTS/DIGITALVISIONVECTORS/GETTY IMAGES

FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 21

DELIVERS

Your City’s National Resource and Advocate The National League of Cities (NLC) is the voice of America’s cities, towns and villages representing more than 200 million people across the country.

For over 90 years we have been delivering exclusive support and resources for local leaders and municipal staff at the national level, serving as an advocate for communities large and small.

HOW CAN NLC DELIVER FOR YOUR CITY?

Education + Training

Hands-On Assistance

Community Discounts

Advocacy Support

Peer Networking

National Leadership

LEARN MORE at nlc.org/stateleague 22 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

QC

SPOTLIGHT EMPLOYEE PROFILE

Dana Johnson:

Always going the extra mile

D

ana Johnson is no stranger to the value and missions of the Florida League of Cities (FLC). She was raised in Florida’s historic Town of Eatonville, the first Black-incorporated municipality in the United States, and recently

celebrated 11 years with the League.

As Client Service Supervisor, Dana is the “middleman” between FLC members and the health insurance providers.

She oversees and evaluates operations of the Group Health staff to ensure members are covered with health benefits and handles all escalated issues dealing with health benefits and the claims process. “There’s never a dull moment in health,” said Dana, who has worked in health insurance for nearly 30 years.

In addition to her daily duties, Dana goes above and beyond for her colleagues and the League. “Dana is super helpful and is always willing to provide a helping hand by traveling with our Hometown Health [HTH] team to assist with our HTH screening events for our membership,” said Hometown Health Manager Gwen Mahabir.

Dana also works with FLC members and vendors and continually goes the extra mile to assist them. Director of Trust Services Clay Austin said, “Dana has a drive to help get answers for our members and partners when they are needed, one of the key jobs we do in our organization.”

Her co-workers describe Dana as hardworking and ambitious. “She is always trying to excel in her field, and that is evident with the degrees she’s obtained while at the League,” said Medical Claims Examiner Doreen Davis. Since working with the League, Dana has received her 2-15 Florida Insurance License, Master of Health Administration degree and Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management.

When she’s not assisting members, vendors or staff, Dana is most likely traveling or spending time with her family.

She’s traveled to Paris, Aruba, Barbados, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Bahamas, Costa Rica and Italy – to name a few – and she’s planning a trip to Dubai and Spain next year. “My favorite experience during traveling is just learning the culture and how different the world is,” said Dana. “I love making memories with my granddaughter.”

In addition to her 7-year-old granddaughter, Dana has two kids and also two dogs named after her favorite sports team, the Dallas Cowboys. “I love sports,” she said. “I played basketball, volleyball and softball throughout high school, and I used to coach girls and boys basketball.”

The compassion that led Dana to coach sports is also evident to her co-workers. Just one example is when Dana sent masks directly to Doreen’s home after a casual conversation about them.

Clay, who has worked with Dana since she joined the League in 2010, echoed this sentiment. “Dana’s office has been right next to mine for years now. Every morning I see Dana, I get a smile and a ‘how are you,’ and she truly means it. It sure is a great way to start a day.” QC

FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 23

FEATURE Tallahassee International Airport is home to two solar farms.

The Kenneth P. Ksionek Community Solar Farm at the Stanton Energy Center, on top of an Orlando Utilities Commission retired coal-ash landfill.

One of the Tallahassee buses in the all-electric fleet at Florida State University that the City operates.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CITY OF ORLANDO (LEFT) AND CITY OF TALLAHASSEE

QC

ENVIRONMENT

Leading by Example Florida cities set 100% clean energy goals

by Sheryl S. Jackson

M

ore than 150 cities and counties across 37 states have established 100% clean commitments – clean electricity as well as other energy sources – while more than 72 communities have already achieved that target.1 The City of Orlando formalized its commitment to clean energy in 2017 with a program designed to move 100% of all city operations to clean energy by 2030 and to transition the City’s electrical grid to 100% renewable energy by 2050.

A technical assistance grant from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, a U.S. Department of Energy laboratory, provided the resources to develop and implement plans for city operations, said Chris Castro, Director of Sustainability and Resilience for the City. Rooftop solar installations at fire stations and community centers as well as solar carport canopies at city fleet and facilities operations centers are providing renewable energy.

“There are some facilities for which solar is not feasible due to roof architecture or the surrounding tree canopy,” Castro said.

These fire stations, park facilities and community centers are subscribed to solar farms administered through the city-owned utility. “In 2019, 2% of city operations were powered by solar; today, 14% of our facilities are powered by solar.”

As the City moves to 100% clean energy, residents also have the opportunity to do so on an individual basis, said Castro. “Since 2016, eight cooperative solar farms have been established to support 24 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

residents who buy into the program, and 350 homes are powered by solar.” Residents who want to install solar panels on their homes can participate in a cooperative buying program supported by the City.

Nonprofit organizations provide low-interest loans to support residents and small businesses that want to use clean energy sources.

Cities that own their electric utilities have an advantage in the race to clean energy, said Tallahassee Mayor John E. Dailey.

“Owning the utility allows us to be more efficient as we implement our plans to reach 100% clean energy for city operations by 2035 and for the community in 2050,” he said. “Tallahassee International Airport, which is owned and operated by the City, is home to two solar farms that total 450 acres and produce more than 60 megawatts of clean energy per year,” he said. “The airport’s solar farms make up the largest airport-based solar farm in the world.” The airport was honored with the 2021 FAC J. Bryan Cooper Environmental Award for its recent solar farm development, the completion of Solar Farm 2.

Tallahassee Commissioners passed their clean energy resolution in 2019. Since then, the City has been transitioning cityowned light-duty vehicles to electric as well as some city bus routes. The City also owns and operates the buses that serve Florida State University (FSU). The FSU system is comprised of all-electric buses powered 100% by solar, which shows the feasibility of electric buses powered by clean energy, said Dailey.

FEATURE

QC

Moving residents and businesses to clean energy is more complex, but Tallahassee’s first step is to offer free energy audits that identify ways to reduce energy use. The City has a financial incentive program to help residents install energy-saving measures and to finance some investments through their utility bills over several months, said Dailey. “We want people to rely on solar energy, but we first want to reduce energy use so the demand on a solar power grid won’t outweigh supply.”

PART OF OVERALL SUSTAINABILITY PLAN

An aerial view of the Scotty Culp Municipal Complex’s 232-panel array on the two roofs.

Nicholas Sanzone, Satellite Beach’s Environmental Coordinator, at the Scotty Culp Municipal Complex’s 232-panel array.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SATELLITE BEACH

The City of Tampa has also pledged to meet sustainability goals. “We recently released our Resilient Tampa Roadmap, a groundbreaking plan to make our city stronger in the face of our current and future challenges,” said Mayor Jane Castor. “The plan contains 13 goals and nearly 60 actions that include reducing greenhouse gas emissions, investing in world-class green and open spaces that mitigate extreme heat and flooding, and more.”

“A Climate Action and Equity plan, which includes an updated greenhouse gas inventory, is being developed,” said Castor. “This plan directly supports our pledge to transition municipal operations to 100% renewable energy.” In addition to the City’s pledge to clean energy, Tampa has also pledged to be a carbon-neutral city by 2050. “This also aligns with Emera’s [Tampa Electric Company’s parent company] sustainability goals, so I am encouraged to see these regional efforts come to fruition in unison.”

Some examples of Tampa’s achievements include adding nine electric vehicles to the City’s fleet, under the overarching goal of moving to a 100% electrically powered fleet. “We already have 90 compressed natural-gas-powered garbage trucks and more than 30 hybrid vehicles and have a goal to buy at least 10 more every year moving forward,” said Castor.

It’s not just the largest cities that own their utility that are promoting clean energy. In 2019, the City Council of Satellite Beach passed a resolution committing the City to transition to 100% clean, renewable energy for municipal operations by 2032 and the entire community by 2050.

The resolution formalized goals, but the City created a nine-member Sustainability Board comprised of residents and staff members to recommend actions on a sustainability plan in 2016. “We began transitioning to solar years ago, but we have to do it in a way that makes sense for our city,” said City Manager Courtney H. Barker, AICP. “Our first step was to go through all city-owned facilities and identify simple ways to reduce energy use: seal windows, replace existing light bulbs with LED bulbs and install timers so that lights in public facilities automatically turn off when no one is in the area.”

Because solar relies on sunlight, the City of Satellite Beach partnered with NASA to create a solar map of the City. “This helped us determine which buildings were good candidates for rooftop solar and what sides of the roof would produce the most energy,” said Barker. The strategy to install solar is very deliberate, with solar automatically installed when a new roof is installed. “We don’t want to install solar panels on a roof that will be replaced in a few years because that adds unnecessary costs to remove and reinstall panels.”

The action plan developed by the Sustainability Board calls for an assessment of all roofs and the development of a timetable for replacement. “After the City Council approves the recommendations for the upcoming year, we budget for the roof replacement as well as solar,” said Barker. “Initial challenges to our plans were related to the upfront investment, but after showing the return on investment [ROI], we overcame those challenges.” For example, the ROI for City Hall was 10 years for a roof and solar panel installation with a 30-yearlife, she added.

It is very important for a city to work with the utility serving its area to ensure that the utility is working toward clean energy as well, said Barker. “We work closely with Florida Power and Light to support their clean energy initiatives

FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 25

FEATURE

since there are many buildings that cannot support a solar installation.”

Convincing residents and businesses to follow the City’s example requires constant communication and education, said Barker. In addition to offering a Solar Expo at which residents can learn about the technology, talk with consultants and see the options they have, the Sustainability Board maintains an active Facebook page. “We also have a display screen in the lobby of City Hall that shows real-time energy output of the rooftop panels as well as energy use in the building so people can see the results of solar,” she said.

One of the greatest challenges to cities that want to achieve 100% clean energy is the technology, said Dailey. “Today, we are purchasing technology to help us meet our 2035 goal, but there will be improvements in production and storage that we will want to take advantage of,” he said. “By investing in infrastructure upgrades now, we can ensure it is sustainable and will be able to support our energy needs in the future.”

Sheryl S. Jackson is a freelance writer. QC 1. Ptacek S. Race to 100% Clean.

Natural Resources Defense Council. nrdc.org/resources/race-100-clean.

Resources ▸

American Cities Climate Challenge: This not-for-profit group helps cities advance ambitious renewable energy

The City of Gainesville unveiled three new batteryelectric buses at a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Transitioning to Electric Buses in Gainesville The City of Gainesville has set a goal

training. “We conducted training

to have 100% of all city operations

for fire department personnel to

supported by clean energy by 2045. A

show them how to shut off the

key component of plans to meet this

engine in case of an accident,” said

goal includes city fleet vehicles.

Idoyaga. “There is an exterior panel that shuts off the engine without

“We have about 132 buses in our

exposing anyone to high voltage,

regional transportation system along

which allows for a safe evacuation

with police and fire vehicles and fleet

of the bus.”

vehicles for city employees,” said Thomas Idoyaga, Transit Community

While Gainesville started with hy-

Service Specialist for the Gainesville

brid vehicles, the results of the first

Regional Transportation System

month of use for the electric bus

(RTS). “At this time, we have three

fleet is encouraging, said Idoyaga,

all-electric buses in addition to five

who shared these statistics:

hybrid buses that were purchased in 2012.” The energy used to recharge

▸

In one month, the energy

electric vehicles is generated by the

consumed by one electric bus

Gainesville Renewable Energy Center,

was equivalent to less than

a 102.5 MW biomass-fueled power

8% of the total amount of fuel

plant, which meets the City’s commit-

used by a single diesel bus – 46

ment to clean or renewable energy.

versus 599 diesel gallons.

▸

By operating the three elec-

As cities move to electric vehicles,

tric buses in place of three

there are a few things to consider

diesel buses, 8.5 U.S. tons of

beyond just placing charging sta-

greenhouses gases were not

tions in different areas, said Idoyaga.

released. These reductions

“Although braking recharges the bat-

are the equivalent of charging

tery, it is important to evaluate areas

938,000 smartphones to ca-

financing program to support

that might need a secondary charging

pacity or powering 1.4 homes

energy efficiency improvements

station,” he said. “You also need to

during an entire year.

for individuals and businesses.

plan additional training for mainte-

Offered by the U.S. Department

nance staff who may not be familiar

bus fleet’s fuel efficiency is four

of Energy, the program enables

with electric and hybrid vehicles.”

times better than the target

goals and offers tools, checklists, plans and success stories. cityrenewables.org.

