At the start of the week, U.S. Rep. Greg Steube, R-Fla., recognized Okeechobee Mayor Dowling Watford as the MVP for his congressional district for August.
“Mayor Watford has taken his personal level of service well above and beyond the expectations of his public office both during the pandemic and beyond,” Steube said. “His willingness to step up for our seniors, families, farmers and small businesses has made him invaluable to our community and exemplifies the true essence of public service. We are grateful for his commitment.”
Watford has served Okeechobee as mayor since 1987. During his decades-long tenure, he has been a strong advocate for improving the water quality of Lake Okeechobee and is recognized as a champion for small businesses.
As the community experienced COVID-19, Watford actively directed the city’s vaccine point of distribution facility. He also attended and operated all Mobile Food Pantry distribution events to support his beloved community.
Steube presented Watford with a certificate and flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in his honor.
Each month, Steube and his team recognize an MVP from the 17th Congressional District who has made outstanding and unique contributions to the community. The purpose of this award is to recognize the unsung heroes across the District as they display extraordinary dedication to making a difference. To thank them for their work, MVPs are presented with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol and are publicly recognized in Steube’s weekly newsletter.
