Governor Ron DeSantis appointed James “Jim” Turner and reappointed Paul “Jack” Bispham, John Hall, and Nancy Watkins to the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board. Turner represents Charlotte and Sarasota counties, Bispham represents Manatee County, Hall represents Polk County and Watkins represents Hillsborough and Pinellas counties.
Turner, of Sarasota, is Senior Counsel at Williams Parker Law Firm. Turner earned his bachelor’s degree in management science and accounting from Duke University and his juris doctor from the University of Florida. Turner is appointed to a term ending March 1, 2027.
Bispham, of Myakka City, is the owner and operator of Red Bluff Plantation and Paul’s Parrish. Bispham earned his bachelor’s degree in agriculture from the University of Florida. Bispham was appointed in November 2019, reappointed in May 2021 and is reappointed to a four-year term ending March 1, 2029.
Hall, of Auburndale, is a cattle rancher and the owner of Polk Community Association Management. He was previously elected as a Polk County Commissioner. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Saint Leo University. Hall was appointed in May 2021 and is reappointed to a four-year term ending March 1, 2029.
Watkins, of Tampa, is a certified public accountant at Robert Watkins & Company, P.A. She earned her associate degree from Hillsborough Community College and her bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida. Watkins was appointed in August 2023 and is reappointed to a four-year term ending March 1, 2029.
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.