Adkins to file local bill revising port charter

Press Release

Submitted by Joseph Zimmerman

November 26, 2015 9:50 a.m.

Fernandina Beach, Florida. State Representative Janet Adkins announced that she will propose a local bill that will make changes to the charter for the local Ocean, Highway and Port Authority.

"After taking time to listen to people from all sides of the county and the members of the Port Authority, I believe that changes to the Port Charter are essential to move Nassau County forward," said Adkins.

"While there is significant community conversation underway, the speed of progress is beginning to impact economic development for the entire county. It is essential that all levels of government come together to craft a solution that benefits both the community goals, and support the long term growth of the port. I believe we are at a critical juncture of the process and need to address the concerns raised by the members of the community," said Adkins.

Representative Adkins' office has remained engaged in the port process, brokering four separate meetings that resulted in clarification on the Port's Master Plan, and ultimately hearing from constituents across the county about line by line modifications to modernize the 1941 Port Charter.

"Restoring the balance between the needs of the community and our goal for a robust and successful Port has always been my focus. At the December 7th Legislative Delegation meeting, I will propose a local bill that will refine the port charter, eliminating petroleum refineries and beach casinos, while adding the power for the Port of Fernandina to develop high-speed internet infrastructure. This new ability will allow the Port to help modernize Nassau County, and pave the way for 21st century jobs," continued Adkins.

Representative Adkins represents House District 11, which includes all of Nassau County and portions of Duval County. In the Florida House of Representatives, Adkins chairs the K-12 Subcommittee on Education and is a member of the Education Committee, the Choice and Innovation Subcommittee, the Appropriations Committee, the Educations Appropriations Subcommittee and the Rules, Calendar and Ethics Committee.

For additional information, please contact Representative Adkins' office at

904-491-3664 or email joseph.zimmerman@myfloridahouse.gov<mailto:joseph.zimmerman@myfloridahouse.gov>.

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