Media Release

8:34 a.m.

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - Commission Chairman Rodney J. Long has been selected by the Florida Association of Counties (FAC) to receive a 2008 FAC Presidential Advocacy Award.  The award will be presented during the FAC 2008 Annual Conference on June 25, 2008 in Miami.

The Presidential Advocacy Award is awarded by the FAC President to commissioners "who have shown extraordinary leadership and commitment to the mission of the FAC, and who actively advocate on county issues before and during the legislative session." Chairman Long currently serves as the FAC's First Vice President.

Chairman Long was very active in lobbying members of Florida's Taxation and Budget Reform Commission (TBRC) to support the unfunded mandates proposal, a proposal that would put restrictions on state unfunded mandates to counties and municipalities.  Chairman Long also lobbied and testified before the TBRC to oppose the TABOR proposal.

In speaking of the award Chairman Long said, "It is an honor to be a part of the important work being done by FAC.  I am humbled by this kind award and look forward to continued service."

The stated mission of the FAC is to "preserve and promote democratic principles by working to keep appropriate authority at the level of government closest to the people, and to increase the capacity of Florida counties to effectively serve and represent the citizens of the state through legislative action, education of public officials, and enhancement of public awareness about the role and functions of county government."

For more information, please contact the Florida Association of Counties at 850-922-4300.

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