More GV emails

Rick Outzen

15 years ago

I think this is the last set of emails to/from Commissioner Valentino with BPM on economic development. There are some duplicates from earlier posts. I am posting as I received them without comment.

Subject:Pros of PEDA
From:Duwayne
Date:Mon, 22 Jun 2009 17:43:21 -0500
To: Gene Valentino , Jane Birdwell , Jane Birdwell

Gene â€” Hereâ€™s revised, shorter version. Please feel free to make any changes. Keep up the fight. Thanks, Duwayne

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN

The public has asked us what are the differences between the PEDA plan and the Pensacola Bay Area Chamber of Commerce plan. Hereâ€™s a snapshot of the key differences and why the Pensacola Economic Development Authority a game changer thatâ€™s needed now.

>PEDA announces to the outside the Pensacola area is doing something completely different, not kind of different.

>PEDA allows bold action â€“ game-changers â€“ typically not possible from chamber-led groups, which often are hampered by the competing desires of its members.

>PEDA ends economic development strategies that remain driven by a select few, who pay-to-play. Instead, PEDA allows equal access to all and promises transparency, efficiency and accountability.

>The PEDA board includes nominations from the Escambia County, Pensacola and Century government bodies, as well as from the public, chamber and business sectors. The nominees will then undergo a selection process to determine the 15 best candidates.

>The PEDA board creates a seat for minority business interests â€“ a group historically overlooked â€“ and provides for minority inclusion in economic development initiatives. The PEDA plan commits to economic integration on issues critical to minorities in our community.

>PEDA is less political than the current system. It offers accountability from specific measurements that are based on the communityâ€™s economic development goals. Currently, no such accountability exists.

>PEDA provides a $6 million a year dedicated funding source. This creates funding to tackle crucial issues holding back our community, and to provide incentives to companies or entrepreneurs.

>This is a transparent process open to all, thanks to the state Sunshine Law on open public records. It is not a process done behind closed doors by a select few. The boardâ€™s meetings will be in the Sunshine. PEDA requires openness and transparency by announcing the communityâ€™s economic development goals, tracking public and private funding and reporting measurable outcomes to our citizens.

>The PEDA organizationâ€™s day-to-day activities will be performed as a 501C6. This is the only structure under state laws that allows for the conducting of the science of economic development. This structure allows PEDA to operate under the necessary confidentiality of companiesâ€™ proprietary information and trade secrets.

>The new structure builds much-needed strong relationships and collaboration between government bodies, businesses, groups and citizens that are required for economic success. This helps PEDA instill confidence in the system and become a trusted advocate for economic development.

>PEDA streamlines the economic development process by creating one agency as THE point of contact to the world, and by aligning all the public and private programs and priorities. PEDA eliminates unnecessary layers of communications and interactions between economic development leaders in the public and private sectors by creating one 15-member board that the new economic development agency must report to, instead of multiple government bodies, private-sector committees, task forces and other groups.

>Less energy and money are needed to create a new economic development brand for our community versus a re-branding effort to change the current perceptions.

>PEDA stops chasing an old economy built on tax breaks, cheap land and cheap labor. Instead, PEDA knows future success means building on quality workers, quality communities and quality investments that create a vibrant place.

Subject: Google Alert – Gene Valentino
From: Google Alerts
Date:Tue, 16 Jun 2009 16:18:43 -0500
To: Gene Valentino

Google Blogs Alert for: Gene Valentino
Valentino show | ricksblog.biz
By Rick Outzen
Commissioner Gene Valentino presented his â€œplanâ€ to the Escambia County Commission. Jane Birdwell worked the PowerPoint presentation and coached the commissioner during the meeting. Valentino led a series of â€œexpertsâ€ through conference …
ricksblog.biz – https://ricksblog.biz/

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Subject:FW: I hope you can be available to
From:”Jane Birdwell (HOME)”
Date:Mon, 15 Jun 2009 22:16:44 -0500
To:Gene Valentino

See Tomâ€™s comments from what I wrote him Monday for his thoughts. Jane
—— Forwarded Message
From:
Date: Mon, 15 Jun 2009 13:43:08 EDT
To:
Subject: Re: I hope you can be available to

In a message dated 6/14/2009 9:37:35 P.M. Central Daylight Time, janehome@birdwell.us writes:

Dial in at 10-10-15 central time on Tuesday – we have it together would like
to run ove what I am thinking if you have time.

Here is the best and worst of what can happen and a question

1. Motion to green light team and staff to begin formulating how the
transition and consensus of two plans happens to be in place by Oct 1

2. No motion – fails, clear Chamber plan will win and we ask for contract
that guarantees accountability and specific measurements

3. Should he say, he is hearing another effort for ED getting cranked up and
because of concerns as commissioner, he will hold some funding to support
alternative effort. They are scared to death of someone stealing their
thunder and doing it better – does this look like natural progress or that
he is unwilling to let it go because he did not get his way. I love the
idea of this really happening if we are not successful.

We will need you to take politics out of it and have a conversation based on
merit of creating something new. He wants to pay for your involvement.

XO, Jane

Jane:

I have a conference call every day at 9 and it can last 15 minutes or 90 minutes. I also have a meeting at 10:30 tomorrow about creating a cultural plan, so I’m not certain I can make the call. Hopefully, I can join in for some part of it.

If the commissioner has a sense that #2 is about to happen, I think he has to suggest that the conversation so far has been fruitful and it needs to continue. There should be no rush to judgement, because this is about making the best choice, not the fastest choice. He can say that he’s seen that by talking together and discussing our common goals, there is a more effective way to attract jobs and investments to Pensacola and this process deserves a full opportunity to develop solutions that all of us can support.

To that end, he should shift the conversation to the questions that I sent you over the weekend and to continue to reach consensus about the future.

If it becomes clear that he can’t even get that, if I were him, I’d definitely ask to help write a more detailed performance-based contract with the Chamber and for money to be held back as the county considers the model used in many, many cities – a public sector economic development agency working with the Chamber to move your community ahead.

Tom

An Excellent Credit Score is 750. See Yours in Just 2 Easy Steps!

