Three of Weston’s leaders have earned a statewide honor. The Florida League of Cities named Mayor Margaret Brown, Vice Mayor Henry Mead and Assistant City Manager/CFO Darrel Thomas as 2026 Home Rule Heroes.
The League gives this award each year to city officials who take an active part in the work of the state Legislature. Both elected leaders and city staff can earn it. Winners answer the League’s legislative alerts, talk with state lawmakers and share how new bills could affect cities.
HOW THEY EARNED IT
During the 2026 Legislative Session, the three Weston leaders shared local facts, data and real examples with state lawmakers. Their goal was to show how proposed laws could affect Florida cities and the people who live in them.
“Local voices matter, and during the 2026 Legislative Session, these leaders made sure those voices were heard,” said Casey Cook, Chief of Legislative Affairs for the Florida League of Cities.
Cook said the three got involved early and often, and that their work helped show lawmakers why local decisions matter.
WHAT IS HOME RULE?
Home Rule is the power Florida cities have to handle local issues and make choices that fit their own community. Those choices cannot conflict with state or federal law.
The City of Weston says this is an important part of how local government works for residents. Florida cities are very different from one another. They differ in size, in land and water, in roads and pipes, and in what their residents need. When local leaders make the call, they can build answers that fit the people they serve.
A PROUD MOMENT FOR WESTON
The city says having three officials honored shows its steady work with state lawmakers. Weston keeps giving them clear information about how the issues they are weighing would play out here at home.
Congratulations to Mayor Brown, Vice Mayor Mead and Assistant City Manager/CFO Thomas on being named 2026 Home Rule Heroes!
Read the full announcement from the City of Weston. You can also read our recent story on Commissioners Jaffe and Molina-Macfie and their years of service.
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