City of Tampa Mayoral Term: 2003 – 2011

Iorio’s political career began at age 26 when she became the youngest person ever elected to the Hillsborough County Commission (1985–1992), later serving as its chair. She then served three terms as Supervisor of Elections for Hillsborough County (1993–2003), including serving as president of the Florida State Association of Supervisors of Elections during the contentious 2000 presidential recount.

As Tampa’s mayor, Iorio launched a strategic vision grounded in neighborhood investment, economic development in under-served areas, creation of a thriving residential downtown, customer-centered city government, and establishing Tampa as a hub for the arts. Under her leadership: crime declined by more than 60%, city reserves tripled amid the recession, and infrastructure improvements surged—all while maintaining an approximate 87% approval rating upon exit in 2011. She spearheaded major international investments like bringing the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation to Tampa, and oversaw election reform including the transition to touch‑screen voting technology.

One of her most enduring legacies is the revitalization of downtown Tampa: her administration launched the redevelopment of Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and initiated construction of the Tampa Riverwalk, creating the public space needed for communal celebrations—famously sparked by the city’s 2004 Lightning Stanley Cup victory.

Following public office, Iorio authored Straightforward: Ways to Live and Lead (2011), distilling her leadership lessons, and was later appointed leader-in-residence at the University of Tampa’s TECO Center for Leadership. In 2014 she became President & CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, relocating its headquarters to Tampa and guiding the organization through a strategic revitalization nationally.

Iorio maintains deep roots in Tampa’s civic life—serving on boards spanning transportation, education, history, and ethics, and remaining widely respected for her transformative leadership and integrity.

Plant City Mayoral Term: 2007 to 2010 and also 2014 to 2022

Rick A. Lott is the former mayor of Plant City, Florida, and the longest-serving mayor in the city’s history. A fourth-generation Plant City resident, Lott began his public service career in 2004 when he was elected to the City Commission. He went on to serve as mayor from 2007 to 2010 and again from 2014 to 2022, totaling 11 years in the city’s top leadership role. Known for his consensus-building leadership style, Lott played a central role in revitalizing Plant City’s downtown through initiatives like the Midtown Redevelopment Plan, first introduced in 2007. Throughout his tenure, he championed walkable neighborhoods, economic growth, and enhanced civic engagement. He also created community-focused events such as “Bike with the Mayor,” offering residents opportunities to connect with city leadership in a casual, accessible setting.

Lott’s leadership was especially notable during times of crisis, including the COVID-19 pandemic, when he worked closely with local businesses, health officials, and the Hillsborough County Emergency Policy Group to keep residents informed and safe. His departure from office in 2022 was marked by formal recognition from the city and community leaders, including a nomination for the Harris Drew Lifetime Municipal Achievement Award. After stepping down, Lott continued his commitment to community and economic development, joining The Bank of Tampa’s Plant City Advisory Board and serving as secretary/treasurer of the Plant City Economic Development Council. He also co-owns All Florida Mechanical Services, a regional HVAC company. Widely respected for his dedication, integrity, and heartfelt connection to Plant City, Rick Lott leaves a lasting legacy as a transformational figure in the city’s modern history.