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Governor Rick Scott

Gov. Scott and FWC announce 40-day recreational red snapper season in Gulf state and federal waters

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The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and Gov. Rick Scott are excited to announce a 40-day recreational red snapper season for both Gulf state and federal waters. A 24-day season was originally proposed.

Gov. Scott said, “Florida is a premier fishing destination and saltwater fishing in the Gulf of Mexico has a $7.6 billion economic impact in our state every year. Adding additional opportunities for anglers to enjoy Florida’s world-class fishing not only benefits our visitors but also our Gulf Coast communities. I am pleased to announce this extension today, and encourage visitors and residents to start planning their summer fishing trips.”

“Florida is an important access point throughout the nation and world for recreational red snapper fishing,” said FWC Chairman Bo Rivard. “With other Gulf states setting longer seasons than what Florida had initially proposed, it was important for us to find a fair resolution that would provide equal access to red snapper in Florida. FWC worked collaboratively with NOAA Fisheries to come up with a season that would provide access to all of those that choose Florida as their fishing destination. We appreciate the leadership from Gov. Rick Scott and U.S. Congressman Neal Dunn and we are excited to announce that extension today.”  

Florida will be setting the season in 2018 and 2019 in both state and federal waters through a fishery-management pilot program (also referred to as an Exempted Fishing Permit). The 2018 proposed season would open June 11 and close July 21.

This recreational season will include those fishing for red snapper from private recreational vessels. For-hire operations that do not have a federal reef fish permit are also included but are limited to targeting reef fish in Gulf state waters only.

This Exempted Fishing Permit will not apply to commercial fishermen or for-hire operations with a valid federal reef fish permit.

To share your comments or input on Gulf red snapper, visit MyFWC.com/SaltwaterComments.

Learn more about snapper at MyFWC.com/Fishing by clicking on “Saltwater Fishing,” “Recreational Regulations” and “Snappers” and don’t forget to sign up for the Gulf Reef Fish Survey via GoOutdoorsFlorida.com if you plan to target snapper or other reef fish from a private vessel.

Gov. Scott: United Technologies Creates 480 Jobs in Palm Beach County

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Opens New UTC Center for Intelligent Buildings

Governor Rick Scott today attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for United Technologies’ new UTC Center for Intelligent Buildings in Palm Beach County. This world-class facility showcases industry-leading building products, serves as a connected work space for employees, and is designed to be an environmentally sustainable building. The UTC Center for Intelligent Buildings has already created 380 jobs and, at the ceremony, Gov. Scott announced that UTC has committed to creating 100 additional jobs for a total of 480 jobs at this facility.

Governor Scott said, “I was proud to join UTC today to officially open its new Center for Intelligent Buildings, which has already created 380 jobs. I was also proud to announce that UTC will be adding to its many accomplishments in Florida and creating an additional 100 jobs for families in Palm Beach County. With Florida’s beautiful weather, low taxes and business-friendly policies, it’s easy to understand why UTC picked Florida over other locations in the Southeast for its new facility. In Florida, we’ll never stop fighting for jobs for families in our state. I look forward to seeing UTC’s continued success in the Sunshine State.”

UTC Climate, Controls & Security is a leading provider of heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems, building controls and automation, and fire and security systems leading to safer, smarter, sustainable and high-performance buildings. The new 224,000 square-foot facility features innovative products, integrated systems and interactive displays from UTC brands such as Carrier, Otis, Automated Logic, Chubb, Edwards, Kidde and Lenel.

“The UTC Center for Intelligent Buildings is more than a world headquarters for our business – it’s the embodiment of our commitment to our customers,” said Bob McDonough, president, UTC Climate, Controls & Security. “This building was designed specifically to show our global customers exactly what is possible in the building technology space. That’s why we’ve chosen to openly display critical building technologies that are typically hidden in basements, closets and on rooftops. These solutions are vital to productive, safe and secure indoor environments, and our new building is a celebration of the modern life they enable.”

Cissy Proctor, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity said, “Congratulations to United Technologies on the opening of your Center for Intelligent Buildings. Your commitment to the state of Florida illustrates that our business-friendly policies are working and is a significant win for the families of Palm Beach County.”

