Coral Springs vice mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen receives prestigious 2025 Home Rule Hero Award for her advocacy on local governance
Coral Springs, Florida – In a significant recognition of local leadership, Coral Springs Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen was honored with the prestigious 2025 Home Rule Hero Award by the Florida League of Cities (FLC). This award highlights her unwavering commitment to protecting Home Rule, the principle that empowers local governments to make decisions tailored to their unique communities without undue state interference. Metayer Bowen was acknowledged for her powerful advocacy during the 2025 Legislative Session, where she worked tirelessly to amplify the voices of local communities and ensure that municipal governments retain the autonomy to address the needs of their residents.
As a municipal leader, Vice Mayor Metayer Bowen has been a strong proponent of the idea that the best decisions for communities are those made at the local level. “Every community has its own character, priorities, and needs and Coral Springs is no exception,” she explained. “I remain committed to defending our right to govern locally because the people who live and work in our community deserve to have their voices reflected in the decisions that affect their daily lives.” For Metayer Bowen, this principle is not just a matter of policy but a matter of deep belief in the value of local democracy.
The Home Rule Hero Award is given by the Florida League of Cities to individuals who go above and beyond in advocating for local governments. These leaders engage with state legislators and provide insights grounded in the local experience, ensuring that city-level concerns are heard at the statehouse. Metayer Bowen’s advocacy has been instrumental in shining a light on the importance of Home Rule, ensuring that state laws do not undermine the ability of cities to address their own unique challenges.
In her role as Vice Mayor, Metayer Bowen serves as a liaison to numerous vital advisory committees, such as the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee, Charter School Advisory Board, Environmental Sustainability Committee, and the Broward League of Cities, to name a few. Her leadership extends far beyond her duties as an elected official. As the first Black and Haitian American woman elected to the Coral Springs City Commission, Metayer Bowen’s background provides a unique perspective on the diverse needs of her community.
Her work in Coral Springs has focused on making the city a leader in resilience and sustainability. Metayer Bowen has been particularly passionate about supporting small businesses, advocating for economic opportunity, and exploring future industries that can benefit the local economy. Her interest in areas such as solar manufacturing and technology hubs highlights her vision for a forward-thinking Coral Springs, one that is well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
“Being named a Home Rule Hero is an honor that reinforces my dedication to fighting for our city’s future,” Metayer Bowen added, expressing her gratitude for the recognition. The award not only celebrates her individual achievements but also serves as a reminder of the critical role local leaders play in safeguarding the principles of local governance.
By fighting for policies that allow local governments to respond swiftly and effectively to their community’s needs, Metayer Bowen continues to champion the idea that cities should be the ones to determine their future. The recognition from the Florida League of Cities underscores the vital importance of having passionate, dedicated leaders like Metayer Bowen, who consistently work to protect the integrity of local governance.
The 2025 Home Rule Hero Award is a testament to her ongoing efforts to make Coral Springs a more inclusive, sustainable, and thriving community. As she continues her work as Vice Mayor, Metayer Bowen remains steadfast in her mission to ensure that local voices are heard and that municipalities maintain the authority to serve their residents effectively and independently.
In a time when the importance of local governance is often challenged, Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen stands as a champion for the communities she serves. The award solidifies her role as a key advocate for Home Rule, ensuring that cities like Coral Springs can continue to thrive and grow according to their residents’ needs.
