On Tuesday, Gov. Rick Scott announced three judicial appointments, as well as two appointments and six reappointments to regulatory boards statewide.
Eighth Circuit Court
Judge David P. Kreider, 47, of Gainesville, has been an Alachua County Judge since 2010. While on the county court bench, Kreider has served in the civil and criminal divisions, and served as chair of the Alachua County Canvassing Board from 2010 to 2014. Prior to the appointment to the county bench, Kreider spent most of his legal career serving as a prosecutor with the State Attorney’s Office, where he rose to the level of Division Chief of the Bradford, Levy, and Gilchrist Counties. He previously practiced insurance defense with Dell Graham, P.A. He fills a vacancy created by the resignation of Judge Ysleta W. McDonald.
“During his time on the Alachua County Court bench,” Scott said, “Judge Kreider has served Florida families with distinction. I am confident that he will make a great addition to the Eighth Judicial Circuit bench.”
Judges of Compensation Claims
Iliana Forte, 48, served as an Assistant City Attorney for the City of Miami since 2007. Forte practiced workers’ compensation law since she began her legal career over 23 years ago. Prior to her service as an Assistant City Attorney, Forte had her own legal practice from 1997-2007. She began her legal career in 1990 with Almeyda, Hill & Forte.
Forte will be assigned to the Fort Lauderdale District office.
“Iliana’s experience as a workers’ compensation practitioner for over two decades has prepared her to serve as a Judge,” Scott said. “I am confident that Iliana will continue to serve Florida families with integrity.”
Robert Dietz, 55, has owned mediation legal practice since 2013. Prior to becoming a mediator, Dietz practiced workers’ compensation law with Zimmerman, Kiser & Sutcliffe for 29 years. Dietz has been Board Certified in Workers’ Compensation since 1992. Dietz will be assigned to the Melbourne District office.
“Bob’s experience and legal skills will be an asset to Florida families as he serves in this new role,” Scott said. “Throughout his long legal career, Robert has exhibited the qualities that will make him a great judge.”
Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission
Michael Hansen, 62, of Crawfordville, is chief executive officer and president of the Florida Council on Community Mental Health. He fills a vacant seat for a term ending January 5, 2016.
The appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.
Acquisition & Restoration Council
Maurice “Mo” Pearson, 45, of Orlando, the president and principal in charge of ecological services at 3E Consultants Inc. His reappointment continues through March 1, 2018.
Manatee County Housing Authority
Linda Cinque, of Bradenton, is the president of Linda C. Cinque Inc. Her reappointment ends January 5, 2018.
James Hegemier, of Ellenton, is a salesperson for Leslie Wells Real Estate. His reappointment ends January 15, 2018.
Clay County Development Authority
Matthew Carlton, 38, of Green Cove Springs, is president of Carlton Construction Inc. He succeeds Jan Conrad for a term ending July 1, 2017.
Gregory Clary, 62, of Middleburg, is president of Clary Associates Inc. His reappointment ends July 1, 2017.
Ernest Dobson, 57, of Fleming Island, is Director of Strategic Initiatives for CSX. His reappointment ends July 1, 2017.
William Randall, 69, of Fleming Island, is a pastor with St. Simon Baptist Church. His reappointment ends July 1, 2017.
