Description

As Citrus County experiences rapid development and an influx of new residents, it is crucial that our community understands the proactive steps being taken to ensure this growth is managed sustainably. In response to the evolving landscape, the Chamber is pleased to announce a town hall event titled “Charting Citrus County’s Future: Embracing Managed Growth for Sustainable Progress.” This event will take place on Thursday, June 13, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the College of Central Florida Wilton Simpson Campus. Doors will open at 4:30 p.m. with refreshments and light appetizers.

The event will begin with a presentation by Sheridan Morby, Senior Research Economist from the Florida Chamber Foundation. Morby will share insights from the Florida Scorecard, covering topics such as local population growth, job needs, tax revenues, housing issues, and educational attainments. Following the presentation, a distinguished panel of local leaders and experts will discuss the benefits and importance of managed growth in Citrus County. 

The panel, co-moderated by Gerry Mulligan and Josh Wooten, includes: 

• Ralph Massullo, Florida State Representative
• Steve Howard, Citrus County Administrator
• Eric Landon, Citrus County Growth Management Director
• Cregg Dalton, Citrus County Property Appraiser
• Thomas Kennedy, Citrus County School Board Member
• Linda Stockton, Senior Vice President & Hospital CEO, Tampa General Hospital Crystal River
• Lisa Nummi, CEO, HCA Florida Citrus Hospital
• Becky Beattie, Director of Nursing Operations, ClearSky Rehabilitation Hospital of Lecanto
• Michael Mancke, Board member, Tourist and Development Council
• Russell Hallenbeck, Vice Chairman & CEO, Tibbetts Lumber
•Jim Morton, Broker, Century 21, J.W. Morton Real Estate
• Dr. Denis Grillo, DO
• Danielle Ruiz, Economic Development Industry Recruitment, Duke Energy 

This town hall is a unique opportunity for residents to hear directly from their leaders about how they are working to manage growth responsibly and sustainably. It also allows for a candid discussion on community needs and actions being taken to address concerns. 

“We believe it is essential to engage our citizens in these important conversations,” said Josh Wooten, President/CEO of the Citrus County Chamber of Commerce. “Our goal is to present a positive and honest picture of community needs and the steps we are taking to ensure a bright future for Citrus County.” 

The event is free and open to the public, and media coverage is expected. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. with light refreshments and appetizers to be served. We encourage all residents to attend and encourage positive participation in this important discussion.