Last week’s program was presented by Rotarian Jodi Stevens.  Jodi’s guest speaker was Hillsborough County Commissioner Al Higginbotham. Mr. Higginbotham was first elected in a special election in 2006 for District 4 in eastern Hillsborough County, Al Higginbotham now represents Countywide District 7. He previously served as the Board's Chairman and Chaplain.  A native Floridian from Plant City, Commissioner Higginbotham received a degree in political science with an emphasis on South American Government from the University of Florida. His political interests led him to serve as a Congressional aide in Washington, and later as an executive assistant to the Florida State Treasurer and Insurance Commissioner. From 2003-2006, he served as Chairman of the Hillsborough County Republican Party.  His time in office is highlighted by efforts to drive economic development; increase public involvement and transparency in budgeting; foster a collaborative working relationship with the City of Tampa; and enhance the image of the Commission. Commissioner Higginbotham works tirelessly to recruit new businesses, help existing businesses expand, and improve the overall business climate. Higginbotham is a staunch advocate for persons with disabilities, agricultural issue and faith based causes.  Commissioner Higginbotham has been a strong advocate for streamlining government and creating efficiencies, consolidation of County departments, and other efforts without compromising programs or services. His 2009 initiative to increase public input in the budget process, Our Budget Matters, was recognized by the National Association of Counties with the Achievement Award for Civic Education and Public Information in 2010. Commissioner Higginbotham initiated the “Kids in the County” program to introduce students to County government.  In the past year Al has reviewed more than 19,600 pages for briefing materials, cast 298 votes, 42,000 outgoing emails and over 32,000 phone calls.  Over 1,200 constituent cases have been handled and Mr. Higginbotham strives to be very responsive to the constituent needs.  Stormwater, Budget, Transportation, and Taxes are issues that are current focuses.

Submitted by Mike Arndt