By Al Higginbotham | Hillsborough County District 4 Commissioner
Since being elected in 2006 to the Hillsborough County Commission District 4 seat, I have had the great pleasure to serve eastern Hillsborough County residents. Through joining you at meetings of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and Rotary, Kiwanis, Lions and Optimist club breakfasts and lunches — as well as in your neighborhoods — I have heard your concern about the tax burden on your families.
When I visit my lifelong friend, Fred Johnson, at Fred’s Farmers Market, I hear repeatedly from customers of our shared interest in improving economic development opportunities in Plant City. In my meetings with the city leaders such as City Manager Greg Horwedel and elected officials, we have discussed the need for additional recognition of Plant City community members and bettering the relationships between the city and county. I have listened and worked hard to answer your concerns in an effective and meaningful way.
TAXES, TAXES, TAXES
Hillsborough County’s budget for the upcoming budget year totals $3.1 billion, $254,562,498 less than the first budget I worked on in 2006. The operating millages that support Hillsborough County government have been lowered for the 18th consecutive year by the county commission. We have worked hard to effectively reduce expenditures while keeping the services you need and expect from your county government.
Of the 3,141 counties in the United States, fewer than 50 counties have a AAA rating from all three rating agencies. Hillsborough County has worked hard to maintain our AAA rating, which allows us to secure bonds at a lower interest rate and keep our financial status stable. By making smart budget decisions and tough calls, we have ensured a positive outlook on the future of Hillsborough County’s budget.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Plant City is recognized as a vital stop along the Interstate 4 corridor and is ripe with opportunities to improve economic development. The Plant City commission has partnered with Hillsborough County commissioners to identify potential obstacles and ways to resolve those issues. Through the Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation, of which both the City of Plant City and Hillsborough County are members, we can recruit businesses on a national scale to our communities. EDC’s efforts recruited 4,176 jobs in 2011, and we look for an even higher number in 2012.
During the Florida Strawberry Festival earlier this year, I hosted the Tampa Bay Consular Corps at the Parade Day activities. Representatives from Canada, Denmark and Norway, France, Germany, Haiti, Mexico, Peru, and Spain met with U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis and city leadership about opportunities for international trade with businesses in the Plant City area. The corps then attended the Parade Day luncheon with me and met key leaders of our community. As a result, discussions ensued about agricultural trade internationally between their countries and Plant City. We hope to continue this tradition in future Parade Day events, showcasing the great things Plant City has to offer.
IMPROVING RELATIONS
When I first was elected, I heard sincere concern that Plant City had been ignored by the county. As my hometown, I find great pride in being able to share the values and wonderful attributes of our community.
The county commission has appointed a number of Plant City residents to serve on advisory boards and councils. I appointed Gwen Thomas, of Bealsville Inc., as the District 4 appointee on the Parks, Recreation and Conservation Advisory Board. The City of Plant City is represented by Shelby Bender on the Historic Preservation Challenge Grant Advisory Committee, which decides what deserving projects will receive the grant. Ray Young has been a commissioner on the Hillsborough County Planning Commission since 2010, helping manage the growth and policies of our county and cities. These and other city residents have ensured Plant City’s voice on the many advisory boards and councils.
Recently, I brought an item to the county commission to erect a historical marker in the Bealsville community to recognize its founding and the 12 original founders. The board unanimously approved this item, and we look for the Historical Advisory Council to erect the marker by the end of the year.
WORKING FOR YOU
Working together with the residents of District 4, I have found that we truly can make a difference for the future of Hillsborough County. If you need anything or would like to share your opinion on Hillsborough County issues, please do not hesitate to call my office at (813) 272-5740 or email HigginbothamA@HilllsboroughCounty.org.
Al Higginbotham, a Plant City resident, is the representative for District 4 on the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners.