Alachua

The City of Alachua hosted a mock election for students at a local elementary and middle school. They voted on cupcakes versus brownies. City officials explained the election process, and a debate was held before the vote. While votes were counted, students engaged with City staff in a Q&A session. City Manager Mike DaRoza emphasized the importance of voting and respecting differing opinions. Mayor Gib Coerper expressed pride in helping students understand the significance of voting.

Auburndale

The City of Auburndale recognized Florida City Government Week with a proclamation at the October 21, 2024, City Commission meeting.

Bartow

The City of Bartow hosted students from the senior high school and offered a firsthand look at local governance. Highlights included a City history lesson, a voter education session and a mock commission meeting where students debated spending a hypothetical $1 million grant. Choosing storm sewer upgrades for community benefit, they experienced decision-making in action. Students met City staff, received Bartow-branded items and were encouraged to explore shadowing opportunities. To mark the week, Bartow officials combined Halloween festivities with City-themed giveaways to foster civic pride and engage youth in local government.

Belleview

Throughout the week, Belleview hosted six coffee hours, with each spotlighting a City department leader: the Mayor and Commissioners, City Administrator and City Clerk, Director of Development Services, Chief of Police, Director of Public Works, and Events and Promotions Manager. These sessions provided valuable insights into each department’s work. Belleview held an “If I Were Mayor” essay contest for fourth to eighth graders. The winners were honored at a Commission meeting and received a gift card and certificate of achievement. Also, the City launched a “Meet the Team” social media campaign to showcase team members and their roles.

Cocoa

The City of Cocoa celebrated by hosting its annual Touch-A-Truck event alongside the Fall Festival. This event allowed residents to explore essential City vehicles and learn about the services that keep Cocoa running smoothly. Attendees saw cars such as the Public Works Department’s mechanical street sweeper, claw truck and dump truck, which play crucial roles in maintaining the infrastructure. The Police Department showcased their community resources trailer, while the Fire Department exhibited fire response vehicles. Also, videos from the Citizens Academy program were shared on social media platforms to highlight City departments and their functions. Watch Video

Coconut Creek

The City of Coconut Creek addressed their most frequently asked questions per department. Eight departments participated and had staff members answer their department’s questions. The City shared videos on social media and via a playlist on the City’s YouTube channel. Commissioner John Brodie visited two high schools to discuss local government. Watch Video

Coral Springs

The City of Coral Springs celebrated with engaging videos that were posted throughout the week across social media platforms. The City launched the Springs Spotlight series, where residents were asked to share what makes their City great and what they appreciate most about City services. Mayor Scott Brook also delivered a video message in which he shared why it’s important to celebrate Florida City Government Week.

Crestview

Mayor J.B. Whitten led an informative session to enhance residents’ understanding of city government operations. This session highlighted the roles of various departments, the decision-making process and elected officials’ responsibilities. Whitten underscored the importance of transparency and communication, the encouragement of questions and dialogue. Attendees gained insights into the budget process, community development efforts and opportunities for civic involvement.

Cutler Bay

Mayor Tim Meerbott delivered his annual State of the Town Address themed “Resilient Roots, Thriving Future.” This year’s address was streamed live on YouTube, which allowed community members to celebrate the Town’s resilience, recent achievements and forward-looking vision. The Town premiered its State of the Town video, which featured Town Councilmembers who highlighted key accomplishments from the past year. Watch Video

Deerfield Beach

City of Deerfield Beach staff met with students from middle and high schools to promote the importance of local government and environmental awareness. Activities included a bulk collection truck demonstration at an elementary school, classroom visits by Parks and Recreation staff to discuss career paths and City services, and interactive sessions fostering civic engagement. These efforts aimed to deepen students’ understanding of city government, inspire community involvement and strengthen connections between young residents and the City.

Gainesville

The City of Gainesville hosted a field trip that highlighted City services and facilities for fifth graders and their parents. Students visited City Hall, learned about the city charter and met Commissioner-elect James Ingle. Mayor Harvey Ward declared it “Celebrate City Government Day.” The group toured Gainesville Fire Rescue Station 1, watched a police drone demonstration and visited the Regional Transit System, where they observed traffic cameras and electric buses. They also explored Gainesville’s inclusive playground at Albert “Ray” Massey Park.

