Alachua

The Alachua Police Department visited local area schools. The Department conducted a Q&A session with Chief of Police Jesse Sandusky, followed by a presentation from the motorcycle team, which included K-9 Officer Simba. The City also hosted a Local Government Day celebration at City Hall, with the participation of the Alachua County Tax Collector, the Alachua County Supervisor of Elections, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Elder Options and the Alachua Police Department.

Auburndale

Mayor Dorthea Taylor-Bogert and City Manager Jeff Tillman visited local schools to discuss the council-manager form of government and how local governments are instrumental in bringing projects to local communities. They encouraged students to use their voices in the community. The City also hosted a booth at the local Fall-O-Ween event. The booth had information about Florida City Government Week, and the City distributed free promotional items.

Bartow

The City of Bartow hosted a variety of activities throughout #FLCityWeek, including a Citizen’s Appreciation Day at City Hall, tours of the police station, a free golf clinic at the Bartow Golf Course, a public picnic in the park and a barbecue luncheon for all City employees. The Bartow Public Library also hosted several events, including a talk with the City Manager, story time with a City Commissioner and a “Build a City Challenge” that encouraged kids to create a cityscape from construction paper.

Brooksville

The City of Brooksville participated in Florida City Government Week by hosting a mock City Council meeting with local students, an art gallery tour of City Hall and a touch-a-truck event, which included Public Works and emergency response vehicles.

Coconut Creek

During Florida City Government Week, the City of Coconut Creek educated residents about the City’s Vision 2030 strategic plan. Social media posts were created throughout the week to point residents to the Vision 2030 webpage. Posts varied from contests and a “Did You Know” series to a video presented by the City Commission. Watch Video

Coral Springs

The City of Coral Springs used the City’s social media channels to engage residents to share the types of communications that they most like receiving from the City. Strategies included Instagram story polls and questions posted to Nextdoor. Commissioner Joshua Simmons worked with the City’s video production department to create an engaging video to introduce the City’s online audience to the inner workings of city government. The video, geared toward teens, young adults and millennials, featured a fun and nostalgic ‘90s theme. Watch Video

Crestview

The City of Crestview held a variety of events to celebrate Florida City Government Week. The week kicked off with “Coffee with Elected Officials,” an opportunity for residents to sit down with City leaders to have a conversation or ask questions. The City also hosted an employee training day and a workshop for residents on local United Way programs. The City’s elected officials ended the week by serving food at a local restaurant.

Dade City

To kick off Florida City Government Week, the Dade City Commission hosted “Coffee and Tea with the Commissioners.” Also, the City hosted about 100 fifth graders from Pasco Elementary School. Students learned how city government and local elections work. The students also toured the Dade City Police Department and participated in a touch-a-truck event hosted by the Public Works Department. Pasco County Fire and Rescue also participated in the week to share how the department keeps families and businesses safe within Dade City.

Daytona Beach

The City of Daytona Beach educated and encouraged residents on the multitude of ways they can get involved in the local community. Press releases were sent via the City Manager’s newsletter, social media and the City’s website. The City also presented a Florida City Government Week proclamation at the City Commission meeting.

DeLand

The City of DeLand featured several employees on social media throughout Florida City Government Week. Also, the City’s first Youth Council was launched during the week. More than 40 students signed up to participate. The City also held a touch-a-truck event at Blue Lake Elementary School, where the Police, Fire, Public Works and Utilities departments showed their equipment to students.

Destin

During Florida City Government Week, the City issued news releases, conducted school presentations, declared proclamations and held a citywide celebration. The week’s celebration had a theme of “Music to Our Ears.” Hundreds gathered to talk, eat, listen to a local live band, learn more about local government and be reminded that government for the people and by the people is “music to all of our ears.” The City created a “Top 40 Chart Hits” of 2023 accomplishments. It served as an effective way to share all the work City staff and officials do behind the scenes.

Gainesville

The City of Gainesville celebrated #FLCityWeek by hosting a field trip for public school students and chaperones highlighting municipal government, services, facilities and programs. Students met with City officials and staff and learned about the City’s charter, the four City Commission districts, the system used to elect members of the Commission and the roles of the six charter officers. The group enjoyed visiting Sweetwater Wetlands Park, Gainesville Fire Rescue Station 1 and the City’s Regional Transit System.

Green Cove Springs

For Florida City Government Week, the City of Green Cove Springs partnered with Charles E. Bennett Elementary to engage the City’s youngest residents. Fifth grade students completed an “If I Were Mayor for a Day” essay, and kindergarten students participated in a storytime. Also, grades kindergarten through second interacted with City equipment, and grades third through fifth learned about the City’s K-9 program.

