Governor Rick Scott held a call today with Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putman, Division of Emergency Management (DEM) Director Bryan Koon, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) Executive Director Terry Rhodes, Department of Transportation (DOT) Interim Secretary Rachel Cone, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Chief of Staff Jennifer Fitzwater and Collier County Fire Rescue personnel to discuss the ongoing wildfire in Collier County.
Governor Scott said, “This morning I spoke with Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putman, DEM, DHSMV, DOT, DEP, FWC and Collier County Fire Rescue personnel to discuss the ongoing wildfire in Collier County. As our state begins to experience hotter summer temperatures and dry conditions, it is critical that all Floridians remain vigilant and do their part to prevent wildfires.
“The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has already deployed five fire engines to assist Collier County Fire Rescue and the Florida Forestry Service with firefighting efforts.
“The Florida Highway Patrol has deployed troopers to the area and closed I-75 between Mile Marker 80 (S.R. 29) and 105 (Golden Gate Parkway) due to the wildfire and is actively monitoring the situation to ensure motorist safety. The Florida National Guard stands ready to offer aviation resources to combat the fire and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission stands ready to offer aviation and law enforcement resources if needed.
“The State Watch Office at DEM is actively monitoring the wildfires and will continue to support federal, state and local partners in ensuring the safety of residents and deployment of resources. At this time, local officials have not reported any unmet needs to the state and we stand ready to assist.”
Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services Adam H. Putnam said, “Our firefighters with the Florida Forest Service worked through the evening to continue the efforts to contain and suppress the fire in Collier County. We’ll continue to work with our partnering agencies, and may we keep these first responders in our prayers.”
As of this morning, a wildfire is burning a more than 6,500-acre area South of Alligator Alley and East of Naples in the Picayune Strand State Forest. Four homes have been lost. There are no injuries or fatalities confirmed at this time.
Collier County has issued a mandatory evacuation for the following areas: Naples Club RV Park and Panthers Walk RV Park along with all of the Forest Glenn community and horse stables in and along Neuman Road. Affected residents are to report to the Golden Gate Community Center.
Learn more about how you can protect you home and family and prevent wildfires HERE.
Homeland Security Committee Approves Rutherford Bill to Eliminate Wasteful Spending
Congressman Rutherford released the following statement today after his legislation, H.R. 1294 was considered at the meeting of the House Committee on Homeland Security.
Congressman Rutherford said, “Today, the House Committee on Homeland Security unanimously passed my bill H.R. 1294, the Reducing Department of Homeland Security Acquisition Cost Growth Act, which prevents wasteful spending of taxpayer dollars by holding DHS agencies more accountable in administering their major acquisitions programs and by giving Congress greater oversight of troubled programs. Passing this bill will stop the waste of resources and help Congress implement solutions to quickly address any setbacks or cost overruns. I thank the members of the Committee for their bipartisan support of this bill and I look forward to it advancing to the full House.”
The Reducing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Acquisition Cost Growth Act would hold DHS agencies more accountable in administering their major acquisition programs and would give Congress greater oversight of troubled programs to prevent wasteful spending of taxpayer dollars by agencies like the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Customs and Border Protection, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) and the DHS Office of the Inspector General have reported on the longstanding challenge DHS faces in managing major acquisition programs. In 2015, the GAO found that 20 out of 22 major acquisition programs experienced cost growth, schedule slips, or both. Since 2005, DHS’s management of acquisitions has been on the GAO’s “High-Risk List,” showing these programs are highly susceptible to waste and mismanagement.
To view the April 2015 GAO report, click HERE. To view the most recent report, click HERE.
RoadWatch Advisory: University Pkwy CLOSED Friday, March 10 at I-75/University Pkwy Interchange
SARASOTA/MANATEE
I-75 (SR 93) / University Parkway Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) Sarasota/Bradenton: Construction Project:
Detour – University Parkway CLOSED under I-75 at the I-75/University Parkway Interchange:
Friday, March 10. Details below:
The closure of University Parkway originally scheduled for Thursday, March 9 is rescheduled for Friday, March 10 between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. while crews pour span 1 of the deck on the northbound I-75 bridge over University Parkway. All ramps will remain open.
