CITY AUDITOR & CLERK
HONORED BY FL LEAGUE OF CITIES

Sarasota, FL:  City Auditor and Clerk Billy Robinson was honored by the Florida League of Cities during its recent annual conference in Orlando for his dedication and many years of public service  The FLC wanted to recognize him prior to his retirement, which is slated to occur before the end of 2009.  He has served the City of Sarasota for 30 years.

“Billy Robinson is a wonderful individual who is dedicated to the City of Sarasota, the ManaSota League of Cities and the Florida League of Cities,” said Linda Bridges, Director, Board Relations, Florida League of Cities.  “We greatly appreciate his untiring efforts on behalf of both Leagues.  Billy has led the ManaSota League with enthusiasm and integrity.  We are very sorry to lose a great supporter of Municipal Home Rule; but we wish Billy the very best in his retirement,” said Bridges.

Mr. Robinson was instrumental in the creation of the ManaSota League of Cities in 1991, when the Sarasota County League of Cities and the Manatee County League of Cities merged.  While many regional leagues enjoy the benefit of a full-time paid executive director, Mr. Robinson assumed the responsibility of coordinator in addition to his many duties as City Auditor and Clerk.  He launched a lobbying program for the ManaSota League which became a model for other regional leagues.  “Billy Robinson has been the constant glue that connected our ManaSota League cities and the wider Florida League organization,” said Mayor Richard Clapp.  “His guidance and leadership over the years has been terrific.  We will miss his voice when he retires.” 

The FLC includes 410 cities throughout the state; and the ManaSota League is comprised of Sarasota County and nine municipalities:  Anna Maria, Bradenton, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, Longboat Key, North Port, Palmetto, Sarasota, and Venice.  Both entities strive to act as an advocate for local government on legislative issues. 

In 2004, Mr. Robinson was selected “City Clerk of Year” by the FLC and in 2003 he was recognized by the ManaSota League of Cities for his exemplary service to the League. Mr. Robinson also has served as Parliamentarian to the National League of Cities.

He was hired by the City of Sarasota on June 20, 1979 as an auditor and was hired by the City Commission as the City Auditor and Clerk in 1990. 

For more information, please contact:
Jan Thornburg, Public Information Officer (941) 954-2613
jan.thornburg@sarasotagov.com