FAQs

Is the Council a government agency?

The Economic Council is a private, membership based, not-for-profit 501(c)6 organization and is not a function of any government agency. We provide a platform for industry leaders in Okeechobee County to engage in matters of interest to policy makers at the state and local level.

Does the Council endorse candidates for political office?

Many other 501(c)6 organizations publicly endorse candidates for political office, but the Economic Council currently does not and has not since its inception. The Council takes positions and advocates for many political causes, but not candidates. The Council also does not contribute financially to any political campaigns or political action committees.

Who can join as a member?

Official membership is by written invitation of the Board of Directors and the signed sponsorship of at least two current members in good standing. Individual membership is defined as “a chief executive, operating officer or designee of a business or industry having a continuing commercial presence in Okeechobee County, Florida. […] All persons considered for membership shall have achieved a high level of success and public recognition in the fields of business, industry or commerce.”

How do you support economic development in Okeechobee?

The Council recognized the need for broader investment in local economic development efforts in 2018 and was the catalyst behind the establishment of the “Okeechobee County Economic Development Corporation.” If you are a site developer or other interested party looking to relocate your company to Okeechobee, please visit their official website at ocedcorp.com