What to Know About Governor DeSantis' New Appointments to the Clay County Development Authority in Florida?

 

Photo credit: Gage Skidmore/CC BY-SA 2.0, via Flickr

Governor DeSantis Appoints Four Leaders to Clay County Development Authority

TALLAHASSEE, FL — Governor Ron DeSantis announced new appointments and reappointments to the Clay County Development Authority (CCDA), an organization aimed at fostering economic growth and development in one of Florida's rapidly growing counties. The recent appointees are Dennis “Rick” Dingle, Dell Hoard Sr., Tina Clary, and Tammy “Chereese” Stewart, each bringing a diverse background in business, administration, and community leadership.

Who Are the New Appointees?

Dennis “Rick” Dingle

Dingle, newly appointed to the CCDA, currently serves as the Chief Administrative Officer for the Clay County Clerk of the Court and Comptroller’s Office. In his role, Dingle is responsible for overseeing administrative operations and ensuring the efficient management of public resources. His active involvement with the Florida Government Finance Officers Association demonstrates his commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility, critical areas for a growing county like Clay.
Dingle’s educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Flagler College and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of North Florida, equipping him with both the academic expertise and practical experience necessary to navigate complex financial and administrative challenges.

Dell Hoard Sr.

Another new face on the CCDA, Hoard is the Owner of Grumpy’s Restaurant, a popular local eatery that has earned a strong reputation in the community. Prior to owning Grumpy’s, Hoard worked as a Transportation Coordinator for the Walmart Transportation Center, where he managed logistics and operations.
As a lifelong Clay County resident, Hoard has a deep understanding of the area’s economic and demographic landscape. He attended St. Johns River State College and continues to be involved in local affairs, bringing a hands-on approach to his role with the CCDA.

Reappointments of Experienced Leaders

Tina Clary

Reappointed to the Clay County Development Authority, Clary is the Principal and Chief Executive Officer of Clary & Associates, a respected company that provides professional land surveying, mapping, and engineering services.
Clary’s deep ties to Florida’s development sectors are evident in her previous membership with the Florida Surveying and Mapping Society, the American Society of Highway Engineering, and the Clay County Chamber of Commerce. These experiences have made her an invaluable contributor to the CCDA’s mission of fostering sustainable development.
Clary earned her associate degree from Florida State College at Jacksonville, and her continued service to Clay County’s economic initiatives has helped shape the region’s growth in critical infrastructure and housing development.

Tammy “Chereese” Stewart

Also reappointed, Stewart is currently the Assistant County Manager for the Clay County Board of County Commissioners, where she has been instrumental in county operations and policy implementation. Her prior experience as a Clay County Commissioner further bolsters her resume, giving her a well-rounded view of the area’s governance and development challenges.
In addition to her governmental roles, Stewart is an active member of community organizations like the Clay County Cattlemen Association, the Clay County Farm Bureau, and the Florida Planning and Zoning Association.
Her academic credentials include a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University and a master’s degree in educational leadership and administration from the University of North Florida. Stewart’s expertise in planning and zoning, combined with her agricultural knowledge, positions her to play a key role in ensuring the responsible growth of the region.

What the Clay County Development Authority Does

The Clay County Development Authority is a crucial entity dedicated to driving economic development and infrastructure growth in the area. By facilitating new business ventures, offering support to existing enterprises, and ensuring sustainable land use, the CCDA plays an important role in balancing rapid population growth with the need for job creation and environmental conservation.
Governor DeSantis’ recent appointments and reappointments are aligned with his focus on developing Florida’s local economies through innovation, entrepreneurship, and community involvement. With these four leaders at the helm, the CCDA is poised to continue fostering strategic growth in Clay County.

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Why These Appointments Matter

The appointment of Dingle and Hoard, alongside the reappointment of Clary and Stewart, signals the governor’s intent to strengthen the CCDA with a mix of new perspectives and experienced leaders. The appointees’ backgrounds reflect a balance of business acumen, administrative expertise, and community involvement, ensuring that Clay County continues to thrive as a key area for development in Florida.
As Clay County experiences population and economic growth, the Development Authority will be tasked with guiding future projects to meet the needs of the community while preserving the county’s unique charm and heritage.

Looking Forward: The Future of Clay County

As one of Florida’s emerging regions, Clay County is facing increased demand for residential development, infrastructure improvements, and economic opportunities. The leadership provided by the Clay County Development Authority will be essential in addressing these needs in a responsible, forward-thinking manner.
With Governor DeSantis’ appointments in place, Clay County is set to benefit from innovative projects that support job creation, improve public services, and ensure the region remains a vibrant place to live and work for years to come.

Stay tuned for more updates on the development initiatives in Clay County and the work of the newly appointed CCDA members.

FAQs

1. Who Is Dennis "Rick" Dingle?
   Dingle serves as the Chief Administrative Officer for the Clay County Clerk of the Court and Comptroller’s Office. He has extensive experience in public finance and administration and is an active member of the Florida Government Finance Officers Association.

2. Who Is Dell Hoard Sr.?
   Hoard is the Owner of Grumpy’s Restaurant and has a background in logistics as a former Transportation Coordinator for Walmart. A lifelong Clay County resident, he brings local business insight to the CCDA.

3. Experienced Leaders Returning to CCDA
   Reappointed members Tina Clary and Tammy “Chereese” Stewart have years of experience in business administration and county management. Their reappointment ensures continuity and experienced leadership in guiding economic initiatives.

4. What Are Their Responsibilities?
   The new appointees will oversee development projects, promote business growth, and ensure that infrastructure planning aligns with the needs of the expanding population.

5. Why This Matters for Clay County
   Clay County is experiencing significant growth, and these appointments will influence how new business ventures, housing, and public services are managed to ensure sustainable development.

6. Impact on the Local Community
   With these appointments, the CCDA aims to balance economic opportunities with community preservation, ensuring that the region remains a desirable place to live, work, and invest.