Peter Schorsch
The James Madison Institute (JMI) on Monday announced the launch of two new policy centers and the addition of two new team members expanding the Institute’s physical presence to Central and Southwest Florida.
The Orlando-based Coalition for Property Rights established in 2001, will now be incorporated under JMI as the Institute’s new Center for Property Rights. Dan Peterson, the coalition’s former executive director, will become the director of the center and continue to live in Orlando.
In addition, Sal Nuzzo, recently hired vice president of policy, will lead the Center for Economic Prosperity housed within the Tallahassee headquarters of JMI.
Don Orrico has also been added to the JMI team as the Southwest Florida development director and will be based in Naples.
“Population growth combined with Florida’s consistent high ranking on economic freedom indices provides ideal timing for the launch of these key policy centers. As new residents are added daily, Florida will face new challenges and increased pressure on the state’s budget and natural resources,” Dr. Bob McClure, JMI president and CEO said. “Intensifying our knowledge base in the essential areas of private property rights and fiscal policy will strengthen JMI’s impact in Florida. Adding Don and Dan to the team will also increase our ability to build an even more robust network in Naples and Orlando.”
The JMI Center for Property Rights will address “the fundamental right to property for all Floridians,” a news release states. The JMI Center for Economic Prosperity will focus on tax and budget issues, regulation, and “providing policy solutions to help Florida’s economy grow.”
Center directors will produce independent, nonpartisan research in their respective areas. These centers join JMI’s Preston A. Wells Jr. Center for American Ideals with the goal of continuing to round out a strategic initiative to develop the institute.
“There’s no better time to increase our dedication to ensuring Florida remains one of the most economically free states in the nation. And we’re excited to further our mission through these new developments and make a lasting imprint on the policymaking process in the Sunshine State,” McClure said.
Peterson, former director of the Coalition for Property Rights (CPR), has been deeply involved in the Central Florida business and political communities since 1999. Before coming to CPR he worked in both the Florida Senate and the Florida House as a legislative assistant. Prior to that, he was a public affairs manager for Sprint. His responsibilities included lobbying, community affairs, and serving on numerous boards.
Orrico, formerly with the Republican Party of Florida, brings a unique background to the position of development director having worked for the New York Yankees, in hotel sales and management, and real estate management in the New York metropolitan area. He also completed a legislative internship under Congressman Bill Posey on Capitol Hill and in Florida’s 8th Congressional District.