Peter Antonacci, CEO of Enterprise Florida Inc. said, “UTC has chosen the best place in the country to grow their business. This expansion wouldn’t be possible without Governor Scott’s dedication to make Florida the jobs destination for America’s businesses.”

City of Palm Beach Gardens Mayor Maria Marino said, “The City of Palm Beach Gardens is honored the Carrier Corporation, an affiliate of UTC has made our City their home. Palm Beach Gardens strives to have industries bring knowledge, innovation and technology to our community. Carrier/UTC fits our goal of delivering economic development especially with the promise of 450 high quality jobs to our residents. The 5 year local economic impact is $660 million. Taking advantage of the City’s tools for economic development, Carrier/UTC received their building permits in a record 58 days using our expedited permitting process. It is every City’s dream to have this caliber of a corporation. We look forward to the success of Carrier Corporations Center for Intelligent Buildings.”

Gov. Scott Appoints Six to Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission

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Governor Rick Scott today announced five reappointments and one appointment to the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission.

Sheriff William “Bill” Prummell, 48, of Rotonda West, is the sheriff of Charlotte County. He is reappointed for a term beginning April 13, 2018 and ending August 1, 2021.

Nicholas Marolda, 50, of Lakeland, is a police detective with the Lakeland Police Department. He is reappointed for a term beginning April 13, 2018 and ending January 1, 2021.

Jennifer Sandman, 47, of Royal Palm Beach, is a sergeant patrol officer with the Town of Palm Beach. She is reappointed for a term beginning April 13, 2018 and ending August 1, 2021.

Matthew Williams, 48, of Middleburg, is a master sergeant with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. He is reappointed for a term beginning April 13, 2018 and ending August 1, 2021.

Deputy Sheriff William Weiss, 50, of Stuart, is the deputy sheriff of Martin County. He is reappointed for a term beginning April 13, 2018 and ending August 25, 2020.

Sheriff Tommy Ford, 49, of Lynn Haven, is the sheriff of Bay County. He fills a vacant seat and is appointed for a term beginning April 13, 2018 and ending August 1, 2018.

ICYMI: News Service of Florida: Rick Scott urges quick action on agriculture aid

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Rick Scott urges quick action on agriculture aid
News Service of Florida
April 11, 2018

Gov. Rick Scott is asking U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to move quickly to get disaster-relief funding into the hands of Florida citrus growers, as it may be another three months before farmers can start to apply for the money.

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“Many growers, both large and small, in Florida are awaiting details on the USDA’s (U.S. Department of Agriculture’s) plan to distribute funding,” Scott wrote.

On Friday, Perdue announced that a program to distribute $2.36 billion to farmers in Florida and other areas would be running by July 16.

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Florida’s agriculture industry suffered an estimated $2.5 billion in losses from Irma, with the citrus industry accounting for at least $761 million of those damages.

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Governor Rick Scott, First Lady Ann Scott and Lt. Governor Carlos Lopez-Cantera’s Statement on the Passing of Jereima “Jeri” Bustamante

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Governor Rick Scott, First Lady Ann Scott and Lt. Governor Carlos Lopez-Cantera made the following statement regarding the passing of Jeri Bustamante in a boating accident.

Governor Rick Scott and First Lady Ann Scott said, “It is with true sadness that we learned today of the passing of our long time Press Secretary, Jeri Bustamante, who faithfully served in our administration for many years. Anyone who ever spent time with Jeri knows what a terrific and selfless person she was. Her personality filled rooms and hearts. We grieve with her family today.”

Lt. Governor Carlos Lopez-Cantera said, “Jeri was a part of our team for many years. She was a joy to work with and cared tremendously about her family, her career and the Floridians she served. I met Jeri when working as Miami-Dade County Property Appraiser and witnessed her passion for media relations firsthand. My family and I are grieving with Jeri’s family and those closest to her.”

