Mayor John Dailey embodies a lifelong commitment to public service and community development in Tallahassee. His career, deeply rooted in Florida’s capital city, showcases a passion for effective governance and a drive to build vibrant, strong communities. John Dailey’s dedication is evident in his extensive experience across various levels of government and his unwavering focus on the needs of Tallahassee residents.
John Dailey’s path to public service was significantly influenced by his father, Dr. John Scott Dailey, a respected figure in Florida government and education. Growing up witnessing his father’s impactful work as Executive Director of the Florida Institute of Government and a Leon County School Board member instilled in John Dailey a profound understanding of leadership’s vital role in community well-being. This upbringing provided him with invaluable insights into effective governance and community advocacy.
His professional journey began with roles at the Florida League of Cities, where John Dailey advocated for over 400 municipal governments before the Florida Legislature. Expanding his reach, he then represented municipalities nationwide before the U.S. Congress and Administration while working for the National League of Cities in Washington, D.C. These experiences provided John Dailey with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing communities at both state and national levels.
Returning to his academic roots, John Dailey earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Florida State University, during which he also served as President of the Student Government Association, demonstrating early leadership capabilities. He furthered his education with two master’s degrees: one in Public Administration from FSU and a second in Urban and Regional Planning from the prestigious London School of Economics. While in London, John Dailey gained international exposure working as an Aide in the British Parliament, broadening his perspective on governance and policy-making.
A portrait of Mayor John Dailey, Tallahassee’s dedicated public servant, showcasing his commitment to leadership and community development.
In 2005, John Dailey returned to Tallahassee and established JDA Strategies, a consulting firm specializing in local governance research and development. His commitment to local service deepened when he was elected to the Leon County Commission in 2006, representing District Three. The citizens of Leon County re-elected John Dailey twice, a testament to his effective representation and dedication. He served as Chairman of the Leon County Commission twice, from 2010-2011 and again from 2016-2017, further solidifying his leadership within the region. John Dailey is also an alumnus of both Leadership Tallahassee and Leadership Florida, programs focused on developing community leaders.
The people of Tallahassee elected John Dailey as Mayor in 2018, recognizing his extensive experience and vision for the city. Alongside his professional achievements, John Dailey is a family man, married to Virginia and father to two young sons, Tommy and Henry.
For those wishing to contact Mayor John E. Dailey, he can be reached by phone at 850-891-2000 or via email at [email protected].
Mayor Dailey’s office is supported by a dedicated staff, including:
- Catherine Branch, Director of Internal Affairs & Administration (850-891-2000)
- Dionte Gavin, Chief of Staff (850-891-2000)
- Courtney Thomas, Director of External Affairs & Special Projects (850-891-2000)
Furthermore, Mayor Dailey has appointed liaisons to connect with Tallahassee’s LGBTQ+ community, ensuring inclusivity and addressing community concerns directly with city officials.
