The Southwest Florida Water Management District Governing Board voted Tuesday to elect officers for the 2025-2026 term.
John Mitten was elected chair of the Governing Board. Mitten represents Hernando and Marion counties and is the franchise owner of Chick-fil-A in Spring Hill. Mitten was appointed to the Governing Board in October 2020 and was reappointed in August 2024.
Jack Bispham was elected vice chair of the Governing Board. Bispham represents Manatee County and is the owner and operator of Red Bluff Plantation. Bispham was appointed to the Governing Board in November 2019 and was reappointed in May 2021.
Ashley Bell Barnett was elected secretary of the Governing Board. Bell Barnett represents Polk County and is a former educator and community advocate. Bell Barnett was appointed to the Governing Board in December 2020 and was reappointed in August 2023.
John Hall was elected treasurer of the Governing Board. Hall represents Polk County and is the owner of Polk Community Association Management and is a former Polk County Commissioner. Hall was appointed to the Governing Board in May 2021.
The officers will assume their positions for the 2025-2026 term 24 hours before the June Governing Board meeting.
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 protect water resources, minimize flood risks, and ensure the public’s water needs are met.