—— End of Forwarded Message

Subject:
FW: Final copy in email / please signal back that you received this
From:”Jane Birdwell (HOME)”
Date: Mon, 15 Jun 2009 22:14:40 -0500
To: Gene Valentino

—— Forwarded Message
From: Jane Birdwell
Date: Mon, 15 Jun 2009 19:09:19 -0500
To: TJonesMfs , , Gene Valentino , Jane Birdwell
Cc: Duwayne , , Jane Birdwell
Subject: Final copy in email / please signal back that you received this

GENE VALENTINO:

(Opening statement) All across the country, communities like ours have started focusing on their economic futures. They know to become a thriving, vibrant community with a purpose they must embrace significant game changers â€” players and bold actions that can turn their destiny around. Our community must embrace the building of a consensus of our game changers.

I hope that you can get past the significant noise surrounding the messenger (me) and tune in to the message. The message is one that has to be heard. Two proposals are on the table for discussion and most comments I have heard suggests there is genius between the two. I myself said I agreed with 60% of what the chamber suggested.

I have spent the time between the city/county presentation listening to comments from many supporters of something new â€“ (the fact there are so many people here today suggests the importance of this in the community – for all our constituents).

I have adjusted my proposal and created a consensus plan. The areas that seemed to give concern, namely board appointments, private involvement and legal concerns over the sunshine law have been refined and addressed. I have asked the input of three individuals to help me highlight the suggested modifications and the overall competitiveness of what you have before you today.

I plan to take 30 minutes and open it up to questions and answers â€“ if you all agree to the format I would like to introduce my first expert in Economic Development. (Iâ€™ve asked Jane Birdwell to assist in the Q&A and the overall presentation.)

I have asked some of the most knowledgeable people I know nationally who are playing the game and winning big in economic development. They will join me in the person and by phone.

Mr. Jim Devine, Leeâ€™s Summit Economic Development director

Mr. Tom Jones, co-founder of Smart City Consulting

Mobile County Commissioner Stephen Nodine

JIM DEVINE â€“ Jim has rich ties to Pensacola through relatives and keeps track of the current news. His track record of success in Economic Development is so long it would take up the entire time allotted. Jim, welcome by telecom and tell the fine commissioners here and the audience a little about yourself.

(Be impressive but briefJ)

What are key results that show a community is performing successfully?
(Jim, please discuss stats and performance and what Pensacolaâ€™s reputation is to the outside world.)

What happens when communities implement new ways of doing economic development?
(Jim, please discuss your belief about change being a good thing and what youâ€™ve seen happen in your experience.)

You have 30-plus years doing economic development. Please tell us how communities efforts have changed? You are the advocate for ED and youâ€™ve commented we donâ€™t have that here â€“ so many people doing the job of ED
(Jim, please discuss the shift in tackling economic growth, business attraction, etc.)

How does the PEDA organization and structure compare to the one proposed by the Pensacola chamber?
(Jim, please discuss how Gene Valentinoâ€™s PEDA organizational structure as proposed is better, stronger, allows more flexibility, accountability)

VALENTINO â€“ thank you

TOM JONES â€“ I studied many different city models and stopped once I found Tom Jones because he knows all about what every city is doing as it relates to economic development. He knows and loves Pensacola because of the work he did with the branding effort a while back with the Chamber. Tom welcome –

Youâ€™ve shared concern for our community with me and I know you are happy we are having this conversation. Why do you think the timing is so critical?

What happens to communities that embrace new ideas, new solutions?
(Tom, please discuss cultural shift from old to new ways of doing business.)

What do you think of the Pensacola areaâ€™s economic performance and explain why old measurements of jobs alone does not do the trick?

How valuable do you think the opportunity is for us to create something completely new is at this time?

STEPHEN NODINE:
We realize Mobileâ€™s success depends on Pensacolaâ€™s success and vice versa. It is counterintuitive to me and others that the various communities in our Gulf Coast region canâ€™t set aside jealousies and rivalries long enough to establish a shared plan and a mutual message to the world. Thatâ€™s why last year, as the U.S. Air Force air-refueling tanker debate raged on, we all saw the wisdom in partnering and forming the Gulf Coast Aerospace and Defense coalition. We are positioning ourselves as the worldâ€™s new aerospace hub.

We should be selling the assets of our entire region to anyone who will listen. I have long been a proponent of all of our Gulf Coast economic development leaders and political officials joining hands and working together to tout the benefits of doing business with and in our region.

As long as we operate on the principle that Mobile and Pensacola must compete with Biloxi or that Fort Walton Beach operates on the theory that they somehow can sell their city without selling ours as well, we are engaging more in wishful thinking than economic development.

Mobile and Pensacola are actually part of the Gulf Coast Megapolitan, which roughly stretched from Houston to Panama City. Itâ€™s one of 10 super-regions, if you will, in the country that economic development experts say will inevitably become the main economic engines for the U.S. in the global economy. In todayâ€™s new economy, itâ€™s all about connecting our people to the regional economy and our regional economy to the global economy.

Itâ€™s great to see the Pensacola area community having this discussion. Itâ€™s one we are currently engaged in, too. I strongly believe new ideas, new solutions can help both of our communities achieve a prosperous future.

*NOTE TO JIM DEVINE, TOM JONES and Stephen

(Note: Mort Oâ€™Sullivan, Pensacola chamber chairman, or other Chamber types may ask the question or make the point that they propose creating a separate, independent economic development body, too. Why shouldnâ€™t they get a shot at doing it? There may be other tricky questions asked, as well.

FROM JIM & TOM, weâ€™re looking for answer along the lines of: â€œFrom what I know and what I hear, Pensacola needs to move away from something thatâ€™s broken and move to something different that instills confidence from both public and private leaders.â€)

GENE VALENTINO:
(Closing statement)

This discussion should no longer be about MY plan. Now, it should be the Commission plan.

It is your plan Madam Chairman because you know that minority interests, very valuable business interests need and deserve a seat at the table, a meaningful voice moving forward.

It is your plan Vice Chairman Robinson because you know that a new generation of business leaders want and need to feel ownership of a system they feel is inclusive and modern.

Commissioner White you want a plan to call your own that is respectful of businesses outside the urban core and resurrects the vital middle-class.

Commissioner Robertson you want something new that ensures small businesses have a chance to succeed and access to the skilled workforce they need to grow

Youâ€™ve heard from this esteemed group on the economic development plan. Letâ€™s begin focusing and investing in game-changers and think in new ways about problems. Our emphasis should be on bold action to ensure we build a strong economy. Letâ€™s take advantage of this opportunity to reach a consensus on the best system to make us competitive in the new economy. I am now happy to answer any questions.