Greenacres

This year, the City of Greenacres’ Youth Programs Department planned activities to educate youth on the functions of the City. Youth met Community Policing Deputies from the Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office District 16 for a tour of the headquarters. Greenacres Fire Rescue visited youth programs to educate kids about fire safety. Youth built models of City buildings using cardboard and labeled them with department facts and pictures of staff. Also, high school youth reviewed the city’s “Know Your City” slide presentation and created their own presentations to share with middle school youth to explain city functions in their own words.

Haines City

Haines City celebrated Florida City Government Week with a variety of activities. Mayor H.L. “Roy” Tyler talked about city government at a local high school, Receptionist Kay Tyler created a welcome video, and City Clerk Sharon Lauther read to students at a local elementary school. The City also hosted a campaign for a lucky resident to win a swag bag and used the week to promote the City’s upcoming Citizens Academy. Watch Video

Hawthorne

The City of Hawthorne hosted the fifth grade class from Chester Shell Elementary and the STARZ Program students from Hawthorne Middle School and Hawthorne High School at City Hall to educate them on city government.

Hilliard

For Florida City Government Week, the entire third grade class from Hilliard Elementary School participated in an essay contest titled “If I Were the Mayor of Hilliard.” Three winners and two honorable mentions were selected. They were presented with a cash prize and certificate at the Town Council meeting.

Holly Hill

The City of Holly Hill visited Holly Hill K-8 School and met with the first through third grade students and teachers. The program included showcasing heavy equipment trucks, police vehicles and a firetruck. Public Works staff demonstrated how the heavy equipment trucks work and what they do in the community. The Holly Hill Police Department and the City of Holly Hill Fire Department staff taught safety tips.

Juno Beach

The Town of Juno Beach created a proclamation recognizing Florida City Government Week. The proclamation recognized the Town government’s role in the lives of its residents and served as a reminder of the variety of programs and services the Town offers.

Lake Alfred

Throughout the week, the City of Lake Alfred hosted an exhibit table at the local library with department promotional items and information, pens, stickers and relevant municipal books that residents could check out. The goal was to raise public awareness of city services. Earlier in the month, the City Commission issued a Florida City Government Week Proclamation that was displayed at the exhibit table.

Lauderdale Lakes

For #FLCityWeek, the City of Lauderdale Lakes held daily tours of city facilities for local students. Students met with the Mayor and Commissioners, department Directors and staff members. Students simulated a City Commission meeting where they asked questions of the elected officials and staff.

Longboat Key

The Town of Longboat Key hosted events during Florida City Government Week that included a vaccine clinic at Town Hall, a townwide blood drive and a social media photo-op backdrop that appeared at meetings throughout the week. Also, second grade students from Anna Maria Elementary School visited Town Hall for a tour, a display of Town vehicles and an election activity.

Longwood

Florida City Government Week kicked off with the highly anticipated Business Scavenger Hunt Bingo, an event that took participants on a journey through the heart of Longwood. The scavenger hunt was designed to introduce residents to local businesses. Another highlight of the week was a City vehicle display at Longwood Elementary School. This event aimed to educate young students about the vital role of city government in maintaining infrastructure and services. Watch Video

Lynn Haven

The City of Lynn Haven hosted “Coffee with Commissioners,” an open forum to discuss city-related topics. The City hosted Trivia Day, which entailed posting questions each hour on the City’s Facebook page. It also hosted an art showcase reception, which included select artwork from local students’ visions of a dream city hall. Lastly, the City hosted a “Fire Safety & Prevention Day,” where Lynn Haven firefighters demonstrated fire prevention and safety to Lynn Haven Elementary School students.

Margate

During Florida City Government Week, City staff visited Margate Middle School to talk about the City, future job opportunities and involvement with local government. Students also took a tour of the City to see firsthand how their government works. Students participated in a mock City Commission meeting with the help of the Commission and City staff. They also visited City Hall, along with the Margate Fire Department, the Margate Police Department and the Margate Public Works departments. Watch Video

Mount Dora

Residents and local leaders came together to celebrate Florida City Government Week through interactive events that showcased the City’s commitment to transparency, citizen involvement and the democratic process. One of the week’s highlights was a public luncheon to demystify the complexities surrounding building permits. The City’s Building Department gave attendees valuable insights into the permitting process. Mount Dora also extended a special invitation to students from the local high school to participate in a mock City Council meeting. Students assumed roles as Council members and engaged in debates and the decision-making processes.

