BELLEVIEW, FL (352today.com) – The City of Belleview is proud to announce that Mayor Christine Dobkowski has been honored with the John Land Years of Service Award by the Florida League of Cities in recognition of her 20 years of dedicated municipal service to the Belleview community.
The award, presented during the Belleview City Commission meeting on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, by Eryn Alcorn on behalf of the Florida League of Cities, commemorates Mayor Dobkowski’s two decades of elected leadership and commitment to serving the residents of Belleview.
The John Land Years of Service Award is one of the Florida League of Cities’ highest recognitions for municipal elected officials. Named in honor of the late John H. Land, the legendary mayor of Apopka, the award celebrates longevity and dedication in local government. Land served as mayor of Apopka for more than 60 years, making him one of the longest-serving elected officials in American history. The award bearing his name recognizes municipal leaders who have demonstrated an enduring commitment to public service and to improving the quality of life in their communities through years of dedicated leadership.
Throughout her 20 years in office, Mayor Dobkowski has played an instrumental role in guiding Belleview through periods of growth, infrastructure improvements, economic development, and community investment. Her collaborative leadership and commitment to fiscal responsibility have helped position the city for continued success while maintaining a strong focus on serving residents.
“It is a tremendous honor to receive an award that recognizes the importance of long-term service to a community,” said Mayor Christine Dobkowski. “Serving the residents of Belleview has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. For the past 20 years, I have had the opportunity to work alongside dedicated fellow commissioners, talented city staff, and engaged residents who all care deeply about our city’s future. Local government is where we have the greatest opportunity to make a direct difference in people’s daily lives, and I remain grateful for the trust our community has placed in me. I look forward to continuing to serve Belleview with the same commitment and dedication that has guided me throughout my time in office.”
City Administrator Mariah Moody said Mayor Dobkowski’s leadership has provided continuity and stability as Belleview has evolved over the past two decades.
“Mayor Dobkowski has been a steadfast leader whose experience, professionalism, and dedication have benefited our organization and the residents we serve,” Moody said. “She approaches every decision with the best interests of the community in mind and has helped guide Belleview through significant growth while preserving the values that make our city special. This recognition from the Florida League of Cities is a fitting tribute to her years of service and the positive impact she has made on our community.”
Founded in 1922, the Florida League of Cities is the voice for Florida’s municipal governments, representing more than 400 cities, towns, and villages across the state. The nonpartisan organization advocates for local self-government, provides leadership development and educational resources for municipal officials, and promotes effective local governance to strengthen Florida’s communities.
The City of Belleview congratulates Mayor Dobkowski on this distinguished recognition and thanks her for 20 years of dedicated service to the residents of Belleview.