Florida League of Cities president urges youth to volunteer, warns on tax proposals

Vice Mayor Holly Smith of Sanibel, president of the Florida League of Cities, told the Cape Coral Youth Council on Feb. 6 that municipal decisions shape everyday life and urged young people to get involved through volunteering and civic education.

Smith outlined the League’s three primary roles: advocating for municipalities at the state and federal level, training and leadership development for local officials, and promoting inter‑city collaboration to share successful practices. She said the League is tracking roughly 500 bills this legislative session and stressed the importance of local voices in shaping policy.

Smith recounted her experience leading Sanibel through Hurricane Ian and described communication strategies used during recovery, including daily Facebook updates to keep residents informed. On the stage of municipal leadership she said, “Leadership isn’t about age. It’s about engagement, curiosity, and courage.”

She described scholarship and youth opportunities administered through the League, noting a recent Public Service Pathway scholarship program that awarded five $5,000 scholarships from 68 applicants, and encouraged students to apply. Smith also offered to meet individually with council members while they are in Washington for the National League of Cities conference.

During questions Smith emphasized resilience and authenticity in crisis leadership and urged council members to base advocacy on accurate, balanced information so they can persuasively represent their communities. The presentation closed with council members and staff arranging follow‑up meetings at the upcoming National League of Cities events.