August 13, 2009, 8:42 pm
Florida stands at a critical turning point in its stewardship of water management issues. For those of us who enjoy the recreational benefits of fishing or boating in Florida Bay and visiting Everglades National Park , it would seem quizzical that the future of the very ecosystem that allows us to enjoy a unique quality of life depends on the legal interpretation of what is defined as ``public purpose.''This month, millions of people and South Florida's fragile environment stand to be affected by a decision that could be handed down in a West Palm Beach court house. The definition of ``public purpose'' and access to revenue bond financing used by the South Florida Water Management District are central to the acquisition of land from U.S. Sugar Corp. for Everglades restoration. Obtaining this land for storing and cleaning water before it flows south to replenish Florida Bay and Everglades National Park is clearly a public purpose.
As a member of the business community and board member of the Everglades Foundation, I know how important it is to support responsible stewardship of water resources. Our quality of life, management of growth, economic viability, tourism, recreation, health of our fisheries and job creation are all tied to the smart management of water resources.
