I'm not really following the Sunrail project, but I did receive an email that was forwarded to me concerning the project. I don't know how much of this is already known so I apologize in advance if thats the case.
NEWS FROM TALLAHASSEE FROM JACOB STUART:
Just minutes ago, the President of the Florida Senate and the Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives announced that the Legislative Session would be "extended" into next week to allow additional time to successfully achieve a "budget compromise" between the Florida Senate and the Florida House of Representatives.
So you will know, when it comes to SunRail (SB1212), it's my pleasure to report to you that on Sunday evening, I enjoyed a wonderful dinner meeting with Senator Lee Constantine, Congresswoman Corrine Brown and Congressman John Mica along with the Florida Secretary of Transportation, Secretary Stephanie C. Kopelousos. During our time of sharing and learning, we were able to provide "first-hand knowledge" to Congresswoman Brown and Congressman Mica about the work that now lies ahead.
Yesterday morning, Congresswoman Brown and Congressman Mica were wonderful advocates for our "common cause." They met with key Legislative Leaders and were introduced on the floor of the Florida House of Representatives and the Florida Senate. In addition, they both met with Governor Charlie Crist and held a "Press Availability," answering questions from members of the Media, where they talked specifically about the consequences of failing to pass SB1212 (SunRail). It was during this "Press Availability" that Congresswoman Brown said, "in my 27 years of Legislative experience, there's no such thing as a perfect bill; but, this is a perfect place to start." Her positive words of encouragement, combined with those of Congressman Mica, continue to reverberate around the Capitol today.
This morning, Congresswoman Brown met with the Democratic Caucus, and later today she will be working "arm in arm" with Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, talking with members of the Florida Senate and Members of the Florida House of Representatives about the importance of SunRail.
There's no doubt about the support of Congresswoman Brown and Congressman Mica; and there's no doubt either, about the support we continue to enjoy from Governor Charlie Crist and Senate President Jeff Atwater. Their patient leadership and continuing encouragement are making a positive difference as this matter works its way through the vicissitudes of the Legislative process.
So you will know, I've had a chance to visit with Christina Johnson, with On 3 Public Relations, regarding our plans for this week and next. As you would agree, she has been a wonderful addition to our "team," coordinating our "grassroots effort," and we would both welcome your ideas regarding activities we should advance over the next several days.
As this matter continues to move forward; I will be in back in touch. In the meantime, if you have any comments, questions or suggestions, please don't hesitate to contact me personally.
Jacob V. Stuart
President & CEO
Central Florida Partnership
America's Newest Regional Partnership