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What you need to know about Florida today
State economists forecast billion dollar budget deficit in Florida
For years now, Florida's capitol has seen plenty of money -- the results of a booming economy. Now, state economists are forecasting a billion dollar budget deficit. And the new speaker of the state house says that deficit could get here sooner than expected. [Source: News 13]
See also:
» New Florida House speaker sends legislators to school
» Takeaways from Tallahassee – Early Christmas presents
Florida Trend Exclusive
Medical tourism: Global med
Tourists have long flocked to Florida for recreation. More recently, medical facilities have become an attraction: In 2015, the state estimates, between 300,000 and 400,000 people traveled to Florida for health care. Access full story.
Rents for office space in Florida up almost 10 percent
Rents for Class A office space in Florida is up almost 10 percent over last year. The real estate firm Cushman & Wakefield said in a report released last week that the average square foot of office space statewide was renting for $32.26. [Source: AP]
Florida defense firms hope for high-tech focus in Trump funding
Orlando's cluster of defense contractors hope a renewed emphasis on defense budgets under a Donald Trump presidency will come with a high-tech focus. If that happens, it could lead to more growth for the industry in Central Florida, as technology investments play into one of the region's strengths. [Source: Orlando Sentinel]
Meet the woman who wrote the book on Florida real estate
If you've ever studied to become a real estate agent in Florida, chances are you used the textbook written by Linda L. Crawford. A New Orleans native who went to college in Florida, Crawford sold real estate for several years before realizing her true interest was in education and testing. [Source: Tampa Bay Times]
› A look at Sanford Burnham's shortfall
Orlando dry cleaners, day cares, and real estate offices are among businesses that would have benefited from a $4.8 million economic boost if Sanford Burnham had met job goals, according to a new analysis.
› Average price for gasoline rising in Florida, nationwide
Gas price averages have risen 9 cents a gallon in Florida since Wednesday's announcement by OPEC to reduce crude oil production by 1.2 million barrels a day.
› Fort Myers firm squeezes leadership team, names new CEO
Florida orange producer Alico announced Remy Trafelet will become president and CEO of the Fort Myers-based holding company, effective Jan. 1. He replaces CEO Clay Wilson, who will step down from his role Dec. 31.
› UCF teaching hospital, 2 others get initial state approval
The state gave a preliminary stamp of approval Friday to three health systems that had applied to build new hospitals in Central Florida, including the UCF-HCA joint application for a teaching hospital in Lake Nona.
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