SHALIMAR — The Florida Association of Counties presented an Okaloosa County commissioner with the Presidential Advocacy Award during the 2016 FAC Annual Conference & Exposition in Orange County.
As a Chair of the FAC Finance, Tax & Administration Committee, Commissioner Carolyn Ketchel’s leadership and commitment to crafting sound policy was an invaluable asset to FAC this year in advancing the Associations legislative program during a challenging legislative session.
The Presidential Advocacy Award is given annually to those county commissioners from around the state that who have shown exceptional leadership in partnering with FAC to advance the counties’ legislative agenda.
“I supported Rep. Matt Gaetz’s ‘no tax is safe tax cut plan,’ because it supports small businesses and encourages those who may be interested in relocating or opening a business here, whereby strengthening the local economy, as well as benefitting all Okaloosa County taxpayers,” Ketchel said.
FAC Executive Director Scott Shalley said, “Commissioner Ketchel’s willingness to advocate for counties was not only essential to the success of FAC’s legislative efforts, but it was also of great service to the citizens of Okaloosa County. The commissioner's advocacy was invaluable in helping ensure that local governments are provided the flexibility and tools they need to meet the needs of Florida’s citizens.”
PAC winners in neighboring counties include Rob Williamson, Santa Rosa County; Jayer Williamson, Santa Rosa County, Vice Chair, Finance, Tax & Administration; Guy Tunnell, Bay County, Chair, Public Safety; and Grover C. Robinson IV, Escambia County, Vice Chair, Federal Committee.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Florida association presents award to Okaloosa commissioner