Ditchmen • NUCA of Florida Ditchmen -Jan./Feb. 2020 | Page 12

NUCA of Florida’s Legislative Days a Success By Kari Hebrank, Close to 35 key NUCA of Florida members, hailing from the Executive Vice Panhandle to Miami, converged President on Tallahassee February 17-18 for the NUCA of Florida Legislative Days. Day one kicked off at Aloft Hotel with an Executive Committee meeting followed by a productive Board of Directors meeting and scrumptious buffet luncheon. One highlight of the Board meeting was receiving a regulatory and legislative update from the newly- hired NUCA National Executive Director, Doug Carlson. Subsequent to the Board meeting, attendees received a legislative briefing with explanation and inside scoop on the critical issues outlined in the “leave-behind” brochure for state lawmakers. Attendees headed to the Capitol to brief lawmakers on the issues of importance to the underground utility and construction industry and afterwards gathered at the Carlton Fields Loungebrary for a reception with wine, beer and light hors d’oeuvres. To strengthen relationships between our members and lawmakers, a select group of attendees enjoyed dinner with Rep. David Smith (R-Winter Springs) and Sen. Doug Broxson (R-Gulf Breeze) at Table 23 later that evening. Day two began with a full, hearty breakfast at Aloft Hotel and a briefing by Sen. Jason Pizzo (D-Miami) on his legislation to reign NUCA FL members meet with Rep. Chris Latvala (R-Clearwater). 10 DITCHMEN • JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2020