Five Tallahassee Officials Honored as Home Rule Heroes

June 11, 2025

Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey, Mayor Pro Tem Dianne Williams-Cox, City Commissioner Curtis Richardson, City Manager Reese Goad and Thomas Whitley, the City's Director of Operations and Innovation, were honored by the Florida League of Cities (FLC) as 2025 Home Rule Hero Award recipients. This honor recognizes their tireless efforts to protect the Home Rule powers of Florida's municipalities and advance FLC's legislative agenda during the 2025 legislative session.

"The dedication and effort of these local officials who tirelessly advocated for local decision-making was a difference-maker this legislative session," said FLC Chief of Legislative Affairs Casey Cook. "On behalf of the League and its legislative team, we're proud to recognize each of them and thank them for their service."

A special presentation by FLC to recognize honorees was conducted during the June 11 Tallahassee City Commission meeting.

Home Rule empowers local municipalities to address local challenges with local solutions, minimizing state interference. Home Rule Heroes are recognized for their consistent efforts to engage with state legislators, providing critical local perspectives on policy decisions. These individuals worked tirelessly throughout the session to advocate for the principle that local government is best positioned to serve the needs of its community.

Founded in 1922, the Florida League of Cities 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. Florida's cities are formed by their citizens and governed by their citizens. The League is founded on the belief that local self-government is the keystone of American democracy. For more information, visit floridaleagueofcities.com or Talgov.com.