April 13, 2010

Historic event will feature presentations from candidates for Governor, Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services

TALLAHASSEE – Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) today announced it will sponsor the first Florida Water Forum in conjunction with the Florida Section of the American Water Works Association (FS/AWWA). The event is scheduled to take place on Fri., June 4 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Peabody Hotel in Orlando, Fla. Issues surrounding water and water policy are of critical importance to the future of Florida. AIF understands the business climate, ability to grow as a state and quality of life are all directly tied to the availability and sustainability of our water resources.

“AIF represents more than 10,000 employers in Florida, and has a long history of engagement in water issues. We have been a strong supporter of funding for alternative water projects, as well as a number of other water-related proposals,” said Barney Bishop III, President and CEO of AIF. “It is an honor to sponsor the first-ever Florida Water Forum with FS/AWWA, and it is our hope this one-of-a-kind event will help educate both the public and media on this very important topic and how it affects Floridians statewide.”

Candidates running for Governor and Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services have been invited to participate in the forum and provide their insight on issues relating to water policy. Each candidate will give a presentation, providing Floridians the opportunity to hear the candidate’s water policy goals for the state. Additionally, Sen. President-Elect Mike Haridopolos and Speaker-Designate Dean Cannon have been invited to make brief presentations on their respective visions for the state’s “water future.”

“We are proud to partner with AIF on the inaugural Florida Water Forum and extend the Florida Section of the American Water Works Association’s focus on the stewardship of our waters to a larger audience,” said Chuck Carden, Chairman of the FS/AWWA. “Water is the essential element of Florida’s future, and we all must work together to ensure there is a safe and sufficient water supply for years to come.”

State legislators, business community leaders, regional and local government officials and the general public will be invited to attend the event. For more information on the Florida Water Forum, visit www.flawaterforum.com.