On behalf of Florida’s 67 counties, welcome to the Florida Association of County Managers (FACM). Collectively, we are an association of professional administrators and managers engaged in all aspects of public service with the goal of enriching the lives of the residents and visitors of our great State. Our members represent counties throughout the State from Escambia County in the western Panhandle to Monroe County and the Florida Keys. While our issues vary from those associated with small rural agricultural areas to those associated with urban sprawl in the densely populated metro areas, our mission remains the same…providing the critical leadership necessary to advance the vision and goals of our elected County Commissions.

I consider it an honor of the highest regard to serve as our Association’s President for the next year. Having started my career in 1986 working for a small Florida city, I considered myself fortunate to work in an occupation that allowed me to play a small part in bettering the lives of local residents. Looking back, I am proud to have been part of such worthwhile projects as expanded water and sewer facilities, road improvements and Stormwater upgrades, new administrative complexes and court facilities, and new park facilities and expanded public beach areas. While these improvements were necessary and needed, I have found the highest form of professional satisfaction in building lasting relationships…working alongside our elected officials to advance citizen initiatives, meeting with citizens and neighborhood groups to solve complex community issues, and leading and mentoring our talented County employees.

What is the future of Florida County Government and what role will the county manager play in shaping Florida’s destiny? Will we be change agents or will our focus be protecting our quality of life and preserving smart growth initiatives that do not outpace our infrastructure and environmental resources? I suspect it will be a mixture of both. Again, leadership is about fostering and developing relationships. Whether you are a seasoned county manager with years of leadership experience or an emerging deputy or assistant manager, please consider participating in our association. With your engagement over the next year, it is my hope that we continue to advance the Manager/Commission form of government, mentor and develop our next generation of Florida County Managers, and work in coordination with the Florida Legislature to protect Home Rule. Together, let us be a united voice for Florida’s 67 counties.

Yours in Community Service,

John Hofstad

Okaloosa County Administrator