LECTURE TOPIC :  Reflections from 24 years as a County Commissioner

Commissioner Ray Judah 

Bio:  Commissioner Judah graduated from California State University of Humboldt with a Master of Science in Natural Resources and Bachelor of Arts in Zoology.  Commissioner Ray Judah has served the citizens of Lee County since 1988.  He is a strong advocate for providing a balance between responsible stewardship of our precious natural resources while also providing sufficient infrastructure and services to accommodate Southwest Florida’s rapid growth.  Commissioner Judah’s commitment to enhance our quality of life is reflected in his effort to establish and support the highly successful Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed Land Trust and Conservation 2020 Program which acquires environmentally sensitive lands to protect our water supplies and open space. Commissioner Judah has promoted the diversification of our economy by recruiting companies such as Arthrex and Algenol and supporting existing business expansion including Chico’s, LeeSar, Gartner and Neogenomics, providing jobs for our hardworking families.  Commissioner Judah’s numerous awards include “Conservationist of the Year” from the Florida Audubon Society in both 1984 & 1996, “Pathfinder Award” from the Urban Land Institute in 2004, “Conservationist of the Year” from the Florida Wildlife Federation in 2007, and the 2012 “Presidential Advocacy Award” from the Florida Association of Counties for his work to preserve and protect home rule - the idea that government closest to the people governs best.  Commissioner Ray Judah is happily married to Kristen Judah and proud father of 2nd Lieutenant Kallen Judah, United States Air Force.