The City of Haines City played host to the Ridge League of Cities October Membership Dinner Meeting at the Lake Eva Event Center.  The RLC annual City Marketplace event was held in the lobby during the social hour where fifteen Associate Members were able to display their products and services.  Haines City invited the membership to an enchanting evening of civic collaboration, networking, and a touch of fantasy.  The dinner, décor and program met all expectations.   The total attendance once again exceeded two-hundred attendees with Lake Hamilton winning the City Traveling Trophy, and Kimley-Horn taking home the Associate Member Traveling Trophy.  The evening’s guest speaker was Steven Vancore, General Consultant to the Florida League of Cities on the “No on Amendment 3” campaign.   Vancore spoke on the November ballot initiative and the latest polling numbers.  He explained the potential hardships in many of Florida’s cities and towns if the Amendment passes.  He was extremely impressed with the representation of the city officials from throughout the Ridge League that were in attendance and encouraged them to stay active and informed on the issue.  The highlight of the evening came as Dade City Mayor Scott Black presented the 2026 RLC Nettie Draughon Municipal Official of the Year Award to Bowling Green Mayor Sam Fite.  Congratulations Sam and thank you, Haines City for an enchanting evening!

Thank you Haines City for hosting a most enchanting evening!
Thank you to the Associate Members that participated in the “City Marketplace” prior to dinner!
Adam Guyer, Account Executive with VC3 explains his company’s services to Haines City Commissioner Morris West, Lake Alfred Mayor Matt Fuller, and Lake Alfred Manager Ryan Leavengood.
Lake Hamilton Council Member Marisol Ortega accepts the City Traveling Trophy from RLC President Brian Yates
RLC President Brian Yates presents Ryan Dauphinee, Production Analyst at Kimley-Horn with the Associate Member Traveling Trophy
RLC Executive Director Bobby Green and RLC President Brian Yates with guest speaker Steven Vancore
FLC “No on Amendment 3” General Consultant Steven Vancore addresses the membership
RLC President recognizes Bowling Green Mayor Sam Fite and Bowling Green Vice Mayor N’Kosi Jones as FLC 2026 Home Rule Heroes
Dade City Mayor Scott Black presents the 2026 RLC Nettie Draughon Municipal Official of the Year Award to Bowling Green Mayor Sam Fite