The Florida PACE Funding Agency (FPFA) is entering a new era of leadership following the announcement that Executive Director Mike Moran will be stepping down from his position. Moran's departure comes on the heels of his recent election victory as Tax Collector in Sarasota County, Florida, a commitment he had made prior to the election.
During a meeting held on December 10th, 2024, in Kissimmee, Florida, the FPFA Board of Directors acknowledged Moran's significant contributions to the agency. Under his leadership since 2019, FPFA has experienced remarkable growth, funding over 29,000 hurricane-hardening and energy efficiency projects totaling more than $900 million. These projects have included critical home improvements such as roofing, window and door replacements, air conditioning systems, and generator installations.
Moran's tenure at FPFA has been marked by substantial progress in providing sustainable financing solutions for Florida residents, particularly in areas where traditional funding options were limited. His leadership has been instrumental in strengthening Florida homes against natural disasters and improving energy efficiency across the state.
The transition in leadership comes at a crucial time for Florida, as the state continues to grapple with the impacts of climate change and the increasing frequency of severe weather events. The work of FPFA in facilitating home improvements that enhance resilience and energy efficiency is more important than ever, making this leadership change a matter of significant public interest.
Taking the reins from Moran will be Wendi Leach, who has been unanimously appointed by the Board as the new Executive Director. Leach, previously serving as the Director of Operations, brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of FPFA's mission to her new role. The Board has expressed strong confidence in her ability to lead the agency forward, ensuring continuity in its vital work.
Mike Steigerwald, Chair of the FPFA Board of Directors, praised Leach's appointment, stating, "Wendi's leadership and operational expertise have been instrumental to our success. Her vision and dedication will ensure that FPFA continues to thrive and serve the needs of Florida's communities."
This leadership transition at FPFA has broader implications for Florida's approach to climate resilience and sustainable development. As a public entity, FPFA plays a crucial role in providing homeowners with financing options for energy-efficient and hurricane-resistant home improvements. The agency's work directly contributes to the state's overall preparedness for natural disasters and its efforts to reduce energy consumption.
The impact of FPFA's programs extends beyond individual homeowners to the broader Florida economy. By facilitating large-scale home improvements, the agency supports local contractors and stimulates economic activity in the construction and home improvement sectors. Additionally, the focus on energy efficiency aligns with broader national and global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.
As Wendi Leach takes over the leadership of FPFA, she will face the challenge of building upon the agency's successes while navigating the evolving landscape of climate resilience and sustainable finance. Her leadership will be crucial in ensuring that Florida continues to make progress in protecting its residents and their homes from the impacts of severe weather events while promoting energy efficiency.
The transition at FPFA serves as a reminder of the importance of strong, continuity in leadership for agencies tasked with addressing long-term challenges such as climate resilience. As Florida continues to face environmental challenges, the role of FPFA in providing innovative financing solutions for home improvements will remain critical to the state's overall strategy for adaptation and mitigation.
