Governor Ron DeSantis appointed Joshua Gamblin and reappointed John Mitten and Michelle Williamson to the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board. Gamblin represents DeSoto, Hardee and Highlands counties, Mitten represents Hernando and Marion counties, and Williamson represents Hillsborough County.
Gamblin, of Arcadia, is the ranch manager of Stolen Saddle Ranch. He earned his bachelor’s degree in natural resource management in wildlife from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and his master’s degree in forest resources and species conservation from the University of Florida. Gamblin is appointed to a four-year term ending March 1, 2028.
Mitten, of Brooksville, was appointed to the Governing Board in October 2020. He is the franchise owner of Chick-fil-A in Spring Hill. He earned his bachelor’s degree in finance from Florida State University. Mitten is reappointed to a four-year term ending March 1, 2028. Mitten serves as vice chair of the Governing Board.
Williamson, of Dover, was appointed to the Governing Board in December 2020. She previously served on the Board from August 2016 to August 2020. Williamson is the manager of G & F Farms. She received her associate degree from Hillsborough Community College. Williamson is reappointed to a four-year term ending March 1, 2028. Williamson serves as chair of the Governing Board.
The appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.
Governing Board members are unpaid, citizen volunteers who are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Florida Senate. The Governing Board sets policy for the District, whose mission is to manage the water and related resources of west central Florida to meet the needs of current and future water users while protecting the environment.