2021-01-19 Item V.I - Letter to Gov. DeSantisCITY OF OKEECHOBEE
55 SE THIRD AVENUE
OKEECHOBEE, FL 34974
Phone: (863)763-3372
www. cityofokeechobee. com
January 26, 2021
Office of Governor Ron DeSantis
State of Florida
The Capitol
400 S. Monroe St.
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0001
GovernorRon. DeSantis (&eog. myflorida.com
Okeechobee City Council
Mayor Dowling R. Watford, Jr.
Wes Abney
Monica Clark
Bob Jarriel
Bobby Keefe
Re: South Florida Water Management District Governing Board vacancy for the
Heartland Region
Dear Governor DeSantis:
As you are well aware, South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) serves a
critical mission involving environmental protection, water supply, water quality, and
flood management within its 16-county jurisdiction. To serve this critical mission, it is
imperative that the board be comprised of individuals that serve a diverse cross-section
of interests directly impacted by the SFWMD's work.
In this regard, agriculture has been a cornerstone of Florida's economy and South
Florida's area specifically. As such, the City of Okeechobee strongly endorses the
appointment of a board member to fill the currently open seat who is familiar with the
heartland region and the unique needs and priorities of the region, including the
importance of the agricultural industry. The people of Okeechobee and the heartland
region deserve representation concerning the important issues before the SFWMD,
especially those concerning Lake Okeechobee - the lifeblood of our people and our
economy.
Your thoughtful consideration of this matter is greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
owling R. Watford, Jr.
Mayor
c: appointmentsPeog.myflorida.com