HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010-025RESOLUTION NO. 2010- 025
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF
INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, FLORIDA, URGING THE FLORIDA
LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION FOR INDIAN RIVER COUNTY TO SEEK
LEGISLATIVE SUPPORT FOR THE UNITED STATES SPACE
PROGRAM.
WHEREAS, this is a defining moment in our country's history — a time for a genuine
commitment to remain a leader in the exploration and development of outer space ("Space" or
"Space Program") through a bold declaration of a defined purpose, identified destination, and a
clear time frame; and
WHEREAS, the ability to adequately guarantee the defense of this nation has in the past
relied upon having the best Army, Navy, and Air Force; the future clearly dictates the absolute
necessity of being in control of Space, or otherwise ceding our destiny and that of our children,
to foreign nations; and
WHEREAS, the importance of the United States remaining a leader in Space transcends
national pride in prior achievements to a call for space exploration that pushes the envelope in
new innovations, new products, and new industries that will secure our place as an economic
superpower in this global, borderless, and knowledge-based economy; and
WHEREAS, dependence upon foreign nations for transport of American astronauts and
payloads is neither reliable, economical, nor politically astute; and
WHEREAS, the State of Florida has played a key role in our national Space Program
from its inception as the premier launch site with a $4.1 billion state-wide economic output in
2008 alone, including $103 million in state and local taxes; and a $43.9 billion statewide
aerospace federal, state and industry economic impact; and
WHEREAS, the State of Florida has enthusiastically embraced and demonstrated its
commitment to the Space Program's continued presence in Florida with a total $8 billion
investment in infrastructure and a current Governor's budget which proposes $32.6 million for
the Space Program; and
WHEREAS, 100,000 jobs statewide in all 67 counties have been associated with the
presence of the Space Program in the State of Florida, making it one of the larger employers in
the state; and
WHEREAS, the State of Florida is privileged to share the experience of space
exploration and technology with thousands of visitors who contribute $90 million annually to the
economy when they visit the "Sunshine State" to experience the pride and excitement of
participation in this vital aspect of our nation's Space Program.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS OF INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, FLORIDA THAT
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RESOLUTION NO. 2010- 025
The Florida Legislative Delegation representing all or part of Indian River County,
Florida is hereby urged to actively and aggressively seek legislative support for the following:
• Assurance that the United States remains the leader in Space with a strong declaration by
the Administration of a goal, a destination, and a time frame for human space flight
• Assurance that the United States is the primary provider for U.S. human space flight to
the International Space Station and our national laboratory through the continuous ability
to launch American astronauts and payloads on U.S.-built heavy -lift vehicles, which
includes the extension of space shuttle flights until new vehicles are ready to fly
• Assurance that the United States remains competitive on the international level as an
economic superpower, leading the world in research and technology that improves life
for all mankind by creating an environment that encourages research and development
and ensures the full utilization of our national laboratory aboard the International Space
Station
• Assurance that the United States ensures its national security by retaining its military
superiority, which reaches to the farthest corners of the universe and depends in part upon
the support of satellites through the continuous use of U.S.-built vehicles without reliance
upon foreign countries
• Assurance that the United States remains the leader in space exploration with the
commitment to fund construction of Florida's 21st century launch facilities, and the
ability to secure partnerships with low earth orbit commercial operations by providing the
necessary funds to provide responsive and supportive functions
• Assurance that the future workforce of the United States remains competitive in a global
market, by providing support for world-class STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering,
Math) education for primary, secondary, and post -secondary students
The foregoing resolution was moved for adoption by Commissioner Wheel er
and seconded by Commissioner Davi s
and upon being put to a vote, the vote as follows:
Chairman Peter D. O'Bryan
Vice Chairman Bob Solari Aye
Commissioner Wesley S. Davis
Commissioner Joseph E. Flescher Aye
Commissioner Gary C. Wheeler Aye
Ay e
Ay e
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RESOLUTION NO. 2010- 025
The Chairman thereupon declared the resolution duly passed and adopted this 6th day
of April, 2010.
ATTEST: Jeffrey K. Barton
Clerk of Court
By:
Deputy Clerk
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BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, FLORIDA
By: it,
Peter D. O'Bryan, Chairma
Approved as to form and legal sufficiency.
By: c)�c
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Alan S. Polackwich, Sr., County Attorney