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The Emergence of “Early Recovery” in Emergency Management: Adapting to the Reality of 21st Century Disasters view

FPL joins with Miami-Dade County to expand solar energy, enhance environmental protections and pursue advanced technologies for the futureFlorida Power & Light Company and Miami-Dade County announced plans to collaborate on innovative energy and environmental improvements over the next several years. The plans include: adding more than 1 million solar panels across Miami-Dade; creating an advanced reclaimed water system that would enable the reuse of up to 60 million gallons a day of County wastewater; enhancing and extending the carbon-free energy capacity and environmental restoration work at FPL’s Turkey Point power generation complex; and developing high-tech transportation-related improvement projects view

Tree Trimming ResolutionA resolution strongly opposing the passage of Senate Bill 574 and House Bill 521 which would preempt local tree protection ordinances such as those currently in place in the city of Jacksonville; Directing Legislative services to circulation the resolution to the Florida Legislative; providing an effective date.view

North-Central Florida region selected for the 8th ACE exchange!The Americas Competitiveness Exchange (ACE), organized by the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Inter-American Competitiveness Network (RIAC), is a six-day, high-level tour that showcases successful examples of entrepreneurship, innovation, strategic investments and public-private partnerships from a specific region/country that contribute to the economic development at the local, national, and regional levels. This year, the North-Central Florida region has been selected for the 8th ACE exchange on December 3-9, 2017, which will bring 50 economic and political decision makers from across the Americas and beyond together for a tour of the innovative hubs, leading firms, and educational and research institutions in six Florida communities: Orlando/Orange County, Space Coast, Flagler County, St. Augustine, Gainesville, and Tallahassee-Leon County.view

Leg Bulletin: Hurricane Irma & MariaHurricane response and recovery issues continue to receive significant attention in Tallahassee. In the legislature, no less the six committees held meetings on the impacts of Hurricane Irma, including the Senate Appropriations Committee.view

Shared-Use Nonmotorized (SUN) Trail program Regional Trail System and Individual Trail project solicitationThe Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is soliciting new proposals for funding Regional Trail System and Individual Trail projects through the Shared-Use Nonmotorized (SUN) Trail program for inclusion in the Tentative Five Year Work Program development cycle. Projects programmed for this cycle will be funded as early as Fiscal Years 2023/2024.view

Procurement Disaster Assistance Training Webinar The State of Florida, in coordination with FEMA, is providing four webinar-based training sessions on Procurement of Disaster Assistance for city/county leaders on Monday, September 25. The sessions will consist of 15 minutes of presentation and 45 minutes for questions and answers. Primary participants should be those with responsibilities including purchasing, finance and contracts in addition to city/ county leaders.view

Gov. Rick Scott and Attorney General Pam Bondi: Debris Removal Stalemate UnacceptableAfter hearing several complaints from county administrators, city mayors and other local elected officials about debris removal contractors not performing their duties to remove debris in accordance with their pre-storm contracts, Governor Rick Scott and Attorney General Pam Bondi released the following statement. Governor Scott is calling on debris removal companies from Florida and across the country who are willing to help at a fair price to contact the Florida Department of Transportation.view

FSA Cooperative Purchasing Program Delayed Bid ReviewHurricane Irma cause the Cooperative Purchasing Program to delay the bid review and award for the 2017-18 vehicles and heavy equipment contracts. The Florida Association of Counties partners with the Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA) to provide counties, sheriffs and other local governments with low cost products that have been competitively procured so that purchasing departments can focus on getting the right equipment not the contract process. The Florida Association of Counties benefits when the county purchases off this contract – reinvesting in the programs that support county government.view

NEW FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION DERELICT VESSEL INVESTIGATIVE PROCEDURESThe State of Florida has recently invested $1.5 million for a second year to be issued by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (Commission) as grants to local governments to remove derelict vessels from public waters of the State! The Commission intends to advertise the new grant funding opportunity in November 2017.view

Corporate Supports Counties after HurricaneThere are many resources available to counties to help keep the business of local government running after a disaster strikes. The National Association of Counties has compiled a list of partner companies who are available to help Florida recover. view

Volunteer Florida Thanks Aetna Foundation for $50,000 Donation to Florida Disaster FundVolunteer Florida today thanked the Aetna Foundation for its generous donation of $50,000 to the Florida Disaster Fund, which was activated by Governor Scott to aid those impacted by Hurricane Irma. The Florida Disaster Fund, administered by the Volunteer Florida Foundation, is the State of Florida’s official private fund established to assist Florida’s communities in times of disaster.view

Nationwide Foundation donate $500k to American Red CrossOn the heels of Harvey, the American Red Cross is now helping southeastern U.S. residents as recovery begins following Irma. In support of these efforts, the Nationwide Foundation has announced an additional $500,000 contribution to the American Red Cross. This is in addition to the recent $500,000 contribution in response to Harvey, for a total of $1 million committed.view

Nationwide Emergency ReliefOn September 12th the IRS granted relief to taxpayers who have been adversely affected by Hurricane Irma and who have retirement assets in qualified employer plans that they would like to alleviate hardships caused by Hurricane Irma. Nationwide intends to comply with IRS relief for victims of Hurricane Irma and will implement our expedited Unforeseeable Emergency (UE) process.view

Duke Energy announces estimated power restoration times for FloridaDuke Energy has announced power restoration times for specific areas in Florida following the damage from Hurricane Irma. The company has restored power to more than 375,000 customers. It is currently reporting an estimated 1 million customers without power as of mid-day Tuesday. Crews will continue to work non-stop to safely and quickly restore service.view

Aetna: We’re with youHelp for Aetna members and customers in areas affected by Hurricane Irma Due to Hurricane Irma, and the expected impact to Florida, people may have had to leave their homes. As a result, we are making it easier for our members to refill prescriptions and obtain necessary care. All Florida counties are impacted. Please remember that our affected members can seek emergency care anywhere, as needed. view

Federal District Court Rejects Obama Overtime RuleTexas Federal District Judge Amos Mazzant has entered a ruling invalidating the overtime regulations proposed by Obama’s Department of Labor (DOL). The regulations, which were adopted on May 23, 2016 and which were previously scheduled to go into effect on December 1, 2016, raised the salary threshold for “white collar exemptions” to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)’s overtime provisions from $23,550 annually to $47,476 annually. view

EPA Irma Update: Regions 2 and 4 Taking Precautions, Activating Emergency Response TeamsEPA is continuing preparations for Hurricane Irma, which is expected to hit Southern Florida, serviced by EPA Region 4. Irma has already made landfall in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, covered by EPA Region 2. The Agency is in the process of securing and assessing Superfund sites; compiling data for regulated facilities; granting fuel waivers to help stabilize prices at the pump and ensure emergency vehicles have access to fuel; and, preparing for infrastructure assessments and environmental sampling following the storm.view

Duke EnergyDuke Energy has spent more than $2.4 billion since 2004 maintaining and strengthening its Florida power delivery system, including inspecting and replacing poles and trimming vegetation and trees. The company also invests in advanced technologies to transform the energy grid into a dynamic system to automatically detect, isolate and reroute power when a problem occurs.view

EPA Approves Emergency Fuel Waiver for FloridaPlease see below regarding the approval of an emergency fuel waiver request by Administrator Pruitt in preparation for Hurricane Irma. We are working diligently with Region 4 to secure 22 current or former National Priorities List Superfund sites. The Administrator and the Region are also reviewing information about drinking and waste water systems in areas that may be affected and have staff standing by to help support the State of Florida if federal assistance is needed. We are also in touch with the State Emergency Operations Center and Governor Scott and are prepared to assist you where needed. Please do not hesitate to contact me if I may be helpful from my role at the EPA. view

McDonough v. Fernandez-Rundle and the Eleventh Circuit’s Approach to Surreptitiously Recorded Meetings With Public OfficialsThe Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision in McDonough v. Fernandez-Rundle[1] has immediate and profound implications for public sector officials. On February 7, 2014, a local citizen, James McDonough, met with Homestead Police Department (“HPD”) Police Chief, Alexander Rolle, to discuss complaints he had regarding a HPD officer. Unknown to Chief Rolle, Mr. McDonough used his cell phone to secretly record the conversation, which he subsequently distributed through the Internet. McDonough did not provide advance notice of his intent, and did not seek Chief Rolle’s permission to record the conversation.view

CCC/CGEP WORKSHOP - UNDERSTANDING CHARTER GOVERNMENT – SEPTEMBER 29, 2017 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Registration for the upcoming Policy Committee Conference will open soon. Included in the registration fee is the opportunity to attend an elective workshop on Understanding Charter Government. You won’t want to miss this workshop on Friday morning. The state constitution provides Floridians the power to restructure their county government through the development of a county charter subject to approval by the electorate.view

Submit Your Policy Ideas OnlineThe 2018 Legislative Session is approaching quickly and the FAC policy process has begun. Do you have a concern that you think we should be advocating on? A different approach to an issue we’re already advocating on? Tell us about it! Follow the link below to submit a policy proposal and your idea will be considered during the FAC Policy Conference and the FAC Legislative Conference for inclusion in next session’s policy program.view

THE ACC APPLICATION WILL BE AVAILABLE ON AUGUST 15, 2017Registration for the ACC Program will be available on August 15. Before you apply to attend the ACC program, please check your calendars to ensure that you may attend all 3 sessions which are required to graduate from the ACC Program. In order to apply for the ACC Program, you must be a CCC graduate. The tuition fee for the ACC Program is $450, which covers the cost of all three sessions as well as the group dinner on Thursday night, breakfast on Friday morning, and lunch on Friday afternoon (AND drinks and snacks during the sessions).view

2017 Online Ethics, Public Records & Sunshine Law Workshop Commissioners and other Constitutional Officers are state mandated to take four hours of ethics programming each calendar year. This workshop is open to Commissioners, County Staff and all other Constitutional Officers. Participants who complete this workshop in its entirety will receive 6 core credits toward the CCC Certification as well as fulfill their 2017 Ethics requirement for the state. Since 1996, as part of FAC's Certified County Commissioner (CCC) Program, FAC has offered a comprehensive 6 hour mandatory Ethics, Public Records & Sunshine Law Course. Our existing course meets the requirements addressed in state law.view

Charlotte High Grad Receives 2017 FAC Presidential Scholarship AwardFAC President and Charlotte County Commissioner Christopher Constance, M.D., presented Evan Flores, Charlotte High School graduate, with a $2,000 Presidential Scholarship during a Board of County Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, July 11. Flores will use the money to pursue degrees in biochemistry and political science at Florida State University. view

Annual Conference WorkshopsThe 2017 FAC Annual Conference has 18 workshops focused on the most pressing legislative issues, latest technologies and trends, and so many other issues of importance to counties. We’ve asked the experts to come together in one location to inform and discuss these important and complex issues with attendees.view

FAC Annual Conference Green Cay Mobile WorkshopTuesday, June 27 from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Experience public transit, water reclamation, natural wetland habitat and the creation of affordable housing in a single one-stop mobile workshop Take a ride on one of Palm Tran’s newest buses to learn about the latest technology advances in transit as we head to the Green Cay Nature Center, the county's nature center that overlooks 100 acres of constructed wetland habitat.view

2nd Annual “Speed-Dating” with State AgenciesMore and more the state is working with local communities to attract and grow businesses to Florida. Counties are as important as ever in the fast-changing economic and community development sector. For the second year, officials from the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), Department of Transportation (DOT) and Enterprise Florida will be available Wednesday and Thursday during FAC’s Annual Conference for individual appointments to discuss your county’s priority projects. view

FAC Celebration Dinner - Reserve your tickets today!If you are attending FAC’s Annual Conference, make sure you have also reserved your space at our inaugural Celebration Dinner Thursday evening. Purchase your tickets now to support FAC’s Florida Counties Foundation, our CCC & ACC graduates and FAC’s incoming President Commissioner Chris Constance.view

Pre-Conference Workshop: EthicsJune 27, 2017 - 12:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. - Palm Beach County Commissioners and other Constitutional Officers are state mandated to take four hours of ethics programming each calendar year. This workshop is open to Commissioners, County Staff and all other Constitutional Officers. Participants who complete this workshop in its entirety will receive 6 core credits toward the CCC Certification as well as fulfill their 2017 Ethics requirement for the state. view

EPA and Corps to hold conference call on “Waters of the U.S.” rulemaking with NACo membersOn June 12 at 12:00pm EDT, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) has scheduled a conference call for NACo members to discuss their upcoming rewrite of the 2015 “Waters of the U.S.” (WOTUS) rule under the requirements of Executive Order (EO) 13132—Federalism. EO 13132 requires federal agencies to consult with elected state and local government officials (or their respective national organizations) on yet-to-be-proposed rules that impact state and local governments. This call is ideal for those counties that want to learn more about the WOTUS rule rewrite and/or for counties who plan to submit comments on the rewrite.view

U.S. Communities Saves Counties Money in the War on Opioid OverdosesGovernor Rick Scott recently directed the Florida Surgeon General to issue a standing order for Naloxone to ensure that first responders across the state have immediate access to treat opioid overdoses. County governments can purchase Naloxone and a nasal spray version called NARCAN at discounts up to 40% through the U.S. Communities Government Purchasing Alliance. NARCAN is the only FDA-approved, needle-free version of the overdose antidote.view

Registration is Open for June Ethics WorkshopDuring the 2013 Legislative Session, the Florida legislature passed new ethics legislation requiring that Commissioners and other Constitutional Officers take four hours of Ethics programming each calendar year. This workshop is open to Commissioners, County Staff and all other Constitutional Officers. Participants who complete this workshop in its entirety will receive 6 Core Credits toward the CCC Certification as well as fulfill their 2017 Ethics requirement for the Legislature. County Staff will earn 6 hours of Core Credit for the County Government Education Program and Torchbearers will receive 25 points.view

County Government Education Program now available for county staffMany of our members have asked for a program for county staff to attend to get their County Government Education. The wait is now over! The first three classes were held in conjunction with Legislative Day last week in Leon County. If you were unable to join us for these three events last week, don’t worry. We will be offering Ethics in June and November as well as again in March and June of next year, and Growth Management and Financial Management will both be offered again next March, so you have plenty of time to get those core credits and still be a part of the first class to be recognized in June of 2018 as successfully completing the County Government Education Program. view

Ginger Delegal Confirmed as FAC Executive DirectorThe FAC Board of Directors confirmed Virginia "Ginger" Delegal as FAC Executive Director during FAC's annual Legislative Day last week. Selected by the FAC Executive Committee in February, Ginger's confirmation is one step further in her permanent placement as FAC Executive Director. As directed by the Board, FAC President, Kathy Bryant, and Immediate Past President, Barbara Sharief, will begin contract negations. Once terms of the contract are finalized it will go before the Board of Directors for final approval. view

Special Invitation: NACo Small Group Transportation Peer ExchangeIn a continued partnership with the Federal Highway Administration, the National Association of Counties invites you to attend an invitation-only, small group peer exchange event. This upcoming session will provide county leaders with the opportunity to explore exciting new developments in transportation, infrastructure and economic development, and develop strategies to leverage these innovations to promote local and regional prosperity. view

GOV. RICK SCOTT APPOINTS MEMBERS TO FLORIDA CONSTITUTION REVISION COMMISSIONToday, Governor Rick Scott announced the appointment of 14 members to the Florida Constitution Revision Commission (CRC) in accordance with Article XI, Section II of the Florida Constitution. The Governor appointed Carlos Beruff as Chairman of the Commission on Wednesday. The 37–member Commission convenes every 20 years to review Florida’s Constitution and propose potential changes to be approved by Florida voters. view

Florida Supreme Court affirms a city’s right to accept payments in lieu of taxes from nonprofits Bryant Miller Olive’s Alan Zimmet represents City of Largo in far-reaching case Tallahassee, Fla., Mar. 3, 2017 – In a major victory for the City of Largo with implications for municipalities around the state, the Florida Supreme Court in a 6-0 decision yesterday upheld Largo’s right to accept payments in lieu of taxes from a nonprofit organization that owns an affordable housing community in the City.view

Sea Grant - Introductory Training in GIS || Applications for Natural Resource ManagementMay 1-4, 2017 || Gainesville, FL Students…………………………$300 Faculty and Staff…………….$550 Non-UF Professionals…….$550 Register now for this hands-on, 3.5-day workshop that will introduce you to basic GIS knowledge and skills for real world applications! For more information or to register visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/gis-workshop-may-1st-4th-2017-tickets-30519044283 Florida Sea Grant and the University of Florida IFAS Extension invite you to register for this 3.5-day intensive workshop on ArcGIS 10.4, a powerful tool for managing natural resources and guiding growth and development processes. You will be introduced to ArcGIS Desktop, the primary product used by professionals to compile, analyze, and manage geographic information. You will learn the most commonly used GIS skills in the industry today by completing “real-world” exercises that will build your confidence using GIS, increase your awareness about GIS data sources, and help you explore GIS tools to enhance your program and research projects.view

Derelict Vessel Removal Funding Final Opportunity AnnouncementThe Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is currently announcing the final 2016/2017 opportunity to apply for Derelict Vessel (DV) Removal funds. The application period for the final DV funding opportunity will begin on February 8, 2017, and run on a first-come, first-served basis. Approximately $399,000 in remaining derelict vessel removal funds are available to state, county and city governments. Applications received after April 30, 2017, will not be eligible for consideration. The Commission Derelict Vessel Final Removal Funding Opportunity Program application and guidelines may be downloaded at http://www.MyFWC.com/DVGrant. You may also receive the guidelines and application by contacting Phil Horning at (850) 617-9540 or via email Phil.Horning@MyFWC.com.view

2017 Financial Management Workshop This course provides guidance for commissioners to better manage their county's fiscal affairs. Participants will gain a basic understanding of the state's fiscal trends, budgeting process, revenue sources available to their counties and the what, when and how to issue debt. Participants who complete this workshop in its entirety will receive 6 core credits toward the CCC Certification. Torchbearers will receive 25 points.view

