Media Release

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - Alachua County Commissioner Rodney J. Long was installed to serve as President of the Florida Association of Counties (FAC).  Long was sworn in during the FAC Annual Conference held in Collier County, FL.

"The next year will present many challenges for local governments," said Commissioner Long. "As FAC president I look forward to leading the charge as we rebuild our economy and strengthen home rule."

President Long had already been serving as FAC President due to the early resignation of Commissioner Randy Hatch.  Commissioner Long will oversee the association directing policy, advocacy, and the administration of the Florida Association of Counties.  The Association's mission is to help counties effectively serve and represent Floridians by strengthening and preserving county home rule through advocacy, education and collaboration.

The Association is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of one county commissioner from each state senate district (40); five executive officers; six county commissioners appointed at-large with no more than three of the six from counties with population of 75,000 or more; and the past presidents of the FAC.

"Commissioner Long has already proven to be a tremendous leader of the association," said FAC Executive Director Chris Holley, "His perseverance in standing up for the critical services citizens receive from counties will ensure that our members are well represented."

Other FAC officers installed were President-Elect, Broward County Commissioner Ilene Lieberman, 1^st Vice President Martin County Commissioner Doug Smith and 2^nd Vice President Gulf County Commissioner Bill Williams.

Founded in 1929, the Florida Association of Counties is a non-profit association representing the diverse interests of Florida's 67 counties. 

For more information, contact Cragin Mosteller, Communications Director, Florida Association of Counties at 850-294-9307.