Rick Scott Cheers the News of DEP Saving Taxpayers $700 Million

On Wednesday, Gov. Rick Scott applauded the news that the state Department of Environmental Protection would look to cut its budget by $700 million, mostly through arrangements with the five water management districts across the state.

When I came to Tallahassee, I pledged to refocus government agencies on the core mission for which they were created. I commend Secretary Vinyard on his efforts to accomplish this goal with Floridas water management districts. Their core mission is to protect our states water supply, protect water quality, and protect Floridians from floodwaters, said Scott in a statement. Secretary Vinyard and the Department of Environmental Protection have worked hard to produce a budget that accomplishes these core missions while saving taxpayers $700 million, including over $200 million in property tax cuts.

The water management district budgets that have been presented, along with my additional calls for further savings, are just the first steps in ensuring that Floridas precious water resources are protected and managed in the most fiscally responsible way possible, added Scott. Id like to commend the water management district governing boards and leadership teams for their leadership and cooperation as they worked closely with the department to find efficiencies and savings. I look forward to continuing to partner with the districts and department to meet Floridas water supply and protection needs in the future, while serving as better stewards of taxpayer dollars.