(AT SOME POINT VALENTINO ) I ask that I have your support in directing the county administrator to keep this dialog for a new organization moving forward to the city meeting scheduled in a couple of weeks.

Jane Birdwell
Managing Partner
BPM, INC
890 S. Palafox Street, Suite 109
Pensacola, Florida 32502

o: 850.432.2761
c: 850.261.5140

www.birdwell.us

—— End of Forwarded Message

Subject:
REVISED talking points for Tuesday meeting
From:
Duwayne
Date:
Mon, 15 Jun 2009 17:58:35 -0500
To:
Tom Jones , “TJonesMfs@aol.com” , Jim Devine , Stephen Nodine , “Gene M. Valentino” , Dean Kirschner
CC:
Jane Birdwell , Jane Birdwell , Gene Valentino

Here are the REVISED talking points for the Escambia County economic development meeting at 9 a.m. CST Tuesday, June 16. Please refer to these ones, including the questions to Jim and Tom. Thanks.

Duwayne Escobedo
Account Executive
BPM, INC
890 S. Palafox Street, Suite 109
Pensacola, Florida 32502
o: 850.432.2761
c: 850.255.1484
www.birdwell.us

Subject:
LATEST Version of Pros on PEDA
From:
Duwayne
Date:
Thu, 4 Jun 2009 12:46:26 -0500
To:
Jane Birdwell , Gene Valentino , “Gene M. Valentino” , Dean Kirschner

Please use this latest version of the pros/positives about the PEDA plan. Thank you.

Duwayne Escobedo
Account Executive
BPM, INC
890 S. Palafox Street, Suite 109
Pensacola, Florida 32502
o: 850.432.2761
c: 850.255.1484
www.birdwell.us

Subject:
USE THIS VERSION of PEDA facts/advantages
From:
Duwayne
Date:
Fri, 29 May 2009 15:49:17 -0500
To:
Jane Birdwell , Gene Valentino

Improved the intro on this one. Thanks, Duwayne

Duwayne Escobedo
Account Executive
BPM, INC
890 S. Palafox Street, Suite 109
Pensacola, Florida 32502
o: 850.432.2761
c: 850.255.1484
www.birdwell.us

Subject:
PEDA fact sheet/advantages
From:
Duwayne
Date:
Fri, 29 May 2009 14:24:04 -0500
To:
Gene Valentino , “Gene M. Valentino” , Jane Birdwell
CC:
Dean Kirschner

Gene: Jane asked that I forward this to you. Itâ€™s a list of the facts/advantages of the PEDA proposal. Please let us know if we can be of further help. Thanks, Duwayne

Duwayne Escobedo
Account Executive
BPM, INC
890 S. Palafox Street, Suite 109
Pensacola, Florida 32502
o: 850.432.2761
c: 850.255.1484
www.birdwell.us

Subject:
Google Alert – Gene Valentino
From:
Google Alerts
Date:
Fri, 22 May 2009 10:56:12 -0500
To:
Gene Valentino

Google Blogs Alert for: Gene Valentino
Buzz: Rumors flying about County Complex | ricksblog.biz
By Rick Outzen
State Attorney’s office is questioning county employees and others about possible Sunshine Law violations by Commissioner Gene Valentino. Jane Birdwell is trying to convince people that the Comm. Valentino was the winner of the Tuesday …
ricksblog.biz – https://ricksblog.biz/

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Subject:
Re: Google Alert – Gene Valentino
From:
Jane Birdwell
Date:
Thu, 21 May 2009 09:01:20 -0500
To:
Gene Valentino

lets talk when you have a chance
On May 20, 2009, at 10:31 PM, Gene Valentino wrote:

> WHEW !!!!!
>
>
>
>
>
>
> County Commissioner, District 2
> Escambia County, Florida
> 221 Palafox Place, Suite 400
> Pensacola, Florida 32591-1591
> PH: 850-595-4920
> Visit Us @: http://www.myescambia.com/departments/board_of_county_commissioners/District2.php
>
> “To respond is positive, to react is negative” – Zig Ziglar
> From: Google Alerts [mailto:googlealerts-noreply@google.com]
> Sent: Wednesday, May 20, 2009 12:35 PM
> To: Gene Valentino
> Subject: Google Alert – Gene Valentino
>
>
> Google Blogs Alert for: Gene Valentino
> Valentino’s presentation bombs
> By Derek Cosson
> The presentation yesterday of Escambia County Commissioner Gene Valentino’s long-awaited economic development plan appeared to fall flat, with few elected officials or audience members voicing enthusiasm for Commissioner Valentino’s …
> Progressive Pensacola – http://progressivepensacola.com/
> This as-it-happens Google Alert is brought to you by Google.
>
> Remove this alert.
> Create another alert.
> Manage your alerts.

Jane Birdwell
Managing Partner
BPM, INC
890 S. Palafox Street, Suite 109
Pensacola, Florida 32502

o: 850.432.2761
c: 850.261.5140

www.birdwell.us

Subject:
Nice job today
From:
Travis Peterson Date:
Tue, 19 May 2009 20:08:13 -0500
To:
Gene Valentino , Jane Birdwell , Duwayne Escobedo

Hey folks-

Great job today. Had to leave early to pick up my son from day care, as my wife was working this evening. Got a quick rundown from Duwayne but sounds like the Chamber crowdâ€™s only public comment was â€œkeep the private sector involved.â€

GV â€“ great job handling the tough questions. You were well-prepared and handled things professionally.

Obviously some issues (funding, structure of committee, city representation, etc) to be hashed out over the next few weeks. But I thought this was a good start, as good as could be expected, frankly.

There will surely be a lot of back-and-forth, behind the scenes and in public, over the next few weeks…but great work today.

