Barely into his administration, Gov. Rick Scott nevertheless took time Friday morning to reflect on his first week in office and tout his accomplishments.
Scotts early moves -- signing executive orders aimed mainly at curbing regulations and spending, and naming business-friendly executives to head government agencies -- were a fulfillment of campaign promises to cut government waste and make Florida more attractive to businesses.
He noted that his decision to sell two state-owned planes and pay for his own travel expenses will save the state $2.4 million, but wanted to focus on making Florida more competitive and attractive to businesses.
Weve got to recognize were competing with 49 other states and some other countries, too, Scott said during his first formal press conference at the Capitol.
In focusing on increasing jobs and luring more businesses to Florida, Scott has concentrated on the state agencies -- wanting to make sure they are not working against job creation.
Weve frozen all the regulations, but were focusing on the ones that were fine with and were letting them go forward, Scott said.
As for the lobbyists and legislative liaisons for the agencies, Scott has made it clear he wants them to work for him, not the bureaucracy.
Theyre basically going to focus on my agenda. Agencies wont have a different agenda than what mine is, Scott said.
He also highlighted his decision to put St. Joe Co. executive Billy Buzzett in charge of the Department of Community Affairs and return Kurt Browning to his previous position as secretary of state. Scott said he doesn't mind the criticism he has received from environmentalists over his appointment of Buzzett.
Im here to do the best job I can. Im sure some of the things I do will upset some people, Scott said.
The appointment of Browning has raised eyebrows as well, since Browning retired from the secretary of state position last year and will now be double dipping -- receiving both a pension and a salary. Scott said Browning's experience running elections makes him invaluable.
He has 35 years of elections experience and a record of integrity. Hes got a history of conducting orderly, fair elections, Scott said of Browning, a former supervisor of elections for Pasco County.
For other appointments, such as those for secretaries of the Department of Health and the Agency for Health Care Administration, which could later be combined, Scott said he is looking for the best person for the job and doesnt have a set deadline for making the appointments.
In his first days in office Scott has ignored criticism, but likely will be challenged as controversial issues come up.
He hasnt been faced yet with a specific issue on the peoples minds. I dont think youre going to start seeing this play out until the legislative session gets started, said Carl Adams, a veteran Tallahassee lobbyist.
One of the most contentious issues of last year was education reform legislation to offer merit pay to teachers and increase teacher accountability, which was passed but vetoed by former Gov. Charlie Crist. Scott reiterated his belief in school choice Friday, but stopped short of saying he will immediately push for vouchers.
Were going to look at tenure and create as much choice as possible. I believe competition will make all of us better. Well look at (vouchers) down the road, Scott said.
Scott also disputed reports that he is looking at bringing destination casino resorts to Florida, stating that he has not taken a definite position.
As you know, my view on gaming is that I dont want the state to become too reliant on gaming. Ive not taken any position," he said, "apart from what Ive already said."
Reach Gray Rohrer at grohrer@sunshinestatenews.com or at (850) 727-0859.
