William D. Brinton

2016 Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal

For his inspirational leadership in protecting scenic beauty, dedication to controlling the proliferation of billboards and consistent policy of unreservedly sharing his vast knowledge about complex sign legislation with municipalities and organizations around the country.

Proposed by: Late Bloomers Garden Club, Zone VIII

Attorney William Brinton specializes in First Amendment and land use litigation involving billboards and other signage. He received his B.A. from the University of Virginia and his J.D. from University of Florida. He has consulted with local governments and scenic conservation organizations all over the country on issues involving scenic beauty and complex sign legislation. William has received numerous honors: the GCA Zone VIII Conservation Award, Scenic America’s Distinguished Advocacy Award, the International Municipal Lawyers Association’s Amicus Service Award (for his pro bono work), and Jacksonville Community Council’s Milestone Award for Citizen Advocacy. Bill is one of Florida’s Super Lawyers, and recognized as Jacksonville’s Lawyer of the Year. He has served as President of the Jacksonville Bar Association, The Community Foundation in Jacksonville, and was Co-founder of Citizens for a Scenic Florida and Scenic Jacksonville.

The Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal is awarded for outstanding achievement in environmental protection and the maintenance of the quality of life.

Cynthia Ann Pratt Laughlin (Mrs. William McKennan Laughlin: 1910–85) was a member of The Southampton Garden Club, Zone III. A former Awards Committee zone representative, known for club and community leadership and horticultural skill, she endowed the medal in 1979, which was first awarded in 1980. The medal was designed by sculptor Charles Parks.

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