▸

PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF GAINESVILLE

QC

Property Assessed Clean Energy Programs: An innovative

cities to encourage investment

▸

After one month, the electric

efficiency set by RTS and 4.5

in energy efficiency without

Another safety aspect not to over-

times better than that of the

putting municipal funds at risk.

look: fire department personnel

existing diesel fleet.

bit.ly/3ylLg2P. 26 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

Access to Employment Law Attorneys at NO COST The Florida Municipal Insurance Trust’s exclusive Employment Law Advisor program offers access to a Florida-based attorney with significant public-sector employment law experience. And, the best part is there is no cost to members of the FMIT. We can help with a wide range of employment-related matters, including: Hiring Discipline Promotion/Demotion Transfer Reassignment Layoff Termination ADA Compliance Complaints of Discrimination, Harassment, Unfair Treatment and Retaliation

Help is only a phone call away. FMIT members can speak with an attorney Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., by calling 888.368.FMIT (3648).

FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 27

FEATURE

ANDREYPOPOV/ISTOCKGETTYIMAGESPLUS/GETTY IMAGES

QC

INVESTMENT

Protecting Your Funds Are your municipality’s assets safe?

by Robert Inzer

M

ost of us are familiar with Bernie Madoff, who created the largest Ponzi scheme in U.S. history and swindled investors out of tens of billions of dollars. There were only a few local governments nationally that had invested in his fund. He was not the first unscrupulous investment manager and won’t be the last. Let’s not forget about ESM Government Securities Inc. , a South Florida-based securities dealer that swindled investors out of over $300 million in the mid-1980s.

Investors that lost money included several South Florida cities.

Orange County, CA, this year retired the last of the outstanding bonds sold to bail the County out of its 1994 bankruptcy.

It was the largest U.S. county ever to declare bankruptcy. The bankruptcy was caused by the County Treasurer’s overly aggressive investment strategies while leveraging county funds. The securities involved were government agency-issued derivative securities tied to a specific interest rate outlook. It turned out that the market values of these bonds were highly volatile. The securities never defaulted, but when unanticipated interest rates movements occurred, the value of these securities plummeted.

The County sold $1.6 billion in debt to fund the losses.

In addition, there have been significant losses incurred by Florida cities arising from investments in assets they did not fully understand, with risks not fully appreciated. New investment instruments seem to regularly emerge from Wall Street dealers, each being a little more exotic than the last. By 2006-2007, we had local governments investing in bonds backed by subprime mortgages, where the underlying loans were highly risky. Some 28 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

cities purchased more exotic instruments. They bought specific tranches of mortgages whose return was often unpredictable and ran counter to the market. These securities were rated AAA by Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s rating services and thus qualified for investment by most investment policies at the time. These same securities were downgraded to below investment grade status, declined in value and even defaulted.

Florida’s Local Government Surplus Funds Trust Fund (now Florida Prime) also purchased securities they did not fully understand or appreciate. When the investments became illiquid, the state was forced to withhold access by participating governments to some of their funds for years. Many local governments and the Florida Local Government Investment Trust were invested in large blocks of these securities and incurred significant losses.

If these large institutions can make serious investment mistakes, don’t assume that your government is immune.

The State of Florida has recognized the risk associated with the investment of your government’s investment portfolio. Over the years, it has taken steps to help protect you from unscrupulous brokers marketing investment products inappropriate for your portfolio and unsophisticated staff managing these assets. Florida Statutes 218.415 addresses local government investment authority and requires certain safeguards to protect you and your citizens from future losses. Among other things, it requires each unit of local government to adopt an investment policy approved by the governing body, or alternatively, restricts investments to AAA-rated money market accounts, certificates

FEATURE of deposit, time deposits in selected institutions and the Local Government Surplus Funds Trust Fund operated by the State Board of Administration.

Most cities have opted for broader investment authority and have adopted investment policies. Florida Statutes require that the policy describe the following investment objectives: safety of capital, liquidity of funds and investment income, in that order. Your policy should not only reflect these objectives, but its implementation by staff should reflect these priorities. If all local governments had followed these objectives, our investment return might be slightly less, but we would have avoided the big mistakes and subsequent large losses.

As a member of the elected body, you should recognize that the investment policy is your policy, not the staff’s policy. By law, you are required to approve it. You should periodically review the policy to ensure that the policy reflects your government’s risk tolerance and is also being adhered to. No one expects you to be a security expert. But you must review the policy and review periodic portfolio reports. If you don’t have the expertise to effectively review the policy and investment report, consider creating an external investment oversight board composed of individuals with specific investment-related experience.

Florida Statutes 218.415 sets forth the minimum requirements for your policy. These include performance measurements, ethical standards, a listing of authorized investments, maturity and liquidity requirements, portfolio diversification requirements, portfolio composition and reporting requirements, among others. Your staff with investment responsibilities are required to complete at least eight hours of investment training annually. Lastly, staff must prepare a report annually, at a minimum, and include a listing of assets, book value of investments, income earned and the current market value of investments and submit it to the elected body for review.

These requirements are to ensure oversight and protect your city’s assets from losses. Historically, losses have not been a function of fraud or theft by staff, and in fact, I’m unaware of any city that has lost money on their portfolio due to criminal activities of staff. Losses have always been a function of investment officers reaching for yield and/or purchasing securities when they did not fully appreciate the risk.

Often the investment function in smaller cities is just one of dozens of responsibilities the Finance Officer has to manage. The Florida League of Cities

has recognized the potential problems due to lack of training and created the Florida Municipal Investment Trust (FMIvT) as an alternative investment instrument for cities. Created after several cities were experiencing losses with their investment management, FMIvT is the oldest pooled investment program in the state. In the 30 years it has operated, there has never been a participant that has lost money or been unable to access their funds when needed.

The League has taken the requirements of Florida Statutes 218.415 seriously and created products designed to provide

QC

municipal participants with a safe, secure investment program that minimizes the efforts of your staff and provides a competitive investment return.

The Trust has a number of investment options for your excess cash investments, including the 0-2 Year High Quality Bond Fund, the 1-3 Year High Quality Bond Fund and the Intermediate High Quality Fund, all of which are AAA-rated by Fitch Investor Services and designated an S1 rating for the lowest sensitivity to interest rate changes. Remember, the first two objectives of your investment policy are to minimize risk and provide adequate liquidity. There is no other investment program with higher ratings than those received by the League’s investment program.

The League retains a nationally recognized fixed income manager with seasoned professionals to provide professional money management. They have established disciplined investment guidelines to ensure underlying investments are diversified and minimize concentration risk. Portfolio duration is limited to ensure liquidity. The League’s professional staff and nationally recognized rating agencies rigorously monitor the portfolio’s instrument selection, diversification, durations and other internal controls.

Over 30% of the assets must be invested in U.S. Treasury or agency securities. Currently, 100% are invested in direct U.S. government obligations or U.S. government agencies. These securities have the lowest risk and highest liquidity. Only the longer duration Intermediate Bond High Quality Bond Fund allows any significant investment in corporate securities.

We know from history that the security markets, investment instruments and overall portfolio management change with time.

The League recognizes the standards we have today may not be the appropriate standards for tomorrow. They have created an independent investment Advisory Committee that meets quarterly with League staff, money managers and external performance management consultants to continuously review the overall program, investment options, investment guidelines and performance.

This Committee is composed of local government Finance Officers with sophisticated investment management experience. They advise the staff and the Board of Trustees on changes that need to be made to protect your city’s assets and ensure a competitive return.

The FMIvT is the oldest and most secure investment program in the state. You can find funds that have higher returns, but you can’t find a fund with more safeguards to protect you and your city. One thing I learned in my finance classes in college was there is a direct relationship between risk and return. So, if you are getting a higher return, you are most likely assuming more risk.

The FMIvT was created to protect municipal leaders and their cities. As an investment professional, I agree with Will Rogers’ investment advice: “I am more concerned about the return of my money than the return on my money.” Your citizens will seldom question you if your return is a little lower than your neighboring city, but they will be greatly concerned if you incur losses in your investment’s portfolio. They don’t know what you should earn, but they know without question that you should not be incurring losses.

Robert Inzer is an advisor to the Florida League of Cities. He has 46 years of municipal finance experience that includes 30 years with the City of Tallahassee, 20 years of which was spent as City Treasurer-Clerk. QC FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 29

LOCAL V ICES UNITED 30 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

COVER FEATURE

QC

ADVOCACY

Local Voices United Expands Grassroots Advocacy Informed residents can easily communicate with state legislators

by Scott Dudley Florida League of Cities

I

think we can all agree that the wide range of differences in the 411 municipalities in Florida is one of our state’s greatest strengths. When you live in or, as many have done in recent years, move to Florida, you can choose to live in a small town, a large city, at the beach or inland – whichever fits the needs of you and your loved ones. Even within categories such as population size, there are a lot of differences in terms of history, community, amenities and governance.

The one thing that is consistent throughout all Florida municipalities is the desire to have local residents make decisions about their hometowns.

While the Florida League of Cities has always advocated for local decision-making on behalf of our municipalities, a new program – Local Voices United – gives citizens the information, tools and resources to advocate for the issues that impact their hometowns at a grassroots level. These issues range from rules governing short-term rentals and home-based businesses to the use of impact fees or even placement of crosswalks.

We know that residents want to stay abreast of issues affecting their city’s ability to maintain historic districts, establish tree ordinances or zone for certain types of businesses in a way that preserves the unique and appealing nature of their neighborhoods; however, it is not an easy task. This program, which uses the tagline “Elevating Florida’s Voices from Sidewalks to the State Capitol,” simplifies the process by using League resources to provide information, suggest actions and send updates.

Giving citizens a way to communicate directly with legislators is important because our state legislators may not be aware of the unintended consequences of proposed statewide legislation on some cities, towns or villages. Not all cities solve problems the same way because not all cities face the same issues or have the same goals for their communities. Our intention is to provide citizens with the information they need to stay on top of proposed

XAVIERARNAU/E+/GETTY IMAGES

FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 31

QC

COVER FEATURE

Let Your Voice Be Heard In Three Easy Steps Want to be part of the Local Voices United advocacy effort? We need your help.

▸

Like our Facebook Page: Local Voices United.

▸

Share the website localvoicesunited. com via email and social media. Tell your residents that the website includes materials to share with their neighbors also has an “easy” button to contact their representatives.

▸

Use the tools we’ve developed to engage your residents. Those tools include sample emails, fact sheets, slide decks and social media posts. Your voice carries weight.

Finally, members who serve in one of our key legislative districts may hear from us soon. The Florida League of Cities will be doing outreach to key community groups.

legislation that might preempt the ability of people who live in a specific city and their local representatives to make decisions about rules governing their hometown.

Because this program is focused on grassroots advocacy and local people speaking up, we want to reach out to people where they live.

City leaders are asked to reach out to organizations such as the Elks Club, neighborhood associations and chambers of commerce as well as individuals on their distribution lists to make them aware of the program and how valuable their involvement can be. Former elected officials will also serve as advocates for the program and join League staff in presentations to local organizations.

The foundation of the Local Voices United program is individuals who sign up to receive calls to action and updates by texting “local voices” to 50457. After registering contact information, the citizen will receive text messages whenever there is an issue that requires input from local residents. This information will be added to the existing list of League contacts who can advocate for their own neighborhoods.

A Local Voices United website (localvoicesunited.com) provides several resources to help people advocate for their local area: ▸ An explanation of legislative issues and how they impact cities, towns and villages. ▸ “Easy” button to identify local lawmakers and provide direct outreach to their offices. ▸ Civics educational tools such as discussion guides and handouts that can be used for community groups, schools or businesses.

32 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

FGTRADE/ISTOCK/GETTYIMAGESPLUS/GETTYIMAGES

and community organizations. The website

Efforts to promote the program will be supported by social media as we try to connect people to each other, to lawmakers and to the League.

We’ll use the power of Local Voices United judiciously – making sure that calls to action and messages are relevant to local residents. The power of any grassroots advocacy program is the connection between residents and their specific legislative representatives to focus on issues that impact the local community.

