2024 Home Rule Heroes

Home Rule Hero Award recipients 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. They worked tirelessly throughout the legislative session to promote local voices making local choices, protect the Home Rule powers of Florida’s municipalities and advance the League’s legislative agenda.

City Councilwoman Holly Smith

Councilwoman Smith's dedication to Sanibel was known throughout the halls of Tallahassee during the 2024 Legislative Session. As President of the SWFLC during this time, she led the delegation of local officials advocating for Hurricane Ian assistance including revenue replacement, beach renourishment, and more. We look forward to her advocacy as FLC's 2nd Vice President.

Deputy Mayor Forbes is no stranger to local advocacy. As an 8 year veteran on the City of Bonita of Springs Council and former SWFLC President, Deputy Mayor Forbes holds a wealth of experience advocating on behalf of home rule. This past year, he led the coordination of a campaign writing letters to the Governor urging him to veto SB 280's Vacation Rentals bill. The Governor eventually vetoed the bill preserving local home rule.

Deputy Mayor Fred Forbes

Mayor John Gunter

Mayor John Gunter leads one of the fastest growing cities in America. Cape Coral's growth has required strategic innovation, careful consideration, and quick action. His commitment to local voices making local choices has been the catalyst for Cape Coral's current and future growth. We look forward to his service as SWFLC's Vice President.

Vice Mayor Ribble currently serves as the President of the SWFLC. Her responsibilities call her to lead the local delegation's efforts fighting for home rule in Tallahassee and Washington D.C. Her leadership in Estero has led to multiple inter-local and private-public partnership agreements. We look forward to what the next year of her leadership.

Vice Mayor Joanne Ribble

Councilwoman Watkins Brown has been a force advocating for home rule. She currently serves on numerous committees focused on advocacy, policy, and more. This service, coupled with her time on the Fort Myers City Council has her considered a top elected official in Florida. Downtown Fort Myers has seen an incredible transformation over the last number of years, thanks to her leadership and vision for her city.

City of Fort Myers

Councilwoman

Teresa Watkins Brown

Mayor Matthews' years of leadership to the SWFLC and Punta Gorda takes public service very seriously. Mayor Matthews has overseen a massive transformation of Punta Gorda from a small pass-through area into a vibrant destination for professionals, families, and retirees alike. Her belief in home rule has been steadfast and her advocacy energy is incredible.

Punta Gorda

Mayor Lynne Matthews

City Manager of Marco Island
Michael McNees

Mr. McNees's leadership as the city manager of Marco Island is truly exceptional. His extensive knowledge and experience in public service been invaluable in guiding the city towards progress and development. Under his leadership, the city has seen significant improvements in various areas, making it a better place to live, work, visit.