Okeechobee's Terry Burroughs: A Champion for County Leadership and Tech!

Okeechobee's Terry Burroughs: A Champion for County Leadership and Tech!

Okeechobee County is celebrating one of its own. Commissioner Terry Burroughs has been recognized for his significant term as the 2024-2025 President of the Florida Association of Counties. This presidency has allowed Burroughs to represent Okeechobee and all 67 counties across Florida at the state level, showcasing the importance of local leadership in addressing broader concerns.

During his tenure, he organized a pivotal Technology Summit, aimed at advancing technological capabilities in Florida’s counties. The summit was a platform for addressing key issues surrounding artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and internet access statewide. Burroughs‘ efforts are crucial as these topics become increasingly relevant in our interconnected world.

Advancing Cybersecurity and Technology

As cybercrime continues to rise, local governments are becoming prime targets for cyberattacks. The Florida League of Cities highlights resources and best practices that municipalities can adopt to stave off potential cyber intrusions. According to the league, in 2022, Florida’s legislature passed HB 7055, mandating annual cybersecurity training for all local government employees with network access. It’s a sensible move aimed at bolstering defenses against growing cyber threats.

This commitment to security is echoed by notable figures in the field, like David Cagigal, a CXO Advisor for Zscaler. His extensive experience in cybersecurity strategies, including Zero Trust Principles, positions him as a valuable resource for addressing the challenges local governments face in safeguarding their networks. The recent Technology Summit, organized under Burroughs‘ leadership, welcomed experts like Cagigal to discuss these critical developments.

A Strategic Approach to Local Governance

Burroughs didn’t stop with technology; he also established a Select Committee on Property Taxes, enabling county governments to voice their concerns collaboratively. Furthermore, he laid the groundwork for a budget committee to keep an eye on potential overspending. His strong advocacy against a new rule that would limit the tenure of county leaders stems from a belief in the value of experienced governance.

In a forward-thinking approach, Burroughs is also supporting the new president of the Florida Association of Counties, Michelle Lincoln, who serves as Mayor Pro Tem of Monroe County. Together, they plan to build upon the relationships developed during Burroughs’ presidency, opening up avenues for resources and opportunities that will serve Okeechobee County well.

Funding for Cybersecurity Initiatives

Recognizing the financial needs of local governments, the Florida Local Government Cybersecurity Grant program is set to continue with a budget of $40 million for Fiscal Year 2024-25. This grant is designed to enhance cybersecurity measures across local municipalities, providing much-needed software and services to protect critical data and infrastructure. The application process is expected to open again soon, allowing both returning and new applicants to seek funding for vital security improvements.

The timeline for the grant applications is well laid out, with key dates approaching in early 2024. As municipalities gear up for this opportunity, it’s an exciting time for Florida’s local governments to bolster their cybersecurity frameworks.

With leadership like that of Commissioner Terry Burroughs and ongoing initiatives to support technological advancement and cybersecurity, Okeechobee County is positioning itself at the forefront of local governance. There’s something to be said for strong leadership at local levels, and Burroughs’ proactive approach is a testament to this truth.

For more information about Burroughs‘ contributions, visit Lake O News. To learn about the upcoming Technology Summit, check out Technology Summit. For details on cybersecurity resources and grant opportunities, see the Florida League of Cities.