Although the League’s advocacy staff handles many legislative issues and proposed bills each session, we will be careful to ensure that our calls to action and educational efforts are impactful; otherwise, people will lose interest in participating. Municipal leaders will also continue their own advocacy efforts, but adding individual residents – voters – to the program greatly expands our potential impact.

This program is exciting. The ability to provide real-time information on legislation being considered and how it affects people’s hometowns will empower individuals to get involved.

We look forward to educating, engaging and energizing residents who want to speak up for their locality.

Scott Dudley is Director of Field Advocacy and Federal Affairs at the Florida League of Cities. QC

FEATURE

QC

ADVOCACY

PHOTO COURTESY OF SYDNEY FRASER

Never on the Sideline

FLC staff continually monitoring the legislative season

by Casey Cook Florida League of Cities

I

like to compare preparation for the annual legislative session to a professional football season. We have the pre-season games that include the summer months during which legislators work on proposed bills, with some of them filed by September. The regular season runs from October to December as committees meet to hear the bills and give some of them a head start toward the approval process.

Then, we have the Super Bowl: the actual legislative session.

Fans and sports commentators like to talk about what will happen throughout the season and who is expected to make it to Super Bowl Sunday, but the reality – as all frustrated fans know – is that any number of things can change in the leadup to the final game.

While there is little we can do to help our favorite football team win games, that situation is not necessarily the case with the legislative season. The Florida League of Cities legislative staff makes sure that members have the best information about what is happening with proposed bills and issues that affect cities in Florida so members can help their favorite bills. Staff members continually identify and monitor proposed or potential legislation to try to predict what big issues need the League’s focus and what other issues need to be monitored.

There are over 3,000 bills filed each session, and legislative staff members read each one, then flag any bills that directly or indirectly affect FLC members. The total is usually between 500 and 600 bills that include proposed rules that might impact a city. The most common issues relate to statewide laws that take away from a city’s local decision-making ability or impose mandates with no associated funding.

These are important issues that

negatively impact a city’s ability to serve its residents. Statewide mandates are difficult because our cities have unique, differing needs that can’t be served with a one-sizefits-all law. The best decisions are made at the local level, where the people who live there and their representatives determine how to handle issues such as zoning, rules for business and guidelines for citizens.

Similarly, state-issued mandates that are not funded at the state level are challenging for some cities without the resources to implement the required programs. In many cases, the municipality has to look at increasing taxes on residents or pulling funds from another program, no matter how popular that park, recreation program or service might be.

One thing that will make this session unusual is the redistricting process that occurs after new U.S. census data is released. There will be a great deal of time spent on re-drawing districts, debating and voting on the new plan, which might limit the number of bills that make it to the floor for a vote. Another reason we may see some bills stall is the November 2022 election. Lawmakers are typically hesitant to push any bills that might appear controversial during an election year.

No matter how many bills are created, presented or considered, the FLC legislative affairs staff will continue to monitor progress to keep members informed and ask for help lobbying or educating lawmakers when needed.

Casey Cook is the Director of Legislative Affairs for the Florida League of Cities. QC

2022 Legislative Action Agenda Florida League of Cities members adopted five legislative priorities for the 2022 Legislative Session at the League’s annual conference in August. The five priorities are:

▸ ▸

Short-Term Rentals Communications Services Tax Reform

▸ ▸ ▸

Tree Protection Transportation Funding Economic Development Incentives.

In addition to these five priority issues, the League adopted five policy positions:

▸

Local Business Tax Preservation

▸ ▸ ▸

Annexation Cybersecurity Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

▸

Affordable Housing.

The entire Legislative Action Agenda is enclosed in this issue of Quality Cities. For weekly updates on individual bills and opportunities to stay updated during the session, go to bit.ly/3CCEDeY. You can also text “LOCAL VOICES” to 50457 to receive text alerts on important issues.

FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 33

QC

FEATURE

FEDERAL

DOUGLASRISSING/ISTOCK/ GETTYIMAGESPLUS/GETTYIMAGES

ARPA Update

Helpful information for your funding questions

by Wade Burkley and Allison Payne Florida League of Cities

W

ith most Florida cities receiving their first tranche of funding under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), cities are looking toward how to spend and track these funds.

On March 11, 2021, President Joe Biden signed the ARPA into law. This recovery package created the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) that allocates $350 billion for states, municipalities, counties, tribes and territories.

Seventy-seven metropolitan (metro) cities are receiving a total of $1.5 billion directly from the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

There are 334 non-entitlement units of local government (NEUs) receiving a total of $1.4 billion administered through the state.

The Treasury announced the following updates in late September: ▸ For metro cities, the first Project and Expenditure Report will now be due on January 31, 2022, and will cover the period between the award date and December 31, 2021.

This date is a change from the previously communicated October 31, 2021, due date for the Project and Expenditure Report. ▸ For NEUs, the first report will now be due on April 30, 2022, and will cover the period between the award date and March 31, 2022. This date is a change from the previously communicated October 31, 2021, due date for the NEU Project and Expenditure Report.

Treasury is expected to provide more instructions, including updates to existing guidance and a user guide to help recipients gather and submit the information through Treasury’s Portal. For more information, go to treasury.gov/SLFRPReporting or email slfrp@treasury.gov.

NEU CITIES AND METRO CITIES HAVE REQUIREMENTS

Most of Florida’s cities, towns and villages are NEUs. The Florida Division of Emergency Management (DEM) is administering the disbursement of Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (LFRFs) to the NEU cities. These are cities generally with a population under 50,000. Funding agreements were sent to NEU cities in August.

Once cities signed and submitted their funding agreements to DEM, they became eligible to receive their first tranche of funding.

Seventy-seven Florida cities are metro cities and receive their LFRF directly through the Treasury. These cities are: generally above 50,000 in population, currently metropolitan cities under the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and cities that relinquish or defer their status as a metropolitan city 34 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

for the purposes of the CDBG program.

Metro cities must meet more reporting requirements: ▸ Metro cities with a population below 250,000 that received less than $5 million in ARPA funding: The Annual Project and Expenditure Report is due each year through 2026. ▸ Metro cities with a population below 250,000 that received more than $5 million in ARPA funding: Quarterly Project and Expenditure Reports are due 30 days after the end of each quarter. ▸ Metro cities with a population above 250,000: Quarterly Project and Expenditure Reports are due 30 days after the end of each quarter, and the Annual Recovery Plan Performance Report is due by July 31 of each year through 2026.

Some key considerations when developing your ARPA spending plan include: ▸ Solicit community input and feedback. ▸ Collaborate where you can with your county and other cities. ▸ Document everything for posterity. ▸ Think about how it will be described on the front page of the newspaper. ▸ Determine the harm/need you are looking to address. ▸ Take your time. You have years to spend ARPA funds.

Read more about ARPA funds in the previous issue of Quality Cities at bit.ly/3fszM6W. For questions, email ARPA@flcities.com.

Resources Florida League of Cities: flcities.com/rescueplan.

National League of Cities Local Action Tracker: nlc.org/resource/covid-19-local-action-tracker.

Florida Division of Emergency Management: floridadisaster.org/arpa.

U.S. Department of the Treasury: treasury.gov/slfrp.

Wade Burkley is the Research Analyst for the Florida League of Cities, and Allison Payne is the Manager, Advocacy Programs and Federal Affairs for the Florida League of Cities. QC

FEATURE

QC

Business Watch connects businesses and local government elected officials, leaders and management, and it provides a unique network to share knowledge necessary to both the public and private sectors.

Together, Business Watch government and corporate members are a powerful coalition to better our economy, influence public policy and strengthen our communities.

Visit businesswatchinc.com to learn more.

Smart Communities

How do Florida cities future-proof their investment?

by Roger Brook Smart Solutions, MeterSYS

S

ensors and advanced “smart” meters are becoming the centerpiece of a smart city. These devices can remotely measure, monitor and transmit important data on infrastructure, the environment and public services in near real-time.

The growing number of sensors, smart meters and connectivity solutions are making it easier and more affordable to solve challenges in our communities.

Sensors and smart meters can be used to accurately detect water loss from pipes, water consumption per home, outdoor and indoor air quality conditions, levels of trash in waste bins, flooding concerns, wastewater overflow risks and many more use-cases.

The pandemic, along with an aging workforce, has many cities re-evaluating how to capture data without an onsite “truck roll.”

While sensors have been available for many years, local public agencies have historically underinvested in sensors. They were often expensive, data was difficult to integrate with their systems, communication infrastructure was proprietary, which locked them into single vendors, and power and communication were not always reliable.

However, many developments have now made sensors a “need to have” for good governance and a good fit within operating budgets.

New wireless communication technologies have emerged as popular alternatives or supplements to traditional cellular and fiber networks. Open wireless technologies have been designed to cost-efficiently transmit sensor data securely over long ranges, consume less power (sensor batteries can last 5-10 years), perform well indoors and outdoors, support large numbers of sensors and service multiple vendors and sensor use cases.

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CITIES CAN FUTURE-PROOF THEIR SENSOR INVESTMENTS

First, sensors usually need to connect with wireless technology because they are often not located near a wired connection.

Choose an “open” wireless network that is not proprietary and will support multiple vendors and types of sensors. This type of network helps avoid expensive “vendor lock-in.”

Second, choose a technology and network provider that offers proven security and data privacy.

Third, choose technologies designed for your requirements.

Do you need to transmit small data packets on a regular basis with occasional alerts (e.g., water pressure readings)? Or do you need to transmit large data such as images or video that require higher bandwidth? Those needs require different solutions to be cost-efficient.

Fourth, select a network that supports the scale-up to more sensors over the long term. Flexibility and growth are important when it is hard to predict the future.

Fifth, determine if you need a network that can perform well indoors and outdoors. Not all network technologies can do both.

Lastly, if possible, use a network operator that provides a self-service portal so your team can keep tabs on network and sensor performance.

Sensors are creating solutions in every aspect of our lives, from healthcare (think Fitbit) to smartphones (camera features) to our cars (the average car has 60-100 onboard sensors). Proper planning will make them vital to future city solutions as well.

Roger Brook is Technology Manager of MeterSYS and can be reached at roger.brook@metersys.com. QC FOURTH QUARTER QUARTER 2021 2021 | | QUALITY QUALITYCITIES CITIES 35 FOURTH

QC

FEATURE

President Phillip Walker speaks at Florida League of Cities annual conference.

36 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

FEATURE

QC

CONFERENCE

Education and Networking City leaders plan for the future at annual meeting

by Kelli Gemmer Florida League of Cities

A

fter more than a year of virtual events and meetings, municipal officials came together in Orlando for the Florida League of Cities 95th Annual Conference to learn, network and share ideas.

“This conference presents an opportunity to inform yourselves about the challenges we face as cities,” said Tony Ortiz, outgoing FLC President. “Our goal is to provide you with a wealth of information and to create opportunities for each of us to share best practices so that we can be the best possible leaders for our cities.”

Ortiz presided over the three-day conference, which included educational workshops, general sessions, legislative policy committee meetings, local and regional league breakfast meetings and opportunities for attendees to network with their peers from across the state. In addition, the main exhibit hall provided access to information about municipal products and services.

Conference workshops focused on timely topics such as understanding cybersecurity risk and mitigation, reaching your residents through social media, understanding and fostering racial equity, enabling renewable energy and breaking down the American Rescue Plan Act. (Some of the presentations are available for free at flcities.com/annualconference. Video recordings for select presentations also can be purchased at the site.)

At the business session, the membership approved the League’s 2022 Legislative Action Agenda, which will guide the League’s legislative efforts for the upcoming session. (See Agenda inserted in this issue.) League members also elected Lakeland Commissioner Phillip Walker to serve as President, Port St. Lucie Councilwoman Jolien Caraballo to serve as First Vice President and Cooper City Mayor Greg Ross to serve as Second Vice President. (See the profile of Ross on p. 43.) At the past presidents’ luncheon, incoming President Walker shared his focus areas for the year ahead. (For more on Walker’s vision, see p. 46.)

(From left) FLC Executive Director/CEO Jeannie Garner with 2021-2022 FLC Officers President Phillip Walker, First Vice President Jolien Caraballo and Second Vice President Greg Ross.

Florida League of Cities staff members greeted attendees in the exhibit hall.

