Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed two new members and reappointed one to the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) board, including individuals with notable ties to the Treasure Coast region. These appointments, announced April 9, 2025, include Vero Beach developer Thomas Hurley, Key West developer Robert Spottswood Jr., and the reappointment of Marco Island resident Charlette Roman.
DeSantis Appoints SFWMD Board Members With Treasure Coast Connections
The SFWMD board oversees water management and environmental restoration efforts across 16 Florida counties, including critical Everglades restoration projects and water discharges into the St. Lucie River. The board sets the agency’s budget, policies, and priorities, directly impacting local ecosystems and communities.
Thomas Hurley Appointed to SFWMD Board
Thomas Hurley, CEO and chair of Becker Holding Corp. based in Vero Beach, has been appointed to the board. Hurley’s company is currently developing the Atlantic Fields residential community in Hobe Sound, a project featuring 317 single-family homes and an 18-hole golf course on 1,530 acres located north of Southeast Bridge Road near Interstate 95.
Hurley holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Duke University and an MBA from Northwestern University. He previously served on the board of Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County.
“Water quality is important,” Hurley stated. “We drink it, we use it to recreate. Water is everything. If we don’t have good water quality, everything goes south. We need to plan long term.”
Environmentalists Express Concern Over Hurley’s Appointment
Friends of the Everglades Executive Director Eve Samples expressed disappointment regarding Hurley’s appointment, highlighting concerns due to Hurley’s involvement in the controversial Atlantic Fields project.
“Jacqui [Thurlow-Lippisch] was an absolute champion in the environmental community,” Samples said. “There was no input from the local environmental community on this appointment. We were hoping for another champion. Hurley’s company was responsible for one of the most controversial projects in Martin County. We will be watching closely.”
Former board member Jacqui Thurlow-Lippisch also voiced disappointment, emphasizing the need for more environmentally-focused board members.
Robert Spottswood Jr. Joins SFWMD Board
Robert Spottswood Jr., 37, from Key West, brings extensive experience in fisheries and wildlife management. He currently serves on the South Atlantic Fisheries Management Council and is president of Spottswood Cos. Inc., Spottswood Management, and Keystar Construction. Spottswood is also a partner at the law firm Spottswood & Sterling.
Spottswood holds a bachelor’s degree in food and resource economics from the University of Florida and a law degree from Nova Southeastern University. His community involvement includes serving on the boards of The Nature Conservancy and the Fish and Wildlife Foundation of Florida.
“Everything revolves around water quality, fisheries, and wildlife,” Spottswood said. “I want to serve where I can make the biggest impact, and the South Florida Water Management District stood out. I want to bring more awareness to the southern part of the district, Florida Bay, and the Dry Tortugas. I look forward to advancing the governor’s agenda on the Everglades.”
Charlette Roman Reappointed to SFWMD Board
Charlette Roman of Marco Island was reappointed to the SFWMD board, having served since 2019. Roman previously chaired the Big Cypress Basin Board and served on various local boards, including the Marco Island Planning Board, Marco Island City Council, and Collier County Planning Commission.
A certified Florida master naturalist, Roman has been actively involved in environmental conservation efforts, including volunteering at the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve and serving as president of Friends of Tigertail Beach. Roman received the prestigious Collier County Audubon Society Fellowship in 2009 and the Public Service Award at the annual Everglades Coalition Conference in 2024.
Role and Responsibilities of the SFWMD Board
The SFWMD board plays a crucial role in managing water resources from Orlando to the Florida Keys. It coordinates closely with the Army Corps of Engineers to manage Lake Okeechobee discharges into the St. Lucie River, significantly impacting local water quality and ecosystems.
Board members are responsible for guiding billions of dollars in Everglades restoration projects, setting strategic priorities, and approving the district’s budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About DeSantis Appoints SFWMD Board Members
What is the South Florida Water Management District?
The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) manages water resources in 16 counties from Orlando to the Florida Keys. It oversees water quality, flood control, and Everglades restoration projects.
How many members are on the SFWMD board?
The SFWMD board consists of nine members appointed by Florida’s governor. These members set policies and budgets for water management and environmental projects.
Are there environmental concerns about the new SFWMD board appointees?
Yes, some environmentalists have expressed concern, particularly regarding Thomas Hurley, due to his involvement in development projects viewed as controversial. They worry about potential impacts on local ecosystems.
Can residents provide input on SFWMD decisions?
Yes, residents can attend public meetings and provide comments on SFWMD projects and policies. Public participation is encouraged to ensure community concerns are addressed.
Where are the areas most impacted by SFWMD board decisions?
SFWMD decisions impact areas including the Everglades, Lake Okeechobee, St. Lucie River, Indian River Lagoon, and Florida Bay. These regions rely heavily on effective water management.
Stay informed about DeSantis’ appointments and their impact on local water management. Learn more about recent judicial appointments and their implications for St. Lucie County.
Additionally, Richard Del Toro’s recent oath as St. Lucie County Sheriff highlights the ongoing changes within the county’s leadership.
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