The Florida League of Cities is proud to recognize its 2026 Home Rule Hero Award recipients, a distinguished group of local government leaders who went above and beyond during the Legislative Session to advocate for Florida’s cities.

Home Rule Hero Award recipients are local government officials, both elected and non-elected, who consistently respond to the League’s request to engage with members of the Legislature and provide a local perspective on key issues. Whether it is answering a Legislative Alert, making a call to a lawmaker, or sharing real-time insight from their community, these individuals play a critical role in ensuring that the voice of Florida’s cities is heard where it matters most.

Throughout the 2026 session, these leaders worked tirelessly to promote local decision-making, protect the Home Rule powers of Florida’s municipalities, and advance the League’s Legislative Platform. Their efforts help reinforce a fundamental principle: that decisions impacting communities are best made at the local level by those who know their residents and their needs.

Home Rule Hero Award recipients are selected by the League’s legislative team following each legislative session. The most important criteria are simple but essential — timely responses to FLC’s Legislative Alerts and proactive communication with League staff about interactions with legislators. These actions strengthen the League’s advocacy efforts and provide valuable, on-the-ground context that helps shape policy discussions.

This year’s honorees represent a wide range of roles across Florida’s municipalities, from mayors and councilmembers to city managers, clerks, and department leaders. Together, they reflect the strength and unity of local government across the state.

Their commitment demonstrates that effective advocacy is not limited to Tallahassee. It happens in city halls, in conversations with legislators, and through quick, thoughtful responses when it counts most. By stepping up during critical moments in the legislative process, these Home Rule Heroes help protect the authority of cities to serve their residents effectively.

The Florida League of Cities extends its sincere appreciation to each of the 2026 Home Rule Heroes for their leadership, responsiveness, and dedication to local voices making local choices.