Atwater Selects June 30 Departure Date
Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater has announced that June 30 will be his last day on the job, coinciding with the end of Florida’s fiscal year. Atwater is leaving his CFO position to become a vice president at Florida Atlantic University.
Atwater previously announced his resignation as of the end of the 2016 legislative session. However, he later indicated that his desire to leave at the end of session should have included the post-session budget review, and ultimately the special session that ensued. With the special session having concluded last week and an agreed budget in place, Atwater is now able to depart without unfinished budgetary responsibilities.
Governor Rick Scott will appoint Atwater’s successor. The Governor has indicated that he will make the appointment soon. Many observers will be interested in the appointment for its implications on the next statewide election for the CFO position, which takes place next year. Thus far, Democrat Jeremy Ring is the only candidate who has announced for the position. However, an appointment from Governor Scott clearly would raise the profile of Atwater’s successor if the new CFO indeed decides to run for the position in 2018.