Gulf Breeze

The City of Gulf Breeze recognized Florida City Government Week with a proclamation at the October 21, 2024, City Council meeting.

Haines City

Haines City hosted a variety of activities to keep its citizens engaged during Florida City Government Week. They included early voting, a workshop to inform residents about a home rehabilitation program and a Health and Wellness Summit. The City also premiered a recruitment video for the Citizens Academy, a welcome video from Mayor Omar Arroyo, a promotional video about the City and a social media campaign asking followers if they were City fans. Watch Video

Hawthorne

The City of Hawthorne celebrated by welcoming fifth grade students and teachers from an elementary and a middle school’s Starz Program. The visit provided students with an informative experience and allowed them to get a closer look at their local government’s operations.

Hilliard

The Town of Hilliard celebrated #FLCityWeek with activities designed to connect students and residents to local government. Highlights included an essay contest for third graders titled “If I Were Mayor of Hilliard,” which encouraged creative thinking about leadership. Fifth graders participated in a mock election, with winners serving as honorary council members in a mock council meeting. Families, teachers and school staff joined the event, which fostered community pride. “Coffee with a Councilman” also allowed residents to engage informally with Councilman Dallis Hunter, which strengthened connections between the Town government and community members. Watch Video

Hollywood

The City of Hollywood presented a proclamation during a regular Commission meeting recognizing the week. Dozens of City employees came together outside of City Hall for a group photo taken by a drone. Pictures were also taken around City Hall with employees holding a large sign that read “Florida City Government Week.” Also, the marketing team made signs in the style of a photo booth that read, “I love Hollywood, Community Service, Civic Engagement, Public Service and Customer Service.”

Homestead

The City of Homestead shared videos and graphics highlighting the commitment and enthusiasm of its team members. These visuals provided a look behind the scenes and showcased the joy of serving the community. Through heartfelt accomplishments and snapshots, the City highlighted the purpose behind each role and connected residents with the people who work to make Homestead a safe, thriving and welcoming place. This campaign brought a deeper appreciation for the dedication that is driving Homestead forward.

Indian Harbour Beach

The City of Indian Harbour Beach celebrated Florida City Government Week with an open house. City staff hosted tables that showcased their departments and spoke with residents about City services and programs.

Jacksonville

The City of Jacksonville celebrated with events honoring the City government’s contributions, which were kicked off with a resolution sponsored by Councilmember Rahman Johnson. Jacksonville’s celebration highlighted the City’s commitment to transparency, civic pride and community service. Watch Video

Juno Beach

The Town of Juno Beach recognized Florida City Government Week with a proclamation at the September 25, 2024, City Commission meeting.

Lady Lake

The Town of Lady Lake kicked off the week with an event called “Spreading Town Love.” Residents were invited to stop by Town Hall to grab an “I Love Lady Lake” bag and meet with Town leaders. To end the week, the Town hosted a countywide Job Fair.

Lake Alfred

The City hosted a library exhibit and offered promotional items and information to raise public awareness of its services. Lake Alfred also held a Heroes and Hotrods event with first responders that featured tours of emergency vehicles and a public safety awareness initiative. The event also included a Cypress Garden Ski Club performance, which fostered community engagement and drew significant attendance.

Longwood

Longwood hosted two exciting community events. The City Wheels event at a local elementary school showcased City vehicles such as fire trucks, police cars and public works equipment, which gave students a hands-on learning experience about these services’ critical roles in their community. Meanwhile, a Scavenger Hunt Bingo encouraged residents to visit participating businesses, collect stickers and share photos on social media for points. All participants received a prize, and a grand prize basket included items donated by local businesses. This activity highlighted the importance of shopping locally, increased foot traffic for businesses and fostered community spirit.

Lynn Haven

The City of Lynn Haven celebrated by offering activities to raise awareness of municipal government’s impact. Residents attended Coffee with Commissioners, where they enjoyed conversations with City Commissioners, and the first 25 attendees received a free mug. The following day, an Art Showcase Reception featured student artwork inspired by the City government. Throughout the week, an “eat local” promotion allowed residents to receive a free Lynn Haven T-shirt by bringing in receipts from local restaurants.

