The International City/County Management Association (ICMA) recently held their 2025 Annual Conference in Tampa.  Over 5300 local government leaders from around the globe attended this exceptional event including keynote addresses, educational sessions, workshops, and field demonstrations.  Numerous officials from the Ridge League attended some, or all five transformative days at the Tampa Convention Center.  Prior…

For the third year, the Ridge League of Cities partnered with Toys for Tots in their annual toy campaign.  Guests at the October Membership Dinner in Winter Haven were asked to bring an unwrapped toy for distribution during the Christmas holidays.  Our Municipal and Associate Members brought a record number of toys.  Angela Davis, Local…

Winter Haven Membership Dinner The City of Winter Haven played host to the October 2025 Ridge League of Cities Membership Dinner.  Mayor Nathanel Birdsong, the Winter Haven Commission and City Staff planned for an excellent evening with Nora Mayo Hall decorated in a beautiful Starlight Soiree theme.  The Catering Company of Winter Haven prepared a…

The Ridge League October Dinner Meeting will be held in Winter Haven on Thursday October 9, 2025.  Our guest speaker for the evening will be Jonathan Lamm, Fire Chief at the City of Cocoa, Florida.  Chief Lamm has a background in fire science and emergency management.  He holds an Associate of Science degree in Fire…

The City of Lakeland played host to the Ridge League of Cities on Tuesday September 16, 2025, to see one of their own, City Commissioner Sara Roberts McCarley be sworn in as RLC President for the 2025-2026 year. Outgoing President and Zolfo Springs Mayor Rod Cannon call the Business Session to order and completed an…

Each year, the Florida League of Cities recognizes Home Rule Heroes.    These award recipients are municipal officials and staff who went above and beyond to protect Home Rule during the previous regular Legislative Session. These dedicated individuals played a critical role in supporting the League’s advocacy efforts, engaging with legislators, sharing real-world perspectives, and helping…