New Appointments Signal Optimism for Florida Citrus Industry

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently announced several appointments and reappointments to the Florida Citrus Commission (FCC), the 11-member board representing the state’s citrus growers, processors, and packers. New appointees include Emma Ezell, Sean Frielich, Vernon Hollingsworth III, Daniel Hunt, and Melanie Ressler, while Steve Johnson, Carlos Martinez, William Poulton, Daniel Sutton, and John “Patrick” Schirard were reappointed. These appointments are pending confirmation by the Florida Senate.

The FCC functions as both a board of directors and agency head for the Florida Department of Citrus (FDOC), overseeing its operations and setting key policies. Responsibilities include setting annual excise taxes, determining quality standards for citrus products, and directing research, marketing, and public relations initiatives. Despite ongoing challenges, FCC Chairman Steve Johnson expressed optimism earlier this month, citing strong blooms in the groves and growing support from state officials. “Florida citrus is witnessing some signs of good things on the horizon,” Johnson said, noting momentum toward planting millions of greening-tolerant trees as a potential boost for the industry’s future.