OUTSTANDING WORK RECOGNIZED

During the conference, city officials were recognized for their dedication and hard work. The League’s highest honor, the E. Harris Drew Municipal Official Lifetime Achievement Award, went to Lake Hamilton Vice Mayor Marlene Wagner. (See article, p. 44.) The League also presented 33 city officials with the John Land Years of Service Award for their tenure of municipal PHOTOS COURTESY OF BONNIE GAUPP

Lake Hamilton Vice Mayor Marlene Wagner received the E. Harris Drew Municipal Official Lifetime Achievement Award.

FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 37

QC

FEATURE

2021 John Land Years of Service Award Honorees The Florida League of Cities years of service award program is named in honor of the late John Land, who served as Mayor of Apopka for more than 60 years.

The League recognizes the following individuals for their many years of dedicated service as elected municipal officials.

20 YEARS OF SERVICE Mayor Beatrice Roberts, Town of Bronson

Mayor Robert E. Schmidt Jr., Town of Belleair Shore Vice Mayor Theo Washington,

Mayor Rebecca A. Tooley,

Town of Eatonville

City of Coconut Creek

Mayor David J. Mealor,

Commissioner Louis Sarbone, City of Coconut Creek Councilwoman Susan Starkey, Town of Davie Mayor Glenn Singer, Town of Golden Beach Councilmember Bernard Einstein, Town of Golden Beach Vice Mayor Horace West, City of Haines City Councilor Jim Kuretski, Town of Jupiter Mayor John M. Holbrook,

City of Lake Mary Mayor Hazelle P. Rogers, City of Lauderdale Lakes Mayor Pro Tem Judy Townsend, City of Madison Commissioner Tamara Cornwell, City of Palmetto Mayor Frank C. Ortis, City of Pembroke Pines Mayor James R. Stroup, Town of Reddick Mayor John Rees, City of Winter Garden

Town of Lake Placid Mayor Joseph Aufmuth, Town of Micanopy Vice Mayor Collins L. Smith, City of Mulberry Councilmember Gary Price,

30 YEARS OF SERVICE Mayor Alice McLane, Town of Glen Ridge Councilmember James Ussery, Town of Glen Ridge

City of Naples Councilman Scott Galvin, City of North Miami Mayor Pro Tem James Hallett, Town of St. Leo Commissioner Luciano L. Suarez, City of West Miami Commissioner Juan M. Blanes,

35 YEARS OF SERVICE Commissioner Eugene Berry, City of Florida City Mayor Rusty Johnson, City of Ocoee Council President Steven K. Rogers, Town of Reddick

City of West Miami 45 YEARS OF SERVICE 25 YEARS OF SERVICE

Mayor Otis T. Wallace,

Mayor Patricia J. Bates,

City of Florida City

City of Altamonte Springs Commissioner Leo E. Longworth, City of Bartow

38 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

Mayor Ed Wolf, City of Wildwood

service ranging from 20 years to 45 years. (Their names and years of service are listed, left.)

The Florida Municipal Achievement Awards went to Boca Raton, which received the City Spirit Award; Clearwater, which received the Florida Citizenship Award; and Jacksonville Beach, which received the Environmental Stewardship Award. (See pages 14, 16 and 18 for stories about each of the award winners.) A video announcing the winners and highlighting their innovative programs and services was shown to attendees.

Mark Ryan , City Manager for the City of Indian Harbour Beach, received the League’s Defender of Home Rule Award for his tireless efforts to defend and protect the principles of local self-government.

Traditionally given to state legislators who consistently voted and advocated on behalf of the League and its member cities during legislative session, this year marked the first time the award went to a local official. In his acceptance speech, Ryan focused not on himself or the efforts for which he was recognized but instead on local self-government and the efforts of all local voices advocating for local choices.

The conference also celebrated the contributions of more than 100 Home Rule Heroes. Recipients of the Home Rule Hero Award are local government officials, both elected and nonelected, who consistently responded to the League’s request to reach out to members of the Legislature and help give a local perspective on an issue.

(See the recipients of the 2021 Home Rule Hero Award in the third quarter issue of Quality Cities magazine at bit.ly/3Eexfbb.)

SPEAKERS EDUCATED AND INSPIRED

The general sessions featured dynamic addresses from several presenters. Guest speaker Kevin Guthrie, Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, discussed local actions and how the state can assist. “Local actions drive state actions.

FEATURE

National League of Cities Executive Director Clarence Anthony.

Keynote presenters Leland Melvin (left) and Kenneth W. Gronbach.

Outgoing League President Tony Ortiz with his family and President Phillip Walker (left) and First Vice President Jolien Caraballo (right).

State actions drive federal actions,” said Guthrie, who presented virtually due to the expected impact of an approaching tropical storm.

Leland Melvin, former NASA astronaut and NFL wide receiver, gave an inspiring opening keynote presentation about his life journey from the football field to outer space. Melvin shared how his hometown and its people instilled in him the values – community, perseverance and grace – and framework that provided the opportunities for his success. “I think of the Florida League of Cities as the Justice League,” said Melvin. “You guys are superheroes. You help people, and you help change lives.”

Guest speaker Clarence Anthony, Executive Director of the National League of Cities, acknowledged the difficulties of the past year and a half, particularly for city leaders. “The Florida League of Cities is our safe space, where we can talk about how we dealt with issues. We can talk about the initiatives that we implemented in our community,” said Anthony. “So, take a breath because not acknowledging this difficult time would be a major mistake.”

Kenneth W. Gronbach, an internationally respected demographer who recently became a Florida resident, addressed the

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BONNIE GAUPP

Defender of Home Rule Award winner Mark Ryan (second from left).

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state’s demographics in his keynote presentation. Forecasting the societal, commercial, economic, cultural and political future for the state, Gronbach emphasized that this information is crucial when writing a post-pandemic strategic plan.

In his closing speech, Ortiz spoke about creating a better world for future generations, one community at a time. “It is the responsibility of everyone in this room to break the walls that separate us as a nation and to return to the true meaning of what our founding fathers envisioned when they called it the United States of America,” said Ortiz. “At the end of our days, our legacy will have nothing to do with party labels but everything to do with what we did for the common good of the world.”

Kelli Gemmer is the Assistant Editor for the Florida League of Cities. QC

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FEATURE

PHOTO COURTESY OF SYDNEY FRASER

Florida League of Cities Meeting Planners Heidi Hogarth (left) and Angela Delune.

MEETING PLANNING

Conference Behind the Scenes It’s more than cold rooms and cookies

by Melanie G. Howe Florida League of Cities

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ost municipal officials have been there – you’re in the grocery store or the post office, and a resident approaches you to complain about their trash pickup or the state of their neighbor’s lawn. Sometimes they stop to tell you good things, such as the police officer who went out of his way to walk their child home or the maintenance worker who found their lost tortoise while mowing in the park. Whatever the story, when the conversation is done, you can’t help but think: Those are just a fraction of the different things that go on behind the scenes to keep this city running.

It’s the same for those of us who plan conferences. The League’s Meetings Division, a three-person team within the Membership Relations Department in the Tallahassee office of the Florida League of Cities, is responsible for planning and executing more than 10 major conferences per year for the League and its affiliate organizations, as well as countless trainings, board meetings and pop-up events. Each event, large or small, requires months of planning, hours of negotiating and intense attention to detail.

For something as large as the League’s annual conference, work starts years in advance with securing hotel space. Our events can be space hogs, and we’re lucky that Florida boasts a wide variety of large conference hotels capable of keeping all of our events and sleeping rooms under one roof. Our negotiating skills come into play here as we work to secure reasonable room rates, discounts on parking and other services such as wireless internet (which is never complimentary in a conference hotel like it is at a Hampton Inn!), appropriate meeting space and other details.

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Depending on the conference, planning starts in earnest about nine months to one year out. We work closely with League staff in other departments to select keynote speakers and develop workshop topics. The event schedule is analyzed to make sure it provides enough time for education, networking and the necessary annual business of the League or its affiliates.

Once registration is open for an event, our staff spends hours fielding questions from members and assisting with technical issues. If a conference includes an exhibit hall, this work is doubled with outreach to exhibitor representatives to sell booths, collect payments and assist with their on-site needs.

FLORIDA LEAGUE OF CITIES

2021 ANNUAL CONFERENCE* Registrants ....................................... 640 Exhibit Hall Passes and Guests .............. 111 Exhibit Booths .................................... 108 Exhibitor Representatives .................. 500 League Staff ........................................ 54 Hotel Square Feet Used ................. 245,121 * The 2021 Annual Conference statistics were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic; usually, registration numbers would be higher and square feet used would be lower.

FEATURE In the meantime, we are also working with the hotel and other vendors to arrange proper meeting room setups, make food and beverage selections and order various audiovisual equipment, decor and entertainment. Time is also spent proofing and printing name badges, making signs and stuffing registration packets.

When everything comes together for the final event, it frequently passes in a blur for the meeting planners. Our typical day on-site starts before dawn as we arrive before everyone else to check that the meeting rooms are set correctly and the right equipment is in each room. The rest of the day is spent in response mode as requests come in to make meeting rooms warmer or cooler and add more coffee to refreshment breaks or more chairs in a workshop.

When the event is over, there are weeks of conference closure, including registration reports, refunds and reviewing the usually massive hotel bill. Then everything starts all over again for the following year.

Every day in the life of a meeting planner is different, and we never know what new crisis might present itself, a concept all municipal officials can relate to. And this past year has been full of crises – COVID-19 threw the meeting planning world for a loop. We spent our time canceling more meetings than we planned and negotiating numerous future contracts with hotels to mitigate enormous cancellation fees and penalties.

It’s been hard to juggle everyone’s desire to get back to meeting in person with the need to keep everyone as safe as possible. The hotel industry took a big hit, and it could be years before standards of service return to what they were pre-pandemic, if they ever do.

Despite it all, there’s also no better feeling than standing in the back of a general session, taking in the lights and the noise while watching the audience loudly applaud for a keynote speaker … and to think that you had a small part in making that little piece of magic happen.

Melanie G. Howe, CAE, CMP, is Meetings Manager at the Florida League of Cities. QC

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WELCOME

To The Newest Members Of The Board Of Directors Elected during the Florida League of Cities Annual Conference. Thank you for your service to the League.

J.B. WHITTEN Mayor Crestview TYLER PAYNE Mayor Treasure Island LAWRENCE GORDON Vice Mayor Haverhill TODD DROSKY Commissioner Deerfield Beach HEATHER MORAITIS Vice Mayor Fort Lauderdale STEPHANIE MORGAN Councilwoman Port St. Lucie JOHN GUNTER Mayor Cape Coral

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FEATURE

AWARDS

2021 City Catalyst Grant Winners

City of Atlantic Beach.

Partnership program supports projects that strengthen our communities

by Scott Dudley Florida League of Mayors and Beth Rawlins Business Watch

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he Florida League of Mayors partners with Business Watch each year on the City Catalyst Grant program to support projects that foster a sense of community and enhance the lives of city residents. The projects are often in partnership with local organizations, making the dollars and impacts go even further.

Applications are judged by current Business Watch members and former Mayors. They always comment on how exciting it is to see each city creating specialized opportunities for their community needs. The winning projects are scheduled to be completed no later than this winter, so their citizens will have great opportunities in the cooler weather.

The Florida League of Mayors and Business Watch announced the 2021 City Catalyst Grant winners and their projects at the Florida League of Cities Annual Conference in Orlando August 12-14. ▸ The City of Atlantic Beach is partnering with Beaches Kiwanis to improve accessibility for the disabled in their parks, beginning with Jordan Park in the heart of their community. Atlantic Beach will build a colorful music garden bed including flowers, butterflies and a tenor tree with sounds coming from petals, wings and leaves. The design allows the hard of hearing to feel the vibrations. The garden is being installed on concrete pads along a concrete path to ensure easy physical accessibility and will also include accessible picnic benches. Of course, those without disabilities will also be able to use the space and share the creation of music. ▸ The Town of Jay is transforming an old State of Florida Livestock Market into the Marketplace on Commerce Street.

Before the pandemic, structural and aesthetic repairs had been made. (For more information, see previous city spotlight article at bit.ly/jayspotlight.) The grant and continued support from the Town will add lighting and speakers, improve handicap access, upgrade washrooms and refresh landscaping. These updates will allow the marketplace to be a destination for outdoor group events such as reunions and church events and improve the farmer’s market atmosphere for all attendees.

