Capital Soup
“Florida: A Beacon of Liberty and Prosperity”
November 5, 2015
Latest edition of CFO Atwater’s Quarterly Economic Magazine is Out Now!
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater has released the fall edition of Florida’s Bottom Line, his quarterly online economic magazine focused on providing the latest news and insightful analysis on Florida’s economic and financial health. The fall edition gathers expert opinions from across Florida’s diverse industry sectors to highlight encouraging growth in the state’s economy due to Florida’s efforts to foster a positive business climate.“I believe that government should not stand in the way of entrepreneurs, families or communities, but instead should provide the framework for success so they can thrive,” said CFO Atwater. “In this edition, we’ve gathered leaders from across Florida to help tell Florida’s success story.”By reducing regulations, cutting taxes and paying down debt, Florida is creating the conditions for economic success in the private sector. In addition to CFO Atwater’s insight, leaders in higher education, manufacturing, technology, economic development and more have weighed in on our state’s successes and the future of Florida’s economy.In addition to having the 5th best fiscal conditions in the nation, Florida’s also ranked at the 5th best business climate in the nation, the 2nd best nationally in infrastructure, and Florida holds the top spot nationally in educational freedom. These statistics, an in-depth look at Florida’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and much more are available in this latest edition.Here’s what the edition’s guest authors have to say about the publication and the continuation of Florida’s success story:“On behalf of The Corridor, I am honored to share achievements in growing high-tech industry and innovation throughout our state in the latest edition of Florida’s Bottom Line,” said Randy Berridge, President of the Florida High Tech Corridor Council. “The magazine provides an inside look at Florida’s economy and I’m glad to highlight the work of partners strengthening our economy and creating high-wage jobs.”“Continuing to invest in Florida’s infrastructure will help Florida’s families and businesses remain competitive,” said Dr. Jerry D. Parrish, Chief Economist and Director of Research for the Florida Chamber Foundation. “As we prepare to welcome six million more residents in the next 15 years, smart infrastructure investments will be key to helping Florida remain successful and continue building on its competitiveness.”“Florida’s Bottom Line is a great asset for Florida,” said Dr. Thomas O’Neal, Associate Vice President of Research and Commercialization at the University of Central Florida. “It is a must read for leaders in our state looking to make a difference. It was an honor to contribute to a publication so rich in information and insights.”“Florida’s success is the best advertisement of the path we must continue and the policy solutions we must pursue,” said Dr. Bob McClure, President and CEO of The James Madison Institute. “Continuing our course means we must put our foot on the gas and move ahead with sound policy that embraces the free market. I’m pleased to help tell the story of why we must continue to move onward and upward in the latest edition of Florida’s Bottom Line.”“Florida is poised for growth and is implementing technological solutions to be competitive on the global level,” said Al Stimac, President of Metal Essence and the Manufacturers Association of Florida. “We are planning for expansion and there are opportunities for manufacturers to come in now and be a part of Florida’s growing future.”“Sound structural provisions in Florida law and the fiscal discipline shown by our elected officials allowed us to weather the Great Recession, and the state fiscal position remains strong,” said Dominic M. Calabro, President and CEO of Florida TaxWatch. “Florida’s economy continues to strengthen due to many long-term, strategic investments that are ensuring the Sunshine State is a great place to live, work and raise a family.”“It is essential that entrepreneurs and all job creators hear the story of how Florida is leading the way to a new definition of public education,” said John F. Kirtley, co-founder of Step Up for Students. “I’m honored that CFO Atwater asked me to write about it in the latest edition of Florida’s Bottom Line.”A high-level view of the state’s success story can be seen in the attached infographic. To view the latest edition of Florida’s Bottom Line, and to subscribe to the publication, visithttp://www.MyFloridaCFO.com/FloridasBottomLine/Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, a statewide elected official, oversees the Department of Financial Services. CFO Atwater’s priorities include fighting financial fraud, abuse and waste in government, reducing government spending and regulatory burdens that chase away businesses, and providing transparency and accountability in spending. Follow the activities of the Department on Facebook (FLDFS) and Twitter (@FLDFS).Article: http://capitalsoup.com/2015/11/05/florida-a-beacon-of-liberty-and-prosperity/
