Local Voices United @LocalVoicesFL

Riviera Beach was just named a 2026 All-America City by the National Civic League, one of only 10 communities nationwide to receive the honor and the only Florida city selected this year. The award recognized programs like the Riviera Beach Youth Council, which gives high school students a real seat at the table in local government, along with a civic education academy and a home repair program for longtime residents. "We are one community and one city and one Riviera Beach," city leaders said during the announcement. Learn more: qualitycities.com/riviera-beach-…

Florida cities showed up big for America's 250th birthday 🎆 Winter Park kicked things off with a dedicated planning committee and its 31st Annual 4th of July Celebration. Sarasota hosted a flag art exhibit and its "Spirit of 76" event before capping things off with fireworks at Bayfront Park. Apopka, Clearwater, Fort Myers, Longwood, Newberry, Port St. Lucie and Treasure Island all brought their own mix of live music, food trucks, drone shows and fireworks to close out the celebration. Did your city celebrate America250? Show us your favorite moment below!

🚨 FLORIDA RESIDENTS: CLAIM FREE SWAG HERE! 🚨 Sign up today and get exclusive, FREE LVU swag—because your voice matters, and we want to help you make it heard! This limited-time offer is ONLY for Florida residents! Don’t miss out—sign up NOW and claim your free gear before it’s gone! 👇 localvoicesunited.com/get-swag-bag/

For the 36th consecutive year, the City of Eustis has earned the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association—the highest honor in governmental accounting. The City also received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the 11th year in a row, highlighting its commitment to clear, accessible and high-quality financial planning. These recognitions reflect the dedication of Eustis’ finance team to transparency, accountability and building trust with the community—ensuring residents can feel confident in how their city operates. Learn more about their accomplishment: qualitycities.com/city-of-eustis…

Our local parks aren’t just beautiful places, they’re vital spaces where our communities thrive. This month, take a moment to explore, play, and say thanks to the local leaders who keep these public spaces safe, clean, and accessible. LVU+ Ambassador Eryn is already checking parks off her bucket list — kicking off the year with a #FirstDaySwim at Madison Blue Springs State Park as part of Florida State Parks’ #FirstDayHike initiative. Now she’s looking for more places to explore in 2026! 📸 Visiting your favorite park this month? Tag us and show off your city pride!

The Town of Lady Lake is helping residents do just that through its ongoing cybersecurity training series—most recently focusing on mobile safety and how to protect personal information on smartphones. From spotting scam calls and phishing texts to securing devices and avoiding malicious apps, the session provided practical tips residents can use every day. As cyber threats continue to evolve, local initiatives like this play a key role in building safer, more resilient communities. Learn more about how Lady Lake is empowering residents to stay secure in a digital world: qualitycities.com/lady-lake-expa…

The Broward League of Cities recently hosted the Dignity Index Leadership Summit, bringing together municipal leaders from across Broward County to explore how respect, integrity, and communication shape effective governance. Rooted in the One Broward philosophy, the Summit introduced the Dignity Index as a tool to strengthen public dialogue and foster stronger relationships between leaders and the communities they serve. With participation from all 31 municipalities, the message was clear: how we lead matters just as much as what we accomplish. Participants left with a renewed commitment to civility, collaboration, and leading with dignity to build stronger communities across Broward County.

Celebrate one of Florida’s most colorful summer traditions in Lake Placid. 🌺🌿 The Caladium Festival returns July 24–26, bringing together vibrant blooms, local vendors, live entertainment and family-friendly fun in the “Caladium Capital of the World.” From arts and crafts to a classic car show, this small-town favorite highlights the community spirit and agricultural pride that make Florida unique. Learn more about this festival: caladiumfestival.org

From your Local Voices United family, wishing everyone a safe and joyful 4th of July!

The City of Kissimmee is continuing its commitment to local entrepreneurs with the latest round of its Business Boost 2.0 relief grants, helping small businesses still recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Funded through the American Rescue Plan, the program has already awarded more than $255,000 in grants, with awards ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 to help cover operating costs, retain employees, and strengthen essential local services. With nearly 200 applications submitted, the response underscores both the need and the impact of this continued support for Kissimmee’s business community. 👉 Learn more or check eligibility at kissimmee.gov

Happy Father’s Day to all the incredible dads and father figures who lead with strength, support with care, and make a lasting impact in our communities every day! 💙

Our communities are buzzing with the energy of summer, and it’s the perfect time to enjoy everything the season has to offer! ☀️ From local markets and outdoor events to family days at the park, there’s no shortage of ways to connect, explore, and support the places that make our neighborhoods so special. What are you most looking forward to in your community this summer? 🌻

Fort Myers is creating a new path to homeownership through its Affordable Home Construction Program, turning city-owned land into attainable housing for local families. The program builds homes with local contractors and sells them at cost to income-eligible residents, helping remove barriers to ownership and reduce housing costs. The city’s first home was recently completed, with more planned as part of a long-term goal of 50 homes. By transforming vacant lots into affordable housing, Fort Myers is strengthening neighborhoods and expanding opportunities for working families. Learn more about these local solutions: qualitycities.com/fort-myers-cre…

Communities across Florida are being recognized for their commitment to greener, healthier neighborhoods through the Tree City USA program 🌳 By investing in urban forestry, maintaining strong tree care practices, and engaging residents, these cities are creating more resilient communities and enhancing quality of life for everyone. From cleaner air and cooler streets to stronger community connections, Florida continues to lead the way in thoughtful, sustainable growth. Click here to see the list of 2025 Tree City USA Communities in Florida: qualitycities.com/tree-city-usa-…

Celebrate summer the sweet way at the Mango Festival at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, happening June 13–14. 🥭🌴 From fresh tastings to family-friendly fun, this vibrant event highlights Florida’s tropical flavors and brings the community together. Buy your tickets here: ftbg.ticketapp.org/portal/product…

Want to make a real impact? Lynn Tipton reminds us to start local. Attend your city, county, or school board meetings to meet the decision-makers shaping the policies that affect your community every day. The change you see starts here.

🚨 FLORIDA RESIDENTS: CLAIM FREE SWAG HERE! 🚨 Sign up today and get exclusive, FREE LVU swag—because your voice matters, and we want to help you make it heard! This limited-time offer is ONLY for Florida residents! Don’t miss out—sign up NOW and claim your free gear before it’s gone! 👇 localvoicesunited.com/get-swag-bag/

This Memorial Day, we remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our communities and our country. Their courage and dedication will never be forgotten.

Leesburg Electric is being recognized as one of Florida’s top public power utilities, earning a 2025 Safety Award from the Florida Municipal Electric Association for its outstanding commitment to employee safety ⚡ With linework ranked among the most dangerous professions, this achievement reflects an incident-free record and a strong culture of accountability, training, and safe operations. We’re proud to see local teams leading the way in keeping both employees and communities safe. Learn more: qualitycities.com/leesburg-elect…

Every street swept, every sidewalk maintained, and every waterline flowing smoothly is thanks to the dedication of public works teams. This #NationalPublicWorksWeek, we honor Florida’s hardworking public servants who keep our cities moving forward. 💧🚧🌳 Who’s your hometown hero? Drop their name below!