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Mayor Sara Roberts McCarley
Mayor (2025-2029) | District: At-Large
Sara Roberts McCarley was born in Lakeland, raised in Davenport, and graduated from Florida Southern College. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Sara serves as the Chair of the Citrus Connection, Lakeland Electric Utility Commission, Chair of the Polk Transportation Planning Organization, President of the Ridge League of Cities, and a member of the Metropolitan Planning Organizations Advisory Council for Florida. Her city appointments include: Legislative Committee Chair, Boards/Committee Chair; member of the Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Board and Chair of the Mayors Council on the Arts.
In the community, Sara serves as a Trustee for her alma mater Florida Southern College; the First UMC Altar Guild; the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors; the Central Florida Planning Council; the Bonnet Springs Park Board of Directors; is a Presidential Leadership Scholar; along with many more.
She is deeply committed to cultivating future leaders. Following the sudden passing of her first husband, Randy, in 2009, Sara transformed her grief into purpose by founding the Randy Roberts Foundation in his honor. Through this organization, she empowers young people to engage in government at the local, state, and national levels.
Prior to elected office, her professional work included serving as the Executive Director of Polk Vision and various roles during her time at Best Buddies International.
Sara Roberts McCarley began her public service on the City Commission on January 22, 2019, representing Lakeland’s Southwest District. On January 5, 2026, she was sworn in as Mayor of Lakeland, continuing her lifelong dedication to serving her community.