2025 Annual Conference Agenda

As Florida continues to experience rapid population growth, counties face the complex challenge of balancing development with environmental stewardship and community needs. This panel brings together experts in planning, policy, and local governance to discuss effective growth management strategies. Attendees will gain insights into the latest legislative developments and the future of growth management public policy in the state of Florida.

Join us for an unforgettable session where NCAA wrestling champion Anthony Robles and leadership expert Dr. Matt Sowcik come together to share a powerful dialogue on what it means to lead with resilience. Born with one leg, Robles defied the odds to become a national champion—his story is a testament to the strength of determination, purpose, and belief in oneself.

Dr. Sowcik, a professor at the University of Florida and a leader in relational leadership theory, offers research-backed strategies for building stronger, more compassionate communities. Together, they explore how overcoming personal and professional challenges can shape more impactful, authentic leaders. Don’t miss this inspiring exchange—designed to empower today’s public servants to lead with courage, empathy, and integrity.

Failing infrastructure, climate extremes, a growing and aging population with specialized needs – these are challenges that impact the safety, staffing and cost of county jail systems. With insights from a former County Commissioner, a former County Sheriff / Project Executive and an Architect specializing in corrections, this workshop will help identify the deficiencies that create operational and legal challenges for local jurisdictions. State attorneys, public defenders, community activists and, of course, county sheriffs have unique perspectives on jail operations that impact decisions Commissioners may make regarding investments in their corrections systems. By bringing all the influencers on the jail population together, we build a sustainable path forward to make sure the right people are in jail for the right period of time.

Looking at today’s criminal justice systems through a new lens, we will examine factors that could determine whether it’s time to repair, renovate, add, or build new. We will look at realistic timelines for planning, design, and construction for each approach; how jail operations and conditions impact all aspects of the system, including the ability attract, recruit, and retain staff; and how to build flexibility so your facility will last well beyond your term of office. Once you’ve confirmed you direction, we’ll address the specific “what, when and how” questions: How do you secure the political will to proceed? How do you finance your project? What is on the horizon beyond your community that could impact your progress? Join us for this dynamic and engaging session on one of the core responsibilities of County government: public safety.

Gain gain practical skills and fresh insights at the conference workshops.  More topic info is coming soon!

Gain gain practical skills and fresh insights at the conference workshops.  More topic info is coming soon!

In today’s digital landscape, residents demand seamless access to county services. Join Salesforce at this interactive 90-minute workshop to explore the transformative power of a ‘no wrong door’ approach. Discover how a unified platform can create a 360-degree view of resident interactions, enhance satisfaction, drive revenue, and improve operational efficiency. Gain insights from Salesforce experts and participate in a dynamic panel discussion with fellow FAC commissioner members who are actively pursuing this service model. Witness a live demonstration showcasing the practical application of a ‘no wrong door’ solution, and leave with actionable strategies to modernize your county’s service delivery. This session is tailored for county commissioners and executive-level leaders seeking to build a more connected, efficient, and resident-centric government. Learn how to break down silos, streamline processes, and create a seamless resident journey, ultimately driving positive outcomes for your community.

Join us for a special luncheon honoring the outstanding contributions of Florida’s county leaders through the presentation of the 2025 Presidential Advocacy Awards. These awards recognize commissioners who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to advocating for sound public policy on behalf of counties across the state. Their efforts at the Capitol have helped shape legislation that strengthens local governance and improves the quality of life for Florida’s residents. This celebration is a chance to acknowledge the vital role these leaders play in ensuring counties remain strong, resilient, and responsive.

In addition, we are proud to present the prestigious Marlene Young Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest honor bestowed by the Florida Association of Counties. Named in memory of a former Polk County Commissioner and FAC President, Marlene Young was a visionary leader and passionate advocate for counties. This award recognizes an individual whose career exemplifies a legacy of dedication, service, and impactful leadership in Florida local government. Join us as we celebrate this year’s honoree, whose enduring contributions have left a lasting mark on their community and the state as a whole. This meaningful event serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one committed leader can have over a lifetime of service.

Florida’s 2025 legislative session has introduced significant property tax proposals that could reshape county revenues and service delivery. It is expected that we will see property tax changes to amend Florida’s constitution on the 2026 Ballot.  The 2026 Legislative Session will hold key debates on the best way to reduce taxes for Florida’s citizens.  Property tax proposals have run the gamut including proposals to increase the homestead exemption and cap year-over-year property tax revenue growth; to eliminating property taxes entirely and exploring alternatives like increased sales taxes. This panel will delve into these proposals, examining their potential impacts on county budgets, public services, and fiscal autonomy. Attendees will gain insights into strategies for analyzing the impact of these changes and advocating for sustainable fiscal policies.

Public meetings can quickly become heated when contentious issues arise, but county commissioners and staff must maintain order, transparency, and public trust under pressure. This workshop provides practical strategies for managing challenging public comment periods, de-escalating conflict, enforcing meeting rules fairly, and ensuring all voices are heard without letting disruptions derail the process. Participants will learn techniques for setting clear expectations, responding to emotionally charged situations, and protecting the integrity of the meeting through legal and procedural best practices.

A simplistic approach to reducing your taxes immediately and in the long run, improving cash flow, employee retention, increasing profits and fostering sustainable growth.

Description: The 2055 Florida Transportation Plan will guide Florida’s transportation future over the next 30 years. Partner and community engagement ensures that the plan reflects the vision and priorities of Florida’s communities, while connecting them to each other as well as other regions throughout the state. This interactive session will dive into how the 2055 FTP shapes local and regional strategies, ensuring cohesive growth and forward-thinking solutions across the state. A component of this session will include interaction with the session attendees to gather input related to the proposed 2055 FTP.

Gain gain practical skills and fresh insights at the conference workshops.  More topic info is coming soon!

Land conservation is the practice of protecting the multiple benefits that accrue to a community from open spaces by protecting those lands from conversion. Those benefits can be ecological, recreational, agricultural, hydrological, or national security.  A Greenprint allows that community to strategically preserve the remaining high-quality places in their jurisdictions. Through Greenprinting, they can recognize good land conservation projects, evaluate them, and manage the process to acquire and steward them. Most importantly, it allows the community to feel confident and trust in the decisions being made. This session builds on the eponymous Primer that will be available to Conference attendees. Attendees will hear from their peer communities how they have successfully implemented land conservation programs, get some best practices, key principles, and a road map to follow if they want to determine what their community will look like in the future.

Join us for a vibrant and unforgettable evening at the Annual Celebration Dinner, where we’ll bring the laid-back charm and tropical spirit of the Florida Keys to life! This festive, island-themed event will give you plenty of opportunities to relax and connect with fellow county leaders as celebrate the achievements of this year’s Institute for County Government education graduates.

The evening will also mark a significant moment for the Association as we install Monroe County Commissioner Michelle Lincoln as the new President of the Florida Association of Counties. Don’t miss this special night of recognition, celebration, and Keys-style fun as we look ahead to an exciting year for Florida’s counties.

Your fairway to heaven from 9-11!