James Richardson
City of Jacksonville
Program Administrator
(SJRWMD)

Does your local government/special district have an established stormwater utility or similar financing mechanism?
Yes.

How long have you been a member of FSA (years)?
I have personally been a member of FSA for more than 10 years.

Have you served FSA in the past?
I currently serve on the Conference committee. I have previously served on the Membership and Legislative Committees. I have served in these roles for more than five years.

What abilities and attributes can you bring to the Board?
Jacksonville has the largest MS4 in the country. The Board, and Association, would benefit from having representation from one of the most populous cities in the state. I am a Past President of the Florida Environmental Resource Agencies (FLERA) and continue service on the Board of Directors. The two organizations have a strong alliance. Service on the FSA Board would allow me an opportunity to bring a unique perspective to issues facing FSA as well as demonstrated leadership within a statewide organization.

What background and experience do you have in the stormwater industry?
Although I do not have direct experience in the stormwater industry, for more than 12 years I have closely monitored issues impacting the industry. This industry knowledge and insight was necessary as I utilized the information to assist the Jacksonville Environmental Protection Board in their regulatory capacity. I have helped to lead rulemaking efforts to enhance the City’s ability to meet the requirements of our NPDES permit. I have participated in many workshops and meetings with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and other local entities. I also assisted in the efforts to coordinate preparation of the Stormwater 20-Year Needs Analyses with the introduction of the new legislation in 2021.

Why do you want this Board position?
I would like to serve on the FSA Board of Directions because I think it would be a great honor and experience in my professional career. Service would allow me to become more involved and develop a deeper knowledge and understanding of the stormwater industry. Another benefit of joining the Board is having the opportunity to provide input in statewide issues associated with stormwater. Having also served in leadership of another statewide environmental organization, I believe that the skills and perspective I can provide would help FSA to identify issues and solutions to unique challenges on a statewide level. I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to work at a leadership level in such a vital association as FSA.