Florida League of Cities Conference
By Commissioner Roslyn Brezin

The selection of topics at the Florida League of Cities Conference (Diplomat Hotel, Hollywood, Florida) which I was privileged to attend on August 19, 20, and 21 were very impressive and, most important, very informative. Solutions to everyday problems that we as city officials can utilize were discussed. Sometimes support is difficult or even impossible to obtain on issues that will benefit the majority.

A seminar by Scott Paine, PHD, columnist for Quality Cities Magazine and a former Tampa Councilman dealt with successfully converting our policy visions into ordinances and actions that require the support of other elected officials and our constituents.

Scott emphasized what I adhere to: having an open mind, listening to the issues and peoples opinions, before deciding and voting on what's best for the city, the citizens, and the community in which we live.

Since I am the only woman on the Sunny Isles Beach Commission I attended "Women Elected to Municipal Government." Lori C. Booker CEO of Carlman, Book, Reis Public Relations was the speaker. The programs goal "to be an effective, respected communicator." Main lesson learned----Honesty is the best policy and relate what's newsworthy.

Dr. Mel Jurado conducted a session on "Working, living, and dealing with different people." Participants learned how to use differences as strengths, not detriments to our success. "We have two ends with a common link, with one we sit, with one we think. Success depends on what we use, heads we win, tails we lose."

There were many other wonderful sessions. There were not enough hours in the day to attend everything. I sure tried!
 

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