BOCC approves Resolution for Rural Area Opportunity

At the Board’s regular May meeting of the Jackson County Board of County Commissioners, representing Opportunity Florida, Roy Baker appeared before the Board to request the adoption of a resolution in support of the Redesignation of a Rural Area of Opportunity in Northwest Florida. This request was made stressing to the commissioners the importance and impact of the Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI).

Baker highlighted that REDI consists of a network of state agencies that convene quarterly to focus on supporting Florida’s rural communities. Central to REDI’s efforts is the statutory responsibility to recommend rural area designations to the governor every five years. These designations are critical for rural counties, as they unlock a range of benefits, including matching grants, regulatory waivers, and prioritized consideration for grant applications.

During the presentation, the representative emphasized how rural designation has positively impacted communities like Jackson County in the past, citing it as a strong example of the initiative’s success. Baker formally requested a resolution of support from the board to aid in the redesignation process and mentioned a $200 request, likely associated with administrative or application-related costs.

The commission acknowledged the potential benefits of continued participation in the initiative and thanked the representative for their presentation. The board is expected to consider the resolution at an upcoming meeting.