Episode #200: Casey Cook – Defending Local Government and the Future of Public Services

In the 200th episode of the FCCMA Podcast, host Steve Vancore is joined by Casey Cook, Executive Director of FCCMA and Chief of Legislative Affairs for the Florida League of Cities, for a timely and critical conversation about the future of local government in Florida. Casey outlines the growing legislative threats to property tax revenues, warning of a potential existential crisis for municipalities if core funding sources are undermined.Casey offers practical and actionable advice for local government leaders on how to push back against these threats by clearly communicating the value of city services. He stresses the importance of educating residents about the essential functions cities provide and the consequences of reducing local government funding. The episode delivers a candid update on the current policy landscape in Tallahassee. As FCCMA celebrates 200 episodes, Casey reminds listeners that the work of local government is not just essential, it is worth protecting, and it is time for leaders to stand together.