In recognition of her advocacy efforts, Town of Davie District 3 Councilmember Susan Starkey was recognized by the Florida League of Cities as a Home Rule Hero award recipient for her continued support during the 2023 Legislative Session.
The 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. Home Rule is the ability of a municipality to address local problems with local solutions with minimal state interference.
As the Town Councilmember of District 3, Starkey holds over 30 years of experience as a public servant, community volunteer activist and advocate for education and the environment. She was elected in March 2001 and remains the longest-serving councilmember in the Town of Davie.
“Work never truly stops at the end of the day and as an elected official, it’s our job to advocate and represent the voice of our community,” said Councilmember Starkey. “I strongly believe that local voices should make local choices. Everyone should always work together to protect home rule.”
“The League and its legislative team appreciate the individual advocacy efforts undertaken by municipal officials throughout the state,” said FLC Chief of Legislative Affairs Casey Cook. “Home Rule Heroes are some of our biggest advocates for protecting local decision-making. They are League members who stand out for their high level of participation, knowledge, and effectiveness. This year’s Home Rule Heroes continuously advocated for their communities throughout the 2023 Legislative Session.”
The Florida League of Cities (FLC), celebrating its 100th anniversary as the united voice for Florida’s municipal governments, the FLC is the united voice for Florida’s municipal governments. Its goals are to promote local self-government and serve the needs of Florida’s cities, which are formed and governed by their citizens. The League believes in “Local Voices Making Local Choices,” which focuses on the impact citizens and city leaders have in improving Florida’s communities.