Coral Springs approves 2026 state and federal legislative action plans; commissioners seek coordinated visits

The Coral Springs City Commission on Sept. 25 approved the city’s state and federal legislative action plans for the coming cycle and discussed strategies for presenting a united delegation to state and federal lawmakers. City staff told the commission the action plans reflect edits discussed at a recent workshop. Lynn (staff) said the documents are the result of work between the city’s legislative liaison, Amanda Wheeler, and city departments. Vice Mayor Bowen urged commissioners to coordinate travel to Tallahassee and Capitol Hill so the city’s priorities are presented by a united Coral Springs delegation, with the city manager and legislative staff participating. Commissioners discussed scheduling constraints and the timeline for the 2026 Florida legislative session, which convenes Jan. 13, 2026, for 60 days. Commissioner Simmons and others emphasized the importance of state legislation and noted that changes in Tallahassee often come as unfunded mandates affecting municipal budgets. Commissioners also discussed opportunities to seek federal appropriations for downtown and long-term city projects and expressed interest in going to Capitol Hill to advocate for specific projects. The commission approved the legislative action plans unanimously and asked staff to pursue coordinated representation where possible during the 2026 session and federal advocacy efforts.