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Governor Rick Scott

SBA Trustees Unanimously Approve Gov. Scott’s Proposal Prohibiting Business with Maduro Regime

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The Trustees of the Florida State Board of Administration (SBA) today unanimously approved Governor Scott’s proposal to prohibit the State of Florida from doing business with any organization that supports the Maduro regime which continues to brutally oppress the people of Venezuela. Governor Scott has continually called for freedom and democracy in Venezuela, the liberation of all political prisoners and the end of the Maduro regime. Today’s decision by the Trustees occurred during a meeting of the Florida Cabinet following the Governor’s announcement of this proposal last month.
Governor Scott said, “I am proud today to have the unanimous support of the Trustees of the Florida State Board of Administration in prohibiting Florida from doing business with those who support the evil dictatorship of Nicolas Maduro. I have heard firsthand from so many whose families have been hurt by the brutalities perpetrated by Maduro and his gang of thugs. As Maduro continues to totally disregard the will of the people and empower his dictatorship through his assembly, Florida stands firmly with the Venezuelan people in demanding absolute freedom and democracy now. Let me be clear, the policy we enacted today is a huge step in the right direction and ensures that SBA investments won’t benefit the Maduro regime.
“We must continue to do everything we can to support freedom and democracy in Venezuela and Latin America and I look forward to working with the Florida Legislature during the next legislative session to strengthen Florida’s opposition to Maduro’s oppression.”
Governor Scott’s proposal that was today unanimously approved by the Trustees of the Florida State Board of Administration prohibits the SBA from doing business with Venezuela in the following ways:  

  • The SBA is prohibited from investing in any securities issued by the Government of Venezuela.
  • The SBA is prohibited from investing in any company that is majority owned by the Government of Venezuela.
  • The SBA is completely prohibited from participating in any vote or resolution that advocates or supports the Maduro regime.
  • The SBA is completely prohibited from doing business with any financial institution or U.S. company which directly, or through a subsidiary, and in violation of federal law, makes any loan, extends credit of any kind or character, advances funds in any manner, or purchases or trades any goods or services in or with the Government of Venezuela.

Appointments by Governor Rick Scott for Tuesday, August 15, 2017

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Gov. Scott Appoints Three to Tampa Bay Area Regional Transit Authority

Governor Rick Scott today announced the appointments of Jim Holton, Melanie Griffin, and Cliff Manuel to the Tampa Bay Area Regional Transit Authority.
Holton, 63, of Indian Shores, is the president and owner of Holton Companies. He received his bachelor’s degree from Stanford University and his law degree from Boston University. Holton is appointed as chair for a term beginning August 15, 2017, and ending August 15, 2019.
Griffin, 36, of Tampa, is a shareholder at Dean Mead Law Firm. She received her bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, and juris doctorate from Florida State University and is appointed for a term beginning August 15, 2017 and ending August 15, 2019.
Manuel, 59, of Brooksville, is the CEO of Coastal Engineering Associates, Inc. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and is appointed for a term beginning August 15, 2017 and ending August 15, 2019.
 

Gov. Scott Appoints Mike Bell to District Board of
Trustees, Florida State College at Jacksonville

Governor Rick Scott today announced the appointment of Mike Bell to the District Board of Trustees, Florida State College at Jacksonville.
Mike Bell, 53, of Fernandina Beach, is the vice president of public affairs at Rayonier, Inc. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland. Bell succeeds Dr. Patricia White and is appointed for a term beginning August 15, 2017, and ending May 31, 2021.
The appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.
 

Gov. Scott Reappoints Two to Hillsborough County Aviation Authority

Governor Rick Scott announced today the reappointments of Brigadier General (Ret) Arthur “Chip” Diehl, III and Gary Harrod to the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority.
Diehl, III, 63, of Tampa, is the managing director of Diehl and Associates and a retired Brigadier General with the United States Air Force. He received his bachelor’s degree from the United States Air Force Academy and his master’s degree from the University of Southern California. He is reappointed for a term beginning August 15, 2017 and ending July 1, 2021.
Harrod, 68, of Tampa, is the CEO of Harrod Properties, Inc. He received his bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University. He is reappointed for a term beginning August 15, 2017 and ending July 1, 2021.
 

Gov. Scott Reappoints Ron Duell to Jackson County Hospital District

Governor Rick Scott today announced the reappointment of Ron Duell to the Jackson County Hospital District.
Ron Duell, 73, of Alford, is the former assistant vice president of SunTrust Investment Services. He is reappointed for a term beginning August 15, 2017, and ending July 31, 2018.
 