2017 Growth Management WorkshopThis course is designed to give commissioners an understanding of the history of land use planning in Florida and how we got where we are today. Participants will learn the realities of implementing comprehensive plans including how amendments, development approvals, and exceptions should be handled. Participants who complete this workshop in its entirety will receive 6 core credits toward the CCC Certification, Torchbearers will receive 25 points for full attendance. view

2017 Ethics, Public Records & Sunshine Laws Workshop During the 2013 Legislative Session, the Florida legislature passed new ethics legislation requiring that Commissioners and other Constitutional Officers take four hours of Ethics programming each calendar year. This workshop is open to Commissioners, County Staff and all other Constitutional Officers. Participants who complete this workshop in its entirety will receive 6 core credits toward the CCC Certification as well as fulfill their 2017 Ethics requirement for the Legislature.view

FAC Now Offers Staffing Solutions for Counties Through U.S. Communities PartnershipU.S. Communities has announced a dual award for a new staffing services and solutions contract. The contract was awarded to Acro Service Corporation and Knowledge Services through a competitive solicitation process conducted by lead public agency, Maricopa County, AZ. The contract offers counties and other agencies savings on staffing services, as well as recruitment, payroll and temp-to-hire services. The contract term is for three years with the option to extend the contract for six additional periods of one year each. To learn more about each contract and the solutions available, register for complimentary 30-minute webinars on February 8 & 9.view

New Commissioner Workshop – February 1-2, 2017The Florida Association of Counties is pleased to offer an educational workshop designed specifically for newly elected commissioners. Mark your calendars for the New Commissioner Workshop on February 1-2, 2017 in Alachua County at the Hilton University of Florida Conference Center. This in-depth, 1½ day workshop will begin at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 1 and ends with a reception on the evening of Thursday, February 2. view

Corporate Partner Spotlight: FBMCFBMC Benefits Management, Inc. (FBMC), an industry leader for more than 38 years, provides comprehensive employee benefits management. FBMC affords employers customized solutions, including brokerage of voluntary/core products, benefits education and communications, enrollment management, and administrative and compliance services. It partners with only “best in industry” insurance providers with A- and above ratings. FBMC is headquartered in Tallahassee, Florida, with on-site client field offices throughout the United States. For more information about FBMC, visit www.fbmc.com and www.fbmclearningcenter.com. view

Corporate Partner Spotlight: Florida Power & LightFlorida Power & Light Company Wins National Award for Electric Reliability Excellence in the U.S. for Second Consecutive Year At FPL, we understand how much you depend on your electric service. When you flip the switch, you expect the lights to come on. We agree. That’s why we’re committed to building a stronger, smarter grid to deliver electricity you can count on in good weather and bad. FPL has improved its service reliability by approximately 25 percent over the past five years and our service ranks among the best nationwide – 99.98 percent reliable. But we’re never satisfied. We work year-round to improve your service even more.view

The FAC Office: Your Home Office in the Capital CountyThe FAC office should always be thought of as your home away from home when you are in Tallahassee and we hope that you will take the opportunity to stop in while you are here. We have a work station set up in case you need to check emails, make a phone call or print documents. And with a little warning, we even have conference space available if you need to host a meeting while you are here. This is your office and you are welcome any time!view

Corporate Partner & Enterprise Program Spotlight: Nationwide Since its inception in 1980, the National Association of Counties Deferred Compensation Program has become the largest supplemental retirement income program available to county employees. Through a partnership with NACo, Nationwide Retirement Solutions (NRS), and FAC, Florida counties can offer employees access to this premier Section 457 Deferred Compensation Program.view

Miami-Dade Leads the Way to U. S. Communities Contract for Waste and Recycling SolutionThe U.S. Communities Purchasing Alliance has awarded Rehrig Pacific Company a multi-year contract to provide waste carts, recycling carts and related products and services to local governments. This contract was awarded through a competitive solicitation process conducted by lead public agency Miami-Dade County. The initial contract term is for five years through September 30, 2021, with the option to renew the contract for five additional one year periods. view

FAC Medical Marijuana SummitJoin local government officials from across the state to discuss the issues surrounding the legalization of medical marijuana and implementation of Amendment 2 in Florida. In accordance with our mission, FAC is focusing on education and collaboration to bring together industry and policy experts to provide insight into Florida’s emerging medical marijuana industry, discuss challenges arising in other states, provide alternative approaches to local regulations, and an update on proposed legislation and state rulemaking. view

New Commissioner Workshop – February 1-2, 2017The Florida Association of Counties is pleased to offer an educational workshop designed specifically for newly elected commissioners. Mark your calendars for the New Commissioner Workshop on February 1-2, 2017 in Alachua County at the Hilton University of Florida Conference Center. This in-depth, 1½ day workshop will begin at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 1 and ends with a reception on the evening of Thursday, February 2. view

Have you completed your Ethics requirement for 2016 yet? FAC offers the solution for your last minute 2016 Ethics needs – the ONLINE Ethics Workshop! Just $75. During the 2013 Legislative Session, the Florida legislature passed ethics legislation requiring that Commissioners and other Constitutional Officers take four hours of Ethics programming each calendar year. For the last twenty years, FAC has offered a mandatory Ethics course as part of FAC’s Certified County Commissioner (CCC) Program that meets the requirements addressed in this legislation. FAC continues to offer this course and has added several programming options to make it convenient for Commissioners, County Staff and Constitutional Officers to complete this Ethics, Public Records & Sunshine Law requirement. You will receive certificates of Completion once you attend the entire workshop. view

FACT Board Welcomes New MembersDuring the December Annual Meeting of the Florida Association of Counties Trust (FACT), the Board of Trustees approved four new members, and re-elected one member for another term. In total, five new Trustees have joined the FACT Board following the 2016 election cycle. They are Commissioner Bill Chapman (Walton), Commissioner Rob Williamson (Santa Rosa), Commissioner Henry Dean (St. Johns), Commissioner Buddy Mansfield (Desoto), and County Attorney Michael Mullin (Nassau). Commissioner Ralph Thomas (Wakulla) was re-elected to serve another term on the Board. Congratulations to these new Board members, and thank you for your service. For a complete listing of the Board of Trustees, visit: http://www.fact-insurance.com/. view

Local Government Solutions: Why Public Sector Employers Should Consider Employee Health CentersLocal governments and public school boards across the country are investing in health and wellness centers to serve their employees. The centers are designed so that employees like firemen, policemen and teachers can get the care they need to stay healthy. Meanwhile, it turns out that health centers that are dedicated to public servants save taxpayers a lot of money. And they do it the old fashioned way – the “ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” way.view

House proposal kicks off flood insurance debate The House Financial Services Committee is taking a first step toward tackling a must-do item on next year's agenda: reauthorizing The National Flood Insurance Program. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer, the Missouri Republican who chairs the housing and insurance subcommittee, is circulating among Republican members for discussion this week a set of principles he hopes will guide the debate around updating the government insurance arm and strengthening the private flood insurance market.view

NACo Update on Labor Overtime RuleFederal Judge Blocks Overtime Rule From Moving Forward on Dec. 1 Start Date On November 22, Texas U.S. Disrict Court Judge Amos Mazzant issued a nationwide temporary injunction, blocking the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) from implementing new overtime pay rules scheduled to take effect on December 1, 2016. Twenty-one states and dozens of business groups had filed suit in the eastern district of Texas to stop DOL from implementing rules that they say would substantially increase employment costs.view

FDOT Holds Public Meetings on 5 Year PlanGeneral subject matter to be considered: We want to hear from you! The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), District Five, invites you to provide your comments to FDOT by participating in the Five-Year Tentative Work Program Public Hearing. The Tentative Work Program for fiscal years July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2022 which covers project development and environmental, preliminary engineering, right of way acquisition, construction, and public transportation projects for Brevard, Flagler, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Sumter and Volusia Counties and includes Florida Turnpike Enterprise projects in these counties.view

Legislative Conference - It's not too late to register!Legislative Conference is just around the corner – county commissioners and staff will soon be coming together to decide the 2017 legislative priorities for Florida's 67 counties. Make sure the voice of your county is heard and register today! Online registration is open until next Wednesday, November 23rd. After this date, you will need to register on-site (at the higher on-site rate). On-site registration will be open on Tuesday, 11/29 from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. and on Wednesday, 11/30 at 7:30 a.m. at the Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace in the Great Hall Foyer. We hope you have Happy Thanksgiving and look forward to seeing you in Orange County!view

Ethics Workshop - Have you completed your Ethics requirement for 2016 yet? Have you completed your Ethics requirement for 2016 yet? It’s almost December 1st! Don’t wait until December 31st to get your Ethics for 2016. Sign up TODAY! FAC offers the solution for your 2016 Ethics needs --ONSITE and ONLINE Ethics Workshops! Both are available at the new lower price of $75. During the 2013 Legislative Session, the Florida legislature passed ethics legislation requiring that Commissioners and other Constitutional Officers take four hours of Ethics programming each calendar year.view

Gold Corporate Partner Spotlight: Clarke Clarke has been a Corporate Partner with FAC for many years, but recently we have relied on them more than ever to help distribute the best and most current updates and research on Zika. While some parts of Florida have the cooler weather coming in, others are still a threat to breeding mosquitoes and the continued spreading of this virus. But Clarke is here to help! Did you know on their website you can view current information including media items to help you, including their online Zkit! From press releases to social media posts, they are here to help guide you through this time. view

Counties Impacted by Revenue Limitations and Unfunded Mandates Counties fiscally constrained amid rising service mandates WASHINGTON — States increasingly limit counties’ capacity to raise adequate revenue to fund their activities. At the same time, state and federal governments are imposing more mandates on counties, without providing adequate funding, new research from the National Association of Counties (NACo) shows.view

New Research Highlights Freight Rail's Economic ImpactFreight rail stands as a pillar of the U.S. economy–moving cargo, serving businesses and enriching our way of life. In particular, freight railroads distinguish themselves on infrastructure from other modes because they’re paying to maintain and enhance their lines with little help from taxpayers.view

Federal NewsHouse Oversight Committee Report Finds Politicization of WOTUS Rulemaking On October 27, the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee released a staff report detailing findings from its two-year investigation into the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rulemaking process. The report alleges that pressure from the White House and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) led to a rulemaking that was a case study in legal shortcuts, predetermined conclusions, and politically motivated timelines.view

Enterprise Partner Spotlight: Boston MutualThis year, Boston Mutual is celebrating 125 years of service! FAC is proud to offer our member counties guaranteed whole life insurance through a company that has stood through the test of time. Through a partnership with Boston Mutual and The Lee Group, FAC is able to offer counties and their employees guaranteed whole life insurance with rates typically reserved for large organizations. view

Ethics Workshop - Have you completed your Ethics requirement for 2016 yet? FAC offers the solution for your 2016 Ethics needs --ONSITE and ONLINE Ethics Workshops! Both are available at the new lower price of $75. During the 2013 Legislative Session, the Florida legislature passed ethics legislation requiring that Commissioners and other Constitutional Officers take four hours of Ethics programming each calendar year. For the last twenty years, FAC has offered a mandatory Ethics course as part of FAC’s Certified County Commissioner (CCC) Program that meets the requirements addressed in this legislation. view

Florida Association of Counties Trust Helping Counties Manage RiskCommissioners and staff from more than 10 counties attended the annual Risk Management Conference hosted by the Florida Association of Counties Trust (FACT), October 20-21. The conference offers free training for Trust participants from industry experts on risk management issues. Issues addressed at this year's conference included current topics in employment law, public records requests and violence in the workplace. Conference participants were also treated to a special guest presentation by legendary football coach Bobby Bowden who spoke about "Leading a Winning Team."view

FAC Corporate Partner Working with Counties to Combat ZikaMosquito control product and service provider, Clarke, has responded to the serious Zika public health threat by creating a unique public-private partnership model called the “Z-Kit.” The goal behind the effort is to help counties, municipalities, and mosquito abatement districts engage residents in the back yard Zika. This is the only way we will defeat Zika is by partnering with citizens and empowering them to take action.view

Don't get left in the dark - Register for Legislative Conference today!In five short weeks, county commissioners and staff will be coming together to decide the 2017 legislative priorities for Florida's 67 counties. Make sure the voice of your county is heard and register today! New Commissioner Workshop A special shout out to: Citrus, Gulf, Martin and Polk counties for already registering newly elected commissioners to attend! There won't be a lot of time between swearing in and the conference so make sure to sign up your newly elected commissioners as soon as possible!view

Sayfie Review's Florida Leaders SummitAn Invitation to Members of the Florida Association of Counties On November 17-18 in Orlando, Sayfie Review will host its fourth Florida Leaders Summit, a non-partisan event for Florida's top leaders, modeled after the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. This is your personal, non-transferable invitation to the Summit. view

Ambassadors needed for the 2016 ElectionIt’s that time of year again! Elections are coming and we need Commissioners who are willing to serve as mentors for our incoming Commissioners in November. We could have another large class of newly elected members joining us in November and it would be great if we could assign each newly elected Commissioner with a current FAC member willing to guide them through that first year. If you are interested in serving as an Ambassador for FAC for the coming year, please complete this form letting us know your preferences and we will add you to the list to be paired with an incoming newly elected commissioner. view

Energy Roadmaps in K-12 Schools Can Help Improve Air Quality and Bottom LineK-12 schools in the United States spend more than $8 billion annually on energy. It is the second-highest operating expenditure for schools after personnel costs. By working with a partner to create an energy roadmap, schools can outline and prioritize solutions for an improved classroom environment. According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, 15,000 schools across the nation are circulating unfit air. Find out how U.S. Communities partner Trane is helping local governments improve classroom environments using energy maps. Read more. view

FAC Offers Financing Solutions to Help Counties After the StormRecovery from the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew will likely to take weeks and months in counties along Florida’s east coast. FAC has a number of resources to assist counties impacted by the damaging effects of the storm. The Florida Local Government Finance Program (FLGFP) is one solution you can count on. Administered by FAC, FLGFP provides flexible, low-interest, short- to medium-term loans backed by tax exempt commercial paper. view

Clinic Tour Showcases Best Practice Health Solutions for Local Government EmployeesFAC and Enterprise Partner Healthstat co-hosted an onsite employee health clinic tour last week in Polk County. The City of Lakeland employee clinic, managed by Healthstat, hosted four counties interested in learning more about how onsite employee clinics work. Representatives from Hillsborough, Sarasota, Highlands and Manatee counties attended the tour. In addition to the City of Lakeland, Polk County and the Polk County School District also have onsite employee clinics managed by Healthstat.view

April is National County Government Month!!National County Government Month (NCGM), held each April, is an annual celebration of county government. For the past 25 years, the National Association of Counties (NACo) has encouraged counties to promote county services and programs during the month of April.view

FAC to Hold NFIP Reauthorization Meeting in TallahasseeIn light of the unexpected consequences of the 2012 Biggert-Waters Act and the issues left unaddressed by the 2014 Homeowners Flood Insurance Affordability Act, FAC’s Federal Policy Committee has taken steps to ensure Florida’s issuesview

FAC Enterprise Program Saves Counties Time and Money!What if we told you that you could save time and money on purchases you are currently making with multiple well-respected suppliers that you already work with?  All of this while utilizing a contract held by another public agency that has alr...view

FAC Welcomes You to the Capitol County!Many of you will be traveling to Tallahassee during the 2016 Legislative Session and we want you to know you have an open invitation. The FAC office should always be thought of as your home away from home when you are in the Capitol County and we ...view

Federal Grant OpportunitiesFY 2016 Cooperative Agreement to Benefit Homeless Individuals - The purpose of this program is to enhance and/or expand the infrastructure and mental health and substance use treatment services of states, local ...view

Legislative Day HighlightsGovernor Scott will deliver the opening remarks on Wednesday morning at the Legislative Briefing, launching FAC's Legislative Day!  The Governor will welcome commissioners to Tallahassee and address his priorities for economic development and...view

From East to West, FAC's Finance Program Has Florida Counties CoveredThanks to FAC’s low-cost, low-interest, financing option available through the Florida Local Government Finance Program (FLGFP), two counties are addressing important needs in their communities. On Florida’s west coast, Sarasota County...view

The Evolution of County Government Structure: A seven part seriesThe Evolution of County Government Structure: A seven part series Part six in our seven part series from The Florida County Government Guide...view

FAC Partners with Polk to Promote Discount CardFAC staff recently partnered with Polk County to help promote the Prescription Discount Card Program at their employee health fair. Through the partnership, participating Florida counties can offer residents and county employees free discount card...view

Legislative Day - Registration is OpenEach year during the height of the Legislative Session, FAC hosts our Legislative Day. Commissioners and staff are encouraged to come to Tallahassee to assist in the lobbying efforts to protect home rule and prevent unfunded mandates. ...view

Legislative Day - Book Your Hotel Room NowThe demand for hotel rooms in the downtown area near the Capitol continues to increase as do the room rates. In an effort to allow attendees to book the hotel that works best for their budget, FAC is providing a list of hotels in Tallahassee and y...view

Corporate Partner Spotlight: Nabors, Giblin & Nickerson, Attorneys at LawNabors, Giblin and Nickerson (NG&N) is a law firm which limits its practice to representing local governments. The practice of NG&N is divided into the following practice areas: Public Finance, Local Government Law, Litigation and Appellat...view

Have You Checked Out FAC's Online Buyer's Guide?In September, FAC launched its new Buyer’s Guide! The purpose of this guide is to provide products and services for county government professionals through a year-round online resource. This will be an efficient way to browse for goods and s...view

Legislative Day Sponsorships Now Available! On February 3rd, the Florida Association of Counties will host its annual Legislative Day in Tallahassee, FL. This two day event will bring together over 200 county commissioners, county lobbyists and other senior staff to discuss items...view

FAC Offers Low-Cost Finance Solutions that Work for Local GovernmentAs Florida’s economy shows signs of improvement, local governments are reconsidering infrastructure and capital improvement projects that were put on hold a few years ago. Projects such as roads, libraries, courthouses, water and sewer impro...view

The Evolution of County Government: Three Forms of County GovernmentThe Evolution of County Government Structure: A seven part series Part five in our seven part series from The Florida County Government Guide...view

