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"The Public Affairs Council assists the Florida Section of the American Water Works Association to enhance awareness regarding the water industry and the expertise that we provide in the stewardship of Florida’s water resources. This is accomplished by execution of a marketing / communications plan in coordination with collaborative partnerships with all stakeholders; maintaining effective relationships with the public, media outlets, and government officials/liaisons; and educational outreach programs. I hope you find our webpage both informative and user friendly. Please visit us often."
Sincerely,
Maria Sheridan
Public Affairs Council Chair
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For Council Officers and Committee Chairs - Click here
The Public Affairs Council is responsible for the establishment, coordination and direction of committees relating to public information and public relations functions, or as assigned by the BOG. Our mission and objectives are aligned with FSAWWA Strategic Goal #1 - "Make the value of FSAWWA visible."
Committees:
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We Need Your Help
We are always looking for volunteers. There are still many vacancies to be filled so please contact the PAC Chair for more information on how you can make a difference, or Click here.
Committees:
- Marketing
- Public Education & Outreach
- Youth Education & Outreach
- Government Affairs & Outreach
- Utility Education & Outreach
- Website
- Media Relations
Publications
Position Papers
Resource Links |
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The Public Affairs Council (PAC) has started 2009 with an approved budget in place and some exciting opportunities ahead of us. The leadership of the PAC sub-committee chairs and volunteers has been instrumental in broadening the visibility of the section while developing and expanding dynamic programs that further the strategic goals of the organization.
Government Affairs & Outreach
Government Affairs & Outreach Chair, Tom Kleppe, was instrumental in a successful Drinking Water Day in Tallahassee on April 1. Tom developed marketing materials, solicited sponsorships and provided important logistical support to heighten the visibility of this event. The statewide Drinking Water Contest featured 11 regional contestants, with the City of Palm Springs crowned this year’s champion. They will represent Florida at ACE in San Diego. The taste test contest was featured on television news reports from Tallahassee.
Utility Education & Outreach
Mike Bailey’s Utility Education & Outreach Committee produced a professional DVD drawn from interviews with attendees and exhibitors at the Fall Conference. The video is an important tool for communicating the value of conference attendance by all water professionals. It is ideal for educating governing boards and the community about the fantastic return on their investment for the educational and professional development of their staff. Members and potential members are encouraged to share this resource with policy makers as they consider budget allocation decisions for the coming fiscal year. The DVD is available for distribution and is posted on the section website.
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Youth Education & Outreach
The PAC 5-yr planning budget and 5-yr business plan, developed as part of the Florida Section’s Strategic Planning initiative, reflects additional support for Youth Education & Outreach programs.
The Model Water Tower Contest, superbly led by Tod Phinney and Rachel Copeland, has generated tremendous excitement and high levels of participation. Three additional regions will participate this year, with expansion to additional regions likely next year. The committee has developed a protocol that can be used by other sections and at the national level.
The 2009 DropSavers program is well underway with Vince Eck championing the cause. Under Sara Johnson’s guidance, Vince has taken on the responsibility of running the program this year with 15 participating utilities.
Graphics Assistance
The PAC is refining job descriptions for both professional graphic design services and a media outreach consultant to better meet the goals and objectives of PAC and the section.
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Florida 2030
The PAC will assist in making the expanded Florida 2030 initiative visible to the public, stakeholders and policy makers.
Broward Water Matters Day
The PAC participated in Broward Water Matters Day, with exposure to over 5,000 attendees. The booth attracted community leaders, the general public and professionals in water-related fields. This high profile event provided an excellent opportunity to discuss the benefits of membership, FSAWWA training programs and the networking and professional development opportunities available at FWRC at the Fall Conference.
Distribution Awards
Section Chair, Ana Maria Gonzalez, personally travelled across the state to present the Distribution Awards to winners in every category. Her presence lent luster to the award and provided an excellent opportunity to educate policy makers and community leaders on the importance of their utility team and the high regard they enjoy in the professional community. The presentation of the award reinforced the connection between FSAWWA participation and industry recognition.
Brochures
Jason Parrillo continues to provide invaluable support to PAC and is leading the final push in developing the four information brochures targeted to the following audiences: The Public; Legislators & Policymakers; Potential Financial Partners; and Potential New Association Members. Jason is also working directly with Steve Goss/Distinctive Concept on this project.
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