Motorists traveling west on University Parkway (east of I-75) wishing to travel west through the interchange are directed to travel north on I-75, exit at westbound SR 70/Exit 217B, enter southbound I-75, and exit at University Parkway/Exit 213.
Motorists traveling east on University Parkway (west of I-75) wishing to travel east through the interchange are directed to travel south on I-75, exit at Fruitville Road/Exit 210, enter northbound I-75, and exit at University Parkway/Exit 213.
Motorists traveling south on I-75 wishing to travel east on University Parkway are directed to exit at Fruitville Road/Exit 210 (south of the closure), enter northbound I-75, and exit at University Parkway/Exit 213.
Motorists traveling north on I-75 wishing to travel west on University Parkway are directed to exit at westbound SR 70/Exit 217B (north of the closure), enter southbound I-75, and exit at University Parkway/Exit 213.
Improvements being made as part of this project consist of constructing a diverging diamond interchange, adding an auxiliary lane on northbound and southbound I-75, constructing new bridges on I-75 over University Parkway, widening of University Parkway, widening of I-75 bridges over Errie Creek and Foley Creek, realignment of on-ramps and off-ramps at I-75/University Parkway, addition of ponds, drainage improvements, new lighting and signalization, construction of a noise wall on the west side of I-75, sidewalks, bike lanes, and pedestrian walkways. Expected completion is fall 2017. The contractor is Prince Contracting, LLC. For additional information, please visit the project website at http://www.swflroads.com/i75/university/.
Commissioner Adam Putnam to Kick-Off Taste of Florida Agriculture Reception
MEDIA ADVISORY
Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam will kick-off this evening’s Taste of Florida Agriculture Reception in the Florida Capitol courtyard. The Taste of Florida Agriculture reception is a co-hosted event between the Florida Farm Bureau and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services highlighting the importance of Florida agriculture. The event is free and open to the public and venders will be serving dishes that feature fresh Florida Red Snapper, oysters, shrimp, honey, fruits, vegetables and much more.
Event: Taste of Florida Agriculture Reception
Date: Wed., March 8
Time: 5 – 7 p.m.
Location: Capitol Courtyard
UNF’s Student Union Ranked Among ‘25 Best Student Union Centers’ in Nation
The University of North Florida’s Student Union has been recognized by College Rank as one of “The Best 25 Student Union Centers” in the nation and is one of only two Florida institutions to make the list.
In this ranking, UNF is included among several powerhouse institutions, such as Brigham Young University, Cornell University, University of Michigan, The Ohio State University and University of Wisconsin, to name a few.
The criteria used by College Rank includes aesthetic design and architecture, student offerings in campus life, events and traditions as well as proximity to other campus features.
In 2012, the Student Union, which hosts approximately 6,500 events annually, was named by the Florida Chapter of The American Institute of Architects as the best educational building and voted the top building in the state by architects’ votes. It was also voted by the public as the No. 4 building overall in the state.
Designed by Rink Design Partnership Inc., the 150,000-square-foot Student Union was completed in 2009. The $40.1 million facility was programmed to be the focal points for student activities and programs, dining facilities and offices for Student Government as well as the Division of Student and International Affairs.
The Student Union is in two parts, separated by a student plaza, called Osprey Plaza, with a sunshade feature, which along with the curvature of the building, creates a most distinctive visual effect. Both buildings are three stories and are comprised of a steel structure with brick and metal cladding.
The east building is mostly administrative and houses all Student Government functions, Student and International Affairs offices, a bank, Outtakes snack store, the game room and Spinnaker Media. The west building contains a food court with three fast-food outlets on the main floor, the UNF Bookstore (two stories), the Boathouse restaurant and various meeting rooms on the second level, four ballrooms on the third level, along with numerous student lounges and meeting rooms of various capacities.
One of the most unique elements of the Student Union is a 108,000-square-foot grass amphitheater with a permanent stage. Located behind the west building, the Coxwell Amphitheater, which can seat 6,000 spectators, is constructed with a nine-degree elevation for optimum viewing by crowds attending concerts, performances, fairs and other events.
The Student Union follows the University’s other new buildings on campus as a certified “green” building, meaning it uses energy-saving measures, recycled materials and natural light to improve the work environment.