2016 FAC Calendar! Winners Announced!This week the Florida Association of Counties unveiled the photo winners for the 2016 FAC Calendar.  With close to 500 photos submitted under our theme of Awesome Weather the competition was fierce.  With Florida’s spectacular thunder...view

FAC Legislative Priorities OnlineLast week the membership met at the 2015 Legislative Conference in Nassau County to vote on FAC's legislative platform for the 2016 Legislative Session.  Due to the accelerated session, this year that saw committee weeks beginning in October,...view

Three Forms of County GovernmentThe Evolution of County Government Structure: A seven part series Part four in our seven part series from The Florida County Government Guide...view

Senator Bill Nelson to speak at Legislative ConferenceAttend the Closing Session Breakfast to ensure that your voice is heard! The first order of business will be for the membership to consider and approve FAC’s final policy statements; these statements guide FAC’s efforts during the 20...view

CCC WORKSHOPS: COUNTY GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE AND AUTHORITY and COUNTY GOVERNMENT ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIESNovember 18-19, 2015 (6 Core Credits each, 25 Torchbearer points to ACC graduates who attend) Included with your Legislative Conference registration, FAC is pleased to...view

Just a reminder: you are required to take four hours of Ethics education each calendar year!FAC offers the solution--ONSITE and ONLINE Ethics Workshops! During the 2013 Legislative Session, the Florida legislature passed ethics legislation requiring that Commissioners and other Constitutional...view

Enterprise Committee Chair Announces MembersEnterprise Committee Chair Alan Maio, Sarasota County Commissioner, recently named the members of the committee. The committee will work with FAC staff to evaluate current and potential programs and partnerships to ensure they provide outstandin...view

FACT Risk Management Conference is Huge Success!On October 29 & 30, the Florida Association of Counties Trust (FACT) hosted its Annual Risk Management and Educational Conference in St. Augustine in St. John’s County. We had an amazing turnout with more than 120 in attendance. ...view

Training in GIS Applications for Natural Resource ManagementRegister now for this hands-on, 3.5-day workshop that will introduce you to basic GIS knowledge and skills for real world applications!   December 14...view

Ron Littlepage to Speak at Legislative ConferenceThe Florida Times Union Op-Ed Columnist, Ron Littlepage, will be the guest speaker at Thursday’s luncheon during the upcoming Legislative Conference (November 18-20 in Nassau County).  Ron’s columns often criticize and sometime pr...view

Three Forms of County GovernmentThe Evolution of County Government Structure: A seven part series.  Part three in our seven part series from ...view

FEMA Seeks Comments on Proposed Stafford Act Section 705 PolicyFEMA seeks public comments from state, local, tribal and territorial governments, private non-profit organizations, and interested members of the public regarding the Agency’s proposed policy describing guidelines FEMA will follow when imple...view

The Evolution of County Government StructurePart two in our seven part series from The Florida County Government Guide: Evolution of County Government Structure in Florida will focus on Cha...view

Attend the FAC Legislative Conference in Nassau County and Experience a Hidden GemAmelia Island is the Florida beach with a Southern accent.  Set in the Sea Island chain, this barrier island was named among the Top 10 North American islands by Conde Nast Traveler’s Reader’s Choice Awards for seven consecutive y...view

Cooperative Purchasing Enterprise Program Announces New HVAC Contract with TRANESave time and money with this new contract that delivers a comprehensive HVAC offering from the world leader in air conditioning systems, services and solutions ...view

Save the Date: Florida Water Law and Policy ConferenceThe Florida Water Law Institute and CLE International will be holding its 10th Annual Conference on Florida Water Law & Policy on November 5-6, 2015, at the Sheraton Riverwalk in Tampa.  The conference will bring together esteemed faculty...view

Governor Announces Springs Restoration ProjectsThis week, Governor Rick Scott announced that the DEP and Water Management Districts have approved 26 springs projects, funded by the $40 million included in the 2015-16 budget.  This figure, combined with approximately $42 million in matchin...view

Nation Wide Stay to the EPA Water RulesOn Friday, the U.S. Court of Appeals issued a temporary stay to the Waters of the U.S. Rule.  The rule was written to clarify which water bodies were covered under the Clean Water Act.  In response to the rule, 27 states including Florid...view

SAVE THE DATE: 2015 Public - Private Partnership SummitThe Division of Emergency Management is planning the 2015 Public – Private Partnership Summit for December 16-17 in the Florida Panhandle. The details of the location and agenda are in development and will be provided in the next few weeks. ...view

Register for the UF & Florida Sea Grant's December GIS WorkshopIntroductory Training in GIS Applications for Natural Resource Management Register now for this hands-on, 3.5-day workshop that will introduce you to basic GIS knowledge and skills for real world applications! ...view

DEP Invest $5.4 Million in Local Recreational FacilitesOct. 5, 2015, DEP Press Office ~Communities receive grants for sports facilities, playgrounds and picnic areas~ ...view

Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act Reauthorization Stalled in CongressOriginally enacted in 1974, the Federal Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act (JJPDA) sets standards for the care and custody of juveniles and provides direct funding to states and counties for research, training, and technical assistanc...view

Save the Date: Florida Water Law and Policy ConferenceThe Florida Water Law Institute and CLE International will be holding its 10th Annual Conference on Florida Water Law & Policy on November 5-6, 2015, at the Sheraton Riverwalk in Tampa.  The conference will bring together esteemed faculty...view

Florida Beverage Association Announces Grant Program The Florida Beverage Association (FBA) has announced that its will launch a new grant program that will providing funds to community organizations and local governments to promote nutrition, physical activity and health and wellness initiatives, a...view

House to Hold Anchoring and Mooring Workshop The State Affairs Committee of the Florida House of Representatives has announced that it will hold a public workshop during the interim committee week of October 5-9, for the purpose of taking testimony on the following questions:  ...view

DEP Presents its Legislative Budget RequestDuring the first Committee Week this session, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) presented its Legislative Budget Request (LBR) to the House Agriculture and Natural resources Appropriations Committee.  The LBR proposes a total o...view

Army Corps of Engineers Awards Contract to Improve Indian River LagoonLate last week, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) awarded a $197 million contract to Barnard Construction Company, from Bozeman, Montana, to build a new reservoir and stormwater treatment areas that will significantly improve conditions in t...view

Legislative Conference - Early Bird Deadline is ApproachingBe sure to register by Friday, October 16th.  After this date, registration fees will increase. CLICK HERE to register online.  ...view

Commemorate The 70th Anniversary of the Ending of WWII2015 marks the 70 year anniversary of the end of World War II. The Florida Department of State is drawing attention to this important anniversary with the campaign Victory Florida, which honors and celebrates the heroes and heroines ...view

Welcome Back, Waste Management!FAC welcomes back long-time supporter ...view

Legislative Conference Sponsorship Opportunities Now Available! For the first time, FAC is offering companies the option to purchase TWO of our event sponsor opportunities as a combo deal: 2015-16...view

FAC Launches Buyer's GuideFAC has launched its new Buyer’s Guide! The guide contains listings of products and services for county government professionals through a year-round online resource. Members now have an efficient way to browse for goods and services provide...view

FACT Now Offering Cyber Security Coverage for CountiesAccording to the Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity Awareness Campaign, the yearly cost of cyber crime per organization spanned a range of $1.3 million to $58 million. Cyber attacks are an ever ...view

NACo Prescription Card Now Includes Dental and Health DiscountsNow counties can save even more on health costs thanks to NACo’s Prescription- Health- Dental  Discount Program -- formerly known as...view

New Series: The Evolution of County Government Structure The Florida Association of Counties has an extensive education division that spends much of its time focused on educating commissioners on county government and leadership in the classroom.  In this new feature, FAC will bring a key component...view

FAC President Names Enterprise Committee ChairFAC is pleased to announce that President Barbara Sharief has appointed Sarasota County Commissioner Alan Maio as Chair of FAC’s Enterprise Committee.  Commissioner Maio is an accountant, business owner and certified planner. His b...view

FAC 2nd Vice PresidentThe qualifying period for declaration of candidacy for FAC 2nd Vice President is now open! The deadline for submission is Friday, October 16, 2015. The election of the 2nd Vice Pre...view

CCC Workshops: County Government Structure and Authority and County Government Roles and ResponsibilitesNovember 18 - 19, 2015 (6 Core Credits each) Included with your Legislative Conference registration, FAC is pleased to announce TWO Core workshops.  On Wednesday, November 18, join us for the CCC Work...view

FAC ONSITE and ONLINE Ethics Workshops!Did you know you are required to take four hours of Ethics education each year? FAC offers the solution--ONSITE and ONLINE Ethics Workshops! During the 2013 Legislative Session, the Florida legislature passed ethics ...view

ACC Registration is Now OpenRegistration for the ACC Program is now open and there are still spots available.  All CCC Graduates are encouraged to apply for this advanced certification program.  The dates for the 2015-2016 ACC program sessions will be: ...view

Save the Date: Florida Water Law and Policy ConferenceThe Florida Water Law Institute and CLE International will be holding its 10th Annual Conference on Florida Water Law & Policy on November 5-6, 2015, at the Sheraton Riverwalk in Tampa.  The conference will bring together esteemed faculty...view

Training Available on the Stafford Act for Community ResilienceThe Environmental Protection Agency and the Antioch New England's Center for Climate Preparedness and Community Resilience have announced that they are co-hosting a 90-minute online training session for local government and consultants on the Staf...view

Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) UpdateOn August 27, 2015, a federal judge in North Dakota granted a preliminary injunction, temporarily stopping the EPA from enforcing its new “Waters of the U.S.” rule in at least 13 states.   The states include: Alaska, Arizona,...view

Legislative Conference - Registration Opens in SeptemberThe FAC Legislative Conference is the final opportunity for the membership and Legislative Policy Committees to meet and voice their opinion on the policies FAC lobbies during the legislative session. On the final day, commissioners vote and adopt...view

Policy Conference: Policy Statements OnlineAs many of you know the 2016 Legislative Session begins in January meaning committee weeks begin in September.  In order to provide guidance to staff during the committee weeks each policy committee voted on priorities in each issue area and ...view

Policy Conference - Register by August 20th and $aveThe 2015-16 Policy Committee Conference will be held August 26-28 at the Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront in Pinellas County (333 1st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL, 33701).  This event brings together the FAC legislative policy committees to...view

Policy Conference meeting materials now available for downloadClick here to download the documents from FAC’s Policy Development webpage prior to attending Policy Conference.  If you have an...view

CCC Workshop - Understanding Charter GovernmentBe sure to join us, and guest speaker Kurt Spitzer, at the Policy Committee Conference to learn about Charter Government.  The state constitution provides Floridians the power to restructure their county government through the development of ...view

ACC Class Registration is now open!Registration for the ACC Program is now open.  All CCC Graduates are encouraged to apply for this advanced certification program.  The dates for the 2015-2016 ACC program sessions will be:   October 22-23, 2015...view

Miami-Dade County Profiled in Governing MagazineThe cover story for the August edition of Governing profiles the efforts of Miami-Dade County to reduce the criminalization of individuals with behavioral health problems through the use of tools such as  pre-arrest diversion programs and a p...view

Waters of the United States (WOTUS) - UpdateAs reported earlier, Florida has joined a number of states in filing a motion for a preliminary injunction regarding the joint EPA/ACOE Waters of the U.S. Final Rule.   According to news reports, a total of twenty-nine states have filed ...view

FWC Looking for Members for Non-Motorized Boat Working Group The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), upon the recommendation of the Florida Boating Advisory Council (BAC), is requesting applications for participation in a Non-Motorized Boat Working Group.  The working group will me...view

FDOT Open HouseFDOT is hosting an Open House to support the update of the Florida Transportation Plan (FTP) and the Strategic Intermodal System (SIS) Policy Plan. The FTP/SIS Open House will be held in conjunction with TRANSPLEX. TRANSPLEX will begin on August 2...view

Florida's June Employment Figures Released From Florida Department of Economic Opportunity   Florida’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 5.5 percent in June 2015, down 0.2 percentage point from the May 2015 rate of 5...view

ACC Class Registration opens WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 5th at 10:00 am EDT!Registration for the ACC Program will open on WEDNESDAY (August 5th) at 10:00 am EDT.  All CCC Graduates are encouraged to apply for this advanced certification program.  ...view

Policy Committee Conference - Register TodayThe 2015-16 Policy Committee Conference will be held August 26-28 at the Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront in Pinellas County (333 1st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL, 33701).  This event brings together the FAC legislative policy committees to...view

CCC Workshop - Understanding Charter GovernmentBe sure to join us, and guest speaker Kurt Spitzer, at the Policy Committee Conference to learn about Charter Government.  The state constitution provides Floridians the power to restructure their county government through the development of ...view

Polk County Benefits from New Employee Life Insurance Program!Polk is the latest county to take advantage of the Employee Life Option (ELO) program, a new FAC Enterprise partnership that offers guaranteed whole life insurance coverage to county employees.  FAC’s newest partner, Boston Mutual, offe...view

Charlotte's Web Licensing UpdateAfter being mired in administrative proceedings for months, the Florida Department of Health finally appears ready to begin reviewing applications from nurseries seeking one of five licenses to grow medical marijuana in the state.  Each licen...view

Congress Considers Public Safety BillsCongress is currently considering two bills that could positively impact county jails and alternatives programs.  NACo is actively engaged with these bills as they progress and the bills have incorporated counties’ concerns.  Both ...view

Policy Committee Conference - Register Today The 2015-16 Policy Committee Conference will be held August 26-28 at the Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront in Pinellas County (333 1st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL, 33701).  This event brings together the FAC legislative policy comm...view

Study shows Florida's counties use of juvenile civil citations increasingFlorida counties are increasingly turning to civil citations rather than arresting juveniles suspected of committing minor crimes, reports the Tampa Bay Times.  According to a recent study, Miami-Dade, Monroe, and Pinellas Counties lead the s...view

NACo Jail Population and Pretrial Release StudyNACo recently released a study entitled County Jails at a Crossroads: An Examination of the Jail Population and Pretrial Release, accompanied ...view

Sentence ReductionIn an effort to reduce the burden of prisons on Florida’s taxpayers and communities, the Florida Legislature has continue to search for ways to safety reduce the number of non-violent offenders in Florida’s prisons.  In 2014, the ...view

Property Tax Report DR 420 Forms due this Friday, July 24, 2015 On Wednesday, July 1, 2015 the Florida Association of Counties sent an email requesting property tax data for every county found in their respective DR 420 form for the 2015 Property Tax Report. Your DR 420 form will help us tremendously in compil...view

Non-Motorized Boat Working Group Being Formed  The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), upon the recommendation of the Florida Boating Advisory Council (BAC), is requesting applications for participation in a Non-Motorized Boat Working Group.  The working...view

Regional Offshore Sand Source Inventory (ROSSI)The erosion of sand from Florida’s beaches is a continuing problem affecting not only our fragile ecosystems, but the economic viability of our coastal communities.   Unfortunately, we have exhausted the traditional sources of beac...view

Derelict VesselsAs reported last month, FAC participated in a workshop held by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWCC) to identify and prioritize the many problems and potential solutions related to derelict vessels.   At the worksh...view

Policy Committee Conference - Registration is OpenThe 2015-16 Policy Committee Conference will be held August 26-28 at the Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront in Pinellas County (333 1st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL, 33701).  This event brings together the FAC legislative policy committees to...view

DCF Project Team Reviewing Baker Act and Marchman Act In anticipation of the 2016 Legislative Session, the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) has assembled a project team to review the Baker Act and Marchman Act, with the goal of drafting proposed legislation for the upcoming session. ...view

Florida Transportation Plan UpdateThe Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is updating the Florida Transportation Plan (FTP) and the Strategic Intermodal System (SIS) Policy Plan. The FTP defines Florida’s future transportation vision and identifies goals, objectives,...view

Derelict VesselsAs many in the County family know, there are a number of issues involving the regulation and enforcement of derelict vessels on state waters within their jurisdiction.   During the 2015 Legislative Session...view

Waters of the U.S. RuleOn Monday, June 29th, the joint EPA/Army Corps of Engineers Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) Rule was published in the Federal Register.  See 80 FR 37053 (75 pages).   By law, the “effective date” will be A...view

Homeland Security National Training ProgramFederal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Craig Fugate announced the release of the Notice of Funding Opportunity, or NOFO, for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2015 Homeland Security National Training Program (HSNTP) Continuing Training Grants (CTG) ...view

Barbara Sharief Sworn in as FAC PresidentBroward County Commissioner BarbaraSharief was installed to serve as President of the Florida Association of Counties (FAC).  Commissioner Sharief was sworn in during the installation lunch at the 2015 FAC Annual Conference and Educational Ex...view

Elections held at Annual Business MeetingElections were held during the FAC Annual Business Meeting for the FAC Board of Directors as well as the offices of President-Elect, 1st Vice President and 2nd Vice President.  The membership voted Marion County Commissioner Kathy Bryant as P...view

Counties Recognized for Advocacy WorkThe 2015 Presidential Advocacy Awards were presented during the Graduation and Awards Luncheon.  The Presidential Advocacy Award is given to Commissioners who go above and beyond in advocating for local governments during the legislative sess...view

ACC & CCC GraduationMore than 35 commissioners graduated from the Advanced County Commissioner and Certified County Commissioner programs during the Awards and Graduation Luncheon on Wednesday.   FAC's education programs are offered in partnership the Unive...view

Credentials for NACo Election at Annual conferenceCredentials forms are coming in, but there are plenty of counties that haven’t yet submitted their forms.  For everything to go smoothly at this year’s election, we would like all attending counties to submit their credentials for...view

Join a NACo Steering Committee Today!Now is the time to get active in the National Association of Counties (NACo) by joining a steering committee! If you have interest in a specific issue, expertise on a certain topic, or concerns about the effects of federal legislation on your coun...view

FAC Dedicates Conference Room to Former General CounselIn 2012, the Florida Association of Counties lost a dear and dedicated friend in William J. “Bill” Roberts.  Bill had served Florida’s counties as FAC’s General Counsel for 35 years.  But, his efforts to help the ...view