Marco Island

The City of Marco Island celebrated with several events. On Monday, the City Council issued a Government Week proclamation. Tuesday featured a Water and Sewer Neighborhood Clean-Up and a City Council Candidate Forum. On Wednesday, the public enjoyed Pizza with the Police and a kickball game between the City Council and staff. Thursday included an Open House at Fire Station 50, with a static display of emergency vehicles. Friday featured a movie night at Mackle Park, and Saturday ended with a Halloween Spooktacular at the Park.

Neptune Beach

The City of Neptune Beach started #FLCityWeek at their October 21, 2024, Council meeting by recognizing the week with a resolution. Neptune Beach also spotlighted a City employee daily on social media platforms. On the last day, the City spotlighted all city employees. The City also hosted a table at the Beaches Town Center Fall Festival, which included games and a “Mayor for the Day” activity.

Newberry

Newberry kicked off the week with a Mayoral Proclamation and wrapped up with the City’s 10th Annual City Vehicle Event, a parade for about 275 students. Vehicles represented the City’s Fire, Recreation, Code Enforcement, Utilities and Public Works departments, with City Commissioner Tony Mazon representing the City Commission as the final parade entry. Watch Video

North Port

The City of North Port celebrated with several community-focused events. Activities included Coffee & Conversation with the Mayor and City Manager, sponsored by a restaurant, where attendees enjoyed free coffee and learned about local government. The City also hosted an Eat and Greet forum, with over 100 attendees learning about an upcoming referendum. Also, the Communications Division educated the media on aging infrastructure, and social media posts celebrated the week’s events.

Okeechobee

The City of Okeechobee recognized Florida City Government Week with a proclamation at the October 15, 2024, City Council meeting.

Oldsmar

Oldsmar Vice Mayor Steve Graber presented a proclamation to City leaders and staff during a City Council meeting to officially proclaim Florida City Government Week in Oldsmar as a time to celebrate and showcase the City and engage citizens in the functions and services of municipal government. The City shared a video on its social media channels to spotlight the council/manager form of government and each department. The video shared staff members’ unique responsibilities and duties to the Oldsmar community.

Orchid

The Town of Orchid shared with residents the variety of services it offers and explained how residents can best engage with their local government. The Town invited residents to call, email or visit the Town Hall to connect with officials and staff.

Ormond Beach

The City of Ormond Beach’s inaugural participation in #FLCityWeek featured activities designed to engage the community. Social media posts highlighted fun City facts and showcased the roles of City employees. The City hosted the Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce’s Youth Leadership program, which offered high school students insights into City government and economic development. The annual employee appreciation luncheon was held, and the week concluded with Commissioner Susan Persis reading “The City That Talks” to first graders. “The City That Talks” is a children’s book for pre-K through second grade published by the Florida League of Cities.

Oviedo

The City of Oviedo celebrated what makes it unique during #FLCityWeek. The City shared with residents about its vibrant neighborhoods, local businesses and annual events. Notable attractions include Oviedo in the Park, Solary Park’s eco-friendly stormwater system and a sports and recreation program with the Gym and Aquatics Center. Oviedo hosts diverse cultural and community events, such as festivals and parades. Watch Video

Palatka

The City of Palatka recognized Florida City Government Week with a proclamation at the October 24, 2024, City Commission meeting.

Palm Beach Gardens

The City of Palm Beach Gardens kicked off #FLCityWeek with an inaugural event: Toasts & Topics with Mayor Chelsea Reed. This free after-hours business event gave residents the opportunity to meet face-to-face with Mayor Chelsea Reed and have an intimate conversation about the City, its projects and its goals. The City also hosted the reception for the 2024 Resident Photography Contest. In addition, City representatives visited local schools. Reed went to a local high school and a college where she met with government classes to discuss City goals, her role on City Council and more.

Palmetto Bay

To celebrate Florida City Government Week, the City of Palmetto Bay posted photos of City employees in action and a message of support from Mayor Karyn Cunningham.

Parkland

The City of Parkland partnered with local agencies to host Government Day for third-grade students from several schools. Students visited the Parkland Municipal Complex to learn about local government, with Mayor Richard Walker discussing Parkland’s history and City operations. At the same time, Vice Mayor Jordan Isrow highlighted decision-making at City Hall. Students also participated in a voting exercise at the library and learned about public safety, recycling and emergency response from local agencies. Each student received a gift bag with educational items. Watch Video

Pensacola

To recognize Florida City Government Week, the City of Pensacola unanimously passed a resolution sponsored by Councilmember Charles Bare.

