Community Affairs

 

Florida CFO Alex Sink
Meeting with Business Leaders
Pensacola Bay Area Chamber of Commerce
May 6, 2010

Florida CFO Alex Sink met with Pensacola business leaders on May 6, 2010 regarding the economic impacts of the oil spill. The Florida CFO stated she is concerned about the well being of businesses and citizens alike. The critical issue is the economic impact. While we have some limited time to prepare, the bad news is that the rest of the world sees us in a “wait and see” mode. Consequently, we’re dealing with a huge communication issue just before the start of our season. The CFO’s office will advocate for those with losses due to the oil spill.

British Petroleum is not subject to consumer protections. She stated that it is critical that the oil be capped. This oil spill can affect many communities – from Pensacola to Clearwater. The spillover effect to other industries is especially devastating (marinas, etc.) Ms. Sink stated she plans to stay in contact with BP and with the US Department of Commerce. She will work to communicate to the broader community how to get prepared to file claims. She introduced her Chief of Staff, Tammy Teston. Ms. Sink said she wants every dime of loss to be compensated by BP.

Ms. Sink advised she has sent a letter to the Small Business Administration – asking to activate loans and grants – and particularly low interest rate loans to assist businesses. We understand the SBA did announce today availability of certain programs for impacted businesses. She also asked that the timing (more than 180 days) be extended as this incident will be accruing economic damages for much longer than 180 days. The CFO stated ESF-18 has been activated through OTTED. She stated it is possible that a Special Session could be called by the Governor. Also, there could be a constitutional amendment proposed prohibiting drilling in Florida waters. Ms. Sink referred to Brian McGowan – COO of the Economic Development Administration as a contact for federal assistance.

The participants made the following suggestions:

  1. The community needs a very aggressive advertising campaign.
  2. The federal government per diem rate must be reconsidered in light of the emergency – (currently $109 per night). All hotels/motels are subject to this rate currently and it is noncompetitive.
  3. It was also suggested that a pool of emergency funds for merchants needs to be made available as “advances”.

Prepared by Natalie Prim, VP, Community Affairs, Pensacola Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, May 6, 2010

For any questions or more information, staff contact is Natalie Prim, nprim@pensacolachamber.com.