Contributed by City of DeBary
DeBary Mayor Karen Chasez, Vice Mayor Phyllis Butlien, City Manager Carmen Rosamonda, and Economic Development, Communications and Government Affairs Director Shari Simmans were all recently honored with awards at the Volusia League of Cities Annual Award Gala.
Mayor Chasez was awarded The Mary Swiderski Award for Outstanding Women in Government by the Volusia League of Cities. The award is presented annually to an individual who serves as a role model and inspires achievement for women in government or whose achievements promote and enhance the quality of life within communities in Volusia County.
Also at the event, the Florida League of Cities (FLC), recognized Mayor Karen Chasez, Vice Mayor Phyllis Butlien, City Manager Carmen Rosamonda, and Economic Development, Communications and Government Affairs Director Shari Simmans with 2025 Home Rule Hero Awards for their hard work and advocacy efforts during the 2025 Legislative Session. The DeBary team worked throughout the session to promote local voices by sharing insights, local data, and real-world examples that helped inform state lawmakers and elevate the voice of Florida’s cities.
“At this session, these leaders stepped up once again, bringing persistence, perspective, and a strong voice for local decision-making to every conversation,” said FLC Chief of Legislative Affairs Casey Cook. “The League and our legislative team deeply appreciate their leadership and are proud to recognize the meaningful difference they made for Florida’s cities.”
Home Rule is the ability for a city to address local problems with local solutions with minimal state interference. Home Rule Hero Award recipients are local government officials, both elected and non-elected, who consistently responded to the League’s request to reach out to members of the Legislature and help give a local perspective on an issue.
“I am truly honored to receive these awards,” said Mayor Chasez. “And I’m especially proud of our advocacy team for working closely with our state delegation to protect home rule and stand up for our city’s interests in Tallahassee.”
The Volusia League of Cities promotes communication among the Volusia municipalities and leaders in the area. It fosters cooperative action in meeting common needs through its meetings and advocacy efforts.
Pictures:
1.DeBary Staff & Council with Home Rule Hero Recognition: (l to r) Carmen Rosamonda (City Manager), Vice-Mayor Phyllis Butlien, Mayor Karen Chasez, and Shari Simmans (Economic Development, Communications, & Government Affairs Director)
2. Mayor Chasez Speaking at Event
