Gov Business Review has named two Citrus County government leaders as tops in their field. On May 7, 2026, it was announced that Steve Howard, Citrus County Administrator, was named County Administrator of the Year for 2026, and Eric Williams of Inverness was named a Top 10 City Manager for 2026.
The national trade publication recognized Howard for his thought leadership, administrative expertise, and impact on county government’s initiatives. His “steady, experience-built approach has translated into structured governance and visible progress across Citrus County, ultimately earning him this recognition,” according to the publication’s managing editor. Howard said, “I am honored and humbled to receive this award. I share this recognition with Team Citrus. Leadership begins with people. You have to get the right people in the right seats, then let them do their jobs. My role is to create an environment where people can contribute, advance ideas and take ownership.”
Howard also wrote in Gov Business Review, “I remind our team that if there is a hole in the boat, everybody goes down. It does not matter who fixes it. What matters is that someone does and we all move forward together. When people feel part of something that matters, they step forward. That is where real progress comes from. It does not sit at the top. It shows up across the organization.” Eric Williams, Inverness city manager, wrote in Gov Business Review that his career plan did not originally include working in government. His outlook, though, benefits the city, as he is enthusiastic about building partnerships, as recent city-county government collaboration shows.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
Sources: Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
