September 6, 2024 – The American Planning Association (APA) of Florida has named Elizabeth “Liz” Abernethy, planning and development director for the City of St. Petersburg, its Outstanding Local Public Official of the Year. She received the award Friday at AMA Florida’s 2024 Planning Conference. Abernethy began her career with the city in September 2014 and now leads building, zoning, planning and historic preservation operations.