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City of St. Cloud.

City of Waldo.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BONNIE GAUPP

▸ The City of St. Cloud Parks and Recreation Department is building a new Adaptive Sports Program for their residents. The nearest adaptive recreation program is about an hour away. To address that problem, St. Cloud is partnering with Autism Speaks, the Osceola County School Board and the Special Olympics of Central Florida to offer weekly sports and specialty programs.

Larger organizations will be recruited soon to coordinate Little League and other team sports. ▸ The City of Waldo has been building back the heart of their community by turning a closed school into Waldo City Square. The space is being used to hold city-hosted events such as car shows and fall festivals as well as job fairs, food giveaways and a drivethru Santa event. City Hall has been relocated to Waldo City Square, which also provides Head Start space to help avoid educational loss.

A recently held movie night with the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office was a huge success. City Catalyst Grant funding will help Waldo make movie night a regular event for the community and even have the movies connect to other events’ themes.

Together, the Florida League of Mayors and Business Watch are committed to finding common-sense solutions and helping strengthen our communities.

Both are proud to once again host the City Catalyst Grants Program. Congratulations to the winners!

Scott Dudley is the Executive Director of the Florida League of Mayors and also Director of Field Advocacy and Federal Affairs at the Florida League of Cities. Beth Rawlins is President of B u s i n e s s Wa t c h .

B usiness Watch connects businesses and local government officials, leaders and managers to open dialogue and work toward common goals. QC

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Meet Greg Ross

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PHOTO COURTESY OF BONNIE GAUPP

FEATURE

FLC Second Vice President, Mayor of Cooper City

t the Florida League of Cities (FLC) 2021 Annual Conference, Cooper City Mayor Greg Ross was elected by the membership to serve as the League’s Second Vice President. Ross expressed gratitude to his fellow city officials.

“I truly do thank everyone here for the opportunity. It is such an honor,” he said.

“It is a show of confidence in me. I will not let you down. I will not disappoint.”

Ross, who grew up in Brooklyn, NY, relocated to Florida in 1977 to attend law school in Fort Lauderdale. After earning his juris doctor, he became Broward County Assistant State Attorney from 1980 until he opened his Fort Lauderdale law practice in 1984.

His involvement with city government began in 2002 when he was appointed to the Cooper City Planning and Zoning Board. He served for seven years, including the last year as Chair. From 2006-2012, Ross served as Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Coordinator for the City and Vice-Chair of Broward County CERT Coordinators. Ross was appointed the City’s Special Magistrate in 2009 and elected to the City Commission as Mayor of Cooper City in 2012.

Since his election, Ross has dedicated his time, service and leadership in multiple roles. He is an active member of the Broward League of Cities and previously served as President and Secretary. Ross has served on the FLC Board of Directors since 2015 and is Chair of the Federal Action Strike Team Committee. He previously served as a Director on the Florida League of Mayors Board and Vice Chair of FLC’s Urban Administration Legislative Policy Committee. Ross works tirelessly to protect the Home Rule powers of Florida’s cities and has been honored with FLC’s Home Rule Hero Award every year since 2015.

When asked how it feels to be Second Vice President, Ross said, “Humbled and honored. I look forward to working not only with the Executive Board but with every one of the 411 cities.” QC

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FEATURE

ACHIEVEMENT

Marlene Wagner: A Lifetime of Service

Lake Hamilton Vice Mayor presented with E. Harris Drew Award

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arlene Wagner, Lake Hamilton Vice Mayor, was presented with the E. Harris Drew Municipal Official Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2021 Florida League of Cities (FLC)

annual conference. Presented annually, this award is the League’s highest honor.

The prestigious award is named for Supreme Court Justice E. Harris Drew, who coined the League’s motto: Local self-government, the key to American democracy.

Drew was appointed to Florida’s Supreme Court while serving as the League’s First Vice President, and he remained an advocate of local government throughout his career. In his honor, this award recognizes local elected officials who have made lasting and worthwhile contributions to the citizens of Florida through their efforts and dedication in the performance of their duties at the local level.

“Marlene never turns down an opportunity to serve or help in any way,” said Tony Ortiz, City of Orlando Commissioner and FLC Immediate Past President. “She is the embodiment of a dedicated local government official and truly has a servant’s heart.

On behalf of the Florida League of Cities and its members, we’re honored to recognize Marlene and her dedicated service.”

Since moving to the Town of Lake Hamilton in 2000, Wagner has been active in local government – first attending Town 44 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

by Kelli Gemmer Florida League of Cities

Council meetings as a citizen and subsequently winning her seat as Mayor in an unopposed election in 2006. During her tenure as Mayor, Wagner was instrumental in the inception and implementation of numerous city projects, including: ▸ Securing construction of a new, upgraded water treatment facility. ▸ Bringing a Polk County Fire and Rescue substation to the Town. ▸ Petitioning and building support with residents for the installation of a traffic signal on Highway 27 and Main Street. ▸ Creating an interlocal agreement with the neighboring Town of Dundee to assist with wastewater treatment. ▸ Spearheading construction of a Veteran’s Memorial Wall.

In 2019, Wagner stepped down as Mayor after 13 years but continues to serve the Town as Vice Mayor. In addition to contributing to her Town, Wagner is an active member of the Ridge League of Cities, where she has served as President, Treasurer, Secretary and Vice President. She also serves on several FLC committees,

PHOTO COURTESY OF BONNIE GAUPP

(From left) Florida League of Cities Executive Director/CEO Jeannie Garner, Lake Hamilton Vice Mayor Marlene Wagner, FLC Immediate Past President Tony Ortiz, FLC President Phillip Walker and FLC First Vice President Jolien Caraballo.

has served on its Board of Directors for the past four years and is a four-time recipient of the League’s Home Rule Hero award.

Wagner also serves as a board member for the Florida League of Mayors.

“I’m speechless,” said Wagner. “There are so many people throughout the state that have done so much for their cities.

I sincerely appreciate being selected among my fellow city officials to receive this award.”

She was nominated for the E. Harris Drew Award by Mayor Michael Kehoe and Council Member Barrett O’Neill. Recognizing her drive and commitment to her community, they explain how Wagner has not let her assistive device for walking slow her down. For example, she was recently a panelist on the FLCitiesStrong webinar on the topic of the Americans with Disabilities Act. They said, “She was proud to discuss her limitations with using a motorized scooter at conferences and meetings; however, that does not stop her from being active and involved in state, county and local government.”

Kelli Gemmer is the Assistant Editor for the Florida League of Cities. QC

FEATURE

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HUMAN RESOURCES

For Cities, Competition is Tough Getting back to recruiting basics with modern benefits

by Patti Graganella and Laura Garber Florida League of Cities

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he pandemic was an earthquake to the working world that changed the business landscape. The dynamic and foundation are completely different as we try to get back to solid ground. Navigating the new normal is proving to be an uphill battle, especially when we cannot yet see the top of the proverbial mountain.

Recruiting has been no different. The public and private job markets are faced with more vacant positions than there are applicants looking for work. The modern techniques of the past few years have not adapted as quickly in our pandemic environment, which has caused employers to scramble for alternative solutions. It is not as easy as just posting an open position on a big-name job site and search engine and finding that perfect hire.

In a world of unknowns, the human resource profession can rely on something that is the center of its vocation: people.

As cities navigate a tough competition for workers, getting back to the basics of people may prove to be the simplest yet most effective answer through (existing) employee referrals and old-fashioned networking.

Maximizing a strong employee referral program can be very successful in recruiting efforts. According to a recent benchmarking survey from the Society OJOGABONITOO/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/GETTY IMAGES

for Human Resource Management , it

is the number one source of new hires.

Every employee can be a “recruiter” for their organization. Why not incentivize the deal by motivating workers to recruit from within their existing networks?

Organizations are known to offer a wide range of monetary bonuses for staff members who can refer qualified candidates.

The cash incentive can vary based on the size of the organization and the seniority level of the position. According to ERIN, a smart employee referral platform, $2,500 was the average employee referral bonus in 2019, coming in substantially lower than what an organization may pay for a recruiting firm, which is an upward cost of $20,000.

It can be a win-win for the city and employees since most employees find it rewarding to help their friends and organization. In addition, companies should brand themselves as a great place to work. Let the staff be proud of the city workplace that they have helped to build and share that information through a Facebook page, an “employee experience” brochure or a section of the organization’s website. Include employee testimonials, pictures and videos. Employees can be a walking billboard for the organization and give a firsthand experience of the culture.

Recent employment trends point to candidates looking for jobs with good benefits, a work-life balance and competitive pay. Although all cities would like to be competitive, not all organizations can change their pay structures. What cities can do is complete their homework, evaluate the market data and start to make small changes toward the future. Consider telecommuting opportunities, flexible work schedules and incentives found outside of the box. These inexpensive modern benefits are not only attracting new talent but keeping the existing workforce from looking elsewhere.

While cities navigate a tough competition for workers, they are encouraged to continue to evaluate modern benefits and take small steps to keep up with the times in an evolving business landscape.

Patti Graganella is the Chief Administrative Officer of the Florida League of Cities and is responsible for human resources and other areas. Laura Garber is a Human Resource Officer at the League. QC

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FEATURE

ARPA, DEI and Grassroots Advocacy President Walker announces vision for the League

by Kelli Gemmer Florida League of Cities

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espite the obstacles that cities are facing, Florida League of Cities President Phillip Walker is confident about the future and is focused on the issues impacting Florida cities. “I believe we’re in a tremendous position to be stronger and more impactful in the coming year, and I look forward to building on the foundation that’s already been laid,” he said.

During his one-year term as President, Walker will focus on helping to inform municipal officials on the tremendous opportunity surrounding the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds; expanding diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts for cities; and promoting the League’s new grassroots advocacy program.

Local leaders across the nation have faced unprecedented challenges, and ARPA offers a critical lifeline for cities reeling from the devastating impacts of COVID-19. For the first time, the federal government is giving direct allocation to cities before the money is spent through ARPA’s Coronavirus State and Local Recovery Fund. Municipalities in Florida have been allocated a combined $2.9 billion in direct relief funds.

“What a great opportunity!” said Walker. “We can make significant improvements, repair infrastructure, expand broadband access, increase affordable housing and more using these funds.”

(For more information on ARPA and how cities can use relief funds, see p. 34. Also, read the cover feature in the third quarter issue of Quality Cities magazine at bit.ly/3fszM6W.) Another focus for Walker during his presidency will be promoting the League’s DEI resources. “This important topic is near to my heart,” said Walker. “We have an opportunity to broaden our perspectives. We can increase the representation in our

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PHOTO COURTESY OF BONNIE GAUPP

FOCUS AREAS

cities.” (Video recordings of FLC’s 2021 Annual Conference workshops on “Understanding and Fostering Racial Equity: A Conversation” and “Breaking Down the American Rescue Plan Act: What Cities Need to Know” are available for purchase at flcities.com/annualconference.)

And finally, Walker plans to highlight the importance of grassroots advocacy. Using past President Tony Ortiz’s “Building Stronger Cities” initiative as a springboard, the League launched a grassroots advocacy brand at the FLC Legislative Conference.

“We’ve gained momentum from past President Ortiz’s campaign; we’ve launched a field advocacy department,” said Walker. “Now the League is perfectly positioned to engage residents even more.

It’s ‘local voices making local choices’ come to life.”

The grassroots advocacy program, Local Voices United, will arm municipal officials with the tools and resources they need to engage Florida’s residents even better than before. (See p. 30 for more information on Local Voices United.)

“As you can see, we are in a tremendous position to be stronger, louder and more impactful in the coming year,” concluded Walker. “Our residents are eager to get involved, and we will lead the way.”

Kelli Gemmer is the Assistant Editor for the Florida League of Cities. QC

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Parkland Director of Communications Todd DeAngelis (center) interviews Mayor Rich Walker for the City’s “Mayor’s Minute” segment.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF PARKLAND

MUNICOMM

MESSAGING

The Power of Video

Communicators find creative ways to tell their city’s story

by Kara Irby Florida League of Cities

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here are many ways to tell the story of your community.

With a handful of planning, a dash of purpose and a pinch of creativity, municipalities large and small can use video to share their message effectively.