Ethic Workshops Available All Year LongDid you know you are required to take four hours of Ethics education each year? FAC offers the solution--ONSITE and ONLINE Ethics Workshops! During the 2013 Legislative...view

Annual Conference Workshop: Addressing Poverty in Your County8:15-9:45 a.m. There are many families falling into the category of Asset Limited Income Contingent Employed-- individuals and families who are working, but are unable to afford the basic necessities of housi...view

Annual Conference Workshop: Leadership and Strategic ThinkingWorkshop: Leadership and Strategic Thinking (Part 1): Organizational Leadership: Credibility Factors 8:15-9:45 a.m. A ...view

Annual Conference Workshop: 2015 Legislative Session Wrap-Up10:15-11:45 a.m. The 2015 legislative session ended abruptly when the House unexpectedly adjourned sine die three days early leaving t...view

Annual Conference Workshop: Working with Your Sheriff2:00-3:30 p.m. For the last three years, FAC has held a workshop during Annual Conference that is specifically focused for County Commissioners and County Managers. This year, the workshop is a pan...view

New FAC President to be Installed at Annual ConferenceBroward County Commissioner Barbara Sharief will be installed as the 2015-16 President of the Florida Association of Counties during the Installation Luncheon on Thursday, June 18 from 12:00-1:30 p.m. That ev...view

EPA/Corps Finalize CWA WOTUS Rule On Thursday, May 27, the Obama Administration released its controversial final rule on what constitutes a “water of the U.S.” jurisdictional under the Clean Water Act (CWA).  The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Army ...view

WOTUS Focus of Senate EPW/Small Business Hearings Last WeekLast week, the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) subcommittee on Fisheries, Water and Wildlife held a hearing on S. 1140...view

Don't Miss Friday's Closing Session at Annual Conference! You won’t want to miss the program that we have scheduled for Friday’s plated breakfast and Closing Session. First, FAC will swear in the newly elected offi...view

Don't miss the 3rd Annual Silent AuctionPlan to place your bids in the 3rd Annual Silent Auction at the 2015 Annual Conference. The auction will be held in the exhibit hall on Wednesday June 17th during the ...view

FAC launches new sponsorship with eConnectDirect® to help counties in Florida manage investment needs The Florida Association of Counties (FAC) in partnership with the National Association of Counties Financial Services Center (NACo-FSC) is endorsing eConnectDirect®, an online platform that provides county treas...view

Corporate Partner Spotlight: HealthstatAt Healthstat, we’re committed to working with you to reduce your company’s healthcare spending and increase productivity while improving the well-being of your employees. Our integrated workplace health centers and wellness programs h...view

Welcome the Newest Members of FACM!The Florida Association of County Managers (FACM) is up and running and the inaugural membership drive is underway.  FACM is excited to welcome the following new members:  Lee Niblock, Jack Brown, Robert Presnell, Charles Chapman, June F...view

Employee Life Insurance Program a Hit in Escambia CountyEscambia is the latest county to join the Employee Life Option (ELO) program, a new FAC Enterprise partnership that offers guaranteed whole life insurance coverage to County employees.  FAC’s newest partner, Boston Mutual, offers this p...view

2015 Silent Auction at Annual ConferenceDon’t miss the 3rd Annual Silent Auction at the 2015 Annual Conference! The Auction will be hosted in the exhibit hall on Wednesday, June 17th during the ...view

Corporate & Enterprise Partner Spotlight: Nationwide Retirement SolutionsThe National Association of Counties (NACo), in partnership with Nationwide Retirement Solutions (NRS), and state associations of counties, provides county employees with a Section 457 Deferred Compensation Program....view

Chris Holley's Retirement PartyAfter 10 years at FAC and many more years of hard work and dedication, Chris Holley has decided that it’s time for a permanent vacation!  Chris will retire in June after serving a decade as the Executive Director of the Florida Associat...view

Advance County Commissioner Education ProgramLaunched by the Florida Counties Foundation in 2006, the Advanced County Commissioner (ACC) education program, "The Florida Forum for County Leaders," is an advanced leadership program designed for graduates of the Certified County Commissioners (...view

Ethics WorkshopsDid you know you are required to take four hours of Ethics education each year? FAC offers the solution--ONSITE and ONLINE Ethics Workshops! During the 2013 Legislative...view

NACo President Appointment Applications Now Being AcceptedThe NACo Presidential Appointment Process for 2015-16 has begun. Incoming NACo President Sallie Clark will be finalizing her leadership team prior to the NACo Annual Conference in Mecklenburg County (Charlotte), North Carolina in July. If you are ...view

AHCA Seeking Public Input on LIP Extension RequestAHCA is currently soliciting public input on its request to amend the state’s 1115 Managed Medical Assistance (MMA) Waiver in order to redesign and extend the Low Income Pool (LIP) through June 30, 2017.  Since 2005, LIP has been a sour...view

Child Welfare Professionals Recognition Day is May 11thOn April 29, 2015, the Florida Senate adopted SJR 1654 sponsored by Senator Bullard recognizing May 11, 2015 as “Child Welfare Professionals Recognition Day” ...view

SCAT TRAINING TO BE OFFERED AT THE APALACHICOLA NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE This 3-Day Course Will Provide Comprehensive Training for Serving on SCAT teams Apalachicola, FL...view

Silent Auction Benefiting Florida's Veterans to be Held at the 2015 Annual ConferenceWe are excited to announce that our 3rd Annual Silent Auction will be held at the 2015 Annual Conference. Over the past two years this event has been a great success, bringing increased enthusiasm and traffic to the Tradeshow, while ben...view

FAC Annual Conference Workshop on Effective CommunicationsEffective public speaking skills are a prerequisite in most successful careers and especially for effective county commissioners.  However, most people dread standing up in front of a crowd and making a presentation, with all eyes and ears on...view

Exhibitor & Sponsor Opportunities are Going Quickly - Reserve Your Spot Today!Conference is just two months out and booths and sponsorships are going fast! The 2015 FAC Annual Conference and Educational Exposition will be held June 16-19, 2015, at the beautiful Sawgrass Marriott in Ponte Vedra, Florida. ...view

New FAC President to be Installed at Annual ConferenceBroward County Commissioner Barbara Sharief will be installed as the FAC 2015-16 President during FAC's Annual Conference, June 16-19 at the Sawgrass Marriott in St. Johns County. Comm. Sharief is currently i...view

Annual Conference Hotel UpdateUnfortunately, our room block at the Sawgrass Marriott is partially sold out - Wednesday is the only available night at this time.  However, we expect some rooms to open up periodically so you can continue to check the Marriott's availability...view

Qualifying Period for FAC 2nd Vice President Closes May 15, 2015The qualifying period for FAC 2nd Vice President is coming to a close. If you plan to declare your candidacy, you must send a letter of intent, via U.S. certified mail, return receipt requested or other commercial express carrie...view

Be a Part of the FAC Leadership TeamFAC and incoming President Barbara Sharief are looking for county commissioners wishing to become statewide leaders and advance the mission of FAC - "helps counties effectively serve and represent Floridians by strengthening and preserving county ...view

Judge Rules on DJJ Cost ShareDJJ's Implementation Ruling Still Wrong ...view

St. Lucie County Focuses on Fitness The St. Lucie County Board of County Commissioners can count more than 1,200 reasons why its new Wellness Program is working. About halfway through the 12-week Weight-Loss Challenge to kick off the county’s new Wellness Initiative, more than...view

2015 FAC Annual Conference New Registration ProcessWe are pleased to announce the Florida Association of Counties’ new portal and online community!  As part of this new community, you can register for our upcoming events including FAC’s 2015 Annual Conference.&nbs...view

FOOD NETWORK'S CHEF JEFF HENDERSON WILL SPEAK AT FAC's ANNUAL CONFERENCEYou won’t want to miss FAC’s 2015 Annual Conference, June 16-19 at the Sawgrass Marriott in St. Johns County. Our theme for this year's Conference is "Diversity Brings Us Together" and the Opening General Session on Wednesday, June 17 ...view

UF/IFAS Extension: A Long Time Partner of the Florida Association of CountiesUF/IFAS Extension has developed a strong partnership with FAC to deliver education programs for county leaders. For the last decade, UF/IFAS Extension has sponsored the Advanced County Commissioner (ACC) Program. This partnership has ensured our a...view

ACC Graduates Eligible for Leadership Florida Class XXXIV Scholarship As part of the sponsorship from UF/IFAS Extension, FAC is pleased to once again provide the opportunity to assist our ACC Graduates with scholarships of up to $5,000 to participate in the next Leadership Florida Class beginning in the Fall of 2015...view

National Library Week - April 12-18Celebrate National Library Week at Your Local St. Johns County Public Library St. Johns County, FL – The St. Johns County Public Library System joins libraries nationwide in celebrating National Library Week April 12 – 18. ...view

Florida Department of Health Addresses County Health RankingsFlorida Department of Health News Release Contact: 850-245-2111 TALLAHASSEE—Today, the Florida Department of Health acknowledged the release of the sixth annual County Health Rankings and Roadmaps. A collaboratio...view

County Day of Recognition for Nation ServiceThe first County Day of Recognition for National Service is an initiative being led by the National Association of Counties (NACo) and the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), as part of National County Government Month. The inte...view

Another Successful Legislative Day at the CapitolLast week more than 200 county commissioners and county staff from across the state came to Tallahassee to advocate for home-rule as part of FAC’s annual Legislative Day.  While Legislative Day began as an opportunity for counties to co...view

FAC Annual Conference - New Registration and Hotel Room ProcessThe countdown is on! Registration for the 2015 FAC Annual Conference and Exposition opens on April 6th with a new process for registering for the conference and for booking your hotel room.  Under the new FAC hotel room booki...view

County Spotlight: Bay CountyPopulation: 168,852 Square Miles: 758 County Seat: Panama City Founded: 1913 Cities: ...view

County Spotlight: Sarasota CountySarasota County's 2014 Annual Report is now available The report contains a comprehensive look at the county’s structure, financial data, and how the county is meeting the goals it established ...view

Corporate Partner Spotlight: FPL Florida Power & Light   Florida Power & Light Company is the largest electric utility in Florida   ...view

FAC 2015 Legislative Day - Make Your Time at the Capitol CountThe FAC 2015 Legislative Day is right around the corner!  Commissioners and staff are encouraged to come to Tallahassee to assist in the lobbying efforts to protect home rule and prevent unfunded mandates.  Thursday, March 26, will begin...view

Leon County's Award Winning Budgeting Exercise A big challenge each year for Counties is the budgeting process. There are many factors that have to be considered in order to ensure that the needs of your community are being met. As with our personal finances, often there are more needs than th...view

FAC's Newest Corporate Partners!Please help FAC welcome both LSSI and Bryant Miller Olive to the Corporate Partner Family.  The Corporate Partner Program provides comprehensive marketing opportunities for our Partners to showcase their products and services before Florida C...view

Library Systems & Services (LSSI) joins the FAC Corporate Partner Program!Library Systems & Services, LLC (LSSI) has partnered with communities throughout the US to provide library outsourcing for new and existing libraries, as well as contract library services for Federal agencies. Nationwide, 78 communities...view

Bryant Miller Olive (BMO) joins the FAC Corporate Partner ProgramBryant Miller Olive represents governments, businesses and agencies nationwide in legal matters relating to public finance, state and local government law, complex transactions, project finance, and litigation.   ...view

County Spotlight: Baker CountyArea: 589 sq miles (1,526 km²) Founded: February 8, 1861...view

Florida Becomes a NACo 100% StatePasco, Union, Baker and Calhoun counties have recently joined the National Association of Counties (NACo) making Florida a 100 percent membership state. This is a great advancement for Florida’s counties with us completely unified as a ...view

FAC Legislative DayJoin us at the FSU Turnbull Conference Center (555 W. Pensacola Street, Tallahassee), Thursday, March 26, for the Florida Association of Counties 2015 Legislative Day.  As a participant, you will get up-to-date information on legislative acti...view

Regional Workshop - The Legislative ProcessFAC is pleased to announce the upcoming Regional Workshop on Legislative Process just in time for the 2015 Legislative Session!  This regional workshop will focus on the upcoming Legislative Session for Florida and how to mak...view

2015 Pre-Session WebinarThe 2015 Legislative Session kicks off on Tuesday, March 3rd.  Join us on Monday March 2nd for a complete preview of the biggest issues facing counties including: DJJ Cost Share Enterprise Zones Tax Reform: CST ...view

SB 1114 - Prohibiting Membership Organizations from Suing the State Filed this week, SB 1114 (Sen. Stargel) – Membership Associations that would require associations organized as a Florida not-for-profit corporation to comply with certain reporting requirements if the organization receives more than 25% of i...view

Local Government Surplus Trust FundSPB 7024/ HB 913 – Local Government Surplus Trust Fund – Disbursement of Fund B Balance   A companion bill to SPB 7024, HB 913, was filed by Rep. Trumbull on February 23.  The bill would distribute the balance r...view

Waste Management Joins FAC Corporate Partner ProgramFAC is pleased to announce that long standing sponsor Waste Management is joining the FAC Corporate Partner Program.  Waste Management’s Florida Area provides collection, recycling, transfer and di...view

U.S. Communities: New Utility, Transportation and Golf Vehicles Contract Provides Savings and SolutionsFrom U.S. Communities Club Car and Columbia ParCar Provide Multiple Options to Meet Your Specific Needs We are excited to announce the dual award for the new Utility, Transportatio...view

New data on local government retiree healthcare benefits portend financial danger aheadFrom The LeRoy Collins Institute ~ LeRoy Collins Institute’s report reveals local governments face billions in unfunded liabilities~ TALLA...view

County NewsNaples Daily News ...view

Palm Beach County Commissioner Priscilla Taylor Profiled in NACo Newsfrom NACo County News January 26, 2015 Profiles in Service:  Priscilla Taylor NACo ...view

FAC Legislative Day - Register Today!Join us at the FSU Turnbull Conference Center (555 W. Pensacola Street, Tallahassee), Thursday, March 26, for the Florida Association of Counties 2015 Legislative Day.  As a participant, you will get up-to-date information on legislative acti...view

Regional Workshop: Legislative ProcessFAC is pleased to announce the upcoming Regional Workshop on Legislative Process just in time for the 2015 Legislative Session!  This regional workshop will focus on the upcoming Legislative Session for Florida and how to mak...view

Juvenile Justice Detention Cost ShareThe ongoing juvenile detention cost-share dispute featured prominently during the presentation of the Governor’s budget before the Senate Criminal and Civil Justice Appropriations Committee.  Discussion about the pending litigation betw...view

SB 224/HB 163 - Public Records Requirements for ContractorsAmending Sec. 119.0701, this legislation seeks to discourage litigation arising from abusive public records requests to government contractors.  SB 224 received its first hearing in the House Government Oversight and Accountability Committee,...view

SPB 7024 - Local Government Surplus Trust Fund - Disbursement of Fund B BalanceStaff from the State Board of Administration (SBA) recently met with Executive Director Chris Holley and other FAC staff to discuss the pending termination of the Fund B Surplus Funds Trust Fund and the disbursement of the funds remaining after th...view

Congress Holds Joint Hearing on Proposed Waters of the U.S. RuleIn an unusual joint hearing last week, members of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee examined the impacts of the EPA’s proposed Waters of the U.S. rule on state and loc...view

President Obama Proposes Everglades FundingLast week, President Obama released his proposed budget which includes a $240 million commitment to Florida Everglades restoration.  The administration did not specify the projects to be funded, but at least $124 million would go directly to ...view

Florida House Committee Passes Water Resources BillThis week, the House State Affairs Committee passed a comprehensive water resources bill, which addresses a number of policy areas including water quality and quality; the Central Florida Water Initiative (CFWI); Lake Okeechobee and the Northern E...view

DEP Accepting Proposals for Nearly $6M in Water GrantsThe Florida Department of Environmental Protection is soliciting grant applications for projects that reduce or eliminate nonpoint source pollution.  These grants, known as “319 Grants” were authorized pursuant to the 1987 amendme...view

Governor's Conforming Bills Read through for a short analysis of the Governor's conforming bills that affect counties. College Textbook Exemption This bill proposes to exempt College textbooks from sales tax. To be eligible for the exemption, ...view

MacArthur Foundation Announces $75 Million for Jail ReformFrom the National Association of Counties The MacArthur Foundation has announced an exciting opportunity to undertake local jail reform through its new ...view

2015 NACo Achievement Awardsfrom the National Association of Counties The National Association of Counties (NACo) is excited to announce that it is currently accepting applications for the 2015 Achievement Awards!  ...view

Florida Civic Advance SummitPlan to attend the inaugural Florida Civic Advance (FCA) Summit on Sunday-Monday, February 22-23, 2015 in Orlando. Over 25 state associations, including the Florida Association of Counties, are collaborating in this historic meeting to see how we ...view

Survey: 1st African American Elected OfficialsTo commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the League of Cities is conducting a special research project to honor the first African-Americans elected to local governments in Florida. Please provide the names, if any, of ...view

FAC Legislative Day - Registration Is OpenJoin us at the FSU Turnbull Conference Center (555 W. Pensacola Street, Tallahassee), Thursday, March 26, for the Florida Association of Counties 2015 Legislative Day.  As a participant, you will get up-to-date information on legislative acti...view

CCC Workshops From March 25-27, during the week of FAC's Legislative Day event, commissioners have the opportunity to earn up to 19.5 hours of credit toward the County Commissioner Certification (CCC) Program. By simply attending the Legislative Day Briefing on...view

April is National County Government Month! Each year, the National Association of Counties (NACo) encourages counties to promote county government programs and services provided in their communities and to celebrate their successes during the month of April. This year’s theme i...view

FAC Analysis of the Governor's 2015 Proposed Budget Available OnlineGovernor Rick Scott's proposed budget for State Fiscal Year (SFY) 2016 totals approximately $76.98 billion, and represents a $92,100,000 decrease from the 2014 General Appropriations Act which defines the state budget for SFY 2015.  Proposed ...view

