Shalimar Mayor Mark Franks elected to leadership role in Florida League of Cities

SHALIMAR — The Florida League of Cities now has leadership from Northwest Florida.

On Saturday at the 2024 Florida League of Cities Business Session in Hollywood, FL, Shalimar Mayor Mark Franks was elected the second vice president of the "united voice for Florida's municipal governments."

Franks, who has served as Shalimar's mayor since 2019, was one of four candidates from other municipalities who ran for the position.

"It is an incredible honor to be elected second vice president of the Florida League of Cities, especially as a representative of Northwest Florida," said Franks.

Born and raised in Okaloosa County, with family ties dating back to the 1930s, Franks previously served as the president of the Northwest Florida League of Cities, comprising of city representatives from Monticello to Pensacola. In 2023, Franks began serving on the Florida League of Cities board of directors and submitted his intent to run for the position earlier this year.

According to its website, the Florida League of Cities acts as a "unified voice" for local municipalities across the state. City officials from more than 400 cities across Florida work with the league in various committees to share ideas and advocate for and against legislation.

Another unofficial use of the League of Cities is for elected officials from around the state to gain insight from other leaders, which can help them govern more effectively. Franks urged other local elected leaders, especially those who will be entering office this upcoming election season, to get involved with the organization.

"The League is an excellent resource for training, advocacy, education and more," Franks added. "The regional leagues are also a great way to connect with fellow municipal leaders and promote regional and local priorities in your area."

Franks' selection for the leadership position is a multi-year term. He will be the first vice president next year and will assume the role of president of the League of Cities in 2026.

"I would like to thank my wife, Luoma, the Northwest Florida League of Cities, and the Florida League of Cities membership for their support," said Franks. "As a mayor of a small city, I’m excited to bring the unique perspectives of smaller cities to the table and work alongside leaders from across Florida to ensure that all communities, big and small, can thrive."

This article originally appeared on Northwest Florida Daily News: Shalimar Mayor Mark Franks elected to leadership role in Florida League of Cities