Communicating the message of your municipality doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive, but it does require intentionality and effort. The power and impact of video are unparalleled.

According to Medium.com, the average viewer remembers 95% of a message when watched compared to 10% of the message when read.

Municipalities across the Sunshine State are using videos to communicate important messages to their residents and visitors. From weather updates to community engagement nights, municipal communicators are getting creative and using more than just photographs and flyers to share what’s going on in their city, town or village.

The City of Parkland recently launched its Mayor’s Minute segment on social media channels and in the local newsletter.

“The goal was to put out relevant info, in the Mayor’s voice, in small digestible chunks,” said Todd DeAngelis, Director of Communications for Parkland.

DeAngelis created a one-minute interview-style segment to promote exciting events and key initiatives taking place in the city. Naming the segment “Mayor’s Minute” ensured the segment would remain concise to hold future creators accountable.

He encourages communities looking to adopt something similar to be intentional about the title of their segments and to think ahead of the video elements that will be used.

“If you can’t be visual … it’s probably not worth doing,” DeAngelis said.

He also encourages posting completed videos a couple of different times on social media to reach various audiences.

Time and resources are also important to consider when it comes to video production in your municipality. From brainstorming to closed captioning, DeAngelis estimates it takes about 10 hours from content ideas to completion to produce the “Mayor’s Minute.” It cost FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 47

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Destin city staff recorded and posted a 10-second video of the waves at the Destin East Jetty that garnered more than 60 shares on Facebook.

the City just over $2,000 in one-time costs for all the equipment used to create the segment. (See breakdown of costs below.)

For municipalities with smaller budgets, today’s smartphones can also provide quality video for your communication needs. Public Information Manager Catherine Card with the City of Destin doesn’t hesitate to use her phone; she says it’s the quickest, most efficient resource to capture what’s taking place in her community.

A 30-second video of the message boards alerting motorists about local road safety improvements and 10 seconds of waves crashing on the shore as Tropical Storm Fred approached garnered more than 60 shares on the City’s Facebook page.

“People want to see what’s going on,” said Card.

In the City of Port St. Lucie, a public service announcement on swale maintenance was produced entirely in-house by communications staff. The video was translated into Spanish and Haitian-Creole.

“It was important to translate and educate residents that maintaining the swale is the homeowner’s responsibility,” said Nicole Hricik, Marketing Supervisor and Communications Liaison for Port St. Lucie. “We are a multi-ethnic and diverse community, and it was important to be able to provide this information in some of the other common languages spoken here, like Spanish

Port St. Lucie city staff created a video on swale management using a GoPro, drone and Canon C100 Mark II.

and Haitian-Creole.”

Port St. Lucie city staff helped with the translation. Looking within your organization and harnessing your colleagues’ talents and abilities can help limit costs.

But what if you want to hire a team with the latest and greatest equipment? Card said that when it came to using an out-of-house company to create a video on keeping their beaches clean for their #LeaveNoTrace Campaign, she had to consider priorities.

“It is important that we understand the priorities of our City leadership and elected officials so we may plan accordingly and determine the best use of City resources,” Card said.

Kara Irby is a Communications Specialist at the Florida League of Cities. QC

Cost of Producing “Mayor’s Minute” Production

Video Editing Software

Canon XA11 Camcorder Master Starter Kit: $1,547.00

In-Shot: Free

Magnus VT-4000 tripod: $119.96

Movavi $29.99-139.95

Two Saramonic TX9 wireless lavalier microphones with camera-mounted receiver: $399.00

Corel VideoStudio: $99

128GB SD memory card: $38.82 Genaray LED-6200T light with on-camera mount: $74.25 TOTAL: $2,179.03 – One-time Purchase Source: City of Parkland.

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GRAPHICS COURTESY OF CITY OF DESTIN AND CITY OF PORT ST. LUCIE

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PHOTO COURTESY OF FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION

FEATURE

DISASTER RESPONSE

Prepare to Protect

Proper planning before an emergency can save lives

by Pam Forrester Federal Emergency Management Association

“P

repared, Not Scared.” “Disasters Don’t Wait. Make a Plan.”

“Prepare to Protect.”

These were the past themes for the

Federal Emergency Management Association’s (FEMA’s) Disaster Preparedness

Month each September. These themes have one idea in common: To prepare ahead for a disaster is to protect everyone you love. These are important messages for municipalities, businesses and families to follow as Mother Nature’s wrath and human-caused disasters wreak havoc across the country and in our backyards.

Updating plans for businesses, homes, schools, churches and families helps lessen the impact before a disaster strikes.

“Disasters and emergencies can occur anytime, anywhere, often without warning, and so the key to protecting our communities is to be prepared,” said Florida League of Cities President Phillip Walker, Commissioner for the City of Lakeland.

“To protect those within our communities, municipalities must also be prepared and educate our residents about preparedness.”

In the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on New York City’s Twin Towers and the Pentagon in Washington D.C., 20 years ago, the Department of Homeland Security began urging all citizens to prepare for emergencies and disasters. In 2003, the Ready campaign and Ready.gov

website were created as a public service to educate and empower people to prepare and respond to emergencies. With resources and checklists, the website guides businesses and families to prepare for unforeseen disasters. Dozens of links lead to information on how anyone can ready themselves for specific disasters, from hurricanes in the Southeast to earthquakes in other parts of the United States. They provide details and a starting point for conversations in the workplace with employees or at home with children.

Gracia Szczech, Regional Administrator for FEMA Region 4, said, “By planning and preparing before a disaster happens, you are protecting and safeguarding your FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 49

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FEATURE

family and property, minimizing the impact of an incident and positioning yourself to recover more quickly.”

After a disaster, transportation and commerce may be interrupted, so everyone is encouraged to have at least three days of supplies on hand for every household member. Prepare for any special needs, and have medications on hand and items for pets.

For business owners, having a business continuity plan in place before a disaster can be the difference between a quick recovery and delays in reopening. Businesses that are prepared for emergencies are great examples to their employees and the community. Encouraging employees

to be prepared at home and work allows them to assist in recovery efforts and makes the community more resilient.

Jeff Partin , Director of Corporate Security, Emergency Preparedness and Business Continuity, The Home Depot, said, “We in the private sector have the capacity to leverage existing resources within our organizations to support community recovery efforts in a wide variety of emergency situations.”

Emergency or disaster scenarios come in all forms and, in many cases, with little or no warning. As a result, preparation in a collaborative and effective manner is crucial to community response, Partin said.

“Taking the time before an emergency to

acknowledge that conditions may not be ideal every day and taking steps to better prepare your people and organizations is crucial in supporting our communities,” he said.

Hurricanes, flooding, fires, tornadoes and terrorist attacks can upend lives in an instant and leave no time to prepare. Learn basic preparedness tips and best practices to keep your municipality, residents, family and business safe when the next disaster strikes. Go to Ready.gov for tips on how to write a business continuity plan and a checklist for a family emergency kit.

Pam Forrester is a Public Affairs Specialist at FEMA. QC

Preparation Tips to Share With Your Residents Put an emergency plan together by discussing these areas with your family, friends or household members:

▸ ▸ ▸ ▸ ▸

How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?

What is my sheltering plan?

What is my evacuation route?

What is my family/household communication plan?

Do I need to update my emergency preparedness kit?

Also, check information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (bit.ly/3DXCvjo), and update emergency plans due to coronavirus. Get masks (for everyone over 2 years old) and disinfectants, and check your sheltering plan.

Emergencies and disasters can be scary to children, so include them in the planning as well. Make it fun for the whole

GRAPHICS COURTESY OF FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION

family. Ready.gov/kids offers games and introduces Pedro the Penguin to teach kids to be prepared.

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CHICCODODIFC/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/GETTY IMAGES

RESEARCH

ENVIRONMENT

Regulating Single-Use Plastics Survey shows Floridians favor Home Rule

by Stephen Neely University of South Florida

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n 1987, Berkeley, CA, became the first American municipality to restrict the use and sale of polystyrene products (such as plastic foam) within its jurisdiction. Since then, hundreds of local governments throughout the United States have followed suit in an effort to reduce pollution and protect endangered wildlife.

To date, approximately 400 U.S. cities have placed local restrictions and prohibitions on single-use products such as plastic bags, food containers and straws. But not here in the Sunshine State. That’s because Florida is one of several states FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 51

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RESEARCH

that maintain a preemptive ban on such ordinances. The state forbids local jurisdictions from establishing their own policies to govern the use and sale of these products.

While recent proposals in the state Legislature have sought to reform this policy, preemptive bans such as Florida’s are often buoyed by support from the business community, as well as influential interests in the plastics industry.

In a recent survey conducted at the University of South Florida, we asked residents whether the state’s preemptive ban on single-use plastic restrictions should be maintained or whether local jurisdictions should have the authority to set their own policies. The survey responses – summarized in this article – show strong support among Floridians for lifting the state’s preemptive ban, including relatively strong bipartisan support among Democrats, Independents and Republicans. As the environmental challenges that accompany Florida’s rapid population growth continue to compound, it appears that most Floridians favor Home Rule and localized policy solutions when it comes to these specific environmental protection efforts.

Figure 1. A MAJORITY OF FLORIDIANS OPPOSE THE STATE'S

PREEMPTIVE BAN ON SINGLE-USE PLASTICS RESTRICTIONS

It should be up to local governments if they want to enact bans or prohibitions on single-use plastics

Local governments should NOT be allowed to ban or prohibit single-use plastics

Unsure

25.00%

18.50%

Source: Florida Public Policy Survey, 2021 (n = 600)

Figure 2. SUPPORT FOR HOME RULE ON SINGLE-USE PLASTICS

66.15%

Democrats

57.14%

Independents

Republicans

FINDINGS EXPLAINED

A majority of respondents (56%) said that “it should be up to local governments if they want to enact bans or prohibitions on single-use plastics.” Only a quarter of respondents (25%) said that the state’s preemptive ban should be upheld, while 18% indicated that they were “unsure.” (See Figure 1.) Support for local discretion was relatively high across political affiliations, with 66% of Democrats and 57% of Independents saying that the decision to restrict single-use plastics should be left to local jurisdictions. (See Figure 2.) Republicans were somewhat more split on the issue, though a plurality (49%) said that they, too, would support local discretion in establishing these policies compared with only 35% who favored maintaining the state’s preemptive ban.

56.50%

48.99%

Source: Florida Public Policy Survey, 2021 (n = 600)

Some minor differences were noted across regions of the state, though a plurality of respondents in each region favored a reversal of the state’s preemptive ban on single-use plastics restrictions. (See Figure 3 and map.) Support for local discretion was highest in the Central (61%), West Coast (58%) and Southeastern (58%) regions of the state, while support was slightly below 50% in the Panhandle (49%) and Northeastern regions (46%). These differences are correlated with the observed partisan differences noted above.

CONCLUSION: MOST FAVOR HOME RULE

The survey results show that a majority of Floridians favor Home Rule when it comes to setting local environmental policies, such as single-use plastics bans. However, in recent years, Florida has opted instead for state-level mandates that limit the ability of local agencies to craft unique policy solutions to fit the needs and preferences of their communities. Along with the preemptive ban mentioned earlier in the article, the state government in Tallahassee has also adopted “one-size-fits-all” preemptions that limit the ability of local governments and private organizations to adopt individualized policies related to mask mandates and COVID-19 vaccines.

52 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

RESEARCH

QC

Figure 3. SUPPORT FOR HOME RULE BY REGION

48.84%

Panhandle

46.48%

Northeast

60.99%

Central

West Coast

57.72%

Southeast

57.65%

Source: Florida Public Policy Survey, 2021 (n = 600)

Our survey results suggest that Floridians might prefer a less heavy-handed approach from Tallahassee. In the case of single-use plastics, a less centralized policymaking environment makes intuitive sense, as the demographic and cultural factors that shape both citizen preferences and patterns of consumption can vary widely across diverse localities. Lifting the state’s preemptive ban on single-use plastic restrictions

would allow local agencies to exercise greater control over the environmental health of their communities while also accounting for the diverse needs and perspectives of the constituents they serve.

