Majority of Floridians Support SFWMD Purchase of US Sugar Property for Everglades Restoration

FLORIDA CHAMBER POLL: VOTERS SUPPORT CRIST, EVERGLADES LAND PURCHASE
Survey Shows Floridians Favor Cutting Services Over Raising Taxes

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (March 2, 2009) – A new poll released today by the Florida Chamber of Commerce shows Governor Charlie Crist with a 70% approval rating and a 21% disapproval. In addition, the poll shows that 66% of Floridians support the South Florida Water Management district’s purchase of 182,000 acres of land for Everglades restoration.

The survey was conducted February 23 – 24, 2009 by Fabrizio, McLaughlin and Associates. Conducted for the Florida Chamber of Commerce as part of periodic statewide research, the survey of 600 likely Florida voters has a margin of error of +/-4% at the 95% confidence interval.

“Though we are continuing to see the overall mood of the electorate souring, Governor Crist’s popularity remains high,” said Marian Johnson, vice president of Political Affairs, Florida Chamber of Commerce. “Additionally, Florida’s voters see the need for lower taxes and reduced government spending as we move forward during difficult economic times. Over two-third of Florida voters see the purchase of land for Everglades restoration as a wise investment.”

Question: As you may know, the South Florida Water Management District announced an agreement to purchase 182,000 acres of mostly sugar cane fields surrounding Lake Okeechobee with the purpose of restoring the historical everglades and insuring the future of the state’s water supply. The purchase price is $1.34 (one point three four) billion dollars and will be paid for without raising taxes. Based on what you know, do you favor or oppose the deal?

Favor: 66%
Oppose: 19%
Undecided: 15%
Respondent selection was random within predetermined geographic units throughout the state to reflect actual voter turnout from past elections. Respondents were screened for likelihood of voting in the 2010 November election. Interviews were conducted by professional telemarketers.

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Established in 1916 as Florida’s first statewide business advocacy organization, the Florida Chamber of Commerce is the state’s largest federation of employers, chambers of commerce and associations, representing more than 139,000 employers. The Chamber works within all branches of government to affect those changes set forth in the annual Florida Business Agenda, and which are seen as critical to the continued improvement of Florida’s business environment. Visit www.FloridaChamber.com.