UNF, a nationally ranked university located on an environmentally beautiful campus, offers students who are dedicated to enriching the lives of others the opportunity to build their own futures through a well-rounded education.
Organist Carol Williams Returns to UT's PNC Bank Concert Artist Series March 19
Three years ago, organist Carol Williams thrilled audiences with her wide-ranging program, including works of the classical repertoire, her own compositions and transcriptions, and pop.
On Sunday, March 19, Williams will return to The University of Tampa to perform as part of the 2016-2017 PNC Bank Concert Artist Series at the Sykes Chapel and Center for Faith and Values. The concert begins at 2 p.m. and is free and open to the public.
The performance will include a diverse program characteristic of her many musical interests, including works by Tylman Susato, Max Reger, Louis Verne, David Bowie, her own compositions and a little jazz.
A British-born composer and international concert solo organist, Williams is artistic director of the Spreckles Organ Society and of the Lynchburg International Organ Festival, as well as organist-in-residence at the Court Street United Methodist Church in Lynchburg, VA.
Seating is limited and doors open 30 minutes before the concert. Parking is available on campus, 401 W. Kennedy Blvd.
The 2016-2017 PNC Bank Concert Artist Series is underwritten by PNC Bank and the UT College of Arts and Letters. For more information, contact [email protected] or go to www.ut.edu/sykeschapel.
The University of Tampa is a private, residential university located on 110 acres on the riverfront in downtown Tampa. Known for academic excellence, personal attention and real-world experience in its undergraduate and graduate programs, the University serves 8,310 students from 50 states and 140 countries. Approximately 65 percent of full-time students live on campus, and more than half of UT students are from Florida.
Legislation to Reduce Criminalization of Adolescents Advances
The Florida Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Civil and Criminal Justice today passed Senate Bill 196, Juvenile Civil Citation and Similar Diversion Programs, sponsored by Senate President Pro Tempore Anitere Flores (R-Miami, Monroe).
“In too many cases, we have become a society where law enforcement officers are brought in to referee the day-to-day challenges of raising children,” said Senate President Joe Negron (R-Stuart), who has made juvenile justice reform a top priority of his two-year term. “This legislation strikes an appropriate balance between public safety and decriminalizing the mistakes of adolescents.”
Senate Bill 196 requires a law enforcement officer to issue a civil citation or require the juvenile’s participation in a diversion program when the juvenile admits to committing certain first-time misdemeanor offenses including: possession of alcoholic beverages, criminal mischief, trespass, and disorderly conduct, among others.
“When young people commit serious crimes, there needs to be an appropriate legal penalty. However, there are many situations where youth are displaying lack of judgment and maturity, rather than serious criminal behavior,” said President Pro Tempore Flores. “This legislation ensures that we utilize other avenues that correct inappropriate behavior without stigmatizing our youth with a criminal record that could impact their future education and career opportunities.”
Under Senate Bill 196, a law enforcement officer must provide written documentation articulating why an arrest is warranted when he or she has the discretion to issue a civil citation, but instead chooses to arrest the juvenile.
The legislation also specifies that the option of the issuance of a civil citation or referral to a similar diversion program does not apply to a juvenile who is alleged to have committed, currently charged with, has plead guilty to, or has been convicted of a felony, or a misdemeanor offense arising out of an episode in which the juvenile is also alleged to have committed a felony.
Collier County Wildfire Update
The Florida Forest Service continues to battle the Lee Williams Road Fire in Collier County. The fire is approximately 6,500 acres and is 30 percent contained.
“Our firefighters worked through the evening to continue the efforts to contain and suppress the fire in Collier County. We’ll continue to work with our partnering agencies, and may we keep these first responders in our prayers,” stated Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam.
Lee Williams Road Fire March 8, 2017 Morning Update
Location: Picayune Strand State Forest in Naples, Florida
Acreage: 6,500 approximately
Fire Started: Sunday 3/5/17: 2 pm
Cause: Under Investigation
Containment: 30%
Weather: Winds are coming out of the East and forecasted to shift out of the South
Night Operations:
Winds died down and relative humidity increased allowing firefighters an opportunity to gain access closer to the wildfire as fire activity decreased. State firefighting bulldozers constructed containment lines up to fifty feet in width paralleling and anchored into I-75.