Stephen Neely is an Associate Professor at the University of South Florida School of Public Affairs. QC

Sources ▸ Associated Press. Florida Population Boom Boosts Its National Political Clout. U.S. News & World Report. bit.ly/3gJZbJJ. ▸ A third of the US has laws preventing plastic bans. EarthDay.org. bit.ly/3t1bc2w. ▸ Nicol R. Linda Stewart, Mike Grieco push bills to allow local governments to ban single-use plastics. Florida Politics. bit.ly/3jwM0xL.

Survey Details The survey, which examined a

the sale and consumption of sin-

sampling method. The sample was

range of conservation and en-

gle-use plastics within their own

carefully constructed using bal-

vironmental policy issues in the

jurisdictions.

anced quotas (stratified by region

state, was conducted July 15-25,

of the state) based on age, gender,

2021. Respondents were asked to

The survey was conducted online

race, ethnicity and political affilia-

share their opinions on the state’s

through Prodege, a leading market

tion. Based on the sample size, the

preemptive ban and whether local

research provider. A representa-

results are reported with a 95%

governments should be allowed

tive sample of 600 Floridians was

confidence level and a margin of

to adopt tighter restrictions on

contacted using a stratified quota

error +/- 4.

FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 53

QC

GRACE Marketplace is Gainesville’s primary shelter located on city property and financially supported by the city.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GRACE MARKETPLACE

FEATURE

COMMUNITY

Helping the Homeless

Cities across the state rally to support at-risk population

by Kelli Gemmer Florida League of Cities

W

hile homelessness is not a new issue, the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the matter. According to the Department of Housing and Urban Development

(HUD), homelessness grew 2% last year, and Florida makes up 5% of the nation’s overall homelessness.

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) creates a historic opportunity for cities to connect resources with best practices. The stimulus bill specifically targets homelessness, with nearly $5 billion dedicated to grants to states and local governments to help those presently or soon-to-be experiencing homelessness.

(For more information on ARPA, see p. 34.)

Successful programs implemented by Florida cities over the past few years can be a source for new ideas. They include establishing outreach teams, implementing rapid rehousing programs and providing rental assistance.

GAINESVILLE’S HOMELESS TO HOUSING PROJECT

The City of Gainesville partnered with GRACE Marketplace, the City’s largest homeless shelter and service provider, to fight chronic homelessness by providing stable housing. The project targeted individuals living in Dignity Village, a makeshift encampment on city-owned land. With nearly 350 people in the 54 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

encampment and three or four daily calls to Gainesville Fire Rescue, the City Commission approved a transition plan developed

by the partners to close Dignity Village by matching occupants with a specialist to place them into housing.

Gainesville Assistant City Manager Deborah Bowie said, “The emergency of the pandemic gave us an opportunity to fast-track our commitment to housing first as the most effective policy toward ending homelessness.”

The City and its partners helped those at Dignity Village relocate to a managed, temporary campground area at GRACE. Outreach included a full-time outreach/transition liaison and a police team. With the City’s assistance, GRACE’s outreach teams reduced the Dignity Village population by 86% in one year. The calls to Fire Rescue decreased to less than one per day, and the weekly calls to the Police Department decreased by more than 75%. The camp closed in November 2020.

“What we’ve learned over the years is that the only way to solve homelessness is to shore up resources and partnerships to secure permanent supportive housing,” said Bowie.

Digital news outlet American City & County presented Gainesville’s project with a Crown Communities Award recognizing local governments whose projects offer value to their communities.

QC

ST. PETERSBURG COMMITS FUNDING TO INITIATIVES

The City of St. Petersburg budgets over $2 million to address homelessness. Additional funding is provided through the City’s Housing and Community Development Department to support nonprofit organizations that provide services to individuals experiencing homelessness. The City also collaborates with Pinellas County to fund a rapid rehousing program.

One project is the Power of Change Homeless Initiative. The City used repurposed parking meters as donation stations, allowing the public to donate spare change to homeless programs instead of panhandlers. The initiative has collected more than $6,000 since 2014. All funds are used by the City’s Homeless Street Outreach Team to assist with emergency housing, diapers, food, family reunification and other emergency services. Learn how the donation stations make change count at bit.ly/3hW6uPY. Last year, the City funded Family Works, a program that assists families in finding permanent housing when a local school identifies a child as homeless, housing unstable or residing in an emergency shelter or transitional housing. The program is operated by Directions for Living as a subcontractor to the Homeless Leadership Alliance and has served 87 families, including 218 children, since July 2021. Thirty-six of those families, including 95 children, have been placed in permanent housing.

The City also partners with the county and other organizations. Funding goes toward Pinellas Safe Harbor, an emergency homeless shelter and a jail-diversion program operated by the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. The shelter opened through partnerships with the City, Pinellas County and homeless service providers.

Orlando’s laundry trailer operated by SALT four days each week.

“One of our community’s greatest strengths is our ability to forge partnerships to serve our neighbors in need with kindness and compassion,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. “This spirit of collaboration and care is evidenced by the partnership with the City, SALT and Simply Healthcare to ensure that the basic needs of hygiene, food and clothing are provided to our most vulnerable neighbors.”

UNIFIED EFFORTS IN SARASOTA YIELD DECLINE

The City of Sarasota created a homeless response program in 2014 that has become a model across the nation. The program was in response to siloed social service efforts in the community. This new unified regional effort focused on a “housing first” mission has resulted in a more than 60% decline in Sarasota’s homeless population since 2014.

One of the main components contributing to Sarasota’s success was establishing Homeless Outreach Teams to help coordinate and deploy existing social services into the field. The City also launched the first dedicated court focused solely on homelessness in Florida, Community Care Court. This collaborative partnership between several organizations lets specialized professionals identify an individual’s root cause for remaining homeless and provide case management to prevent future criminal violations.

“Sarasota’s homelessness response is full of forward movement and, consequently, individuals experiencing homelessness have recently found their destination to be – a home,” said the City’s Homelessness Response Coordinator Kevin Stiff.

ORLANDO UNVEILS LAUNDRY SERVICE TRAILER

The City of Orlando partnered with Service and Love Together (SALT) and Simply Healthcare to provide free laundry services to the homeless through a mobile trailer. The trailer is operated

by SALT four days each week.

Constructed with six commercial washers and dryers, the trailer can complete an estimated 240 loads of laundry per week.

In addition, SALT provides daytime services including a portable shower trailer, a clothing trailer, haircuts, storage services, hygiene products and food.

Sarasota’s Homeless Outreach Team case members in the field.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF SARASOTA

PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF ST. PETERSBURG

Recycled parking meters in St. Petersburg encourage donations supporting the City’s homeless programs.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF ORLANDO

FEATURE

FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 55

QC

FEATURE Mayor Keith James (center) and representatives from the City of West Palm Beach, Southeast Behavioral Health Network and Community Partners of South Florida at The Village’s ribbon-cutting ceremony.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF WEST PALM BEACH

WEST PALM BEACH DESIGNATES STAFF AND TECH

The City of West Palm Beach is committed to providing opportunities for all. Following the 2019 closure of a large behavioral health center, the City’s Housing and Community Development Department (HCD) teamed up with local agencies to provide critical resources, such as on-street engagement and interventions, for individuals.

Last year, West Palm Beach implemented the Homeless Activity Reporter through the HCD. This tool at wpb.org/har allows the public to report when nonemergency city assistance or community resources are needed for someone experiencing homelessness.

The Homeless Activity Reporter is one of many tactics the City has implemented to address the issue of homelessness. This technology will help city staff better connect the homeless with much-needed programs and services while, at the same time, giving residents a voice in addressing neighborhood concerns.

This summer, the City celebrated the opening of the first phase of their collaborative project, The Village. This 20-unit supportive housing complex provides independent, affordable housing, behavioral health services and other services. The second phase should be completed this fall and includes a renovated multipurpose center that will house services such as a peer support program.

FORT MYERS PARTNERS WITH COUNTY

The City of Fort Myers works closely with Lee County and other partners by providing support services including: ▸ Rapid Transition Collaborative. Eighty permanent housing units are used to provide short-term rental assistance and other services. The rates of returns to homelessness within six and 12 months of exiting the program are under 5%. ▸ Housing Outreach and Treatment Teams. Led by the Fort Myers Police Department and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, teams connect individuals to services including clinical services, behavioral health providers, human services and housing opportunities.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF FORT MYERS

56 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

Fort Myers’ Housing Outreach and Treatment Team in the field.

▸ 100 x 100 Housing Campaign. The Lee County Continuum of Care, a local homeless assistance planning network and HUD funding source, aimed to house 100 households in 100 days. This community collaboration in response to the pandemic successfully housed 121 households (193 individuals and 60 children) as of March 2021. ▸ Rent, Mortgage and Utilities Assistance programs. City and county programs provide emergency funds for rent/ mortgage, rehousing costs, unpaid utilities and more. ▸ Homeless Resource Center. The Salvation Army’s Homeless Resource Center provides basic needs, mental and medical services and job skills training.

“The level of collaboration between local government agencies and our nonprofit partners was tremendous in getting individuals experiencing homelessness the services needed in this time of public health crisis,” said Teresa Watkins Brown, City of Fort Myers Ward 1 Councilmember and President of the Florida Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials. “Our elected officials voted to allocate funds to cover short-term hotel room stays while individuals were in the approval waiting period for rapid rehousing, increasing stability in an otherwise uncertain process.”

LARGO POLICE EXPAND OUTREACH

Last year, the City of Largo Police Department launched a homeless outreach team that positions a designated officer who works directly with a social service professional to connect individuals to housing and services. Services include temporary and transitional housing, substance use and addiction support and medical care.

The Police Department designated one of its existing sworn officers as a homeless outreach officer. Largo Police Officer Matthew Steiner is paired with a street outreach caseworker from Directions for Living, a nonprofit organization serving vulnerable adults and children. Together, they help establish rapport with those experiencing street homelessness and link them to the Countywide Homeless Coordinated Entry System that prioritizes the most vulnerable individuals for shelter and housing.

A multi-department advisory committee includes Largo’s police, parks, library, housing, administration, fire rescue, public works and community standards departments. This interdepartmental approach streamlines service referrals, develops strategies to address needs through other channels than emergency response and aligns city efforts with partner organizations. These organizations include the Homeless Leadership Alliance, whose mission is to “prevent, divert, and end homelessness” through a coordinated regional approach across the county.

ST. AUGUSTINE POLICE PROVIDE BASIC NEEDS

In 2018, the City of St. Augustine set an objective in its strategic plan to provide resources that would help homeless individuals receive the basic necessities of life. As part of this long-term commitment to compassion and support, the St. Augustine Police Department (SAPD) implemented a Community Outreach Unit.

Dedicated officers build positive connections by reaching out to residents, discovering their needs and offering related resources.

These resources include admission to the Department’s Family Reunification Program, roadside counseling, rehabilitation

FEATURE St. Augustine Police Department’s Community Outreach Unit in the field.

QC

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (All Periodicals Publications Except Requester Publications)

PS Form 3526 1. Publication Title FLORIDA LEAGUE OF CITIES/QUALITY CITIES

2. Publication Number 201780

ISSN 8096

3. Filing Date 09/27/2021

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PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF ST. AUGUSTINE

7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication PO BOX 1757 TALLAHASSEE, leon, FL 32302-1757

Contact Person JOY DICKINSON Telephone (850) 701-3631

8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher 301 S Bronough St Suite 300 Tallahassee, FL 32301 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor Publisher (Name and complete mailing address) Jeannie Garner Florida League of Cities PO Box 1757 Tallahassee, FL 32302-1757

through the Habitual Off Program and rides for appointments.

These officers provide services with Flagler Health Plus’ Care Connect program, which connects homeless individuals with a caseworker. The officers also refer individuals to St. Francis House, which has several beds funded by the SAPD. Since implementing the Community Outreach Unit, the City has seen a significant improvement in managing homelessness. As of 2020, SAPD has helped 146 people get into a family support environment through its family reunification program, brought 223 people to beds at St. Francis House and brought 20 people into a rehabilitation facility through on-street counseling and working with judges.

JACKSONVILLE MAYOR’S TASKFORCE ALIGNS COMMUNITY EFFORTS

In 2017, Mayor Lenny Curry launched the Downtown Homelessness Taskforce to align the collective efforts of the public, private and philanthropic sectors that are focused on ending homelessness. This taskforce has played a critical role in the City of Jacksonville, protecting this at-risk population during the pandemic. The COVID-19 Shelter Taskforce, a subset of the Mayor’s Downtown Homelessness Taskforce, collaborated to create the shelter protocols that ensured coordination with area hospitals and the provision of non-congregate shelter, meals, testing and vaccinations.

