The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) Governing Board is set to welcome two new members and one returning member following recent appointments by Florida’s governor. These appointments to the South Florida Water Management District Board are pending confirmation by the Florida Senate and come during a period of major water resource projects and policy decisions in South Florida.

South Florida Water Management District Board Appointments Overview

The South Florida Water Management District Board is responsible for setting water policy across a 16-county region in South Florida. According to official sources, the Board consists of nine unpaid citizen volunteers who serve four-year terms and represent diverse interests, including environmental protection, agriculture, business, and local government.

The latest appointments include Thomas Hurley of Vero Beach, Robert Spottswood Jr. of Key West, and Charlette Roman, a returning member. All three are subject to Florida Senate confirmation before officially joining or resuming their roles on the Board.

Main Roles and Responsibilities of the SFWMD Board

The South Florida Water Management District Board oversees water resource management, flood control, and ecosystem restoration throughout South Florida. The Board’s jurisdiction includes major watershed basins such as the Okeechobee and Big Cypress Basins. According to SFWMD, these responsibilities are critical to ensuring water supply, environmental protection, and regional development.

Board members are selected to provide a balance of perspectives, with backgrounds in business, conservation, agriculture, and public service. The Board’s actions directly affect stakeholders in agriculture, real estate, conservation, and local communities.

Details About the New South Florida Water Management District Board Members

The recent South Florida Water Management District Board appointments bring individuals with varied expertise to the Board. According to official sources, the following appointees are set to serve:

• Thomas Hurley: Based in Vero Beach, Hurley leads a holding corporation and has experience in business leadership and regional economic activities. He has participated in civic and financial organizations in the area.
• Robert Spottswood Jr.: Operating out of Key West, Spottswood heads multiple companies in real estate and construction. He is also involved in conservation and wildlife organizations.
• Charlette Roman: A retired U.S. Army veteran, Roman brings prior experience on the SFWMD Board, as well as service in local government and public administration. She holds advanced degrees in communications and business management and previously served on the Board starting in 2019.

According to official records, Hurley and Roman are appointed for terms from April 2025 to March 2029. Spottswood’s term is set from April 2025 to March 2026. All appointments require confirmation by the Florida Senate before they become effective.

Current Challenges and Projects Facing the SFWMD Board

The South Florida Water Management District Board appointments occur as the agency manages significant projects related to Everglades restoration, water quality improvement, and flood resilience. According to SFWMD, these initiatives are vital for the long-term sustainability of South Florida’s water resources and ecosystems.

Experts often note that Board members with business and development backgrounds can provide effective management skills. However, these appointments may also prompt discussion among environmental advocates about balancing regional growth with conservation priorities.

Stakeholder Interests in South Florida Water Management

The decisions of the South Florida Water Management District Board have broad impacts across the region. Stakeholders include:

• Agriculture – Farmers and growers rely on water supply and flood control for crop production.
• Real Estate and Development – Builders and developers monitor Board actions affecting land use and water availability.
• Conservation Groups – Environmental organizations focus on ecosystem restoration and water quality.
• Local Communities – Residents and local governments depend on effective water management for public health and safety.

The Board’s policy decisions are closely watched by these groups, given the ongoing challenges of climate change, population growth, and environmental restoration in South Florida.

Frequently Asked Questions About South Florida Water Management District Board Appointments

What is the South Florida Water Management District Board?

The South Florida Water Management District Board is a group of nine unpaid citizen volunteers who set water policy for a 16-county region in South Florida. The Board oversees water resource management, flood control, and ecosystem restoration.

How long do South Florida Water Management District Board members serve?

Board members typically serve four-year terms. According to official sources, some appointments may be for shorter periods depending on the situation.

Are the new South Florida Water Management District Board appointments confirmed?

The recent appointments are pending confirmation by the Florida Senate. The members will begin their terms after Senate approval.

Can you explain the main responsibilities of the South Florida Water Management District Board?

The Board is responsible for managing water resources, overseeing flood control, and guiding ecosystem restoration projects in South Florida. Their actions affect water supply, environmental protection, and development throughout the region.

Where are the new South Florida Water Management District Board members from?

The new appointees are from Vero Beach and Key West, with one returning member who has served in various parts of South Florida. The Board represents interests across the entire 16-county district.