Gov. Scott Announces $763 Million Investment in Transportation Project Benefitting First Coast Families

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Governor Rick Scott today announced $763 million in funding for the Phase 3 of the First Coast Expressway project through the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) Work Program. This investment includes funding for the replacement of the Shands Bridge and extension of the First Coast Expressway to I-95 in St. Johns County and is the final phase of the $1.9 billion project. Last month, Governor Scott signed the Securing Florida’s Future budget which invests a record $10.1 billion in transportation infrastructure to keep up with Florida’s continued growth and booming economy. Since Governor Scott took office in 2011, investments in transportation have increased by $3.3 billion.

Governor Scott said, “By continuing to invest record amounts of funding in transportation in Florida, we are giving our job creators and families the infrastructure they need to grow and succeed. Today’s announcement will help bolster the job creation we are achieving across the state.”

The first phase of the expressway, from I-10 to Blanding Boulevard, is already under construction. Construction on the second phase, from Blanding Boulevard to the St. Johns River in Clay County, is set to begin early next year. When complete, the First Coast Expressway will cover 46 miles of limited-access roadway, extending from Interstate 10 to Interstate 95, offering motorists and commercial vehicles an alternative that bypasses downtown Jacksonville.

FDOT Secretary Mike Dew said, “Governor Scott recognizes that strategic investments in infrastructure drive strong economic growth, and projects like this one support continued prosperity and high quality of life for families and businesses in Northeast Florida and across our state. The Florida Department of Transportation is committed to enhancing safety, easing congestion and improving mobility for all of our citizens. Once complete, this bridge replacement and new roadway will connect communities and provide new and existing businesses with the infrastructure they need to thrive.”

Gov. Scott: $1.6 million for job growth in Florida’s rural communities

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Governor Rick Scott announced $1.6 million in funding opportunities for Florida’s rural communities will be made available through the Competitive Florida Partnership and Community Planning Technical Assistance grants. These grant programs are administered by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) and provide funding and support to assist local governments in economic development strategies, addressing critical local planning issues and promoting innovative planning solutions to challenges identified by local governments.

Governor Scott said, “Since taking office in 2011, I have fought every day to make Florida the very best state in the nation for businesses to succeed so Floridians can get great jobs and provide for their families. Florida’s rural communities play a critical role in the continued growth and advancement of our booming economy and I am proud today to announce $1.6 million for rural communities to enhance local economic development. Because of our focus on job creation, since 2010, every county in Florida has had a drop in unemployment and thanks to lower taxes and less burdensome regulations, Florida business have created nearly 1.5 million new jobs. I look forward to seeing our rural communities put these dollars to work to get great jobs wins that provide big returns for Florida families.”

DEO Executive Director Cissy Proctor said, “DEO is committed to helping promote Florida’s diverse economy and build vibrant rural and urban communities. These grants are a great opportunity to help rural communities reach their economic development goals and assist them in capitalizing on the unique assets each community has to offer.”

Additional details on the Competitive Florida Partnership and the Community Planning Technical Assistance grants proposal processes and requirements are available HERE and HERE. Grant proposals are being accepted now and must be received by DEO by Monday, May 7, 2018, by 5:00 p.m. Projects seeking grant funding must be completed by May 31, 2019.

Governor Rick Scott Signs “Ponce’s Law”

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Governor Rick Scott today visited Ponce Inlet to sign SB 1576, “Ponce’s Law” which creates harsher penalties for animal abusers. “Ponce’s Law” is named for a 9-month-old Labrador retriever puppy found beaten to death in Ponce Inlet last year. This legislation allows a judge to bar someone convicted of animal cruelty from owning a pet, and makes it more likely that an offender would to go prison.

Gov. Rick Scott to Sign “Ponce’s Law”

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MEDIA ADVISORY

Tomorrow, April 5th, Governor Rick Scott will visit Ponce Inlet to sign SB 1576, “Ponce’s Law” which strengthens criminal punishments for animal abusers.

WHAT: SB 1576 Bill Signing

WHEN: 8:45 AM

WHERE: The Town of Ponce Inlet Council Chamber
4300 South Atlantic Avenue
Ponce Inlet, Florida 32127