SFWMD Press Release

Governor Crist Appoints Meeker and Rooney to the Governing Board, South Florida Water Management District

June 07,2007

TALLAHASSEE – Governor Charlie Crist today appointed Melissa Meeker of Stuart and Patrick Rooney of West Palm Beach to the Governing Board, South Florida Water Management District. 

“Melissa has been working with or for the South Florida Water Management District on critical restoration and water supply issues for the last 15 years,” said Governor Crist. “Through this experience, she has gained a thorough understanding of the district’s challenges and opportunities, which will be a beneficial moving forward.” 

Melissa Meeker, 37, is the president of Hesperides Group, a planning and environmental consulting firm. She formerly worked as an environmental administrator and later as a district director for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and also worked as a senior scientist for the South Florida Water Management District. Meeker graduated from Palm Beach Atlantic College with a bachelor’s degree in biology and from the Florida Institute of Technology with a master’s degree in environmental resource management. 

“I have been involved with water issues facing South Florida, specifically the Treasure Coast, throughout my career and am grateful to Governor Crist for the opportunity to serve my community in a position that can make a significant difference in this region,” said Meeker. 

Patrick Rooney, 43, is the general counsel of Investment Corp of Palm Beach. He currently serves as the director of the Autism Project of Palm Beach County. Rooney graduated from Clemson University with a bachelor’s degree in political science. He received his Juris Doctor at Villanova University School of Law and a master’s degree in business administration at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. 

“The regulation of water in South Florida is becoming increasingly important as we manage the current drought and prepare for the possibility of severe weather during the 2007 Hurricane Season,” said Governor Crist. “Patrick has the education and professional experience necessary to provide important leadership on the governing board.” 

“Having been a South Florida resident for over 15 years, I share Governor Crist’s appreciation for the impact of water and the environment on our daily lives,” said Rooney. “I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to serve.” 

The South Florida Water Management District administers the plan set by the Florida Legislature to conserve, protect, manage, and control state waters, including preservation of natural resources, fish and wildlife, and promoting recreational protection. 

Meeker will succeed Lennart Lindahl and is appointed for a term beginning June 4, 2007, and ending March 1, 2009. Rooney will succeed Kevin McCarty and is appointed for a term beginning June 4, 2007, and ending March 1, 2011. These appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.