Looking ahead

Lori Berman, Florida state senator

Rampant algae blooms and red tide are decimating populations of marine life, endangering human health, and negatively impacting our economy. This issue did not manifest overnight, but is a direct result of years of environmental negligence by the State of Florida. In 2012, the legislature repealed a law that required septic tanks to be inspected once every five years. We must replace political appointees at the Department of Environmental Protection and on water management boards with qualified experts, address leaking septic tanks, and prevent agricultural runoff filled with nitrates from contaminating our water. Call your legislators and demand a solution.

Frank Ortis, mayor, Pembroke Pines

Anyone who has recently visited our southwest coast of Florida is horrified by what the red tide has done to our sea life and beaches. It was good news to hear that the cleanup rules were finally waived to speed up the removal of the dead fish from these devastated areas. It’s heartbreaking to witness the effects of red tide, and especially hard for the communities directly affected. I understand that government at times works slowly, but it was frustrating for all to wait for this move and for the real cleanup to begin.

Anna Fusco, president, Broward Teachers Union

Early voting begins Aug 18th. The ballot contains a tax referendum critical to public education in Broward. The proposed 1⁄2-mil increase will help make up for the legislature again shortchanging Broward. It will cost the average homeowner less than $10/month while providing funds for statemandated security personnel, additional guidance counselors and social workers, and overdue compensation for teachers and other school-based personnel. Unlike the bond issue where there are outside companies to deal with, this initiative will simply transfer proceeds from the tax office into the designated areas of the District Budget. Vote Yes!

Tom Shea, president, Right Management

The Sunshine State is ranked the thirdstrongest state in the country for small businesses. Florida has more businesses opening than closing. According to a recent study, 69 percent of Florida’s exports originate from small business. When compared to the rest of the US, we are ranked at number 11 for small business birth rate which is currently 118 percent. While many companies are receiving support from incubator programs and support from other small business owners, Florida does have room for improvement in the small business survival rate. Currently, only 66 percent stay open for more than two years.