Key West: Honoring Our Past, Embracing Our Future

Welcome to Key West, a captivating island paradise where a set of core values at the heart of our identity shape our vibrant city.

Community: Key West is more than just a place; it's a close-knit community that cares for one another.  Our residents are the beating heart of Key West.  We foster a strong sense of belonging and support, valuing the bonds that connect us all.  We build a resilient community that cares for its members through collaboration, engagement, and active participation.

Inclusiveness and Diversity: We celebrate the uniqueness of every individual and embrace the spirit of "One Human Family." Key West is where people from diverse backgrounds come together, fostering an inclusive community that thrives on acceptance, respect, and unity.

Ethics: We uphold the highest integrity, fairness, and transparency standards in all our actions.  As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of our city, ethical decision-making serves as our compass, ensuring a just and equitable Key West.

Environmental Stewardship: As stewards of this stunning natural paradise, Key West is committed to preserving and protecting our environment.  We treasure our pristine natural surroundings and take responsibility for their preservation.  Key West is committed to being a leader in environmental sustainability, protecting our coastal ecosystems, promoting renewable energy, and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Fiscal Responsibility: We manage our resources wisely, making strategic and prudent financial decisions.  By maintaining fiscal responsibility, we ensure the long-term viability of our city, invest in essential services, and support initiatives that enhance the well-being of our residents.

Honoring Our Past, Embracing Our Future: Key West cherishes its rich heritage, evident in our architecture, cultural traditions, and historical landmarks.  We pay homage to our past by preserving and showcasing our unique history while embracing innovation and progress for a brighter future.

Key West welcomes you to experience the warmth of our community, the beauty of our island, and the promise of a better Key West for generations to come.

Your Government

Key West's government operates under a council-manager system, reflecting the principles of representative democracy, local leadership, and community engagement by combining the expertise of elected officials with professional management to ensure efficient and effective governance.

Key West operates under a government structure consisting of six commissioner districts and an at-large mayor. The commissioner districts ensure local representation, with each district electing a commissioner to advocate for the specific needs and concerns of its residents. These commissioners work collectively with the at-large mayor, who is elected by the entire city, to shape the city's policies and initiatives. The at-large mayor serves as the chief executive officer, providing leadership and vision for the entire Key West community. This government structure promotes a balance between local representation and city-wide leadership, ensuring that the diverse interests of Key West's residents are effectively addressed at both district and city levels. Committed to public service, these commissioners are responsible for representing the interests of their constituents and making policy decisions that shape the future of Key West.  They actively engage with the community, seeking input and working collaboratively to address critical issues, foster inclusivity, and promote sustainable growth.

Supporting the City Commission is a professional city manager appointed to oversee the city's day-to-day operations.  The city manager, selected for their experience and expertise, works closely with city staff to implement the policies and directives set by the commission.  They ensure that municipal services, such as public safety, infrastructure maintenance, planning and development, and recreational programs, are efficiently delivered to meet the needs of Key West residents and visitors.

Key West's government's fundamental principles are transparency, accountability, and citizen participation.  The city promotes open communication, providing opportunities for residents to voice their concerns, offer feedback, and contribute to the decision-making process.  Regular public meetings, and community forums are held to encourage dialogue and ensure that the government remains responsive to the needs and aspirations of the Key West community.

With a commitment to good governance, Key West's government operates with integrity, fiscal responsibility, and a vision for a sustainable future.  By embracing collaboration, valuing citizen input, and leveraging professional management, the city strives to create a thriving and inclusive community where all residents can enjoy a high quality of life.