Gov. Scott: Florida Sets All-Time Tourism Record in First Half of 2017

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Governor Rick Scott announced that Florida set another record by welcoming the highest number of visitors of any six months in the state’s history with 60.7 million visitors, according to VISIT FLORIDA. This represents a 4.1 percent increase over the same period in 2016, and includes 53.2 million domestic visitors, 5.3 million overseas visitors and 2.2 million Canadian visitors.
Governor Scott said, “I am proud to announce today that Florida has continued its record breaking success by welcoming more than 60 million visitors to our state over the first half of 2017- the highest number of visitors of any six months in our state’s history. This means back-to-back record quarters for our state. Now, with the investments made in VISIT FLORIDA during this year’s Special Legislative Session, we can continue to break records and work toward our goal of 120 million visitors this year. Florida’s booming tourism industry supports 1.4 million jobs across the state, and I know that VISIT FLORIDA and their many local partners are continuing to focus on breaking more records in order to help create even more opportunities for our families.”
VISIT FLORIDA estimates that a record 29.9 million visitors traveled to Florida in the second quarter of 2017 (April-June), an increase of 6.8 percent over the same period last year. This Q2 number breaks down to 26.4 million domestic visitors, 2.6 million overseas visitors and 899,000 Canadians coming to Florida. Total enplanements at Florida’s 18 major airports in Q2 2017 increased 6.1 percent over the same period the previous year, with a record 22.8 million enplaned passengers. The number of hotel rooms sold in Florida during quarter two of 2017 grew by 4.2 percent compared to quarter two 2016. During the same period, Florida’s average daily room rate (ADR) increased by 4.0 percent and occupancy by 2.5 percent.
Ken Lawson, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA, said, “With more than 60 million visitors to the state so far this year, this is an exciting and historic time for the Florida tourism industry. VISIT FLORIDA is committed to continuing to create cutting-edge marketing programs for our industry partners of all sizes that showcase the state to visitors and help make Florida the number one vacation destination in the world.”
The Florida Aquarium President and CEO Roger Germann said, “I am proud to join Governor Scott for this exciting announcement today. Our team at The Florida Aquarium welcomes hundreds of thousands of Tampa Bay residents and guests from around the world every year, and we are incredibly proud of our economic and educational impact in the community and our state. I look forward to working with Governor Scott, VISIT FLORIDA and our partners across the state to continue Florida’s thriving tourism industry and create even more opportunities at The Florida Aquarium.”
The Florida Aquarium Chief Operating Officer Scott Rose said, “The news that Florida tourism has had another record quarter and the biggest six months in our history is no surprise to me. Florida is an incredible state with so many things to see and experience, especially right here in Tampa Bay, including The Florida Aquarium. Our partnership with VISIT FLORIDA contributes significantly to our success and we look forward to continuing to work with them to share our mission and vision with others.”
Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association President and CEO Carol Dover said, “Florida continues to set record tourism numbers, which supports our economy and the 1.4 million industry jobs across the state. As ambassadors of Florida’s tourism industry, we will continue to work diligently to attract even more visitors to enjoy our incredible state. The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association is proud to be a champion of the tourism industry and honored to share Florida’s world-renowned hospitality with residents and visitors alike.”
Mise en Place President and CEO Maryann Ferenc said, “Six consecutive years of record visitation and now two more record quarters to start off the year do not happen by accident. It’s the result of really smart marketing by VISIT FLORIDA and the entire Florida tourism industry. Now is the time for all of us – big, small, public, private, DMO, commercial entity – to work together so that we can achieve our goal of 120 million visitors this year and make Florida the number one travel destination in the world.”
Madame Tussauds Orlando Senior Trade Sales Manager and Board Chair of the Florida Attractions Association Nick Romeo said, “With another quarter of record visitation numbers, it’s clear to see why Florida is a top worldwide destination. Florida’s world-class attractions play an important role in bringing people here, and we are working every day to market ourselves more aggressively. We look forward to continuing to work with VISIT FLORIDA to set more records and make Florida the number one global destination.”
To view additional Florida visitor data, go the Research page on VISIT FLORIDA’s media website.
*Preliminary estimates are issued 45 days after the end of each calendar quarter. Final estimates are released when final data are received for all estimates in the report.