Mulberry

The City of Mulberry conducted an essay contest with Mulberry High School and selected two winners, who shadowed the City Manager and City Clerk for the day. The students were also recognized and received a proclamation at the October 17, 2023, City Commission meeting. Each day during Florida City Government Week, the City posted videos featuring a member of the Commission and a video highlighting a City department. Watch Videos on Facebook

Newberry

The City of Newberry held its annual Florida City Government Week parade for kindergarteners and first grade students at Newberry Elementary School. Vehicles and trucks were paraded through the school grounds. The students learned about the diverse services the City offers, and each department demonstrated each vehicle’s movements.

Niceville

To recognize Florida City Government Week, the City of Niceville presented a resolution at the October 2, 2023, City Council meeting. The City encouraged residents to participate in events recognizing the week and encouraged educational partnerships between the City government and schools, civic groups and other organizations.

North Lauderdale

For #FLCityWeek, the City of North Lauderdale hosted students from Somerset Middle School. Students toured the water plant, attended demonstrations by the North Lauderdale District Broward Sheriff’s Office and North Lauderdale Fire Rescue and visited the City Commission chambers. Students were served lunch while department directors introduced themselves and spoke about their role in the City.

North Port

To help increase awareness about the role of local government, the City of North Port participated in Florida City Government Week. Activities included a proclamation from the City Commission and daily social posts on the City’s channel that spotlighted staff, opportunities for residents to get involved and community programs. The City also hosted a “Coffee & Conversation with the Mayor and City Manager,” sponsored by the local bakery. Residents had the opportunity to ask staff questions and learn more about how they can get involved with local government. Watch Video

Oakland Park

With a proclamation, the Oakland Park City Commission recognized Florida Government Week at their October 18, 2023, Commission meeting. A signed copy of the proclamation was presented to the City’s Advisory Board Chairs and board members present.

Oldsmar

Oldsmar Mayor Dan Saracki presented a Proclamation for Florida City Government Week during the October 17, 2023, City Council meeting. Throughout the week, the City posted on its social media platforms to educate residents on topics such as the Council-Manager form of government and City Councilmember duties. Also, the City provided a spotlight on each department and division and explained how they serve residents and businesses.

Opa-locka

City of Opa-locka Commissioners Joseph Kelley and Sherelean Bass hosted a Youth Mock Commission. Students from Nathan B. Young and Dr. Robert B. Ingram Elementary Schools acted as City Commission members and Opa-locka citizens and tackled issues such as City park hours and student curfews. Participating students were provided a stuffed backpack with a  T-shirt and sticker.

Palm Beach

The Town of Palm Beach hosted the Palm Beach Public School’s third grade class. During their field trip, the class met the Mayor, Town Manager, Deputy Managers, the Planning, Zoning and Building Director and the Building Official. After hearing about the Town’s operations, the students read the book “I Can’t Wait to Vote.” The class also participated in a voting exercise to select no homework, extra recess or lunch table changes. Students also toured Palm Beach Fire Rescue and Palm Beach Police Department.

Palm Shores

The Town of Palm Shores Council passed a proclamation to recognize Florida City Government Week. The proclamation encouraged residents to participate in events that recognize and celebrate Florida City Government Week.

Palmetto

The City of Palmetto created a Florida City Government Week fact sheet, which included information about the local government. Stickers, lapel pins, reusable bags and fact sheets were distributed to residents at all City offices.

Parkland

The City of Parkland partnered with the Broward Sheriff’s Office, the Coral Springs/Parkland Fire Department and Waste Management to help students in Parkland celebrate #FLCityWeek. All third grade classes at Heron Heights Elementary, Park Trails Elementary, Riverglades Elementary, Mary Help of Christians School and Somerset Parkland Academy participated in Government Day. It included visits from the Mayor and Commissioners, a video about Parkland and a gift bag with fun and educational items.

Plantation

The City of Plantation did an extensive social media campaign to celebrate Florida City Government Week. The City started with a Hype Up period from October 1-15, 2023, when the City tested residents with trivia questions. Beginning on October 16, the City showcased departments and how they serve the City. The Educational Advisory Board coordinated a visit to a local elementary school. The Mayor and Councilmembers spent time with students, who received a firsthand look at how local government works. View Facebook Page

Port St. Lucie

To celebrate Florida City Government Week, the City of Port St. Lucie coordinated with five local schools to bring local government to students. The Mayor, Councilmembers and 17 City staff members spoke to more than 700 students about Port St. Lucie. They encouraged students to become future leaders.

