OKEECHOBEE — Okeechobee County commissioners voted unanimously to join a growing legal challenge to Senate Bill 180, aligning with other local governments that argue the measure weakens home rule authority.
The lawsuit, already filed by municipalities in Orange and Manatee counties, targets state officials in Tallahassee responsible for enacting the legislation. County leaders said they believe participation is necessary to protect local control over growth and development decisions.
Gemma Torcivia, an attorney contracted with Okeechobee County, outlined the scope of the case and its objectives…