By Regan McCarthy
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wfsu/local-wfsu-969640.mp3
Tallahassee, FL – Pressure is mounting for the governor to veto legislation that would bring sweeping changes to the state's growth management plan. Regan McCarthy reports the bill would loosen rules governing certain kinds of development and give local bodies the ability to alter their land use plans more frequently.
Backers of the legislation say the measure will bring jobs to the state. But Former Florida Governor Bob Graham says increasing the ease of development doesn't mean a spike in the economy. Environmental Activist Nathaniel Reed joined Graham in his opinion during a Tuesday teleconference. Reed says finances needs to change in other states before construction jobs come here.
"Before we can see this state begin to lift its head up again and a construction business become a positive one a whole series of positive economic situations must exist in the North because people have to be able to sell their homes up there to be able to move to Florida."
Graham says Florida is already ranked third in the nation as a business friendly state. He says that ranking takes quality of life into account--an attribute he says could be at stake in the new plan. Graham is recommending the governor appoint a citizens commission to oversee land and water management.