Alyssa Gay

Q. Considering the rapid population increase and projected business growth in the greater Manatee County region, what specific policies would you support to increase the talent pipeline in our area?

With an average of one thousand people moving to Florida per day, and many of them not joining our workforce, we are facing a workforce and labor shortage across many industries including construction, service, agriculture, healthcare, and hospitality. We need to increase technical classes in high schools, such as re-introducing classes such as shop, mechanics, etc., as well as increasing awareness and counseling for middle and high school students. This will allow us to reach students earlier in life to expand their horizons for their education and career opportunities post-graduation. We also need to evaluate certain licensing and degree requirements and create a fast-track credentialing system to lower barriers to certain industries/careers. We also need to focus on affordable housing, early childhood education/childcare needs, and tackle the cost of living crisis to increase and retain talent in our area.

Q. Infrastructure continues to be a challenge both in terms of existing, aging systems and additional capacity needed for Florida’s significant growth. What are your top infrastructure solutions for our region?

We must make investments in our infrastructure to both maintain the existing infrastructure as well as to better prepare for growth, rather than playing catch up. However, this should not apply solely to what we see above ground, such as roads and bridges, but also what is happening underground with water, wastewater, stormwater, and sewage infrastructure; as well, we must consider broadband infrastructure. 2020 showed us that communities, whether urban or rural, have a lack of reliable internet access, which not only impacts students and employees but is also a deterrent to potential businesses moving into the area, particularly in the eastern portions of the county. Additionally, Florida’s infrastructure needs and what Florida currently has in budget is leaving Florida severely underfunded and creating serious economic consequences, such as lost jobs and lost exports. This is where PPPs can be beneficial. Public-private partnerships have generally proven very successful, resulting in efficiency, job creation, and significant savings for taxpayers.

Q. In Florida, and especially in our area, water quality is an essential part of our economy and quality of life; what can the Legislature do to continue to address water quality?

The Legislature must continue to make investments in Florida’s water infrastructure to protect our natural resources and manage our water supply in conjunction with our growth. The legislature must prioritize a birds-eye view that considers the long-term needs of Florida and the potential ramifications of policies. Additionally, one specific area that needs high-priority focus would be our wastewater infrastructure system expansion, improvement, and maintenance.

Q. What do you consider to be the state policy issues impacting our region and how do you plan to legislatively address them?

Many state policy issues impact our region, including but not limited to education, healthcare, water quality, tax burdens, vacation rentals, business regulations, and regulations on trade. I am a third-generation entrepreneur and my experience in building a successful business & delivering tangible results makes me the best choice to advocate for not only our region, but Florida’s business community in Tallahassee. From championing conservative values and small business interests to prioritizing conservation and workforce excellence, I am dedicated to implementing common-sense policies that pave the way for a prosperous future for all Floridians. As legislative issues arise, I plan to seek counsel and advice from those in the district for what their priorities, needs, and concerns are to best represent them and the community. As a Manatee County native and small business owner, I understand the issues that my neighbors face on a daily basis. I’m running for Florida House District 72 to give our community a voice in Tallahassee. I want to serve the people who make our community great and ensure that the community that has provided me with so many opportunities continues to thrive into the future.