Florida law [§ 163.3184(3)(c)1., Fla. Stat.] requires that an adoption hearing deadline extension request be based on an agreement.  An "agreement" requires mutual consent from the parties authorized to bind the County, which is the legislative, elected Board of County Commissioners.  Local government staff do not have the legislative authority to grant an extension.

How Real "Agreements" Work
We’ve posted examples on this page from Marion, Orange, and Sarasota Counties. In those counties, an extension isn't just an email; it's a formal legal contract:

• The Board Votes: Extensions go to a public meeting so residents stay informed.

• The Leaders Sign: The final agreement is signed by the Chairman or the Mayor, not a staff member.

• The Attorneys Review: The County Attorney signs off to ensure the agreement is legally binding and protects the County.

Charlotte County residents deserve the same level of accountability and legal rigor that residents in Marion, Orange, and Sarasota receive.