Punta Gorda

Florida City Government Week was celebrated in the City of Punta Gorda via a photo contest to encourage residents to share the beauty of Punta Gorda. Over 100 entries were received. Staff narrowed down the nominations to 10 finalists, which were voted on by residents on the City’s Facebook page. The top three winners were awarded a Punta Gorda swag bag. The photo contributions will be used to create a library of photos for City publications. Watch Video

Sanford

Sanford Mayor Art Woodruff presented a proclamation at the October 9, 2023, City Commission meeting and recognized City employees and elected officials in honor of Florida City Government Week. The City also hosted the third grade class from Galileo School at City Hall to share information about the local government, including the Sanford Police Department K-9 unit.

Seminole

The City of Seminole began its celebration of Florida City Government Week with the presentation of a proclamation and by recognizing members of the Seminole Teen Recreation Board, who observed how a City Council meeting is conducted. The City also invited over 100 students from two local elementary schools to learn about the City’s operations. Mayor Leslie Waters gave a brief overview of city government, and students participated in a mock City Council meeting.

St. Augustine

The City of St. Augustine ran multiple social media campaigns. One campaign was #FaceOfTheCityGovernment, which featured City Commissioners. In their interviews, they spoke about why they love local government, why they ran for office and more. Another social media campaign, titled #WheresPedro, adjusted digital images of St. Augustine founder Pedro Menendez at locations around the City. Each location included a write-up on how each location contributes to the local government. The final social media initiative was called #CityStAugTrivia. The City posted a trivia question each day that pertained to the history of St. Augustine.

St. Augustine Beach

For Florida City Government Week, the City of St. Augustine Beach engaged residents through a series named “Fun Facts.” The facts focused on the history of the City, including when the City was incorporated, and the Old City Hall, which was once a hotel. St. Augustine Beach also featured photos from around the City to spotlight places to visit, including the beach and the Lakeside Veterans Memorial Park.

St. Leo

At the October 9, 2023, Town Commission meeting, St. Leo Commissioners celebrated #FLCityWeek by passing a resolution and inviting members of the Saint Leo University Student Government Union to attend. Refreshments were served, and the meeting was well attended.

Sunny Isles Beach

The City of Sunny Isles Beach celebrated Florida City Government Week with the full fifth grade class from Norman S. Edelcup Sunny Isles Beach K-8 School. The students dove headfirst into the heart of City operations and learned from the City staff who work behind the scenes to keep Sunny Isles Beach a safe and fun place for residents to enjoy.

Sunrise

Deputy Mayor Mark Douglas hosted a City Hall event to speak about the new and exciting happenings in the City of Sunrise. The Mayor highlighted the recently passed budget and shared plans for new projects and services. Also in attendance was Broward County State Attorney Harold Pryor, who discussed how his office keeps the community safe. Broward County Property Appraiser Marty Kiar discussed the role of his office and their efforts to combat deed fraud, which disproportionately affects the City’s senior residents.

Tamarac

At the City Commission meeting on October 11, 2023, the Tamarac City Commission officially proclaimed October 16-22, 2023, to be Florida City Government Week. The City expressed its gratitude to all City volunteers through social media posts that acknowledged their steadfast commitment to the community. The Tamarac Teen Youth Council hosted a “Chew and Chat” gathering, which served as a vibrant forum for networking and rich conversation on the essential roles played by municipal government. The event was attended by City Commission members, City staff and representatives from the Teen Council, along with their teen counterparts from Lauderdale Lakes and Lauderhill.

Tequesta

The City of Tequesta Team celebrated Florida City Government Week by reading to students at Good Shepherd School. Mayor Molly Young attended, along with representatives of the Tequesta Police Department, the Village Clerk/Public Information Officer office, the Public Works Department and Finance Department. Additionally, the Police Department discussed safety tips, and the Finance Department explained the intricacies of municipal budgets.

Wauchula

For Florida City Government Week, the City of Wauchula read “The City That Talks” to the fourth grade class at Wauchula Elementary School. Students were asked to draw their favorite part of the City, and a student was selected as the winner. The winner received a certificate, won a pizza party for their class and was invited to receive recognition at a City Commission meeting. Also, the artwork was shared on the City’s Facebook page throughout the week.

West Melbourne

The City of West Melbourne hosted “West Melbourne Heritage Day” at the City’s Community Park. A touch-a-truck area displayed vehicles from the West Melbourne Police Department, West Melbourne Public Works Department, Brevard County Sheriff’s Office and Melbourne Fire Department. The Police Department’s K-9 and Special Response Teams provided demonstrations, and the skate park featured an exhibition by area professionals. Bounce houses, hayrides and more were available for residents to enjoy.