Travis

Travis Peterson
Impact Strategies, LLC
P.O. Box 30210
Pensacola, FL 32503-1210
850.434.2963 ph
850.436.4893 fx

Subject:
FINAL Talking Points — USE THIS VERSION
From:
Duwayne
Date:
Mon, 18 May 2009 16:43:13 -0500
To:
Gene Valentino , “Gene M. Valentino” , Dean Kirschner , Bob McLaughlin
CC:
Jane Birdwell

Gene: Added this talking point after the latest media meeting with PNJ. Attached is a final Talking Points. Jane would like to go over the talking points with you tomorrow. Thanks, Duwayne

ABOUT MORT
Q. Is this about Mort Oâ€™Sullivan?
A. I donâ€™t know why Mort seems so against this. He could be known as the Chamber chairman who helped put in a great new economic development system for our county.

This is a difficult discussion to have. We all have friends at the Chamber and weâ€™ve all supported it in the past. So there is some sentiment, some nostalgia for the organization.

The Chamber is not going away. It still has lots of other programs that are vital.

But the fact is we have not done a good job. Our losses and our inability to make headway far outweighs holding on to an old way of doing Economic Development.

We are not elected to take the easy way out. So while this may be difficult, it is the RIGHT thing to do.

My hope is that Mort and other Chamber leadership will see this, get on board with this plan and do whatâ€™s best for the future of our county and our citizens.

Duwayne Escobedo
Account Executive
BPM, INC
890 S. Palafox Street, Suite 109
Pensacola, Florida 32502
o: 850.432.2761
c: 850.255.1484
www.birdwell.us

Subject:
Final ED Talking Points
From:
Duwayne
Date:
Mon, 18 May 2009 11:13:30 -0500
To:
Bob McLaughlin , Gene Valentino , “Gene M. Valentino” , Dean Kirschner , Jane Birdwell

Attached is a word file with the FINAL version of ED Talking Points. Thanks.

Duwayne Escobedo
Account Executive
BPM, INC
890 S. Palafox Street, Suite 109
Pensacola, Florida 32502
o: 850.432.2761
c: 850.255.1484
www.birdwell.us

Subject:
Re: PEDA
From:
“Jane Birdwell (HOME)”
Date:
Mon, 18 May 2009 07:22:38 -0500
To:
Gene Valentino

Good to invite him and others to meeting. They are an organization for change and that is what your plan is trying to do â€“ change status quo

On 5/17/09 7:40 PM, “Gene Valentino” wrote:

My words Matt! Iâ€™m flattered. Iâ€™d be honored to present OUR plan to the group. Yes, please call the office (number below) and get hold of Dean. Dean can work it in with to a date some time this week (before Memorial Day celebration Monday the 25th). Youâ€™re right. It is timely. I have a 15 minute DVD video to present. Then we can open it up to questions and â€˜drill downâ€™ to other specificsâ€¦. OR, we can just â€˜wing-itâ€™ as you see fit. Your call. I would hope to be able to take Friday off. So if not some time this week before then, letâ€™s shoot for after Memorial Day.

Separately, our full presentation and the video we be presented Tuesday, May 19th at 4 PM at City Hall (not the county commission). I would appreciate your attendance and support then.

Thanks!

County Commissioner, District 2
Escambia County, Florida
221 Palafox Place, Suite 400
Pensacola, Florida 32591-1591
PH: 850-595-4920
Visit Us @: http://www.myescambia.com/departments/board_of_county_commissioners/District2.php

“To respond is positive, to react is negative” – Zig Ziglar

From: Matt Fiebig [mailto:matthewfiebig@yahoo.com]
Sent: Sunday, May 17, 2009 6:54 PM
To: Gene Valentino
Cc: Dean_Kirschner@co.escambia.fl.us
Subject: PEDA

Commissioner Valentino,

I wanted to invite you to share your plan for economic development with the PYP Economic Development Committee. We discussed our recommendations to the City and County at the last meeting, as well as the submission by the Chamber. Your alternative proposal is very timely, and I know that the fellow members of the PYP EDC would be very interested to hear more specifics about your vision for economic development going forward.

We traditionally meet at 5:30 on the last Tuesday of the month, and now meet at our new office downtown. However, I would be very happy to call a special meeting should you be interested in accepting the invitation, but unable to join us at a regular meeting. In that case, let me know what would work best for you.

As always, it is a pleasure to hear from you.

Respectfully,
Matt Fiebig

Subject:
Plan
From:
“Jane Birdwell (HOME)”
Date:
Sun, 17 May 2009 16:33:09 -0500
To:
Gene Valentino

Subject:
And it begins….
From:
Travis Peterson Date:
Sat, 16 May 2009 07:36:13 -0500
To:
Jane Birdwell , Jane Birdwell , “descobedo@birdwell.us” , Duwayne Escobedo
CC:
Gene Valentino

Donâ€™t know if youâ€™ve seen the Ricksblog.biz site since last night. I guess its pretty clear what position heâ€™s taking.

Probably some finessing of â€œthe planâ€ that could accommodate / mitigate some of the city-county issues, but its obvious the battle lines are forming.

Travis

Subject:
Fwd: State of Florida, Chairman of the Board , State of Florida SCLC salute Gene Valentino!
From:
Art Rocker
Date:
Fri, 15 May 2009 16:54:12 -0500
To:
“honorbell@cox.net”
CC:
“LARRY M. NEWSOM”

Please review and listen to this “PEDA” plan, please stroll down.. This is what people want to hear it is not about Republican, Democrats, Blacks, White, rejecting people, demeaning people, not hiring people because of diversity. It is someone like this Commission that has laid out a plan read the link below and you tell me is this not what you view America to look like. This Commissioner spoke of not affirmative action he spoke of mending action, He did not speak of quoter’s he spoke of Inclusion, He never denied are pick one Chamber he said all Chambers, he never said spent 90 million with the school system and only have one of two contractors, he said be inclusive for all contractors including minorities. He never criticize the City of the County he said let be inclusive with all people for Economic Development. I want this PEDA plan, why? It will work for all. He never did a video on one image of people he shown all people working together for the benefit of the entire community and America. He did not excluded Century Florida he made them inclusive. He call his plan the DNA plan it represents all. Once again Commissioner let see who thinks something is wrong with this plan. Continue to move forward you have a number of associate that are in politic and are statemans like yourself in this County. Watch and see. Best of luck!