Health Insurance Coverage for Emergency ServicesSB 516, by Senators Bean and Garcia, would limit reimbursement for emergency medical services (EMS) and potentially reduce revenues to EMS providers throughout the state, including county EMS/ambulance services.  Under current law, county gov...view

Sober Homes/Recovery Residences Bills FiledRep. Hager and Sen. Clemens have again filed bills that attempt to address the issue of unregulated sober homes, which are become increasingly problematic in many areas of the state.  HB 21 and SB 326 create a voluntary certification program ...view

EthicsLast week, representatives from the Commission on Ethics presented proposed Ethics Code revisions to the Legislature.  These suggested changes include: Amending the conflict of interest law to ...view

Contractors' Public Records ResponsibilitiesAdopted in 2013, Sec. 119.0701 codifies the obligations of public contractors with respect to compliance with Florida’s public records laws.  This statute requires contractors acting on behalf of a public agency to maintain public recor...view

Juvenile JusticeThe Governor’s Budget Proposal estimates the total county funding responsibility for juvenile justice to be $54,392,156, roughly 53% of the total estimated costs for juvenile detention.  While less than the total dollar amount proposed ...view

Police Body CamerasThe House Criminal Justice Subcommittee held a workshop on HB 57 which would require uniformed officers assigned to patrol duties to be equipped with body cameras.  HB 57 was filed by Rep. Shevrin Jones, and a companion bill, SB 248 was filed...view

Governor Scott Releases Proposed Budget, Pledges Funds for Everglades RestorationIn Miami this week, Governor Scott announced plans to spend $150 million in his next budget for Everglades restoration.   He also stated that he intends to ask legislators to dedicate a quarter of all Amendment 1 revenues over the next 2...view

Florida Citrus in Dire Straits In presentations before legislative committees and in his weekly newsletter, Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam warned that “time is not on our side” in the fight against citrus greening.  Citrus greening is caused by a bacteria...view

Florida Power Companies Plan to Increase Solar CapacityLast week, two of Florida’s investor owned utilities announced plans to increase solar capacity in the state.  Gulf Power has proposed a joint effort with developer HelioSage and the United States Navy and Air Force to build the largest...view

Mark Your Calendars for Legislative Day in MarchFAC’s 2015 Legislative Day will be held Thursday, March 26 at the FSU Turnbull Conference Center in Leon County. Commissioners and staff are encouraged to come to Tallahassee to assist in the lobbying efforts to protect home rule and prevent...view

Joint Officers MeetingToday, FAC's executive committee met with executive committee members of the Florida League of Cities and Florida School Boards association to discuss the upcoming legislative session and the share issues facing counties, cities, and school boards...view

New Commissioner WorkshopThis week in Alachua County, FAC hosted a workshop open to all 58 new Commissioners elected to office in November.  The 1 ½ day workshop was designed to help newly elected officials gain a better understanding of a wide range of topics...view

Amendment 1Last week, the Senate Environmental Preservation and Conservation Committee held its first meeting in preparation for the 2015 Legislative Session, and a discussion of Amendment 1 was the only item on the agenda.   The Committee’s ...view

Florida Transportation PlanThe Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is updating the Florida Transportation Plan (FTP) and the Strategic Intermodal System (SIS) Plan. To kickoff this process, FDOT hosted Florida’s Transportation Visioning Summit on December 17, ...view

Water ProjectsWith the Senate discussing the nuances of Amendment 1, an important announcement was made in the House Agriculture & Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee.   Chairman Albritton indicated that he would accept on-line applicati...view

Cabinet Approves Charlotte and Collier County Land PurchasesThis week, the Governor and Cabinet unanimously approved the purchase of lands in Charlotte and Collier Counties in an effort to improve water quality and wildlife habitat in southwest Florida.   The projects include $3.15 million to acq...view

The Commission and Pythons and Bears, Oh My!Last week the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission announced plans to address the Burmese Pythons and black bear populations in the state.   Although bear hunting has been banned in Florida for 20 years, recent bear attacks around Ocala ...view

FEMA Announces Launch of the Interim Office of the Flood Insurance AdvocateFederal Emergency Management Agency WASHINGTON –  The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Craig Fugate today announced the launch of the Interim Office of...view

New Commissioner Workshop - January 14-15, 2015 - Registration Now OpenThe Florida Association of Counties is pleased to offer an educational workshop designed specifically for newly elected commissioners.  Mark your calendars for the New Commissioners Workshop on January 14-15, 2015 in Alachua County at the Hil...view

Mark Your Calendars for Legislative Day in MarchFAC’s 2015 Legislative Day will be held Thursday, March 26 at the FSU Turnbull Conference Center in Leon County. Commissioners and staff are encouraged to come to Tallahassee to assist in the lobbying efforts to protect home rule and prevent...view

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: Is your county the best?Is your county great at bringing in new business?  Are you doing things that are innovative and creative when it comes to recruiting companies or expanding local businesses?  Is your Economic Development program working? Preservin...view

Flood Insurance - FEMAIn 2013, the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) adopted flood insurance reform as one of its top federal priorities. As a part of its advocacy strategy, FAC developed several policy recommendations that were shared with members of Congress in e...view

Disaster Recovery Assistance - FEMA Deobligations In response to ongoing audits by the Federal Emergency Management Agency of counties who have received disaster recovery assistance from the Federal government, FAC President Grover Robinson formed a workgroup to address this issue.  The grou...view

FAC Federal CommitteeThe FAC Federal Committee has scheduled a conference call for Thursday, December 18 at 2:30.   Any county interested in federal issues is encouraged to participate on the call.  The conference call dial in number is   1-88...view

A Healthy Florida Works The Associated Industries of Florida and Florida Hospital Association, along with local business and health care groups from around the state, are partnering to promote a plan to provide health insurance to an additional one million Floridia...view

FAC Vacancy on Florida Commission for Law Enforcement Accreditation Program The Florida Association of Counties is soliciting interest from our members to serve as our representative on the Florida Commission for Law Enforcement Accreditation Program. In 1993, a voluntary law enforcement accreditation program was establis...view

Last Chance - Online Ethics Now AvailableDuring the 2013 Legislative Session, the Florida legislature passed ethics legislation requiring that County Commissioners and Constitutional Officers take four hours of Ethics programming each calendar year.  The Florida Association of ...view

Governor Appoints Leaders to State AgenciesGovernor Rick Scott has recently appointed or reappointed the following individuals to lead state agencies.  For more information please visit http://www.flgov.com/. ...view

News & Notes Takes a VacationDue to the upcoming holiday this will be the last News & Notes for 2014.  We wish our County families and friends and very happy holiday season.  We'll see you in 2015!...view

Gulf County Commissioner Warren Yeager is FAC's New 2nd VPGulf County Commissioner Warren Yeager was elected by fellow commissioners and installed as 2nd Vice President of the Association during FAC’s Legislative Conference last week. Commissioner Yeager was sworn in at a special ce...view

Scott Shalley Named Next Executive Director of FACThe Board of Directors voted unanimously to approve Scott Shalley as the next Executive Director of the Association during the Board meeting at Legislative Conference.  Scott has served for the past two years of the Director of FAC’s En...view

Strategic Plan Approved by MembershipThe membership approved the Association’s next five year strategic plan at Legislative Conference.  Over the past year FAC met with the membership to identify priorities and the direction the Associations needs to move in over the next ...view

2015 Legislative Priorities Voted on at ConfernceFAC held its Legislative Conference last week November 19-21, 2014, in Hillsborough County, where elected officials and county staff from across the state met to adopt policy positions for the 2015 Legislative Session and select its top priorities...view

Public Safety Policy Committee UpdateThe Public Safety committee heard from guest speaker, Antoinette Triplett, CEO of the Tampa Hillsborough Homelessness Initiative (THHI), who shared the truly incredible story of Operation: REVEILLE, where more than 50 public and private partners l...view

Growth Management, Agriculture & Environment Committee UpdateAfter several years of debating the merits of the Development of Regional Impact (DRI) program, the committee adopted a new statement that calls for improving the intergovernmental coordination process for all land development proposals – bo...view

Finance Tax & Administration Committee UpdateRepresentative Greg Steube and his wife, joined the FTA committee where he was presented with FAC’s 2014 County Champion Award for his 2 year effort in passing HB 175, which provides for the collection of the E-911 fee on prepaid wireless se...view

Health & Human Services Policy Committee UpdateAt the HHS committee meeting, guest speaker Clint Shouppe from BayCare Health System presented on Medicaid funding in Florida, with a focus on the future of the state’s Low Income Pool (LIP), which is funded largely by intergovernmental transfe...view

Urban Caucus UpdateThe Urban Caucus met Wednesday morning and debated new and revised policy statements regarding several issues of concern facing large urban counties.  The issues were so numerous that the caucus put forth a list of priorities that were later ...view

Rural Caucus UpdateThe Rural Caucus met on Wednesday and, after introducing its new Vice Chairman, Ralph Thomas (Wakulla County) and hearing a presentation from the Small County Coalition, discussed and debated new and revised policy statements regarding several iss...view

Federal Committee UpdateThe Federal Committee, led by Commissioner Doug Smith, Commissioner Heather Carruthers,  and Commissioner Bill McClure, invited Ms. Deborah Cox,  NACo’s Legislative Director, and Ms. Val Gelnovatch of The Ferguson Group to provide ...view

Legislative Policy Statements are OnlineFAC's entire Legislative Program is available on our website.  We encourage you to bring the policy statements with you as you meet with your legislative delegations leadi...view

Legislative Conference SurveyThe 2014-15 Legislative Conference was held last week in Hillsborough County with over 200 commissioners and county staff in attendance.  For those of you that attended, we hope you enjoyed the event and we need your feedback!  Please he...view

New Commissioner Workshop - January 14-15, 2015 - Registration Open NowThe Florida Association of Counties is pleased to offer an educational workshop designed specifically for newly elected commissioners.  Mark your calendars for the New Commissioners Workshop on January 14-15, 2015 in Alachua County at the Hil...view

Last Chance - Ethics Online Now AvailableDuring the 2013 Legislative Session, the Florida legislature passed ethics legislation requiring that County Commissioners and Constitutional Officers take four hours of Ethics programming each calendar year.  The Florida Association of ...view

Florida Supreme Court Long Range Strategic Plan The Florida Supreme Court has formed a Long Range Strategic Plan Workgroup to develop and update the long-range strategic plan for the judicial branch. The Plan will outline priority goals and strategies to address the major issues facing th...view

FEMA Releases Strategic Plan for 2014 to 2018The 2014-2018 FEMA Strategic Plan reflects objectives FEMA will accomplish to provide the best possible support to U.S. citizens before, during, and after disasters. It sets fo...view

Public Comment on Draft Unified Federal Review Process Guidance Due November 28As a part of the implementation of the Unified Federal Review process required by Section 429 of the Sandy Recovery Improvement Act of 2013, a FEMA-led interagency steering group has developed draft guidance document (copy attached) to assist appl...view

USACE-Maintained Database Provides Value for Coastal Decision-MakersAs the Federal agency authorized to study, plan, design, construct, and renourish coastal risk reduction projects, USACE is tasked with providing technical input on current and future needs for coastal projects. Accurate, up-to-date, and accessible t...view

Eastern Federal Lands Access Program Call for Projects AlertThe Federal Highway Administration Eastern Federal Lands (EFL) will be accepting Federal Lands Access Program (FLAP) applications in order to develop a four year program of projects for Fiscal Years (FY) 2015 through FY 2018.  Project approva...view

FWC Conducting Anchoring Survey The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWCC) will be conducting an online survey regarding its potential anchoring regulations in Florida.  The survey was developed using comments received by the Agency at recent public meetin...view

SJRWMD Announces Cost-Share Funding OpportunityThe St. Johns River Water Management District will accept applications from Jan. 5 to March 13, 2015, for cost-share funding for water conservation and construction projects that will contribute to any of the following: ...view

County Spotlight: Citrus County  ...view

Legislative Conference is Next Week This is the final opportunity for the membership to consider and approve FAC’s final policy statements; these statements guide FAC’s efforts during the 2015 Session. You do not have to serve on a policy committee to attend; all c...view

UPDATE: DJJ - Proposed Rules ChallengeOn November 12 -13, 2014, an administrative law judge in Tallahassee heard evidence and arguments in the Proposed Rule Challenge brought against DJJ by FAC and 27 counties.  The Rule Challenge was filed after DJJ held a series of rule worksho...view

Enterprise ZonesOn November 1, 2014, the Bureau of Business and Economic Incentives within the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity released the 2014 edition of its Florida Enterprise Zone Program Annual Report. This a...view

Update on Waters of the U.S.Last week, the Local Government Advisory Committee (LGAC), a policy-oriented committee tasked with providing policy advice and recommendations to the EPA Administrator on the proposed Waters of the U.S. rule, has issued its Initial Findings and Re...view

Amendment I Passed by Florida VotersLast week, Florida’s voters overwhelmingly approved the Florida Water and Land Conservation Amendment, which will dedicate, for 20 years, 33 percent of net revenues from excise tax on real estate transactions (“doc stamps”) towar...view

U.S. Supreme Court Takes Up Florida-Georgia Water Dispute Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to consider Florida’s lawsuit against Georgia regarding the increased withdrawals of water from the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River system, which has caused a fisheries disaster in the Apalachi...view

Manatee Season Set to Begin Florida’s manatee season officially begins on November 15th, when these animals begin to arrive in large numbers to enjoy our warm waters for the winter.   Boaters should take note of the seasonal speed limits along rive...view

DEP to Hold Public Hearing on Numeric Nutrient Criteria for EstuariesThe Department has scheduled a public hearing before the Environmental Regulation Commission (ERC) to establish numeric nutrient criteria (NNC) for total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and chlorophyll-a in individual estuary segments for the followin...view

Legislative Conference - Discount Deadline is Approaching Be sure to register by Wednesday, November 5th.  After this date, registration fees will increase $50.  You do not have to serve on a policy committee to attend; all commissioners and county staff are encouraged to register! &...view

New Commissioner Orientation at Legislative ConferenceAlthough campaigns can be grueling, once the election is over, the real work begins! The Florida Association of Counties is here to welcome and answer the new Commissioners’ questions with a New Commissioners Orientation ...view

Post-Conference Workshop: EthicsEthics, Public Records & Sunshine Law November 21, 2014 (6 Core Credits) (10:30 AM – 3:30 PM) During the 2013 Legislative Session, the Florida legislature passed new ethics legislation ...view

Florida Establishes Ebola Protocol The Florida Department of Health (DOH) and Division of Emergency Management (DEM) are taking steps to prepare for the possibility of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) diagnosis in the state.  On October 25, the Governor signed an executive orde...view

Waters of the U.S. - Proposed Rule UpdateAs reported in our last newsletter, the US Environmental Protection Agency has extended for the second time the public comment period on its controversial proposed rule to define the scope of Waters of the United States under federal Clean Water A...view

DEP to Hold Public Hearing on Numeric Nutrient Criteria for EstuariesThe Department has scheduled a public hearing before the Environmental Regulation Commission (ERC) to establish numeric nutrient criteria (NNC) for total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and chlorophyll-a in individual estuary segments for the followin...view

DEP to Hold Webinar on Beach Management Funding Assistance (BMFA) Program According to DEP’s Division of Water Resource Management, draft assessments have been completed for beach and inlet projects requesting BMFA program funds in FY2015/2016. These project assessments list each ranking criterion in program rule ...view

Enterprise Zone SurveyThe Florida Association of Counties (FAC) recently completed an Enterprise Zones survey, based on questions originally submitted by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) to the association for its considerati...view

County ProfilesFlorida’s counties are great!  You know it.  We know it.  But do you know all the fun facts about your county neighbors? Starting this month, FAC will highlight an amazing Florida county periodically in our New...view

Legislative Conference - Discount Deadline is Approaching Be sure to register by Wednesday, November 5th.  After this date, registration fees will increase $50. ...view

Register Today for Ethics 2014CCC WORKSHOP: Ethics, Public Records & Sunshine Law November 21, 2014 (6 Core Credits) (10:30 AM – 3:30 PM) During the 2013 Legisl...view

EPA Extends Comment Period on WOTUS RuleThe US Environmental Protection Agency has extended for the second time the public comment period on its controversial proposed rule to define the scope of Waters of the United States under Clean Water Act jurisdiction.  The new deadline for ...view

Update on Urban Turf Fertilizer Rule  After several workshops and a rule challenge by the Sierra Club, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (DACS) is now finalizing its revisions to the Urban Turf Rule, found in r. 5E-1003 F.A.C.  The Urban Turf Rule ...view

2015 Legislative Session - The Year of Water!As we all have been hearing for quite some time, the 2015 session promises to be the “Year of Water.”   After a summer of supposition and prognostication, stakeholders have been asked by leadership to provide thoughts on wate...view

Get to Know Your Land Stewardship ConstituentsChris Demers, UF/IFAS School of Forest Resources and Conservation Private lands in Florida provide a wide variety of services that benefit society, including economic activity, clean air, groundwater...view

Legislative Conference - Register Today! The FAC Legislative Conference will be held November 19-21 at the Marriott Tampa Waterside in Hillsborough County.  This is the final opportunity for the membership and Legislative Policy Committees to meet and voice their opinion on the poli...view

Commissioners Grover Robinson and Doug Smith Present to Florida's Business LeadersThis week, FAC President Grover Robinson and 2012 Past President Doug Smith presented at the Annual Future of Florida Forum put on by the Florida Chamber Foundation.  This was a great opportunity to share the importance of counties with the s...view

Florida Chamber Healthcare Summit FAC President Grover Robinson and FAC staff attended the Florida Chamber Healthcare Summit at the 2014 Future of Florida Forum in Orlando on Tuesday.  Panelists discussed various current and emerging issues in healthcare, many of which affect...view

CCC WORKSHOP: Ethics, Public Records & Sunshine Law November 21, 2014 (6 Core Credits) (10:30 AM – 3:30 PM) During the 2013 Legislative Session, the Florida legislature passed new ethics legislation requiring that Commi...view