Plantation

The City of Plantation recently conducted a community survey. To celebrate, the City created short videos featuring Mayor Nick Sortal highlighting the key areas residents love most about Plantation. The City shared the videos on social media platforms and the City website to strengthen community awareness.

Port St. Lucie

This year, the City of Port St. Lucie’s Communications Department, along with staff from Keep Port St. Lucie Beautiful, Parks and Recreation, Public Works, Utilities and the Police Department, visited with more than 300 local students. To further connect with residents, the City introduced a Learn, Snap and Win contest to test residents’ knowledge about local government. Winners were randomly selected and awarded a $25 gift card.

Punta Gorda

Despite the challenges of back-to-back hurricanes, the City of Punta Gorda celebrated #FLCityWeek in unique and meaningful ways. The Build a City Project featured kids at the Cooper Street Recreational Center engaging in a Build a City Project. The Neighborhood Fall Festival brought together City staff, nonprofit organizations, vendors and families for food, fun, crafts and more. Toddler Reading Time featured police Lieutenant Justin Davoult reading the book “Someone Builds the Dream” by Lisa Wheeler and Loren Long. Davoult brought therapy dog Spongebob

Sanford

At the October 28, 2024, City Commission meeting, Mayor Art Woodruff, by City proclamation, recognized Florida City Government Week.

Seminole

The Seminole Recreation Teen Board presented to the City Council and summarized their duties, responsibilities, volunteer opportunities and leadership skills. Fourth graders from a local school visited the Seminole City Hall Council Chambers. They were given a presentation of local city government from Mayor Leslie Waters, City Manager Ann Toney-Deal, Recreation Director Becky Gunter, Library Director Glenn Ferdman, Fire Marshall Sanja Mugenski, Fire Inspectors Colleen Broom-Comey and Emily Crum and Community Policing Officer Deputy Peter Pappas.

Sunrise

During the October City Commission meeting, the City of Sunrise proclaimed October 21-27 as Florida City Government Week to celebrate local government and civic engagement. The ceremony featured the swearing-in of student government and safety patrol representatives from the 11 schools in the City. Over 180 students pledged to uphold high leadership, civility and safety standards in their schools. This event instilled a sense of responsibility and commitment in these young leaders, and it deepened their understanding of local government’s role in fostering community.

Surfside

The Town of Surfside kicked off Florida City Government Week with a successful social event at the Town Hall. Residents gathered to enjoy ice cream from a local business while engaging in meaningful conversations with Town Manager Peter Jankowski and leadership staff. The event allowed the community to connect with local officials in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Tamarac

The City of Tamarac took a community-focused approach to connect residents with their local government. Through engaging events, social media content and a proclamation by the Tamarac City Commission, the City celebrated the vital role of municipal services and the people behind them. Highlights included a game night by the Tamarac Teen Council, which helped young residents explore local government in a fun setting, and a behind-the-scenes video featuring City departments showcasing the collaborative efforts that make Tamarac “The City for Your Life.”

Tequesta

The Village of Tequesta partnered with the Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections to host an interactive election education program for fourth and fifth graders. Students learned about the election process through presentations and hands-on activities, including a mock election in which they voted on topics such as dog breeds and U.S. beaches. The program sparked excitement about voting and encouraged critical thinking about important issues. This collaboration helped instill a sense of civic responsibility while fostering future informed voters and deepening students’ understanding of democracy.

Welaka

The Town of Welaka held a Chat with your Councilwoman event.

Weston

The City of Weston Commissioners sent a message to the community about the importance of staying involved in local government. The Commission was proud to join local leaders around the state in celebrating effective local government and community engagement. Watch Video

Winter Haven

The City of Winter Haven featured engaging events to connect with residents and celebrate the community. Highlights included the Capture Winter Haven Photo Contest, with 182 submissions showcasing the city’s beauty, and the Hands on Haven event, which attracted more than 1,000 attendees. Participants explored the City’s services through interactive stations, demonstrations and activities such as a dunk tank and story time. The event also introduced many to the Winter Haven Regional Airport. These events fostered community pride, strengthened connections with local government and gave residents a hands-on look at City services. Watch Video