Jimmy Patronis announces new appointment to Citizens Property Insurance board of governors

Citizens to the rescue — but for how long?

Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis on Monday announced one appointment to the Citizens Insurance Board (Citizens).

Patronis appointed Burr & Forman lawyer Scott Thomas to the Citizens’ Board of Governors.

Thomas previously served as Florida Elections Commission chair, on the Judicial Nominating Commission for the Fifth District Court of Appeal, and on the University of Florida Alumni Association Board of Directors.

He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and his law degree from the University of Florida’s College of Law.

“Scott’s legal background and government experience makes him well qualified to oversee the functions of Citizens,” Patronis said. “Scott knows what it takes to ensure Citizens is crafting and executing policies to protect policyholders.”

Additionally, Patronis appointed existing member Carlos Beruff to the position of BOG Chairman.

Beruff previously served as Chair of Constitution Revision Commission and chair of former Gov. Rick Scott’s Commission on Healthcare and Hospital Funding. He also served on the Southwest Florida Water Management District, the Board of Trustees of State College of Florida and the Sarasota Manatee Airport Authority Board.

“His success in the private sector combined with his experience and leadership in government will truly benefit policyholders while holding Citizens accountable,” Patronis said.

Meanwhile, existing Citizens board member  Marc Dunbar will now serve as the Florida Insurance Guaranty Association representative for the group.

Dunbar is a Dean Mead shareholder who currently serves on the Citizens’ Board of Governors. He earned both a bachelor’s degree and law degree from Florida State University.

“Marc is an insurance expert and he’s got an incredible grasp of the law, which will benefit the functions of FIGA well,” Patronis said.

The Florida Legislature created Citizens Property Insurance Corporation in 2002 as a not-for-profit alternative insurer. The corporation exists to provide insurance to property owners who cannot find coverage in the private insurance market.

Last week, House Speaker Jose Oliva appointed Lazaro Fields to the Citizens Property Insurance Corporation Board of Governors.