Kaylee Fussell honored for having earned her CMC accreditation
Among the 10 presentations and proclamations that led the Oct. 19 Bartow City Commission regular meeting, one in particular reflected the dedication and devotion Kaylee Fussell brings in her capacity as a public servant.
“We have a very special recognition tonight for one of our assistant city clerks, Kaylee Fussell,” said Bartow City Attorney Sean Parker as he introduced the presentation. “This is a special presentation for Kaylee meeting all the requirements for designation as a certified municipal clerk.”
With that, the floor yielded to Sharon Lauther, Central West District director of the Florida Association of City Clerks. Lauther is also city clerk for Haines City. She thanked the city for being allowed to talk about Fussell.
“It is with great pleasure that I am here this evening to congratulate your city on the recent accomplishment of your assistant city clerk, Kaylee Fussell, upon receiving her certified municipal clerk designation,” began Lauther.
A brief explanation followed about the IIMC (International Institute of Municipal Clerks) and its partner, the Florida Association of City Clerks (FACC), which promote continuing education and certification via upper education institutions through a number of programs and activities.
Along with partnering with the Florida League of Cities and the Florida Institute of Government, Lauther further explained its importance and significance. With changing needs, it is to improve knowledge in areas such as public administration, law, management, elections and other disciplines.
Certification, Lauther made known, is rigorous, and not all who are city clerks or assistant city clerks in Florida are of that stature.
“Currently, only 32% of the 14,755 members of the Institute of Municipal Clerks have attained this, being a municipal clerk,” she said. She then mentioned that of the 606 members of the FACC, only 217 have reached the designation of being a certified municipal clerk. “So, it tells you how much work it really needs to be done.”
That work, conducted by the John Scott Dailey Florida Institute of Government, constitutes 120 student-instructor hours of in-depth courses in managerial and leadership skills.
“Your assistant clerk is now part of this elite group of professionals in local government,” said Lauther, who then lauded city leaders. “And she could not have done this without your commitment, as well as to support her in these efforts.” She then directly addressed Fussell. “We are all so very proud of you, Kaylee.”
From there, Lauther spoke of Fussell’s involvement in government affairs, noting that Fussell, a native of Bartow, has been with the city for three years. Prior to that, she worked for the Polk County Board of County Commissioners.
“She’s passionate about public service,” said Lauther. “She takes great pride in contributing to the community that has always been home.”
Steven Steiner can be reached at [email protected].
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Certified Municipal Clerk?
A professional designation from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks for city clerks who complete required education and experience. In Florida, the training institute is run by the John Scott Dailey Florida Institute of Government.
Who earned the designation in Bartow?
Assistant City Clerk Kaylee Fussell, who was recognized at the Oct. 19, 2026, Bartow City Commission regular meeting.
Who presented the certificate?
Sharon Lauther, Haines City city clerk and Central West District director of the Florida Association of City Clerks.
Sources: City of Bartow, City Commission Regular Meeting Amended Agenda, Oct. 19, 2026, item 4.b, cityofbartow.net/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10192026-479; International Institute of Municipal Clerks, Florida certification institute page, iimc.com/210/Florida; City of Haines City staff directory, Sharon Lauther, hainescity.com/directory.aspx?eid=175; Bartow City Commission regular meeting, Oct. 19, 2026, attended by Steve Steiner
