Citizens for Lower Taxes and a Stronger Economy, Inc.

(ORLANDO, FL - November 15, 2007) Floridians for Smarter Growth (FSG) today announced that Vice Chairman of the Seminole County Commission Mike McLean and Lake County business owner Donna Robinson-King will lead the fight against the so-called Hometown Democracy amendment as the group's General Chairs in their respective counties.

"Commissioner McLean is a tremendous asset to our team and his history of public service and local leadership make him an excellent choice to lead this fight," said Mark Wilson, FSG Treasurer and Executive Vice President of the Florida Chamber of Commerce. "Donna Robinson-King is a well-respected businesswoman in Lake County and a natural choice to lead our local campaign against Hometown Democracy. Her tenacity and drive will be key components in our successful efforts opposing the amendment."

"I am deeply concerned about this amendment not only as a County Commissioner but also as a small business owner since the extreme proposal will hurt working families and make it difficult to attract new business to our state," Commissioner McLean said. "Seminole County voters care a great deal about our quality-of-life and while growth is a serious concern, Hometown Democracy is not a workable solution."

"As a long time resident of Central Florida, I'm looking forward to leading FSG's team in Lake County," Mrs. Robinson-King said. "I shudder to think of the impact this amendment would have on our local economy. Voting on everything would paralyze local planning - no new capital improvements, no new roads, and a lot more gridlock."

Currently, Commissioner McLean is the President of the Michael J. McLean Agency of Nationwide Insurance in Lake Mary. He serves on many government and community boards including the Seminole County-Lake Mary Chamber of Commerce, MyRegion.org, and Envision Seminole. Commissioner McLean has also held previous Board Member positions with organizations such as the American Cancer Society, American Red Cross, and the Rotary Club of Lake Mary where he served as past President.

Mrs. Robinson-King is the Owner and President of The Custom Contracting Corporation. Aside from running her business, Mrs. Robinson-King also serves as a Board Member for the North Central Florida Division of the March of Dimes. She has previously dedicated her time to Habitat for Humanity Women Build as a House Leader and served as Orlando's Chapter Chair for the U.S. Women's Chamber of Commerce.

Floridians for Smarter Growth was founded by Sunshine State community and business leaders to fight extreme special interests bound to destroy Florida's unique quality-of-life under the guise of the Hometown Democracy amendment. Please visit www.FLSmarterGrowth.org for more information and to download, sign, and submit the Smarter Growth petition.

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