The Florida League of Cities (FLC), the united voice for Florida’s municipal governments, has recognized Village of Palmetto Bay Mayor Karyn Cunningham with a 2026 Home Rule Hero Award for her hard work and advocacy efforts during the 2026 Legislative Session. To promote local voices making local choices, Mayor Cunningham shared insights, local data, and real-world examples to help inform state lawmakers and elevate the voice of Florida’s cities.

Home Rule is the ability for a city to address local problems with local solutions with minimal state interference. Home Rule Hero Award recipients are local government officials, both elected and nonelected, who consistently respond to the League’s request to reach out to members of the Legislature and give a local perspective on issues.

“Being recognized with this award means a lot to me,” Mayor Cunningham said. “Palmetto Bay residents have unique needs and concerns, and having the freedom to advocate for them allows me to make sure our Village’s priorities stay front and center.”

Village of Palmetto Bay Manager Nick Marano said the award reflects the Mayor’s longstanding commitment to her community.

“When Mayor Cunningham is up at the Capitol, she never loses sight of who she’s there to represent,” Manager Marano said. “She’s speaking for nearly 25,000 residents, and she makes sure every voice is heard. That type of steady, boots-on-the-ground leadership makes a big difference.”

FLC Chief of Legislative Affairs Casey Cook congratulated Mayor Cunningham and the other 2026 Home Rule Hero Award recipients for helping to amplify the municipal perspective and reinforcing the importance of local decision-making.