Art Rocker
Chairman of the Board
State of Florida SCLC
S outhern Christian Leadership Conference
(850) 450-1982 (cell)
(850) 944-4900 (office)

email: kingart43@aol.com

http://www.sclcnational.org
http://www.sclcfl.org (Pensacola Chapter)
Twitter: http://twitter.com/kingart43
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/0/a62/b3a

—–Original Message—–
From: Jane Birdwell
To: Art Rocker
Sent: Fri, 15 May 2009 1:20 pm
Subject: Re: State of Florida, Chairman of the Board , State of Florida SCLC salute Gene Valentino!

here is the link with sound….
http://birdwell.us/escambiavideo/presentation.html
let me know if you have any questions

On May 15, 2009, at 1:04 PM, Art Rocker wrote:

> We need to be at this function please put it on schedule I will carry the people with the National SCLC office. Ms. Birdwell please send the plan in the email.
>
> Art Rocker
> Chairman of the Board
> State of Florida SCLC
> Southern Christian Leadership Conference
> (850) 450-1982 (cell)
> (850) 944-4900 (office)
>
>
> email: kingart43@aol.com
>
> http://www.sclcnational.org
> http://www.sclcfl.org (Pensacola Chapter)
> Twitter: http://twitter.com/kingart43
> LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/0/a62/b3a
>
>
> —–Original Message—–
> From: Jane Birdwell
> To: Art Rocker
> Sent: Fri, 15 May 2009 12:02 pm
> Subject: Re: State of Florida, Chairman of the Board , State of Florida SCLC salute Gene Valentino!
>
> your voice on Tuesday will be very important. The new plan is a complete break from old way of doing business. Minority interests across the board have been sorely overlooked and under-served. The new organization is a brilliant stroke in a positive new direction for the community. I hope you will join us, 4p Hagler Auditorium, City Hall -Tuesday.
>
> Best,
> Jane
>
> On May 15, 2009, at 11:54 AM, Art Rocker wrote:
>
>> Currently, the SCLC seeks to continue to â€œRedeem the Soul of AmericaD through effecting policy. This is being done through four major program goals: Economic Development, Education, Community Empowerment, and Technology.
>> Economic Development
>> SCLC believes that the gap between those seeking jobs and jobs available must be eliminated. Currently, there is a shortage of organizations positioned to speak for poor and minority communities on questions of economic development concerns. SCLC will seek to combine research expertise with a high-profile ability to address these concerns publicly.
>> An important engine for increasing employment opportunities is creating jobs in the Black community and eliminating discrimination in contracting. SCLC has had a leadership role for at least the past decade in the area of affirmative action. We will continue our role as advocates in this area.
>> Activities will be:
>>
>> * a. Increase availability of jobs for unemployed or underemployed minority persons
>> * b. Improve training and preparation of low-income job seekers
>> * c. Increase the size and number of minority-owned businesses
>> * d. Expand economic resources available to Blacks
>> * e. Expose young people to economic fundamentals and business basics
>>
>> Gene Valentino, the Commisioner of Escambia County answer the needs for Economic Development. It is long over due and I congraulate him and his plan . I am somewhat concern If the County prepared for this journe y. We will soon learn.
>>
>> Once again, Gene you are a Champion for Escambia County Community!
>>
>> Art Rocker
>> Chairman of the Board
>> State of Florida SCLC
>> Southern Christian Leadership Conference
>> (850) 450-1982 (cell)
>> (850) 944-4900 (office)
>>
>>
>> email: kingart43@aol.com
>>
>> http://www.sclcnational.org
>> http://www.sclcfl.org (Pensacola Chapter)
>> Twitter: http://twitter.com/kingart43
>> LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/0/a62/b3a
>>
>> We found the real ‘Hotel California’ and the ‘Seinfeld’ diner. What will you find? Explore WhereItsAt.com.
>
> Jane Birdwell
> Managing Partner
> BPM, INC
> 890 S. Palafox Street, Suite 109
> Pensacola, Florida 32502
>
> o: 850.432.2761
> c: 850.261.5140
>
> www.birdwell.us
>
>
>
>
> =
>
> We found the real ‘Hotel California’ and the ‘Seinfeld’ diner. What will you find? Explore WhereItsAt.com.

Jane Birdwell
Managing Partner
BPM, INC
890 S. Palafox Street, Suite 109
Pensacola, Florida 32502

o: 850.432.2761
c: 850.261.5140

www.birdwell.us

We found the real ‘Hotel California’ and the ‘Seinfeld’ diner. What will you find? Explore WhereItsAt.com.

Subject:
Rick’s Blog
From:
Duwayne
Date:
Thu, 14 May 2009 16:44:27 -0500
To:
Gene Valentino , “Gene M. Valentino” , Dean Kirschner , Bob McLaughlin
CC:
Jane Birdwell

Hereâ€™s what he posted:

Valentino shares his plan

May 14 2009No Commented

Categorized Under: May 11 2009

Commissioner Gene Valentino gave the IN a peek into his black box to see his economic development plan. He will fully present his proposal â€“yes, it is on a DVDâ€“ at the joint meeting of the commission and the Pensacola City Council next Tuesday, May 19.

The plan calls for the formation of an independent economic development authority, Pensacola Escambia Development Authority (PEDA), that will be governed by 15-member board.

The five commissioners will each appoint one representative, Pensacola City Council two reps and Century Town Council one rep. Those eight members will appoint three people to represent Education, Military and Minority Interests. The remaining four members will be appointed from the general public. The board will operate fully under the Florida Sunshine Laws.

According to Commissioner Valentino, PEDA will have an operating budget between $300,000-$600,000. It will be run by â€œSuperstarâ€ executive director that will operate outside the Sunshine laws and can sign confidentiality agreements with prospects.

â€œThis director will be able to talk with the Bill Gates of the world,â€ says Valentino.

The funding for PEDA will come primarily from electric and gas franchise fees. A one percent increase will cost Escambia households an average $1.50 more per month on their utility bills. The fees will generate between $5.9-$8 million a year for PEDA to use as incentives to attract businesses.

Valentino described the Chamberâ€™s proposal that Mort Oâ€™Sullivan presented in late March as a â€œPay to Playâ€ ideaâ€”meaning economic development is run by those individuals who put up the money.

â€œUnder my plan, the entire community is invested in economic development,â€ says Valentino. â€œExperts have told me that â€˜Pay to Playâ€™ is a thing of the past that only benefits the few that are playing.