Appointments by Governor Rick Scott for Monday, August 14, 2017

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Governor Scott Appoints Renatha Francis to the Miami-Dade County Court

Governor Rick Scott today announced the appointment of Renatha Francis to the Miami-Dade County Court. 
Francis, 39, of Miami, currently practices with Shutts & Bowen, LLP. Previously, she served in multiple positions with the First District Court Appeal, including as an attorney to Judge Scott Makar, staff attorney, and law clerk to Judge Peter Webster. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of the West Indies and her law degree from Florida Coastal School of Law. Francis fills the vacancy created by the elevation of Judge Jason E. Dimitris to the Eleventh Judicial Circuit Court.
 

Gov. Scott Appoints Three to Continuing Care Advisory Council

Governor Rick Scott today announced three appointments to the Continuing Care Advisory Council.
Dudley Geyer, 71, of Saint Johns, was the former area manager of Hewlett Packard Company. He succeeds Walter Hood and is appointed for a term beginning August 14, 2017, and ending September 30, 2018.
Raymond Neff, 75, of Sarasota, is the President of Neff and Associates Home Office Services. He succeeds Charles Paulk and is appointed for a term beginning August 14, 2017, and ending September 30, 2018.
Sue Bunevich, 60, of Tampa, is the Principal of Clifton, Larson, Allen, LLP. She succeeds Marshall Gunn III and is appointed for a term beginning August 14, 2017, and ending September 30, 2019.
 

Governor Scott Appoints Joseph J. Mansfield to the Miami-Dade County Court

Governor Rick Scott today announced the appointment of Joseph J. Mansfield to the Miami-Dade County Court. 
Mansfield, 52, of Miami, has served as an Assistant State Attorney for the Eleventh Judicial Circuit since 2001. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Akron and law degree from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law. Mansfield fills the vacancy created by the elevation of Judge Victoria del Pino to the Eleventh Judicial Circuit Court.

Gov. Scott: Florida’s Consumer Confidence and Housing Market Continue to Strengthen

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Governor Rick Scott today announced that Florida’s strong economic and job growth are continuing to fuel Florida’s consumer confidence and housing market. Florida’s consumer confidence climbed to 97.7 in July, the second-highest it has been in 15 years, and home prices rose by $20,000 across the state over year in June. In addition to rising home prices, new building permits are growing. In June, 12,365 new building permits were issued in Florida, accounting for more than 9 percent of all U.S. building permits.
Governor Scott said, “I am proud to announce that Florida’s consumer confidence and housing market continues to strengthen, which is another positive outcome of our focus on making Florida the number one location for job creators and families to succeed. By cutting $7 billion in taxes, reducing burdensome regulations, and making Florida more business-friendly, we are seeing continued economic improvements across Florida. Now, with the establishment of the $85 million Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, we have the resources needed to grow more jobs for families across the state.”
The statewide median sales price for single-family existing homes in June was $245,000, up from the previous year’s median price of $225,000. The increase in home prices resulted in an additional $1 billion in home sales in the last year, up nearly 12 percent from June 2016. Among the five components measured in Florida’s Consumer Sentiment Index, expectations of U.S. economic conditions over the next year had the highest over-the-month increase, climbing 6 points.
Cissy Proctor, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, said, “Florida’s strong job growth and the state’s thriving economy have continued to give consumers confidence in their futures. Florida’s housing market has also directly benefitted from Governor Scott’s commitment to job creation and focus on economic growth. The increase in home prices and rising consumer confidence shows that people from all parts of the nation can have bright futures by moving to Florida and investing in our great economy.”
In June, the metro areas with the highest home sales were:

  • Sebring with 26.9 percent growth,
  • Sebastian-Vero Beach with 26.9 percent growth, and
  • Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin with 15.5 percent growth.

In June, the metro areas with the highest growth in over-the-year median sales prices were:

  • Ocala with 19.7 percent growth,
  • Sebring with 18.7 percent growth,
  • Tallahassee with 18 percent growth, and
  • Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville with 15.8 percent growth.

Gov. Scott Announces $50 Million for Springs Restoration Projects Across Florida

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Continues Historic Investment in Florida’s Iconic Spring Systems

