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� t t Since the inception of the Association, we have grown to 1,100 state wide members, with 17 chapters. We were instrumental in changing and establishing new pest control laws governing the application of pesticides. We have also coordinated numerous seminars around the state to promote the concepts of Environmental Landscape Management and Integrated Pest Management as created and supported by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS). We also offer a certification program for technicians and mangers. ' In Indian River County we have 522 licensed lawn and landscape maintenance companies, of which 40 are members of the LMA. When one reviews industry in this county, it appears that citrus, finance, tourism or construction are considered the major employers. We are an often overlooked industry in this county, even though we provide approximately 2,000 jobs. The fault could be ours for not promoting the industry with the county or the various municipalities. The concerns that we have as an industry in this county are the following: • The application for occupational licenses in the landscape maintenance profession needs examination. Currently we send in $40.00 and we receive our licenses to work. No additional information is required such as, worker's compensation and liability insurance. • Are all"companies currently paying their tangible property taxes to the county? If not; then why? What would be the additional revenue for the county if ail landscape maintenance companies paid their tangible property taxes? • Another important factor is the competency of those individuals that are obtaining landscape maintenance licenses. After all we do affect the health, safety and welfare of the general public. The State of Florida has a limited pest control license for the landscape maintenance professional. Should the county review how to support the State requirement on a local level? We would like to address these areas of concern with you so we can rectify the inequities that are occurring within the county. We are not attempting to restrict individuals from entering our profession. -We are attempting to create an industry of educated professionals for the health safety and welfare of the residents of Indian River County. We will contact you by the 15th of the month to set up an appointment. Thank you for your assistance. Si ly, Thomas C. Lund cc: Dan Culbert, Indian River County Extension Agent Jim Chandler, Indian River County Administrator 'Karl Zitmnerm m, Indian River County Tax Collector Commissioners discussed the advisability of forming an ad hoc committee and, due to Sunshine Law requirements, suggested it might be more expeditious for the LMA to meet, formulate their recommendations and bring them back to the Board. 35 BOOK 94 pm,c 85P April 11, 1995