In addition, the COVID-19 Shelter Taskforce launched the Pathway to Home Program, which provides individuals in unsheltered areas with a local extended-stay hotel room and food assistance for 30 days. This rapid rehousing program was created through a partnership with the City of Jacksonville, Sulzbacher, Mental Health Resource Center, Changing Homelessness, Downtown Vision, Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and others.

“The impact of the pandemic presented unique challenges for our homeless providers, challenges that required significant changes to the way they operate,” said Curry. “I am proud of and grateful for the taskforce members’ dedication to meeting the needs of one of the City’s most vulnerable populations.”

Although the pandemic has strained these systems, ARPA offers an opportunity for local governments to work toward preventing and managing homelessness. With strong leadership and purposeful, strategic decision-making, municipal officials can make a significant difference.

Editor (Name and complete mailing address) Joy Dickinson Florida League of Cities PO Box 1757 Tallahassee, FL 32302-1757 Managing Editor (Name and complete mailing address)

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Full Name

Complete Mailing Address

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4000

4000

3479

3476

35

33

0

0

0

0

3514

3509

144

143

6

6

167

160

0

0

Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form b. Paid Circulation (2) 3541(include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser's proof copies, and exchange copies) (By Mail and Outside Paid Distribution Outside the Mails Including Sales the Mail) (3) Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the (4) USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail) c. Total Paid Distribution (Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), (4)) or Nominal Rate Outside County Copies (1) Free included on PS Form 3541 d. Free or or Nominal Rate In-County Copies included on (2) Free Nominal PS Form 3541 Rate Distribution (By Mail and Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes Outside the (3) Through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail) Mail) (4) Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or other means) e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3), (4)) f. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15e) g. Copies not Distributed

317

309

3831

3818

169

182

4000

4000

91.73 %

91.91 %

a. Paid Electronic Copies

0

0

b. Total Paid Print Copies(Line 15C) + Paid Electronic Copies

0

0

c. Total Print Distribution(Line 15F) + Paid Electronic Copies

0

0

0.00 %

0.00 %

h. Total (Sum of 15f and 15g) i. Percent Paid ((15c / 15f) times 100) 16. If total circulation includes electronic copies, report that circulation on lines below.

d. Percent Paid(Both Print and Electronic Copies)

I Certify that 50% of all my distributed copies (Electronic and Print) are paid above a nominal price.

17. Publication of Statement of Ownership

Kelli Gemmer is the Assistant Editor for the Florida League of Cities. QC

X If the publication is a general publication, publication of this statement is required. Will be printed

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in the 10/01/2021 issue of this publication.

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I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties).

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FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 57

QC lifestyle QUALITY CITIES

BALANCING LIFE

AND PUBLIC SERVICE

WELL-BEING

Holiday the Healthy Way Tips for staying healthy during the holiday season

by Erika Branchcomb Florida League of Cities

T

he holiday season is almost here again. While the season is welcomed by many for its traditions and festivities, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be a challenge. Food is usually center stage at parties and other celebrations, and it tends not to be the most diet-friendly fare. Gatherings happen on the couch in front of the TV and around the dinner table piled with snacks.

It can be hard to resist the holiday temptations. Luckily, there are strategies that can help you enjoy all the holidays have to offer without throwing your hard-earned habits out the window.

PRACTICE MODERATION

Moderation in all things, and all things in moderation. The adage is correct – you can still enjoy the rich, calorie-dense foods you love without the guilt of overindulging. Try some of these tactics: ▸ Create a sampler plate with small portions of your favorite treats. ▸ Eat a light lunch so you can enjoy a hearty dinner of your family’s traditional recipes. ▸ Skip the appetizers to save room for dessert. ▸ Use a small plate instead of a large dinner plate, and don’t overfill it.

SWAP IT OUT

Substituting ingredients or modifying recipes is another way to ensure there are healthy options at the table. By making homemade dishes instead of buying prepackaged food, you are already cutting back on the amount of sodium and sugar in your recipes.

Go a step further, and try these healthy modifications: ▸ Cook with egg whites. Two egg whites are the equivalent of one whole egg.

58 QUALITY CITIES | FOURTH QUARTER 2021

▸ Use brown or wild rice, which is higher in nutrients than white rice. ▸ Try high-fiber grains like whole-grain bread, multigrain pasta and whole wheat flour. ▸ Use skim milk instead of cream and fat-free yogurt instead of sour cream. Choose low-fat cheeses, which are also lower in calories. ▸ Add vegetables to recipes for a splash of flavor, nutrients and color.

MOVE MORE

Staying active can be challenging, especially if this time is also your vacation. But there are ways to sneak in some physical activity and keep yourself moving. ▸ Take a walk. Grab your friends, family or co-workers, and enjoy some conversation over a stroll after lunch or dinner. ▸ Step it up. Add extra steps to your day with simple choices like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or parking farther away from a building. ▸ Challenge yourself. Encourage family and friends to join you for an online fitness challenge, or register for a holiday fun run.

Erika Branchcomb is the Senior Communications Specialist at the Florida League of Cities. QC Sources: mayoclinic.org, webmd.com, health.harvard.edu PEOPLEIMAGES/E+/GETTY IMAGES

QC

FIZKES/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/GETTY IMAGES

LIFESTYLE

MENTAL HEALTH

Depression: Conversation Starters Tips for how to start talking about a difficult topic

D

epression can be hard to talk about. But if a friend or loved one is depressed, having a conversation about getting help can make a big difference. Use these tips to start talking.

SHOW YOU CARE

You can show you are concerned by saying: ▸ “How are you feeling? I’m here to listen to you and support you.” ▸ “I’m concerned about you. I think you may need to talk to someone about depression. I want you to get the help you need to feel better.” ▸ “Let me tell you all the things I love about you.” ▸ “I’d really like to spend more time with you. Let’s take a walk, grab something to eat or go to a movie.”

OFFER HOPE

You can help someone who is depressed by saying: ▸ “You’re not alone. Many people suffer from depression. It’s nothing to be ashamed of.” ▸ “Depression can be treated. Getting help is the best thing you can do.” ▸ “Most people get better with treatment – even people who have severe depression.” ▸ “There are different ways to treat depression, including therapy and medicine. Getting more physical activity might also help you feel better.”

OFFER TO HELP

You can be of assistance by saying: ▸ “Let me help you figure out what’s going on. You can start by making an appointment with your doctor,

or I can help you find someone else to talk to, like a counselor, therapist or social worker.” ▸ “I can give you a ride to your therapy appointment or remind you to take your medicine.” ▸ “You can call or text me at any time if you need support or if you just want to talk.”

Perhaps most importantly, you can ask, “Have you felt hopeless or thought about hurting yourself recently? I’m here for you. Let’s call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.” To reach them, call 1.800.273.TALK (1.800.273.8255). QC Source: Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services FOURTH QUARTER 2021 | QUALITY CITIES 59

The Florida Municipal Insurance Trust, with approximately 530 members, has been providing insurance to Florida’s local governments since 1977.

∙ Property

1.800.445.6248 insurance.flcities.com

∙ Law Enforcement Professional Liability

∙ Workers’ Compensation ∙ General Liability ∙ Health ∙ Auto ∙ Cyber Coverage ∙ Public Officials Liability ∙ Disaster Response and Recovery Services ∙ FMIT Employment Law Advisor (ELA)

PRIORITIES ▸ ▸ ▸ ▸ ▸

Short-Term Rentals Communications Services Tax Reform Tree Protection Transportation Funding Economic Development Incentives

I M P O R TA N C E O F H O M E R U L E The Florida League of Cities believes in the importance of local selfgovernment and that those officials closest to the people know their community best. Each of these issues supports Home Rule and a municipality’s ability to govern itself based on the wants and needs of its residents. An overwhelming majority of Florida residents supports Home Rule. It is the foundation for local governments to create fair, effective and responsive policies for their communities.

P R I O R I T Y S TAT E M E N T S Short-Term Rentals: The Florida League of Cities SUPPORTS legislation that restores authority to local governments for the regulation of short-term rental properties as necessary for quality of life, public safety and a fair lodging marketplace. The Florida League of Cities SUPPORTS legislation clarifying that existing, grandfathered municipal short-term rental ordinances can be amended without penalty. The Florida League of Cities OPPOSES legislation that preempts municipal authority as it relates to the regulation of short-term rental properties.

Contact: Tara Taggart • ttaggart@flcities.com Communications Services Tax Reform: The Florida League of Cities SUPPORTS reforming the Communications Services Tax in a manner that is revenue neutral; provides for a broad and equitable tax base; provides for enhanced stability and reliability of an important revenue source

for municipalities; and provides for a uniform taxing method. Reform should promote a competitively neutral tax policy that will free consumers to choose a provider based on tax-neutral considerations.

Contact: Amber Hughes • ahughes@flcities.com Tree Protection: The Florida League of Cities SUPPORTS legislation to close loopholes and create standards in current law exemptions from municipal tree ordinances that have caused litigation and abuses, including the clear-cutting of land pre-development and the removal of healthy trees that present ittle, if any, risk to persons or structures. Current law should be amended to apply only to developed single-family residential property, identify industry-appropriate standards for assessing tree risk and identify necessary documentation.

Contact: Rebecca O’Hara • rohara@flcities.com

Transportation Funding: The Florida League of Cities SUPPORTS legislation: ▸ Directing the Florida Department of Transportation to establish a grant program to provide financial assistance for the installation of publicly available electric vehicle charging infrastructure on public or private property ▸ Providing technical assistance for the development and adoption of local or regional plans for charging infrastructure and associated equipment

▸ Identifying additional transportation revenue to support innovative infrastructure and transit projects to meet the surging transportation demands driven by dramatic growth throughout Florida.

Contact: Jeff Branch • jbranch@flcities.com Economic Development Incentives: The Florida League of Cities SUPPORTS legislation and policies that encourage coordination among Enterprise Florida, the

Department of Economic Opportunity, other state agencies and cities to promote local economic development by providing increased funding, technical assistance and increased collaboration between the state and cities on offering incentives that maximize economic development opportunities for retention, expansion, and attraction, and building sustainable economic resiliency.

Contact: David Cruz • dcruz@flcities.com

OT H E R I SS U E S O F I M P O R TA N C E Local Business Tax Preservation: The Florida League of Cities SUPPORTS legislation that preserves general revenues collected from the local business tax. These revenues are used to fund essential municipal services such as public safety, and constructing and maintaining roads and bridges, public parks and open spaces. Maintaining a diversified revenue base also strengthens the fiscal stability of municipalities and improves their respective ability to serve citizens and businesses.

Cybersecurity: The Florida League of Cities SUPPORTS legislation dedicating state resources for the development and enhancement of municipal cybersecurity by providing funding for technical assistance, threat assessments, employee training, infrastructure improvements and data protection, including the protection of exempt and confidential information such as law enforcement personnel information and security plans for government buildings and other key critical infrastructure.

Annexation: The Florida League of Cities SUPPORTS legislation that facilitates the municipal annexation of unincorporated areas while protecting private property rights and respecting municipal boundaries.

Affordable Housing: The Florida League of Cities SUPPORTS legislation that requires all money from the Sadowski State and Local Housing Trust Fund be used only for Florida’s affordable housing programs targeted to meet the needs

of workforce housing, including low income, very low income and disabled persons, for both home ownership and rental unit availability.

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS): The Florida League of Cities SUPPORTS legislative action to address growing concerns about PFAS in soil and water, including coordinating with the Environmental Protection Agency to establish science-based cleanup target levels, providing resources for testing and research, public education and risk assessment guidelines, establishing liability protection for entities that have legally used PFAS for fire suppression or have passively received PFAS, and developing cost-effective and risk-based corrective strategies for PFAS.

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For more information on the League’s legislative initiatives, please contact:

President PHILLIP WALKER Commissioner Lakeland

First Vice President JOLIEN CARABALLO Vice Mayor Port St. Lucie

Second Vice President GREG ROSS Mayor Cooper City

Florida League of Cities P.O. Box 1757 Tallahassee, FL 32302-1757 850.222.9684 flcities.com