â€œItâ€™s only natural for those who put up the money to expect a return on investment and try to promote their own interests.â€

â€œThis county has an identity crisis,â€ says County Administrator Bob McLaughlin. â€œSmall towns build their identity around their chambers. Larger cities and counties move to a different approach.â€

Commissioner Gene Valentino said that people at his precinct meeting are telling him that they want economic development moved out from under the Chamber.

â€œBusiness owners are leaving the Chamber because it has a small group dictating where we go,â€ says Valentino. â€œThe community wants change.â€

Whatâ€™s next?
Commissioner Valentino will present his plan at the meeting next Tuesday. He will answer any questions. If there is a consensus to proceed, he will ask the city and county to study the specifics and come back in 30 days to discuss the recommendations from the two governments. It will also give time for others to bring forth their ideas.

â€œThen we can draft an inter-local agreement with intent to have it executed on or before October 1,â€ says Commissioner Valentino.

Subject:
Re: Here are 1620 Talking Points
From:
“Jane Birdwell (HOME)”
Date:
Wed, 13 May 2009 07:03:03 -0500
To:
Gene Valentino

I will….in thinking it through GCAD would be a good example of how private industry can group toegther to fund and initiative….all the aerospace and defense companies want to promote their skills and talents to outside world. Be super nice to everyone at NAIOP….lets kick it as 1620

On 5/13/09 6:46 AM, “Gene Valentino” wrote:

Big thanks Jane for all that you are doing. I donâ€™t have Steve Nodineâ€™s PRIVATE email address (if he has one). Please invite him to the joint meeting on Tuesday, May 19th @ 4 PM. I would like him to provide an comment or two of support and endorsement at the joint sessionâ€¦.

Thanks !

“To respond is positive, to react is negative” – Zig Ziglar

From: Jane Birdwell (HOME) [mailto:janehome@birdwell.us]
Sent: Tuesday, May 12, 2009 9:46 PM
To: Gene Valentino
Subject: FW: Here are 1620 Talking Points

—— Forwarded Message
From: “Jane Birdwell (HOME)”
Date: Tue, 12 May 2009 21:33:56 -0500
To: “genev@collectorsoutions.com”
Conversation: Here are 1620 Talking Points
Subject: FW: Here are 1620 Talking Points

—— Forwarded Message
From: Duwayne
Date: Tue, 12 May 2009 17:56:19 -0500
To: Jane Birdwell , Jane Birdwell
Conversation: Here are 1620 Talking Points
Subject: Here are 1620 Talking Points

Attached. Thanks

—— End of Forwarded Message

Subject:
FW: Here are 1620 Talking Points
From:
“Jane Birdwell (HOME)”
Date:
Tue, 12 May 2009 21:45:46 -0500
To:
Gene Valentino

—— Forwarded Message
From: Duwayne
Date: Tue, 12 May 2009 17:56:19 -0500
To: Jane Birdwell , Jane Birdwell
Conversation: Here are 1620 Talking Points
Subject: Here are 1620 Talking Points

Attached. Thanks

—— End of Forwarded Message

Subject:
FW: PEDA plan/Q&As for home
From:
“Jane Birdwell (HOME)”
Date:
Sat, 9 May 2009 09:54:14 -0500
To:
Gene Valentino

Duwayne had sent to my home email:-)
Here it is all together

—— Forwarded Message
From: Duwayne
Date: Fri, 08 May 2009 17:13:51 -0500
To: Jane Birdwell
Conversation: PEDA plan/Q&As for home
Subject: PEDA plan/Q&As for home

Just in case…

—— End of Forwarded Message

Subject:
Finance Q&A
From:
“Amy L. Lovoy”
Date:
Fri, 8 May 2009 08:46:26 -0500
To:
Gene Valentino , Jane Birdwell
CC:
Bob McLaughlin

Attached are some Q&A questions for the presentation. Feel free to use or discard at your whim.

Subject:
Re: 050509-Copy of Economic Development Funding Sources.xls
From:
Bob McLaughlin
Date:
Fri, 8 May 2009 06:11:32 -0500
To:
“Jane Birdwell (HOME)” , Gene Valentino
CC:
“Amy L. Lovoy” , Bob McLaughlin , “Alison A. Perdue”

Food for thought.

These details are important when discussing the actual formation of the EDC and its financing but is it really necessary to have the micro level of detail in a presentation.

Suggestion. Make it a potential Q&A response.

Bob

Subject:
050509-Copy of Economic Development Funding Sources.xls
From:
Gene Valentino
Date:
Thu, 7 May 2009 21:31:46 -0500
To:
“Jane Birdwell (HOME)”
CC:
Bob McLaughlin , “Amy L. Lovoy” , “Alison A. Perdue”

Jane… I’ve added in a “This Year’s Fund Balance” (line 28). It reads a bit better. I’d ask all of you to assess what needs to pop out. For example:

For the rest of the team I have some
Spreadsheet assumptions to discuss/question:

1. 1 % for BOTH city and county ? City included?
2. Foundation for the Future AND PEDC revenues are IN ADDITION to Franchise Fees. They MAY BE SEEN AS A LOGICAL REDUCTION TO THE BUDET WITH THIS NEW FUNDING SOURCE, NOT IN ADDITION TO. Foundations for the Future is dissolved. PEDC is merged and survives.
3. Tourist Development Tax Proceeds are IN/OUT activity BUT implies a merging of this operation in/under this ED entity.

Amy, is some explanation needed to explain on a separate slide the mechanics of the franchise fee revenues? I know you’ve modified caps on non-residential, is it a material thing to discuss or should wait for the technical slides? I guess what I’m saying is that this is the high-level and more general presentation, BUT we should be prepared to explain the detail. I MAY call upon each of you to help me with specific details to legal structure and financial if and when I’m asked.

Pulling out certain components above this is still an excellent bottom line….

LET’S GO WITH THIS ONE, with back up detail….

Thank you ..
Gene

Subject:
Fwd: Revised PEDA plan with correx
From:
Jane Birdwell
Date:
Thu, 7 May 2009 17:27:17 -0500
To:
Gene Valentino

Begin forwarded message:

> From: Duwayne
> Date: May 7, 2009 5:23:51 PM CDT
> To: Jane Birdwell
> Subject: Revised PEDA plan with correx
>
> Here ya go. Made changes from your meeting with the county. Let me know if anything else. Thanks.