Waters of the United StatesAfter the “Regulatory Overreach Protection Act” (H.R. 5078) was passed earlier this month in the U.S. House, Senator Pat Roberts (R – Kansas) has called on Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to act on the House bill (or proposed S...view

Florida Everglades to Receive Federal Dollars for Tamiami BridgeU.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx announced that Florida has been awarded a $20 million TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) grant to help fund the elevated 2.6-mile bridge over the Tamiami Trail (US-41).  T...view

Everglades Challenge: Remove Phosphorus and Win $10 millionLast week, the Everglades Foundation announced a scientific challenge:  Solve the chronic phosphorus pollution problem and win $10 million.  The winning project must demonstrate phosphate reduction on an increasingly larger scale; from t...view

Reclaimed Water Study - Public Workshops ScheduledIn recognizing the importance of reclaimed water and the challenges Florida faces in expanding its use, the 2014 Legislature passed SB 536, requiring a comprehensive study on the use of reclaimed water (to also include stormwater and excess surfac...view

Pre-Order your 2015 FAC CalendarThe 2015 FAC Calendar, Sunrises and Sunsets, is on sale now!   There's a reason why Florida is called the Sunshine State and those of us who are fortunate to live under the Florida sun can attest to the beautiful sunrises...view

FAC Legislative Conference Has Been RescheduledDue to circumstances beyond our control, the 2014 Legislative Conference has been rescheduled and relocated.  The new dates are November 19-21, 2014 at the Marriott Tampa Waterside in Hillsboro...view

Online Ethics Now AvailableDuring the 2013 Legislative Session, the Florida legislature passed ethics legislation requiring that County Commissioners and Constitutional Officers take four hours of Ethics programming each calendar year.  The Florida Association of ...view

Submit Your Comments to EPA on Waters of the U.S.In recent weeks the White House, EPA and US Corp of Army Engineers have made it clear that they intend to finalize the proposed rule...view

Weekly Federal Updates Available on the FAC WebsiteFAC has partnered the Ferguson Group to enhance our federal advocacy and strengthen Florida's presence on a national level.  The Ferguson Group is providing weekly legislative updates as well as information on federal grants and updates on is...view

Policy Conference - Meeting Materials Available OnlinePolicy Conference meeting materials are going electronic! We invite you to access the policy committee meeting materials through your FAC Portal. You can access materials by simply logging in to your portal account and clicking on 2014-15 Policy C...view

Policy Conference - Discount Deadline is ApproachingBe sure to register by Wednesday, September 10 to avoid paying the higher on-site fee!  Click here to register online.  ...view

CCC Workshops: County Government Structure & Authority and County Government Roles & ResponsibilitiesREGISTER TODAY!  September 17 - 18, 2014 (6 Core Credits each) Included with your Policy Committee Conference registration, FAC is pleased to announce TWO...view

Online Ethics Course - Register Today During the 2013 Legislative Session, the Florida legislature passed ethics legislation requiring that County Commissioners and Constitutional Officers take four hours of Ethics programming each calendar year.  The Florida Associati...view

FY 2014-15 County by County Tentative Property Tax Rates & DataThe Florida Association of Counties (FAC) has recently completed a compilation/summary of proposed tentative property tax rates and related information for FY 2014-15. FAC is providing this information as a service to its membership to allow for t...view

County Stormwater ImpactsThe fiscal analysis on county stormwater impacts of the WOTUS rule that was performed by Applied Technology & Management (ATM) on behalf of the Florida H2O Coalition was released last Friday.  The four counties studied were Manatee, Pinel...view

FAC Calendar Photo Contest Closes TodayToday is the last day to submit your photo for the 2015 FAC Calendar photo contest( if you haven't done it yet you can do it now! click here to submit). &nbsp...view

Policy Conference - Discount Deadline is ApproachingBe sure to register by Wednesday, September 10 to avoid paying the higher on-site fee!  Click here to register online.  ...view

Policy Conference - Meeting Materials Go ElectronicPolicy Conference meeting materials are going electronic! We invite you to access the policy committee meeting materials through your FAC Portal. You can access materials by simply logging in to your portal account and clicking on 2014-15 Policy C...view

Register Today! CCC Workshops County Government Structure and Authority & County Government Roles and ResponsibilitiesSeptember 17 - 18, 2014 (6 Core Credits each) Included with your Policy Committee Conference registration, FAC is pleased to announce TWO...view

Tell your story! What has your county done to improve economic developmentIn September, FAC will be on a panel at the Florida Chamber Forum to discuss some of the innovative approaches counties have taken to improve economic development in their county.  We’d like to share your story as a part of that!  ...view

Medical Marijuana WorkgroupFAC is forming a medical marijuana workgroup with the Florida League of Cities and law enforcement to discuss the regulation of marijuana-related businesses in Florida should Amendment 2 pass.  FAC would like to appoint 5 persons to the workg...view

Spotlight your county in the 2015 FAC CalendarIt’s that time of year again!  The 2015 FAC Calendar photo contest is well under way and we are certain that this will be our best calendar yet!  This year’s theme, Sunrises & Sunsets, is a natural fit for the Sunshine St...view

Online Ethics Now AvailableDuring the 2013 Legislative Session, the Florida legislature passed ethics legislation requiring that County Commissioners and Constitutional Officers take four hours of Ethics programming each calendar year.  The Florida Association of ...view

Waters of the United States - Proposed EPA/ACOE RuleOn Monday, U.S. Congressman Steve Southerland held a press conference in the Capitol rotunda in Tallahassee in support of his proposed “Regulatory Overreach Protection Act” (H.R. 5078),’ which is scheduled to be heard on the Hous...view

DEP Releases Springs Restoration Funding Plan Last week, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) released is Springs Restoration Project Plan for Fiscal Year 2014-2015.  This year, the $25 million legislative allocation was combined with local government and water management dis...view

Florida Retirement System Actuarial Assumption ConferenceThe Florida Retirement System Actuarial Assumption Conference met on August 11, 2014 to discuss the Experience Study developed by the state’s actuary. This study is conducted every 5 years to review and update valuation assumptions and current ...view

DEP Announces Rulemaking Workshops on Estuary NNCs The DEP has scheduled public workshops for its rulemaking efforts regarding estuary-specific numeric nutrient criteria.  Rule revisions will be discussed at the public workshops scheduled during the next two weeks in Tallahassee, Palm Bay, an...view

FWC to Hold Workshops on Anchoring in State WatersThe Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will be holding two public workshops to present a framework for possible legislation authorizing counties and municipalities to regulate anchoring on state waters.   The Anchori...view

Policy Committee Conference - Register Today!The 2014-15 Policy Committee Conference will be held September 17-19, 2014 at the Sandestin Beach Resort in Walton County. This event brings together the FAC Legislative Policy Committees to examine the Association'...view

2015 FAC Calendar Photo ContestThere's a reason why Florida is called the Sunshine State and those of us fortunate to live under the Florida sun can attest to the beautiful sunrises and sunsets we see every day!  That is why we are pleased to announce that the 2015 FAC Cal...view

County Revenue EstimatesThe Office of Economic and Demographic Research (EDR) has published FY 2014-15 County Revenue Estimates.  The Revenue Estimates include Communications Services Tax, County Revenue Sharing Program, Local Option ...view

Join a NACo Steering CommitteeGET INVOLVED! Join a NACo Policy Steering Committee Now is the time to get active in the National Association of Counties (NACo) by joining a steering committee! If...view

Leon County Commissioner Bryan Desloge Elected 2nd Vice President of NACoImmediate Past President of the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) Desloge poised to lead National Association of Counties (NACo) in 2016-17- Leon County District 4 Commissioner Bryan De...view

Okaloosa County Sheriff Recieved Award for Outstanding Leadership The Florida Association of Counties (FAC) presented its 2014 “County Partner Award” ...view

Commissioner Gail Garrard Appointed to Board of Directors Lafayette County Commissioner Gail Garrard was appointed to the FAC Board of Directors by FAC President, Escambia County Commissioner, Grover Robinson, she will be filling a vacancy that occurred as a result of the election of FAC officers i...view

Policy Committee Conference - Register Today!The 2014-15 Policy Committee Conference will be held September 17-19, 2014 at the Sandestin Beach Resort in Walton County. This event brings together the FAC Legislative Policy Committees to examine the Association's agenda for the next legislativ...view

Commissioner Cyndi Stevenson receives Scholarship to Leadership FloridaFAC and UF/IFAS have once again partnered with Leadership Florida to provide a $5,000 scholarship through FACTOR for an ACC Alumni to participate in the Annual Leadership Florida class.  Each year, between 40 and 70 applicants from a variety ...view

CCC Workshops at the 2014 FAC Policy ConferenceCOUNTY GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE AND AUTHORITY and COUNTY GOVERNMENT ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES September 17 - 18, 2014 (6 Core Credits each) Included with your Policy Commit...view

ACC Application - Available Online August 4th at 10:00 a.m. EDTThe application for the 2014 – 2015 ACC Program will open on Monday (August 4th) at 10:00 am EDT.  Before you apply to attend the ACC program, please check your calendars...view

Second Rule Workshop on Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act On August 1, 2014, beginning at 9:00 a.m., the Department of Health will hold another workshop on establishing a regulatory structure supporting the Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act of 2014, including the creation of dispensing regions, ap...view

Update on Waters of the U.S. - Proposed RuleEPA Local Government Advisory Committee Workgroup On July 10th, Stephen James attended a meeting of EPA’s Local Government Advisory Committee and its “Protecting America’s Waters Workshop” in Atlanta...view

Sustainable Florida Seeks Nominations for Best Practice AwardsTallahassee, FL – July 2014 – Sustainable Florida, the state’s premier organization promoting a bettersocial, environmental and economic future, seeks nominations for the annual Best Practice Awards...view

Policy Committee Conference - Hotel Room Block is Open!The 2014-15 Policy Committee Conference will be held September 17-19 at the Sandestin Beach Resort in Walton County.  The room block is open so book today!  Call (800) 320-8115; the group code is 2353GC. FAC’s rate is $139 plus app...view

Rule Workshop on Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act of 2014On Monday, July 7, 2014, the Department of Health held its first Rule Workshop on proposed rules dealing with the implementation and regulation of SB1030, the Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act.  SB1030 provides for the medical use of low-THC...view

Senate Community Planning Act SurveyThe Senate Community Affairs Committee is reviewing how some of the changes to the growth management act (now known as the Community Planning Act) are working at the local level.  Specifically, during the 2014 legislative session, bills were ...view

2015 FAC Calendar Theme ContestIt's that time of year again!  We here at FAC are getting ready to put together the 2015 FAC Calendar and it's time to vote on the theme for next year.  You have until August 1st to vote for your favorite theme, we'll announce the winner...view

Sponsor Spotlight: ACD Telecom, LLC. in Lake Mary, FL From the time of inception in 1998, ACD Telecom, LLC. has become ...view

UPDATE: DJJ Rule Development and Rule ChallengeThe litigating parties in the Rule Challenge held a status conference with the Administrative Law Judge Wednesday, July 9, 2014, where it was decided the Rule Challenge will be held in abeyance pending DJJ’s Notification of Amended/Modified ...view

FAC Annual Tentative Property Tax Rate ReportWith the TRIM (Truth in Millage) process starting on Tuesday July 1st, FAC is preparing to conduct its annual property tax survey to collect data to produce our annual property tax report later this summer. ...view

Federal Tax ReformFrom: NACo (National Association of Counties); by Jacque Alamia Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Ranking Member Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) recently signaled their continued commitment to ove...view

Update on Waters of the U.S. As of last week, more than 260 lawmakers, from both chambers and both parties, have come out publicly against the proposed rule on Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS).  A group of 231 members of the House of Representatives sent a letter to the EPA an...view

State Approves Sale of Surplus Property to Fund Land AcquisitionLast week, the Florida Cabinet approved the sale of approximately $27 million in surplus property, the proceeds of which will be used by Florida Forever, its conservation land-buying program.   The surplus property includes four closed p...view

Florida Bans the Importation of Lionfish The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has given its final approval to a ban on the importation of lionfish into Florida.  This ban would impact those who deal in the invasive species for resale for the aquarium trade, and will...view

SURVEY - Annual Conference The FAC 2014 Annual Conference & Educational Exposition was held June 17-20 at the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek in Orange County. If you attended, we need and welcome your feedback. Please help us with future program planning by completing this...view

Grover Robinson Installed as FAC PresidentEscambia County Commissioner Grover C. Robinson, IV was installed to serve as President of the Florida Association of Counties (FAC).  Robinson was sworn in during the installation lunch at the 2014 FAC Annual Conference and Educational Expos...view

Annual Conference - It's Not Too Late to RegisterIf you would like to attend the FAC 2014 Annual Conference but haven’t registered yet, it’s not too late.  You can register on-site.  The FAC Registration Desk will be open Tuesday, June 17 from 3:00 – 6:30 p.m. and wil...view

Annual Conference - Silent AuctionFAC is once again collaborating with the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs, the Florida Veterans Foundation (FVF), and the County Veterans' Service Officers Association of Florida to hold a silent auction on Wednesday, June 18 in the Exhibit ...view

Pre-Conference Welcome EventKick-off your conference with an evening of fun, fellowship and a little old fashioned competition.  We know many of you will arrive in Tampa on Tuesday afternoon and will need something to do that evening so join us! The Welcome Event will b...view

Florida Trend President will Speak at Opening SessionOur theme for this year's Annual Conference is "Florida Lives Here" and the Opening General Session on Wednesday will focus on all of the exciting things that are currently going on in the state and to help us better understand the diversity that ...view

Orlando Magic's Lucas Boyce to SpeakOrange County has arranged for a presentation by Lucas Boyce at the Installation Luncheon on Thursday. Lucas has overcome many obstacles to achieve his dreams. When Lucas graduated high-school, he had three aspirations: to work at the White House,...view

Senator Bill Nelson Invited for Closing SessionSenator Bill Nelson will be our Keynote for this session. Nelson is a Florida native who grew up on the Space  Coast.  His public service career began in 1972, with his election to the Florida Legislature. He then served six terms in the...view

Marion County Commissioner Kathy Bryant is FAC's New 2nd VPIn accordance with the FAC Bylaws, any commissioner, other than commissioners currently in office, who choose to run for Association office must have formally declared their candidacy via certified mail, with a postmark date no later than May 15, ...view

Trial Court Prohibits Governor from Removing Commissioners Under Firearms Preemption StatuteIn December 2011, the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners and several individual commissioners filed suit against the state, challenging HB 45 (2011), the additional firearms preemption bill from the 2011 legislative session. Specifica...view

2014 General Appropriations Act Signed General Overview Governor Rick Scott signed the 2014 General Appropriations Act – the state’s spending plan for SFY 2015. The budget totals $77 billion, with more than $68.9 million in spending vetoed by the Governor. Ov...view

Waters of the U.S. UpdateThe EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have announced that they are extending the public comment period for their Joint “Waters of the U.S.” (WOTUS) proposed rule from July 21 until October 20, 2014, an additional 91 days. This e...view

Governor Vetoes Lionfish Bounty ProgramThe Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWCC) had requested and the Legislature approved funding in the 2014 state budget in the amount of $427,000 to address the proliferation of lionfish in state waters.  These funds would ha...view

DEP Holding Seminar and Workshop on Public Mooring Fields - General Permit The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has announced a public workshop on the adoption of a new environmental resource permit for public mooring fields to accommodate up to 100 vessels.  This general permit is required by § 373...view

DEP Beach Management Funding Assistance Program / Local Government Funding RequestThe DEP is planning the development of the annual prioritized list of beach and inlet management projects in preparation for submittal of the Department’s FY2015/2016 Local Government Funding Request (LGFR) and the FY2015/2025 Long-Range Bud...view

Deciding When to Outsource Energy Services“Outsourcing” traces its modern roots to the global expansion of business in the 1970s and 80s. During this time frame, the mindset was that, in order to compete, organizations must focus on their core business, and then identify other...view

Traveling to NACo Conference in New Orleans? Don't miss this sessionA.Healthstat, a FAC Platinum Corporate Partner, is encouraging Florida’s delegation to attend the workshop entitled “Return on Investment for Onsite Health Clinics”.   Tim Lee, Chair of Cobb County Commissioners will be s...view

FAC 2014 Annual Conference and Educational ExpositionREGISTER BY JUNE 6 - SAVE $50 Be sure to register by Friday, June 6th - registration fees increase $50 after this date.  Register online or postmark your check by June 6th. ...view

DJJ Proposed Rule Hearing This is just a reminder that the hearing on DJJ’S proposed rules on detention cost-share is in Tallahassee, next Friday, June 6, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. FAC created a separate website with all hearing information, relevant documents and upcoming ...view

Florida Retirement System - Implementation of GASB 68Along with members of the Florida Government Finance Officers Association (FGFOA) and Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants(FICPA), FAC attended a meeting with the Florida Department of Management Services, Division of Retirement(DMS) ...view

New Jail Reporting Requirements: Sexually Violent OffendersThis Session, the Legislature passed a series of bills that changed civil and criminal laws related to sexual offenders and predators (SB 522, 524, 526 and 528).  Specifically, SB 522 places new reporting requirements on jails related to pers...view

Waters of the U.S. Update As previously reported, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) published a proposed rule entitled Definition of “Waters of the United States” Under the Clean Water Act  on April ...view

Corps of Engineers Approves $1.9 Billion Everglades PlanLast Week, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers approved a $1.9 billion plan for central Everglades restoration projects, after weeks of criticism over its review process.   Environmentalists had hoped the Central Everglades Planning Project...view

South Florida Water Management District Proposes New CUPCon RulesThe SFWMD is re-initiating rule development to amend its consumptive use permitting pursuant to the DEP’s statewide effort to improve consistency and efficiency throughout the state.   The re-initiation will cure some discrepancies...view

Senate Appropriations Committee Approves Agriculture Spending BillFrom The Ferguson Group The Senate Appropriations Committee approved a $20.6 billion Agriculture spending bill last Thursday that contains a carefully constructed compromise on enforcing school nutrition standards. At the mar...view

