City News Blog: Lakeland City Manager Appoints Government Communications Leader and Former TV Reporter as Next Communications Director
LAKELAND, FL (February 16, 2026) - Lakeland City Manager Shawn Sherrouse is pleased to announce the appointment of Larry Little as Director of Communications, effective February 9, 2026.
“Following a highly competitive recruitment process that attracted 87 applicants, 52 of whom met minimum qualifications, Mr. Little’s exceptional blend of education, experience, leadership, and strategic vision clearly distinguished him as the top candidate for this role. Throughout a rigorous, multi-phase interview process, Larry consistently demonstrated his expertise in developing and executing communication strategies for large and diverse audiences,” said City Manager Shawn Sherrouse. For more than eight years, he led crisis and strategic communications, media relations, branding, and stakeholder engagement efforts in support of nearly two million residents in Santa Clara County, California. His career progression from television reporter in Texas to executive-level communications leader in California, and now Director of Communications for the City of Lakeland, reflects both his dedication to public service and his proven ability to deliver results. I am extremely pleased to welcome Larry Little to our talented City of Lakeland team and look forward to the leadership and innovation he will add to our organization.”
Little joins the City of Lakeland with more than 20 years of communications experience spanning television journalism, local government, and public service. Most recently, he spent more than eight years with the County of Santa Clara, California, where he led communications, media relations, and community outreach for the Department of Environmental Health. Throughout his career, Little has been responsible for managing complex, high-profile, and crisis communications across both public and private sectors.
“I am honored to have been selected for this extraordinary opportunity to serve the people of the City of Lakeland,” said Little. “This is a historic, vibrant, and evolving world-class city, and the exceptional work and dedication from the community and city staff are evident. I’m looking forward to working alongside a talented team as we elevate city communications.”
Little began his communications career as a television reporter, working closely with government officials, community partners, and regional stakeholders to translate complex issues into clear, accurate, and accessible information for the public. That newsroom foundation continues to shape his approach to transparency, accountability, and public trust.
“As I step into this role, I am committed to continuing to build on the strong foundation established by my predecessor, Kevin Cook,” Little added. “My focus will be on strengthening our communications approach, connecting the community with information that matters, and building strong partnerships with city departments, community partners, the people of Lakeland, and the media. Our efforts will be guided by a commitment to listening first and then delivering information that is people-centered, informative, engaging, and trusted.”
Sherrouse emphasized that Little’s leadership style aligns closely with the City’s values and long-term vision.
“Larry understands that effective communication is not simply about delivering messages but is about developing thoughtful strategies that build strong relationships and sustain the trust of the community we serve,” Sherrouse said. “His diverse experiences as a veteran, journalist, communications professional, and public servant provide him with a unique perspective that will greatly benefit Lakeland and the residents we are proud to serve.”
Little holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Amberton University in the Dallas–Fort Worth metro area and is a United States Marine Corps veteran, having served four years on active duty.
“I am immensely grateful for the confidence placed in me by City Manager Sherrouse and for the support of the executive leadership team,” Little said. “Lakeland is an amazing city, and I’m proud to be joining this community.”
A native of Forrest City, Arkansas, Little lives in Lakeland and is committed to collaborative leadership, clear and accurate communication, transparency and accountability, people-centered outreach, and delivering high-quality, responsive service to the community.
Contacts
Larry Little
Director
Communications
City of Lakeland
863-394-3942
Larry.Little@lakelandgov.net
Jamin Smith
Digital Content Creator
City of Lakeland
Jamin.Smith@lakelandGov.net
About Lakeland
The City of Lakeland was incorporated in January 1885 and has grown to become one of the largest inland communities in Florida. With a current population fast approaching 130,000 Lakeland continues to grow. It has been designated a Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area by the US Census Bureau for over 30 years. With tourist attractions and gulf beaches only an hour away, Lakeland continues to capitalize on its ideal central Florida location along the I-4 corridor. The City owns and operates Lakeland Electric, the third largest publicly owned utility in Florida, and it was one of the first to offer power in the Sunshine State in 1889.
For additional information about the City of Lakeland, please visit www.lakelandgov.net. Community members are also invited to follow the City on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Vimeo, Snapchat, and Nextdoor by searching lakelandgov.
For additional information about the City of Lakeland, please visit LakelandGov.net. Citizens are also invited to follow the City on social media.