Jane Birdwell
Managing Partner
BPM, INC
890 S. Palafox Street, Suite 109
Pensacola, Florida 32502

o: 850.432.2761
c: 850.261.5140

www.birdwell.us

Subject:
FW: Emailing: 033109-Powerpoint ver4.ppt
From:
Dean Kirschner
Date:
Fri, 1 May 2009 16:53:15 -0500
To:
Gene Valentino

—–Original Message—–
From: Amy Lovoy [mailto:allovoy@co.escambia.fl.us]
Sent: Friday, May 01, 2009 4:49 PM
To: rrmclaug@co.escambia.fl.us; Alison Rogers; Kristin Hual; Jane Birdwell
Cc: District2
Subject: RE: Emailing: 033109-Powerpoint ver4.ppt

Attached are 2 versions. The first includes a slide that includes City funding from an increased franchise fee and 100% of the Foundations for the Future money and the PEDC money diverted to the EDC.

The second version includes a slide that includes City funding but only 50% of the Foundations for the Future money and PEDC money diverted. The other half of the funding would be cut. You can choose whichever is more appropriate.

Just as an aside, on slide #5 only the franchise fees are actually funding sources. The remaining bullets are funding uses. You may want to divide that slide into 2 slides. The first slide would be ‘funding sources’ which would include everything on the revenue portion of my spreadsheet. The other can be ‘funding uses’ which would include everything that money will be spent on, like EDATES incentives, etc.

Good luck everybody.

—–Original Message—–
From: Bob McLaughlin [mailto:rrmclaug@co.escambia.fl.us]
Sent: Friday, May 01, 2009 1:19 PM
To: Amy Lovoy; Alison Rogers; Kristin Hual; Jane Birdwell
Cc: District2
Subject: FW: Emailing: 033109-Powerpoint ver4.ppt

Attached is the original rough draft of slides for your use.

Bob

—–Original Message—–
From: Gene Valentino [mailto:gmvalent@co.escambia.fl.us]
Sent: Monday, April 27, 2009 4:38 PM
To: Alison Rogers (alison_perdue@co.escambia.fl.us)
Cc: Bob McLaughin; Amy Lovoy
Subject: Emailing: 033109-Powerpoint ver4.ppt

Ali… per our conversation, here’s the very early version of the Powerpoint. You can use these templates. I’d like something more stylish but, this is a great start. Bob has offered to arrange a meeting for you,me,Bob, and Amy soon.

Gene
end

The message is ready to be sent with the following file or link attachments:

033109-Powerpoint ver4.ppt

Note: To protect against computer viruses, e-mail programs may prevent sending or receiving certain types of file attachments. Check your e-mail security settings to determine how attachments are handled.

Subject:
Re: Hot Topics TV Program
From:
“Jane Birdwell (HOME)”
Date:
Wed, 29 Apr 2009 21:34:26 -0500
To:
Gene Valentino

There are thousands of people that checked your name in the box – very few
people have the courage to run and WIN. This is why you can never let the
shallow view of a view people beholden to a plan that is dated, ineffective
and out of sync have their way with you. Crave the higher road be Nodine
but better – you can – let the little, bitty, shitty things ago and never
under estimate for a a majority of the people to embrace the right person
and right plan. Tomorrow is a test – not a big one but to see how much you
can handle – this community is hungry and deserving of a win – be the
messenger, be right and be humbled to do even bigger things with the
momentum it will bring.

Lets rock this and win big. Jane

On 4/29/09 7:01 PM, “Gene Valentino” wrote:

> Hello Chuck:
> I am catching up with emails at home and came across yours. I
> want to personally thank you for your kind words. I’m suspecting a
> temporary “volley” of criticism stemming from the misunderstanding with
> some of my pure intentions to bring forward a true economic development
> solution. It’s scary walking this path alone so, a few kind words like
> yours below is the sobering reminder I needed. Thank you. Your words
> keep me focused on the reason I ran for office in the first place.
> I welcome constructive criticism too. I don’t need to be
> right. WE need to get it right. And so, your input is appreciated.
>
> Best regards, and stay in touch!
> Gene M. Valentino
> County Commissioner, District 2
> Escambia County, Florida
> 221 Palafox Place, Suite 400
> Pensacola, Florida 32591-1591
> PH: 850-595-4920
> Visit Us @:
> http://www.myescambia.com/departments/board_of_county_commissioners/Dist
> rict2.php
>
> “To respond is positive, to react is negative” – Zig Ziglar
> —–Original Message—–
> From: csmith@mancini-smith.com [mailto:csmith@mancini-smith.com]
> Sent: Tuesday, April 28, 2009 12:50 PM
> To: Gene Valentino
> Subject: Hot Topics Tv Program
>
> Dear Gene,
>
> I recently caught your show with Lois Benson and Robert McLaughlin and
> just wanted to let you know what a breath of fresh air your viewpoints
> provided.
> Since relocating to Navarre Beach 10 years ago, I have been amazed at
> the lack of leadership and tragically misguided attempts at economic
> development in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.
>
> Your viewpoints regarding the proper infrastructure development and
> tax incentives to recruit new business to the area was “dead on”. I
> think your vision for the area is admirable and I wish you much
> success. If I can help in any of these endeavors, please do not
> hesitate to contact me.
>
> Sincerely,
>
> Chuck Smith
> Founding Principal, Mancini-Smith Media
>

Subject:
Re: Emailing: 011908-A Perdido Welcome from GV.doc
From:
Jane Birdwell
Date:
Fri, 17 Apr 2009 09:20:27 -0500
To:
Gene Valentino

this is great!
On Apr 17, 2009, at 7:35 AM, Gene Valentino wrote:

> <<011908-A Perdido Welcome from GV.doc>> Hello Jane:
> I found this on my computer at home…. Please feel free to use
> it in whole or in part. It’s something I put together some time ago for
> Perdido…
>
> Best regards
> Gene
>
>
> The message is ready to be sent with the following file or link
> attachments:
>
> 011908-A Perdido Welcome from GV.doc
>
>
> Note: To protect against computer viruses, e-mail programs may prevent
> sending or receiving certain types of file attachments. Check your
> e-mail security settings to determine how attachments are handled.
> <011908-A Perdido Welcome from GV.doc>

Jane Birdwell
Managing Partner
BPM, INC
890 S. Palafox Street, Suite 109
Pensacola, Florida 32502

o: 850.432.2761
c: 850.261.5140

www.birdwell.us

Subject:
Re: Talking points
From:
“Jane Birdwell (HOME)”
Date:
Mon, 13 Apr 2009 20:00:12 -0500
To:
Gene Valentino

When you win â€“ we all win. Hope you had a great day as well and lots of good quiet family time.
Jane

On 4/12/09 6:13 PM, “Gene Valentino” wrote:

I just wanted to wish you and the family a happy Easter! I appreciate your level of concern for me. You are a true friend.

