The Florida City and County Management Association (FCCMA) awarded Newberry’s Dallas Lee its 2026 Assistant for Excellence in Leadership award.
Lee serves as assistant city manager and chief financial officer for the city, a career that started over 17 years ago as an unpaid intern.
Newberry announced Lee’s award in a Facebook post last month and recognized him during the June 8 regular City Commission meeting. Staff showed a video featuring photos from Lee’s tenure and remarks from employees recounting his impact on the city.
“Thank you to my team. I really appreciate it,” Lee said during Monday’s meeting. “It’s an Excellence in Leadership award, and I wouldn’t be a good leader if I didn’t have a great team. I really thank you guys for everything you do every day to make me look good at my job.”
Founded in 1946, FCCMA is a Tallahassee-based organization aiming to promote the council-manager government model for advancing ethical standards and professionalism.
The annual Assistant for Excellence in Leadership award recognizes one member from across the state who serves as a full-time deputy or assistant reporting to a chief local government administrator.
City Manager Jordan Marlowe said anyone who knows Lee would agree the recognition couldn’t be more deserved. He said since the first time Lee came to City Hall, he’s been driven by humility and passion for serving Newberry.
Under Lee’s stewardship in 2025, the city received its seventh consecutive Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association. Assistant Finance Director Amanda Hagan said the distinction is earned by less than 5% of governments nationwide.
“Dallas brings wisdom beyond his years, a steady, thoughtful approach to leadership that strengthens every department he touches, and a heart for our residents that shines through every policy he writes, every initiative he spearheads and every program he pioneers,” Marlowe said. “We are proud of you. We are grateful for you, and we are better because of you.”