2021 Home Rule Hero Award Announcement

Published on May 24, 2021

Headshot of commissioner Joy Carter

Coral Springs, FL – The Florida League of Cities, the united voice for Florida’s municipal governments, recently recognized Coral Springs Commissioner Joy Carter with the 2021 Home Rule Hero Award for her hard work and advocacy efforts during the 2021 Legislative Session. Carter worked tirelessly throughout session to promote local voices making local choices, protect the Home Rule powers of Florida’s municipalities and advance the League’s legislative agenda.
 
“These local officials went above and beyond during the 2021 Legislative Session,” said FLC Director of Legislative Affairs Casey Cook. “They made an extraordinary effort, were actively engaged and highly effective in their advocacy efforts. Even with all the various challenges present this year due to the pandemic, they stepped up. They engaged with legislators, shared their stories, and made their voices heard, and it made a difference. On behalf of the League and its legislative team, it’s my sincere honor to recognize this year’s award recipients and thank them for their service.”
 
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 non-elected, who consistently responded to the League’s request to reach out to members of the legislature and help give a local perspective on an issue.
 
Regarding the recognition, Commissioner Carter said, “As a municipal official, it’s my responsibility to protect Home Rule powers for the constituents of Coral Springs. Advocating and vocalizing how important it is for cities to address resident concerns and find solutions with minimal state interference, is an issue that could not be ignored and I will continue to promote.”
 
Joy Carter was elected as Commissioner of Coral Springs in November 2014 and re-elected in November 2020. She has been a resident of Coral Springs since 1985. Commissioner Carter has over 36 years of community service and volunteer support for multiple organizations. She has had numerous leadership roles in the City of Coral Springs and Broward County. In 1985, she began her career in real estate working for the city's main developer, Coral Ridge Properties, for 11 years. During that time, she also served as a volunteer for the Economic Development Foundation. In 2003, she became Chair of the Chamber of Commerce, and she later served as Chair of Chamber Trustee for seven years. She has received many accolades for her involvement in the Chamber and from the real estate organizations that she has worked with. She has also served on many City Committees over the years, including the city's 50th Anniversary, September 11th 5K, Customer Involved Government, and Youth and Family.

Founded in 1922, the Florida League of Cities is the united voice for Florida’s municipal governments. Its goals are to promote local self-government and serve the needs of Florida’s cities, which are formed and governed by their citizens. The League believes in “Local Voices Making Local Choices,” which focuses on the impact citizens and city leaders have in improving Florida’s communities. For more information, visit flcities.com.