Thank you, Jane J

“To respond is positive, to react is negative” – Zig Ziglar

From: Jane Birdwell (HOME) [mailto:janehome@birdwell.us]
Sent: Sunday, March 15, 2009 7:27 PM
To: Gene Valentino
Subject: FW: Talking points

—— Forwarded Message
From: “Jane Birdwell (HOME)”
Date: Sun, 15 Mar 2009 19:26:32 -0500
To: Conversation: Talking points
Subject: FW: Talking points

—— Forwarded Message
From: “Jane Birdwell (HOME)”
Date: Sun, 15 Mar 2009 17:16:16 -0500
To: , Jane Birdwell , thomas birdwell
Conversation: Talking points
Subject: Talking points

The county and the entire community known as Pensacola must be the kind of place that attracts young families, middle class workers and diverse incomes and people. More importantly it must the kind of city that offers choices that move poor families to the economic mainstream.

Ordinarily every decision I make as a Commissioner is crucial but in the midst of a national economic crisis – there is no room for error. We have to compete and win the race for high paying jobs in the knowledge based economy. Our focus on the highest prize must not isolate the need for jobs of all types and all skill levels. Access to alternative and technical training must progress rapidly to insure a ready workforce – we have not moved quickly enough to marry mainstream with the steady flow of talent exiting early from military careers. I will begin working closer with education that insures the gaps are closed and access is realized for anyone wanting to make a step up. My constituents and I am sure all those of my fellow commissioners want safety for their families and more opportunity created by a fair and level playing field.

We need healthy strong neighborhoods, pathways from welfare dependency to to self sufficiency, a vibrant active downtown and hubs of vitality (like perdido key and the new park) these places are called anchor areas in a community that bind together to expand our economy, sense of purpose and clear plan of action. That is why I listen carefully when my fellow commissioners ask for support – we are all in this together – a win for district 3 can directly and positively impact district 2 citizens and so on – when we move forward together – the sum total of good represents significant gain for the community at large. It allows us to gain traction faster to play catch-up in some areas we know we have fallen behind.

We have to see a return of the middle class families and the creation of new ones, enlarging the tax base, creating a competitive workforce, and preventing the costs of public service from being placed on a smaller, economically polarized group of taxpayers.

We have to think about new ways of looking at old problems. I know my desire to be engaged in economic development is new from past county priorities but creating opportunity is something all the commissioners take seriously and people are coming to us for access to the process. In the past, this has been seen as a job for the chamber but the chamber cannot do it alone. I hope the results of the committee formed to review the current process will reveal a system in need of innovation and pragmatism. I will be looking to work with individuals, businesses, not for profits, colleges and universities, neighborhood groups, foundations and anyone else committed to a vibrant, equitable, sustainable strategic approach to capital development and job generation.

We are not winning the race, we do not top lists, we are not even getting the basics right but we can. I am committed to take honest stock in where we are at any given moment and admit room for improvement . To protect same old same old and regard a system that has allowed benefit for a few is wrong and I aim to do better. I want to take what is working and build on it and take that which is broken and either fix, repair or chunk it for a better way. Along the way I will count on the wise input of staff and the citizens to guide me in what is best for the county.

I want to be very clear about my commitment going forward in case it has been unclear in the past…

I will be engaged in economic development and encourage others to be engaged as well.

I will work tirelessly on behalf of existing business to further expand, support and incent our existing assets like IHMC, PenAir, ??? ??? ahead of outside investment.

I will work with staff and other agencies to insure outside investment and potential business is treated with respect and has access to a system that is positive – moving at an acceptable pace.

I will team to promote the cultural and institutional anchors and improve connectivity between them

I will work in collaboration to build the knowledge base and human capital necessary for short-term and and long-term innovation and economic development.

I am committed to idea sharing to fast track a state of the art public transportation system, green jobs, alternative energy and a green infrastructure.

I will work along side others to continue the conversation regarding consolidation so we are a place characterized by innovative institutional cooperation, collaboration and partnerships for economic and community development.

I will ask departments and organizations to help rid neighborhoods and commercial corridors of blight.

I will partner with education to increase opportunity that reduces the poverty rate and increases educational attainment.

With these objectives I expect these results.

We will build workforce capacity and reverse population trends

We will gain innovation and entreprenueurship

We will foster connections that link people with ideas to talent, capital and markets, cities to regions and regions to the global economy

We will create distinctiveness capatalizing on local uniqueness and building competitive advantage and economic opportunity on it

We will be sustainable â€“ creating land use and transportation systems that sustain financial and natural resources

________________________________________________

Join me in a shared vision and mutual ambition â€“ Escambia County and its people will be uniquely prepared to improve its economy, reduce its poverty, increase its educational attainment, strengthen its workforce and position itself for the future

—— End of Forwarded Message

Subject:
Follow up
From:
“Jane Birdwell (HOME)”
Date:
Thu, 26 Mar 2009 08:20:42 -0500
To:
Gene Valentino , “Gene M. Valentino” , District2

My call obviously disturbed you and I am sorry – it was meant to be
positive. I know it has been a rough patch and I thought you should know
the administrator is on your team. He was collecting input to strengthen
the presentation coming up – I would imagine that is part of his job and
very appropriate. I do have great relationships with some of the most
sought after economic development leaders in the country right now so I
would think my input was constructive and again appropriate.

The reason for the call is that after spending some time and getting to know
him I think he is a good man trying to do great work in a very difficult job
– kind of like you and I was hopeful he just doesn’t disappear because of
the Anderson deal which obviously was not him acting alone.

I am very sorrow to bother you in this difficult personal time and am very
sorry to hear about your brother.

XO, Jane