In Memoriam of Ronald “Ron” Schutta

FCCMA is saddened to announce the passing of Ronald “Ron” Schutta, a member from 1989 to 1993. Ron was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on October 31, 1938. He came to Florida in 1952. He graduated from Lake Worth High School in 1956, Palm Beach Junior College in 1958 and the University of Florida in 1961…

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Meet Ashley Stathatos, Assistant City Manager, Lakeland

How long have you been an FCCMA member, and why did you join? I am a new FCCMA member. I joined FCCMA for the training and professional development opportunities the organization provides and to be a part of a network of professional managers that support each other in activities that make our communities stronger. Are…

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October 2025 New Members

The following membership applications have been received. If no current member comes forth with a reason why these applicants should not be approved as members, he/she will be approved for membership: Thomas Bonfield, Life Member; Kirsten Buckland, Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration, University of Montana, Student Member; Michael Fowler, District II, Interim City Manager,…

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September 2025 President’s Message

The new fiscal year begins on October 1. Here are a few key dates and updates to keep in mind: We’ll start the month with a free coaching webinar on October 2, titled “Marketing Your Community (and Your Management): How to Make Your Community a Destination of Choice.” This session will provide attendees with practical…

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September 2025 New Members

The following membership applications have been received. If no current member comes forth with a reason why these applicants should not be approved as members, he/she will be approved for membership: Zoie Burgess, District IV, Acting City Manager, City of Westlake, Full Member; Robert Fowler, District VIII, B.A.S. in Supervision and Management, Polk State College, Student…

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August 2025 President’s Message

This month, we are excited to feature testimonials from our FCCMA interns. These talented students have spent their summer working with various cities and counties, gaining invaluable insights and experiences. Their stories are a testament to the importance of hands-on learning and the impact of local government on their professional growth. Don’t miss out on…

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August 2025 New Members

The following membership applications have been received. If no current member comes forth with a reason why these applicants should not be approved as members, he/she will be approved for membership: Kourtney Dinkins, District III, Master of Urban and Regional Planning, University of Central Florida, Student Member; Lisa Hendrickson, District VII, City Manager, City of…

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Meet Lexi Rando, MPA Student, Florida State University

How long have you been an FCCMA member, and why did you join? I have been an FCCMA member since March 2025. I decided to join FCCMA to enhance my professional development and meet other professionals who have a passion for serving their local communities. Please describe your areas of formal/advanced education. I received my…

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July 2025 President’s Message

I hope you’re enjoying a safe and restful summer. As we look ahead, there are several exciting opportunities for connection, learning, and professional development. First, I hope you’ve already registered for the 2025 ICMA Annual Conference, which will take place October 25–29 at the Tampa Convention Center. This event brings together local government professionals from…

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A Blueprint for Resilience: Pinellas County’s $813 Million CDBG-DR Recovery Strategy

Matthew L. Spoor Assistant County Administrator, Pinellas County In the wake of Hurricanes Idalia, Helene, and Milton, Pinellas County found itself confronting the compounding effects of back-to-back storms—coastal flooding, housing loss, compromised infrastructure, and deepening community vulnerabilities. County leaders immediately sought help for the most vulnerable people, obtaining an unprecedented $813 million in Community Development…

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