Congress Sends Water Infrastructure Bill to the President From The Ferguson Group On May 22, the Senate passed the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014 (WRRDA) by a vote of 91-7, sending the measure (HR 3080) to the President's desk for his sign...view

2014 Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday (May 31 through June 8, 2014)The first of three temporary sales tax holidays will take place from May 31st through June 8, 2014. During the “Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday” period, qualifying items related to hurricane preparedness are exempt ...view

Are You Leaving Office in 2012?County Commissioners are the lifeblood of the Association, and every year a few of you choose to hang your hat and leave the public arena for the greener pastures of privacy and normalcy. If you have decided to leave office, and this is your last ...view

Visit NACo's Research CenterThe National Association of Counties has recently upgraded their web portal to include a dedicated research section.  Visit http://www.naco.org/research/Pages/Research-Center.a...view

July is Bladder Cancer Awareness Month Once again, Florida’s legislature, has passed a Joint Resolution sponsored by ...view

Register Today and SaveThe FAC 2014 Annual Conference is just around the corner!  Be sure to register for Annual Conference before Friday, June 6 to avoid the next fee increase (early bird rates ended on May 9th).  ...view

Florida Trend President to Speak at Annual ConferenceOur theme for this year's Annual Conference is "Florida Lives Here" and the Opening General Session will focus on all of the exciting things that are currently going on in the state and to help us better understand the diversity that is Florida.&nbsp...view

Wind and Flood Mitigation WorkshopsFAC is offering two Mitigation workshops free of charge to our Counties!  Thanks to a generous grant from the Florida Division of Emergency Management, we are able to offer two...view

Bipartisan Conference Committee Approves Water Funding Bill Last week, a joint congressional conference committee approved a bicameral and bipartisan conference report on the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA), which will now become the final version of t...view

Federal Government Announces Plan to Battle Citrus Greening According to the Associated Press, the U.S. government will spend $1.5 million on efforts to control the bacteria that causes citrus greening.  U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the money w...view

Urban Turf Fertilizers - Notice of Meeting/Workshop DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND CONSUMER SERVICES Urban Turf Fertilizers - Notice of Meeting/Workshop  ...view

Governor Scott Signs HB 5601From the Governor's Press Office Monday May 12, 2014 ORLANDO, Fla. – Today, Governor Rick Scott signed House Bill 5601 that cuts more than $121 million in taxes. The signing of this legislation also b...view

DJJ Issues Proposed RulesOn Thursday, May 15, DJJ published its Notice of Proposed Rules regarding detention cost-sharing, with a scheduled hearing in Tallahassee on June 6, 2014, at 10:00 a.m. EST (phone participation will be allowed, with advanced notice).  Fo...view

Op-Ed on Water Resources Development ActOctober 24, 2013 Recently, state and local elected officials and community leaders from 16 South Florida counties trave...view

Cutting Government Waste: Something We Can All Agree OnApril 9, 2014 BY Commissioner Bryan Desloge, Leon County From balancing a state budget to considering hundreds of bills, Florida lawmakers face a lot of tough challenges during the annual 60-day Legislative Session.  With so many...view

FAC Significant Bill SummaryTo download the most recent Significant Bill Summary click here....view

Health and Human Services Update *FAC PRIORITY* Relating to Homelessness SB 1090 (Sen. Latvala) and HB 979 (Rep. Peters) Summary: Requires the Florida Housing Financ...view

Growth Management and Transportation UpdateVacation Rentals *REMOVES PREEMPTION* HB 307 (Rep. Hutson) and SB 356 (Sen. Thrasher) Summary:    Removes a preemption p...view

Agriculture and Environment UpdateSprings Protection *UNFUNDED MANDATE* SB 1576 (Sen. Dean)   Summary:  Designates act as "Florida Springs and Aquifer Prote...view

Public Safety Update *FAC PRIORITY* Juvenile Detention Costs *UNFUNDED MANDATE* SB 1532 (Sen. Bradley) / HB 5305 (Justice Appropriations/McBurney) Summ...view

Finance and Tax Update *FAC Priority* 2014 Tax Reduction and Economic Development Incentive Package 1. Motor Vehicle License Fees ($0 impact to local governments - Cities and Counties)&n...view

Administration UpdatePublic Records *UNFUNDED MANDATE* SB 1648 (Formerly PCB 7064, Government Oversight) and HB 1151 (Rep. Hood) Summary:  Prohibits the use of pu...view

Wind and Flood Mitigation WorkshopsOnce again, FAC is offering two Mitigation workshops free of charge to our Counties!  Thanks to a generous grant from the Florida Division of Emergency Management, we are able to offer ...view

Annual Conference - Register Today!Registration is now open.  Click here to register online. Unfortunately, the room block at the Hilton Bonnet Creek is currently sold out on Thursday night....view

FEMA External Affairs BulletinThe FEMA External Affairs Bulletin is distributed weekly and includes information on the latest consultations, advisories and open comment periods. It also includes important announcements from around FEMA and useful links to stakeholder resources...view

Legislature on Easter BreakThe State Legislature was on a break this week in observance of Passover and Easter.  They will return to Tallahassee next week.  For an update on the legislation we are following you can read our most recent Significant Bill Summary ...view

Annual Conference - Register Today!Registration is now open.  Click here to register online. Unfortunately, the room block at the Hilton Bonnet Creek is currently sold out on Thursday night.  You ...view

Wind and Flood Mitigation WorkshopsOnce again, FAC is offering two Mitigation workshops free of charge to our Counties.  Thanks to a grant from the Florida Division of Emergency Management, we are able to offer two programs this year, one on Wind Mitigation an...view

Leadership Florida Opportunity for ACC GraduatesAs part of the sponsorship from UF/IFAS Extension, FAC is pleased to once again provide the opportunity to assist our ACC Graduates with scholarships of up to $5,000 to participate in the next Leadership Florida Class beginning in the Fall of 2014...view

News Service of Florida's Political AlmanacNews Service of Florida recently published their first Political Almanac which provides a state House district by district look the at the stat in terms of the demographics of the residents and how they vote.  If you are interested in purchasing...view

Counties Claim State Owes Money By Overcharging For Juvenile Detention CostsThis article from WFSU was published on April 16th Florida’s counties say the state owes them money. They claim they’ve been overcharged for helping pay the cost of juveniles in detention centers. The two sides appear c...view

Administration *UNFUNDED MANDATE* Public Records                               &n...view

Finance and Tax*FAC Priority* Tax Reduction and Economic Development Incentive Package HB 5601 Bo...view

Public Safety*FAC PRIORITY* *UNFUNDED MANDATE* Juvenile Detention Costs                 ...view

Agriculture and Environment*UNFUNDED MANDATE* Springs Protection                                           &nbsp...view

Growth Management and Transportation*REMOVES PREEMPTION* Vacation Rentals                                           &nbsp...view

Health and Human Services*FAC PRIORITY* Relating to Homelessness SB 1090 (Sen. Latvala) and HB 979 (Rep. Peters) ...view

Wind and Flood Mitigation WorkshopsOnce again, FAC is offering two Mitigation workshops free of charge to our Counties.  Thanks to a grant from the Florida Divisio...view

UF/IFAS 100th Anniversary Celebration - April 17thFAC is pleased to announce the celebration of the 100th Anniversary of UF/IFAS Extension on April 17th from 11:00 a...view

Annual Conference - Room Block UpdateThe room block at the Hilton Bonnet Creek is almost sold out (depending on the nights you plan to stay) – Thursday night is currently completely sold out. We are working to locate some overflow hotels nearby a...view

Strong UF/IFAS Extension Partnership ContinuesFor years,  FAC has worked closely with the University of Florida/IFAS Extension. Over the last decade, the two organizations have strengthen their partnership,  discovered many similarities in their missi...view

Next Week in the Legislature The Senate and the House will take a break over the week of April 14 in recognition of Easter and Passover. Conference committees will meet on their return.  ...view

This Week in the Legislature The House and Senate heard bills relating to the Florida Retirement System. SB 1114 and HB 7173 were voted favorably out of their first committees. The Senate bill now heads to Appropriations while the House bill heads to the floor. Among ot...view

Bryan Desloge for NACo 2nd Vice President  This week the President Desloge’s hometown paper highlighted his effort...view

NACo Presidential Appointment Process Coming SoonOn April 3, 2014, the National Association of Counties (NACo) sent State Association Executive Directors a memo...view

Annual Conference - Hotel Room Block Is OpenClick here to book online.  Or, call (800) 445-8667 to reserve your room at the Hilton Bonnet Creek. Ask for the Florida Association of Counties block...view

Health and Human Services Update *FAC PRIORITY* Relating to Homelessness SB 1090 (Sen. Latvala) and HB 979 (Rep. Peters) Summary: Requires the Florida Housing Financ...view

Growth Management and Transportation UpdateVacation Rentals HB 307 (Rep. Hutson) and SB 356 (Sen. Thrasher) Summary:    Removes a preemption placed on local governments in 2011 that...view

Agriculture and Environment UpdateSprings Protection SB 1576 (Sen. Dean)   Summary:  Designates act as "Florida Springs and Aquifer Protection Act";  Provide...view

Public Safety Update *FAC PRIORITY* Juvenile Detention Costs SB 1532 (Sen. Bradley) / HB 5305 (Justice Appropriations/McBurney) Summary: ...view

Finance and Tax Update *FAC Priority* HB 5601 Tax Reduction and Economic Development Incentive Package House Proposed Concept Both the Senate and House have agreed upon reducing Motor Vehicle License Fees by approxim...view

Administration UpdatePublic Records SB 1648 (Formerly PCB 7064, Government Oversight) and HB 1151 (Rep. Hood) Summary:  Prohibits the use of public funds in payment of ...view

Florida Economic ConditionsOn Monday March 31st  the Office of Economic and Demographic Research (EDR) released its latest report related to the state of the economy in Florida. Major highlights of this report include: Florida growth rates are ...view

Top 5 Misconceptions about the Procurement of Energy CommoditiesWhy overcoming them is critical to reducing costs Every day, energy decision-makers are bombarded with phone calls and emails from energy firms proclaiming they have the best ideas about how to procure energy. However, energy procurement ma...view

Wind and Flood Mitigation WorkshopsOnce again, FAC is offering two Mitigation workshops free of charge to our Counties.  Thanks to a grant from the Florida Division of Emergency Management, we are able to offer two programs this year, one on Wind Mitigation an...view

UF/IFAS 100th Anniversary Celebration - April 17thFAC is pleased to announce the celebration of the 100th Anniversary of UF/IFAS Extension on April 17th from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm at the UF Plaza of the America.  For more information on the festivities, be sure to ch...view

Economics of Medicaid Expansion ProgramThe Bob Graham Center for Public Service is holding a discussion on the economic impacts of Medicaid expansion on April 9 at 6 p.m. Robin Rudowitz, Associate Director, Kaiser Commission on Medicaid and the Uninsured, is an expert on state and fede...view

Legislative Day Survey If you attended the FAC Legislative Day last week in Tallahassee, we need your feedback!  Please help us with future program planning by completing an online survey.  Just click on the link below and you will be taken directly to the sur...view

This week in the Legislature Lisa Hurley testified in House Appropriations in support of HB 5305, which would amend the cost-share arrangement between counties and the Department of Juvenile Detention and resu...view

Next week in the Legislature Senator Bradley’s bill relating to juvenile detention costs (SB 1532) is on the calendar for a hearing in Senate Community Affairs. The bill eliminates DJJ’s flawed pro...view

Health and Human Services Update *FAC PRIORITY* Relating to Homelessness SB 1090 (Sen. Latvala) and HB...view

Growth Management and Transportation UpdateVacation Rentals                                     &...view

Agriculture and Environment UpdateSprings Protection                                     &nbs...view

Public Safety Update *FAC PRIORITY* Juvenile Detention Costs                                 &nbsp...view

Finance and Tax Update *FAC Priority* HB 5601 Tax Reduction and Economic Development Incentive Package Both the Senate and House have agreed upon reducing Motor Vehicle License Fees by approximately $395 million.  As a part...view

Administration UpdatePublic Records                                      &n...view

EPA and USACOE Release Proposed Rule on Waters of the U.S.On Tuesday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) jointly released a proposed rule to clarify protections under the Clean Water Act for streams and wetlands.  This rule could have signifi...view

Governor Scott Announces Restoration Projects in Apalachicola Bay Governor Scott has announced specific projects to be funded by the $6.3 million in federal disaster assistance approved last month.    The projects, which must first be approved by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration...view

2014 Florida Auditor General's Recommendations on Beach Erosion Control ProgramThe Florida DEP’s Beach Management Funding Assistance Program has announced that it will be presenting a webinar to address the 2014 Florida Auditor General’s Recommendations in Report No. 2014-064.   The webinar will be pres...view

Leadership Florida Opportunity for ACC GraduatesAs part of the sponsorship from UF/IFAS Extension, FAC is pleased to once again provide the opportunity to assist our ACC Graduates with scholarships of up to $5,000 to participate in the next Leadership Florida Class beginning in the Fall of 2014...view

Florida's Workforce System Unifies with Single Brand to Better Reach Employers and Job SeekersAt CareerSource Florida and in the offices of our 24 regional partners, we have done more than just change our name. To better assist job seekers and businesses who often work and operate throughout their region and the state, we aligned the brand...view

Legislative Day - It's Not Too Late to Register! If you plan to attend Legislative Day next week on Thursday, March 27, but haven’t registered yet, you can register on-site. Registration will open at 8:15 a.m. at the FSU Turnbull Conference Center.   The Legislative Day event ...view

REGISTER TODAY for these upcoming Educational Opportunities.2014 ETHICS WORKSHOPS – March 27, June 17, and December 5 (6 CCC Core credits) During the last year’s Legislative Session, the Florida Legislature passed new ethics legislation requiring that Co...view

April is National County Government MonthEach year, the National Association of Counties (NACo) encourages counties to promote county government programs and services provided in their communities and to celebrate their successes during the month of April. This year’s theme is...view

Legislative Update: Health and Human ServicesRelating to Substance Abuse Services SB 582 (Sen. Clemens) and HB 479 (Rep. Hagar) ...view

Legislative Update: Growth Management, Transportation, Agriculture & EnvironmentVacation Rentals HB 307 (Rep. Hutson) and SB 356 (Sen. Thrasher) ...view

Legislative Update: Public Safety Juvenile Detention Costs (Unfunded Mandate) SB 1532 (Sen. Bradley) / HB 5305 (Justice...view

Legislative Update: Finance, Tax and AdministrationRelating to Communications Services Taxes SB 266 (Hukill)  Summary: (After 3/19/2014 A...view

Florida Entertainment Production Industry Fact Sheet 2014The Entertainment Production Industry Rally in Tally will take place next week - Wednesday, March 26, 2014 - in Tallahassee. The purpose of this Rally is to allow industry members and interested parties the opportunity to thank legislators...view

Legislative Day - Register Today! If you plan to attend Legislative Day in March, be sure to register by Thursday, March 20!  After this date, higher on-site fees will apply. Legislative Day will be held at the FSU Turnbull Conference Center, Thursday, March 27.  ...view

LAST CALL to register for classes before the prices increase on March 20th! 2014 ETHICS WORKSHOPS – March 27, June 17, and December 5 (6 CCC Core credits) During the last year’s Legislative Session, the Florida Legislature passed new ethics legislation requiring ...view

Thank You to our Legislative Day SponsorsThe Florida Association of Counties would like to take a moment to thank our 2014 Legislative Day Sponsors! Sponsors for Legislative Day help make it possible to host a Legislative Briefing so that we can better inform our members of the progressi...view

President Obama signs Bipartisan Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act into LawToday President Obama signed the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act (H.R. 3370).  See below for more information on H.R. 3370. ----- Friday, March 14, 2014 U.S. Senate Passes Bipartisan Homeowner Flood Insuran...view

Health and Human Services UpdateRelating to Florida Clean Indoor Air Act SB 342 (Sen. Bradley) and HB 309 (Rep. Edwards)...view

Growth Management, Agriculture & Environment UpdateVacation Rentals HB 307 (Rep. Hutson) and SB 356 (Sen. Thrasher) ...view

Public Safety UpdateJuvenile Detention Costs SB 1352 (Sen. Bradley) Summary:  &n...view

Finance, Tax and Administration UpdateRelating to Communications Services Taxes SB 266 (Hukill)  Summary: SB 266 reduces the...view

NACo 2014 Achievement AwardsFrom the National Association of Counties NACo is proud to announce that the 2014 Achievement Awards process is now open for submissions! Since 1970, NACo has been highlighting county projects through the Ac...view

2014 Virtual Business SummitIf you’re an established business or industry seeking to expand or improve … or a start-up business newly underway … an entrepreneur with ideas for starting a business … or an economic or business developer otherwise int...view

U.S. House of Representatives Passes Bipartisan Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act to Address Massive Flood Insurance Hikes  From left: Eric Poole, Deena Reppen, Congressman Ted...view

FAC Hosts Inaugural Congressional BreakfastIn tandem with the National Association of Counties’ 2014 Legislative Conference, the Florida Association of Counties hosted its inaugural Florida Congressional Breakfast on March 4 in Washington, D.C.  The breakfast was held at The Florid...view

Citrus & Snow: Commissioner Bryan Desloge kicks off his campaign for NACo 2nd VP in Washington D.C.  From left: Broward County Comissioner Kristin Jacobs, Miami-Dade County Commissioner Sa...view

Legislative Update: Health & Human ServicesRelating to Florida Clean Indoor Air Act SB 342 (Sen. Bradley) and HB 309 (Rep. Edwards) ...view

Legislative Update: Growth Management, Agriculture & Environment Vacation Rentals HB 307 (Rep. Hutson) and SB 356 (Sen.Thrasher) ...view

Legislative Update: Public Safety Juvenile Detention Costs SB 1352 (Sen. Bradley) Summary...view

Legislative Update: Finance, Tax and AdministrationRelating to Communications Services Taxes SB 266 (Hukill)  Summary: SB 266 reduces the...view

