Walker Guides FLC Centennial

100th year has shown ‘we’re stronger together’

by Kelli Gemmer, Florida League of Cities

As the Florida League of Cities (FLC) enters the final phase of its centennial celebration, FLC President Phillip E. Walker is reflecting on a characteristic that has firmly tied the League and its cities together throughout 100 years: unity.

“One thing that has led us throughout our history is our unified voice,” Walker said.

In an era of political divisiveness, it’s refreshing to see, he said. That unity is particularly important due to the changes Florida has experienced over the years and continues to see. For one, many out-of-state residents have relocated to Florida during the pandemic, adding to the state’s tremendous population growth.

“Since the League was established, Florida’s population has grown from fewer than 1 million residents to more than 21.5 million,” said Walker.

Whether cities are looking for help with federal funding for pandemic recovery, infrastructure investments, grants or the defense of Home Rule, the League and its cities always come together as one. When cities are united, they can shape legislation, share the advantages of cooperative action and exchange ideas and experiences.

“Working together to solve problems has been a foundation of the League’s history,” said Walker. (For more information on the League’s history, read the cover feature in the first quarter issue of Quality Cities magazine at bit.ly/3P3kk12.)

The League continues to be proactive and collaborative in its efforts to help municipal governments in Florida. Last year, FLC launched a grants assistance program in partnership with eCivis to help cities of all sizes find, apply for and manage grants. The League also continued its monthly #FLCitiesStrong webinar series to guide and inform its members on relevant topics such as the American Rescue Plan Act, the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, cybersecurity and more.

Advocacy has remained a vital component of the League’s mission. “This long-time collaboration continues today as municipal officials across the state advocate year-round to protect local decision-making authority against legislative preemptions.” (Read about advocating year-around on p. 42.)

During Walker’s presidency, the FLC unveiled The Advo-Kit, a comprehensive advocacy toolkit for municipal officials, and launched Local Voices United (LVU). This grassroots advocacy program will arm municipal officials with the tools and resources to engage Florida’s residents in promoting decision-making at the local level. (For more information on LVU, visit localvoicesunited. com.) In addition, the League’s Legislative Action Days saw its highest attendance in the event’s history.

History is often a good predictor of the future, and for Florida’s cities, the future is as bright as its past. “Together, alongside the League and our fellow municipal officials, we can continue to advocate on behalf of our residents and shape Florida’s future,” said Walker. “History has shown that we’re stronger together. We know this now more than ever.”

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

Annual Conference to Celebrate 100 Years

The Florida League of Cities (FLC) Annual Conference will highlight the 100th year of the League with a formal gala, History Hub and the announcement of an exciting new initiative.

Pack your tuxes, suits and fancy dresses for the 100th Anniversary Gala on Saturday night. The gala will include a sit-down dinner and entertainment from nationally renowned magician/comedian Justin Willman.

Learn more about the League’s history at the History Hub near the registration area. The Hub will include mementos, scrapbooks and a video with voices from the past.

Stop by the League exhibit in the center of the exhibit hall to pick up a 100th-year commemorative giveaway. First come, first served. Also, this year’s Conference will include the launch of the FLC University Certificate Program for Elected Municipal Officials. The Program will recognize elected officials who take advantage of the League’s training opportunities, including the annual conference. By participating in FLC University training events, members earn points that are automatically tracked and awarded. More details will be released at the Conference.

The Conference will be held August 11-13 at The Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood. Registration will be available on-site. For more information, see the Conference details on the following pages, or go to bit.ly/3qJAEbJ.