Governor Rick Scott today announced the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Florida Water Management Districts have identified 40 springs projects that will receive $50 million as part of the 2017-2018 Fighting for Florida’s Future budget. The $50 million in Legacy Florida funding for springs restoration projects was included in Governor Scott’s recommended budget and approved by the Legislature during this year’s legislative session. These projects will help improve water quality, recharge water flow and protect habitat in Florida’s iconic spring systems.
Governor Scott said, “Florida is home to some of the most beautiful springs in the world, and protecting these natural treasures is incredibly important for our state’s families, environment and economy. Last year, I was proud to sign the Legacy Florida bill to establish a dedicated funding source for springs protection and I am glad that investment is continuing with $50 million for springs restoration projects across the state this year. Springs protection will remain a priority so that Florida’s future generations will continue to enjoy these unique natural treasures.”
DEP works with water management districts to identify projects that will improve the quality of Florida springs and provide a good return on investment. Many of these projects include matching funds from various local partners. Combined with match funding from Florida’s water management districts and local partners, the investment in springs projects will total more than $94 million during the 2017-18 fiscal year. Since Governor Scott took office, more than $365 million has been invested in Florida’s springs, the highest amount of funding in Florida’s history.
DEP Secretary Noah Valenstein said, “Thanks to the continued commitment of Governor Scott and the Florida Legislature in securing a dedicated funding source for springs restoration and protection, we can continue to focus on completing strategic acquisitions and projects that will produce real benefits for our spring systems. I look forward to continuing to work with the Governor and Legislature, the water management districts and partners in the environmental, agricultural and local communities to conserve and protect Florida’s iconic springs.”
As part of these springs projects, the state is launching three new Springs Protection Land Acquisition Initiatives, with a total of more than $6 million allocated for land acquisitions to protect Wakulla Springs, Econfina Springs and springs along the Suwannee and Santa Fe rivers. An additional $2.5 million will be allocated toward a conservation easement that will ensure land protection and nutrient reduction benefits for De Leon Spring.
Senate President Joe Negron said, “Restoring and protecting Florida’s springs is essential to fully and faithfully implementing the Water and Land Conservation Amendment passed by Florida voters in 2014. Legacy Florida ensures dedicated, annual funding for this critical effort. Governor Scott has been a strong advocate for preserving Florida’s environment, particularly our Springs, and I appreciate his ongoing leadership and support of our Legacy Florida initiative.”
House Speaker Richard Corcoran said, “Our springs provide beauty, drinking water, jobs, and an identity for many communities. We will continue to fight, along with the Governor, for the protection of this distinctly Floridian natural resource.”
Other restoration and protection projects that have been identified for funding this fiscal year will enhance water quality through wastewater, stormwater and runoff pollution control projects, including septic tank conversion and agricultural partnerships. Projects to expand water reuse and improve aquifer recharge rates will also help ensure the protection of Florida’s groundwater supply.
The 40 statewide projects include:

  • Southwest Florida Water Management District: Kings Bay (Citrus County)sewer extension and reuse project – This project will improve water quality in Kings Bay by supporting the construction of a sewer main extension to remove septic systems and route 2 million gallons per day of reclaimed water out of the springshed. 
  • Northwest Florida Water Management District: Wakulla Springs (Wakulla County) septic connection projects – These projects will improve water quality in Wakulla springs by connecting more than 370 residences currently on septic tanks to an existing central sewer service.
  • St Johns River Water Management District: Silver Springs (Marion County)wetland treatment and recharge project – This project will increase the flow of Silver Springs by receiving and treating excess reclaimed water and stormwater, providing 3 to 5 million gallons per day of recharge.
  • Suwannee River Water Management District: White and Blue Sink springs (Suwannee County) wastewater improvement project – This project will improve water quality for two springs along the Suwannee River by providing advanced wastewater treatment and eliminating 32 commercial septic tanks.

A complete list of the springs protection projects funded by the Fighting for Florida’s Future budget can be found HERE. These projects will be considered by the water management district Governing Boards as part of their upcoming budget hearings. More information is also available on springs projects funded during the FY 16-17 year and FY 15-16 year.

Gov. Scott: Florida Job Growth Rate Continues to Outpace the Nation

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Florida Leads Largest States in Job Growth

Governor Rick Scott announced that Florida is tied with Georgia for the fastest private-sector job growth rate of the 10 most populous states in the nation over the last year. Also, compared to all states, Florida had the third-fastest annual private-sector job growth rate in the nation, behind Nevada and Utah. For 63 consecutive months, Florida’s private-sector job growth rate has outpaced the nation’s.
Governor Scott said, “I am proud that Florida continues to lead the nation’s largest states in job growth, which is sending a message across the country that our state is the best place for businesses to grow and for families to find great jobs. Florida’s job growth has also outpaced the nation’s for nearly five and a half years, and we are leading the country in a variety of industries, proving that our efforts to diversify the economy are helping to create new opportunities every day. With the newly established $85 million Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, we will continue to attract job creators to invest in Florida and ensure we remain a leader in job creation for generations to come.”
Since December 2010, Florida businesses have created 1,397,400 private-sector jobs. This June, Florida’s unemployment rate reached a 10-year low at 4.1 percent, and decreased over the month by 0.2 percent while the national unemployment rate increased 0.1 percent.
Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Executive Director Cissy Proctor said, “Florida’s strong workforce and business-friendly environment allow our state’s economy to flourish. I am proud to see our state’s job growth rate soar past our nation’s other large states. Now is an ideal time for job seekers to find their dream job in the Sunshine State and for businesses to invest in our growing economy.”
In the last year, Florida businesses created more jobs than any other state in the trade, transportation and utilities industry with 35,600 new jobs. The state also had the second-highest over-the-year job gains among all states in the construction, manufacturing, financial activities and professional and business services industries.