Legislative Day - Register Today! If you plan to attend Legislative Day in March, be sure to register by Thursday, March 20!  After this date, higher on-site fees will apply. Legislative Day will be held at the FSU Turnbull Conference Center, Thursday, March 27. &nbsp...view

Upcoming educational opportunities - open to ALL Commissioners, County Staff and all Constitutional Officers2014 Ethics Workshops – March 27, June 17, and December 5 (6 CCC Core credits) During the last year’s Legislative Session, the Florida Legislature passed new ethics legislation requiring that C...view

UF/IFAS Center for Public Issues Education hosts webinar on resolving community issuesEasy as PIE Webinar Series ...view

Legislation filed to provide for dedicated funding for homeless programsSen. Latvala and Rep. Peters filed legislation to provide for a dedicated source of state funding for homeless programs throughout Florida.  SB 1090 and ...view

Representatives Gonzalez and Caldwell Presented with FAC AwardsThis week FAC Finance & Tax Advocate, Davin Suggs, presented Representative Eddy Gonzalez was presented with the 2013 Legislative Leadership Award for his leadership as the Chairman of the of the House of Representatives Local and Federal Affa...view

Florida Association of Counties Completes Federal Fly-In on Flood Insurance ReformU.S. House of Representatives announces issue will be addressed after February recess On February 11 and 12, 2014, the Florida Association of Counties (FAC), along with commissioners and staff from Martin, Charlotte, Lee, Miami-Dad...view

FAC Applauds Majority Leader Cantor's Announcement to Bring Flood Insurance Reform to House FloorOn February 12, U.S. House of Representatives’ Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) announced that the House will “act to protect the flood insurance program but also protect homeowners from unreasonable and unrealistic premium increases...view

Florida Retirement System Reform On Tuesday, February 18th the Senate Committee for Community Affairs passed by a 5-4 vote a Proposed Committee Bill (SB7046) that would close the Defined Benefit Plan and crea...view

Ethics and ElectionsThe Senate Ethics and Elections committee passed SB846 this week which is considered to be the second part of the ethics reform package passed last year in SB 2.  The bill provides ...view

Controlled Substances (Synthetic Drugs)This year’s annual synthetic drugs bill HB 697 (Rep. Ingram) unanimously passed Criminal Justice committee this week.  The bill outlaws 6 new synthetic drug formulas to the il...view

Environment & AgricultureSB 624 - Fair Associations.  This bill prohibits counties from levying a tax, special assessment, or fee for the pl...view

Sayfie Water Summit This week, the Sayfie Review and the Graham Center presented a pre-session forum on Florida’s water Issues with special guests Senator Joe Negron and Speaker-Designate Steve Crisafulli.  The forum was an informal discussion moderated by...view

Legislative Day - Deadlines Approaching If you plan to attend Legislative Day in March, book your hotel room NOW!  Hotel room blocks are filling fast – both blocks will close on Tuesday (February 25).  After the blocks close, the reduced FAC rate may not be available.&nb...view

Upcoming educational opportunities - open to ALL Commissioners, County Staff and all Constitutional Officers2014 ETHICS WORKSHOPS – March 27, June 17, and December 5 (6 CCC Core credits) During the last year’s Legislative Session, the Florida Legislature passed new ethics legislation requirin...view

New FAC Silver Corporate PartnerFAC is pleased to announce the addition of Locklear & Associates, Inc. to the Corporate Partner family.  Locklear & Associates is a full-service engineering and environmental consulting firm dedicated to consistently providing quality...view

Legislative Day - Deadlines Approaching If you plan to attend Legislative Day in March, book your hotel room NOW!  Hotel room blocks are filling fast and the cut-off dates are near.  Also, the Early Bird registration rate expires on February 28 – be sure to register onli...view

FAC Executive Committee Meets with Governor Rick Scott  This week, the Florida Association of Counties’ Executive Committee met wit...view

United States Senate Passes Delay in Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Rate Hikes; Floridians Waiting on House ActionOn January 30, the United States Senate passed S.1926 to delay the implementation of certain provisions of the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act (BW-12).  BW-12 is designed to eliminate government flood insurance subsidies and stabili...view

Major win for America's counties in farm bill conference report Press release from the National Association of Counties PILT funding extended for one year; rural development priorities secured WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last ni...view

Sober Homes bill to be heard next weekSB 582 – Relating to Substance Abuse Services, will be heard in Senate Children, Families, and Elder Affairs on Tuesday, February 11th at 10am.  The proposed bill c...view

Juvenile Justice - 985 Rewrite This week the House Criminal Justice committee unanimously passed Proposed Committee Bill 14-01 pertaining to revisions to the Chapter 985, Florida Statutes, governing the juvenile justice system.  The bill has broad stakeholder support and p...view

SB862 - Prescription Drug Monitoring ProgramOn Tuesday the Senate Health Policy committee took up Proposed Committee bill 7016 which seeks to overhaul safety provisions related to the State Prescription Drug Monitoring Program dat...view

Relating to Communications Services Taxes - SB 266 (Hukill) On Tuesday, February 4th, 2014 SB 266 (Sen. Hukill) relating to communications Services Taxes was heard and passed by the Senate Communications, Energy, and Public Utilities C...view

Numeric Nutrient Criteria What’s Next: After a favorable ruling by the federal court last month regarding the modification of the Consent Decree, it is expected that the EPA will now approve Florida’s pending criteria and withdraw its federal criteria.&...view

Governor Scott's Recommended BudgetLast week, Governor Scott released his recommended budget for Fiscal Year 2014-15.  In the Environmental and Natural Resources category, the Governor recommended a total appropriation of $3.3 billion, with approximately $1.41 billion or 43% t...view

Committee Week Update: Environment & AgricultureWater and Wastewater Utility Systems Two different bills dealing with Water and Wastewater Utility Systems were heard this week.  The House bill (...view

St. Johns District Accepting Applications for Cost-Share ProjectsThe St. Johns River Water Management District is accepting applications from Feb. 3 to March 31, 2014, for cost-share funding for projects that will provide: Nutrient-loading reduction in springsheds, the Indian River Lagoon and other...view

"Diversifying Florida's Economy through Local Economic Development" On January 30th 2014, Florida TaxWatch published a report titled “Diversifying Florida’s Economy through Local Economic Development”. This report gives local government guidance to choose between development projects t...view

2014 Ethics WorkshopOpen to all Commissioners, County Staff and all Constitutional Officers During the 2013 Legislative Session, the Florida legislature passed new ethics legislation requiring that Commissioners and Constitutional Officers take four h...view

Jones Edmunds Goes Platinum!We are pleased to announce that long time FAC supporter Jones Edmunds & Associates, Inc. is our newest Platinum Corporate Partner.  Jones Edmunds has been a part of the FAC Corporate Partner program for 9 years. Their continued support ha...view

REGISTER TODAY the upcoming Regional Workshop on the Legislative Process on January 30th! This regional workshop will focus on the upcoming Legislative Session for Florida and how to make the best of the process.  It will cover the Legislative timelines, committee structures, calendars, bill tracking, and coordination between the ...view

2014 ETHICS WORKSHOP - Open to all Commissioners, County Staff and all Constitutional OfficersDuring the 2013 Legislative Session, the Florida legislature passed new ethics legislation requiring that Commissioners and Constitutional Officers take four hours of Ethics programming each calendar year.  Since 1996, as part of FAC's Certif...view

2014 Legislative Overview Webinar - Free for members!Join us for an overview of our priority issues and a look at what we expect to be big this year as we head in to the 2014 Legislative Session.  The webinar will be Wednesday, February 26th at 10:00AM ET.  ...view

Join FAC in Washington to Share Your Concerns on Flood Insurance Reform, February 11On January 27, the United States Senate is expected to take up a bill (S. 1926) that would delay certain flood insurance rate hikes resulting from the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 (BW-12). This bill is an important first step ...view

Governor's Budget to Be Released on Wednesday, January 29, 2014It has been confirmed by the Governor’s Office that Governor Rick Scott’s spending plan for FY 2014-2015 will be released on Wednesday, January 29, 2014. The Governor’s budget recommendations are typically submitted to the Legisl...view

Juvenile Detention Cost-ShareLast week in the Senate Appropriations Committee for Criminal and Civil Justice, the Department of Juvenile Justice and FAC were scheduled to provide an update on the status of the detention cost-share issue.  Although the committee meeting w...view

HB 301 and SB 584 - Relating to Medical ExaminersState law, s. 406.11, F.S., requires medical examiners to determine and verify the cause of death in certain cases, generally in situations where death is unusual or there are suspicious circumstances.  Additionally, medical examiners must de...view

Governor Scott Announces Environmental Protection Funding Recommendations This week, Governor Rick Scott announced that his 2014-2015 budget recommendation will include $55 million in funding for restoration and protection of Florida’s springs.  This total contemplates $25 million for water quantity and water...view

Representative Patronis Files Environmental Regulation BillThis week, Representative Patronis has filed his fourth consecutive Environmental Regulation bill (HB 703).   The bill, in its current form, comprises ten sections and 13 pages, although there is no way to predict the amendatory process....view

Central Florida Water Initiative Draft Regional Water Supply Plan Comment Period Extended The Central Florida Water Initiative (CFWI) brings together the St. Johns River, South Florida and Southwest Florida water management districts with the DEP, DACS and regional utilities to address short-term and long-term water supply needs in the...view

Public meetings scheduled for SJRWMD Water Supply Plan 2013 The St. Johns River Water Management District will hold five public meetings and a technical methods workshop to discuss the draft District Water Supply Plan 2013 (Plan) and to obtain public input. One of those is a newly added public meeting in J...view

Nationwide and NACo College Scholarship OpportunityYour high school senior can be awarded $2,000 for college. You may not have thought about it, but you're in a race against time to get ready to retire. The good news is: participating in your employer's retirement plan puts you in the drive...view

Legislative Day is March 27th - Register Today Join us at the FSU Turnbull Conference Center, Thursday, March 27 for the Florida Association of Counties 2014 Legislative Day.  As a participant, you will get up-to-date information on legislative actions affecting county government. ...view

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN for the upcoming Regional Workshop on the Legislative ProcessThis regional workshop will focus on the upcoming Legislative Session for Florida and how to make the best of the process.  It will cover the Legislative timelines, committee structures, calendars, bill tracking, and coordination between the ...view

2014 Ethics WorkshopOpen to all Commissioners, County Staff and all Constitutional Officers During the 2013 Legislative Session, the Florida legislature passed new ethics legislation requiring that Commissioners and Constitutional Officers take four h...view

FAC Travels to Washington, D.C. on Biggert-Waters, National Flood Insurance Program Addressing the effects of the 2012 Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act on Florida’s communities was adopted as a federal advocacy priority for the Association this past fall. Braving the polar vortex, FAC staff this week travele...view

SB 342 - Relating to Florida Clean Indoor Air Act passes first committee SB 342, which would authorize local governments to further restrict smoking on certain county or municipal property, passed unanimously in Senate Regulated Industries on Thursday, Januar...view

Post-Adjudicatory Drug CourtsOn Thursday, the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Criminal and Civil Justice met to review the OPPAGA report on the effectiveness of Florida’s post-adjudicatory drug courts. Chapter 2013-40, Laws of Florida, directs OPPAGA to evaluate t...view

Sentencing ReformThe House Criminal Justice committee met on Thursday to workshop a sentencing reform bill.  The package contains several provisions that both increase and decrease penalties for certain some criminal offenses.  In its current form it inc...view

Federal Court Approves State Numeric Nutrient Criteria Rules On Tuesday, Judge Robert Hinkle approved the motion by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to modify the 2009 consent decree between the agency and environmental groups.&...view

Senator Simmons Releases New Draft Springs Protection BillOn Thursday, January 9, Senator Simmons released a REVISED DRAFT of the Springs Protection Bill after considering the many comments received from stakeholder groups including the Florida Association of Counties.  Although we are still reviewi...view

Environment & Agriculture Committee Wrap-UpSenate Agriculture Committee – This week the Committee heard a presentation on Bear Management in Florida by Nick Wiley, the Executive Director of Florida’s Fish and Wildlife Conservatio...view

Onsite Sewage Program Research Review and Advisory Committee (RRAC)In accordance with Section 381.0065, F.S., the Florida Association of Counties must appoint a member to the Department of Health Onsite Sewage Program Research Review and Advisory Committee (RRAC). The Committee assists the Department of Health in...view

Legislative Day - Book Your Hotel Room Today!The 2014 Legislative Day will be held on Thursday, March 27 at the FSU Turnbull Conference Center in Leon County.  A reception honoring the Florida Legislature will be held on Wednesday evening, March 26.  Hotel room blocks are open &nda...view

CCC Year End Update This year’s class promises to be the largest group of graduates to date!  Of the most recent class of 98 new commissioners, I am pleased to announce that 22 have already completed all their CCC requirements for graduation and 28 need a ...view

Regional Workshop on the Legislative ProcessLooking for that perfect last minute Holiday gift?  REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN for the upcoming Regional Workshop on the Legislative Process.  This regional workshop will focus on the upcoming Legislative ...view

MLS Expansion to FloridaOn July 31, 2013 during the MLS All Star Game, Commissioner Don Garber announced that the league would expand to 24 teams by 2020. This gave the Orlando based club a major boost towards their MLS bid. On November 19th, 2013 after the Or...view

SJRWMD Water Supply Plan Available to the PublicThe St. Johns River Water Management District has completed its DRAFT Water Supply Plan (WSP) and has made it available to local governments and other stakeholders.  The intent of the Water Supply Plan is to ensure that water supplies are ava...view

FY2014 Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) Payments in Jeopardy ...view

FAC Strategic Plan Regional MeetingsMark your calendars! FAC is working on our strategic plan which will set the direction for the Association for the next 3-5 years. How can we serve you better? What do you like? Don’t like? What do you want? ...view

Affordable HousingThe Florida Association of Counties (FAC) is working with a coalition of stakeholders to ensure the Legislature provides full funding for state and local SHIP programs for FY 14/15.  As a part of that effort, it is important for us to explain...view

Healthy PerspectivesHealthy Perspectives: The December issue of Healthy Perspectives is available on our website.  Brought to you...view

Mark Your Calendars for Legislative Day! The 2014 Legislative Day will be held on Thursday, March 27 at the FSU Turnbull Conference Center in Leon County.  A reception honoring the Florida Legislature will be held on Wednesday evening, March 26.  Registration and room block inform...view

Juvenile Detention Costs: FY12-13 Final Reconciliation REVISEDOn November 27, 2013, DJJ issued its 2012-13 Detention Cost Share Final Reconciliation indicating the counties were due a net credit of more than $41 million.   However, on December 3, 2013, DJJ released its REVISED Final Reconciliation ...view

FAC Legislative Team Meets with League of CitiesThis week, FAC’s Legislative team held joint meetings with it counterparts from the Florida League of Cities.   At the League’s recent Legislative Conference, the environmental policy committee selected two legislative priori...view

FAC Adopts Statement Supporting Regulation of Sober HousesDuring last month’s Legislative Conference, FAC adopted a policy statement in support of state legislation defining and establishing minimum regulatory standards for “sober houses” or “recovery residences,” while also...view

FAC Strategic Plan Regional MeetingsThe Florida Association of Counties has begun developing our next five year strategic plan through an appointed Strategic Planning Committee.  Our goal is to find new and innovative ways to serve our counties and grow business and cost saving op...view

Purchase your 2014 FAC Calendar today!The 2014 FAC Calendar has arrived!  This year’s theme is Beautiful Roads & Trails.   Florida is home to some of the most beautiful roads and trails - both natural and man-made - that you could ask for.  Whether you ri...view

Legislative Delegation MeetingsThe 2014 Legislative Session is right around the corner with committee weeks beginning in January.  FAC is preparing for another challenging session with the potential for tax cuts and unfunded mandates that effect local revenues. During Legi...view

Speaker-Designate Steve Crisafulli Pens Article Discussing Views on Florida's Water Issues We need commitment on Florida's water issues One of Florida’s most precious resources is water. Our state is world renowned for our 1,200 miles of beaches, our springs and more than 7,700 large lakes. Yet Flo...view

2014 FAC Priorities Focus on Tax Reform, Juvenile Detention, Funding for Water and HomelessAs the state economy begins to improve with modest revenue growth, FAC is preparing for another challenging legislative session and the potential for tax cuts and unfunded mandates that effect local revenues. During last week’s Legislative C...view

Legislative Conference Wrap-Up: Health & Human Services Policy CommitteeDuring the FAC Legislative Conference last week in Volusia County, the Health & Human Services Policy Committee met to adopt policy positions for the 2014 Legislative Session and select its top priorities.  Many items that have long been ...view

Legislative Conference Wrap-Up: Environment & AgricultureThe Growth Management, Agriculture & Environment Policy Committee had a very productive meeting last week, discussing several issues that we anticipate will receive heightened attention during the upcoming legislative session.   &nbs...view

CCC County Government WorkshopsThanks to all the Commissioners who attended the recent CCC workshops on County Government during our recent Legislative Conference in Volusia County.  We had two days of workshops filled with great speakers and both days were well attended.&...view

CCC Ethics WorkshopFAC was pleased to present an Ethics workshop after the Legislative Conference on November 15th.  Over 100 Commissioners, Constitutional Officers, and County Staff attended this workshop.  Thank you to all who attended and to ...view

Legislative Conference SurveyIf you attended the Legislative Conference, November 13-15, in Volusia County, we hope you enjoyed the event!  Now, we need your feedback. Please help us with future program planning by completing an online survey.  ...view

Housing and Insurance Committee Holds Hearing on National Flood Insurance ProgramThis week the U.S. House of Representatives’ Financial Services Housing and Insurance Subcommittee held a hearing concerning the National Flood Insurance Program and implementation of the 2012 Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act (BW-12...view

U.S. Senate and House of Representatives Appoint WRDA Conferees and Begin NegotiationsIn October, the U.S. House of Representatives easily passed an $8 billion water infrastructure bill known as the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA).   The bill authorizes a

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