Long range spotting, up to one-half mile, were anticipated and mitigated by firefighters stationed on the Northside of I-75. One spot fire was detected at the Naples Landfill and quickly contained at one acre. Florida Forest Service’s firefighting bulldozers quickly encircling the wildfire with a dirt containment line which allows the wildfire to burn itself out. State Firefighting bulldozers established firebreaks behind the RV Parks and horse stables while structure firefighters patrolled the perimeter while also protecting structures.
The fire is holding at County Road 951 which allowed for the road closures to be lifted this morning, although intermittent closures may take place throughout the day.
Today:
Tactics today include structural defense and keeping the wildfire south of I-75 and east of County Road 951.
Mandatory Evacuations:
Evacuations were lifted for the Forest Glen community and the Aventine at Naples Apartments.
There are mandatory evacuations for the Club Naples RV Park, Panther Walk RV Park and Horse Stables in the Picayune Strand State Forest including Triple V and M & H Stables. If asked to evacuate your home, be sure to bring your important family documents (birth certificates, wills, insurance policies), valuables and your family disaster supply kit. Your disaster supply kit should contain enough food, water and supplies to sustain your family for at least three days. Do not forget any medications or special items such as a first aid kit.
Shelter:
A shelter has been established at the Golden Gate Community Center at 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples, FL.
Road Closures (Due to smoke and poor visibility)
- I-75 is closed mile marker 80 to mile marker 105 (both sides)
- Intermittent road closures on County Road 951 (Collier Boulevard) between Golden Gate and Rattlesnake Hammock may be throughout the day
Resources on Scene
The Florida Forest Service Interagency Management Red Team has arrived this morning to transition command from local resources to allow local responders the ability to focus suppress efforts on new wildfires.
Agencies on Scene:
Florida Forest Service, Collier County Bureau of Emergency Services, West Sebring Volunteer Fire Department, Immokalee Fire Control District, City of Naples Fire-Rescue, Greater Naples Fire District, Marco Island Fire Department, North Collier Fire District, Collier County Emergency Medical Services, Collier County Sheriff, Punta Gorda Fire Department, Big Cypress National Park, Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park, Florida Highway Patrol, Seminole Tribe of Florida, and Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, Rukaree Bay National Wildlife Research.
More information and updates are available on the Collier County website, www.colliergov.net. A call center has been established (239) 252-8444.
The Florida Forest Service, a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, manages more than 1 million acres of state forests, provides management assistance on more than 17 million acres of private and community forests, while protecting homes, forestland and natural resources from the devastating effects of wildfire on more than 26 million acres. Learn more at FloridaForestService.com.
Governor Rick Scott Appoints Charles Henry to the Wekiva River Basin Commission
Governor Rick Scott announced today the appointment of Charles Henry to the Wekiva River Basin Commission.
Henry, 57, of Bradenton, is a health officer for the Department of Health in Sarasota. He received his bachelor’s degree from Southern Illinois University Carbondale and his master’s degree from Troy University. Henry succeeds Gerald Briggs and is appointed for a term beginning March 7, 2017, and ending at the pleasure of the Governor.
Statements from Florida League of Cities, Florida League of Mayors
The Florida League of Cities and the Florida League of Mayors issued the following statements today in response to approval of SB 596 by the Senate Communications, Energy, and Public Utilities Committee:
Florida League of Cities President and Boca Raton Mayor Susan Haynie:
“The Florida League of Cities has profound concerns about Senate Bill 569. This legislation will strip away local authority in favor of private utility companies, giving Big Telecom a massive corporate handout by granting them virtually unlimited access to use resources within public rights of way.
“We look forward to continuing to work with Senator Hutson and other interested parties to prevent the harm this bill would inflict on the ability of local communities to shape the character of their own hometown.”
Palm Shores Mayor Carol McCormack, President of the Florida League of Mayors:
“It’s well established that the best decisions for the future of a community are made by leaders within that community. Senate Bill 596 disregards that proven fact, ignoring the views of local decision-makers and instead handing authority to giant telecommunications corporations.
“While Florida’s mayors embrace innovation and new technological advancements, this legislation threatens our ability to help shape the look and feel of our hometown communities and gives private corporations unfettered access to public rights of way. This would be a terrible mistake, and we strongly oppose Senate Bill 596.”