Appointments by Governor Rick Scott for Tuesday, August 1, 2017

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Gov. Rick Scott Appoints Three to the Board of Governors,
Citizens Property Insurance Corporation

Governor Rick Scott today announced one appointment and two reappointments to the Board of Governors, Citizens Property Insurance Corporation.
Chris Gardner, of Winter Park, is the chief executive officer of Hub International Florida. Previously, Gardner has served as a member on the Board of Governors for Citizens Property Insurance Corporation as an appointee of the Speaker of the House. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida. Gardner fills a vacant seat and is appointed for a term beginning August 1, 2017, and ending July 31, 2019.
Jim Holton, of Indian Shores, is the president and owner of Holton Companies. He received his bachelor’s degree from Stanford University and his law degree from Boston University. Holton is reappointed for a term beginning August 1, 2017, and ending July 31, 2020.
Bette Brown, of Tavernier, is the area executive of CenterState Bank. She received her bachelor’s degree from Stetson University. Brown is reappointed for a term beginning August 1, 2017, and ending March 23, 2020.

Gov. Scott Appoints Six to Florida Faith-Based
and Community-Based Advisory Council

Governor Rick Scott today announced the reappointment of four and the appointment of two to the Florida Faith-Based and Community-Based Advisory Council.
Dr. Jerry Haag, 50, of Lakeland, is the president and chief executive officer of Florida Baptist Children’s Homes, Orphan’s Heart, and The Porch Light. He is reappointed for a term beginning August 1, 2017, and ending July 18, 2020.
Richard Albertson, 55, of Tallahassee, is the founding president of Live the Life Ministries. He is reappointed for a term beginning August 1, 2017, and ending July 18, 2020.
Dr. Gretchen Kerr, 65, of The Villages, is the executive director of the care center at Northland Church. She is reappointed for a term beginning August 1, 2017, and ending July 18, 2020.
Patricia Smith, of Tallahassee, is the community relations director for the Department of Children and Families. She is reappointed for a term beginning August 1, 2017, and ending July 18, 2020.
J. Scott George, 54, of Maitland, is development director of Orlando Hope and the founder of United Against Poverty. He succeeds Thomas Lukasik and is appointed for a term beginning August 1, 2017, and ending July 18, 2020.
Dr. Rosby Glover, 61, of Lake Worth, is the executive director of Mount Bethel Human Services. He succeeds Rabbi Sholom Ciment and is appointed for a term beginning August 1, 2017, and ending July 18, 2020.

Governor Rick Scott Appoints Mike Griffin to the Tampa Port Authority

Governor Rick Scott today announced the appointment of Mike Griffin to the Tampa Port Authority. Due to recent reports of excessive spending at Port Tampa Bay, Governor Scott is reminding all appointees to Florida’s governmental boards, commissions and advisory councils of their responsibility to be accountable to the taxpayers of Florida and ensure the organizations they oversee operate with fiscal prudence.
Governor Scott said, “Recently, I was concerned to see media reports detailing wasteful spending by the executives at Port Tampa Bay. The actions detailed in these reports should serve as a reminder of the importance of the oversight every appointee is charged with providing. I look forward to the Tampa Port Authority Governing Board reviewing policies to prevent wasteful spending by employees.
“I am confident that Mike Griffin will do a great job on the Tampa Port Authority and will work with the entire board to be good stewards of taxpayer dollars. Mike has committed to conduct a full analysis of prior and future expenditures by the Port and we know that the Board is focused on reviewing policies that concentrate on its core mission of serving as one of the state’s major economic and trade drivers.”
Griffin, 36, of Tampa, is the senior managing director of Savills Studley Occupier Services. Griffin is also the current chair of the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida. Griffin fills a vacant seat and is appointed for a term beginning August 1, 2017, and ending November 15, 2019.
The appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.