Miami resident Ronald Brisé was recently appointed to the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) by Gov. Charlie Crist to fill one of two vacant seats. For the past four years, Brisé has served the citizens of northeast Miami, District 108, in the Florida House of Representatives.
As one of five PSC commissioners, Brisé will exercise regulatory authority over the companies that provide Florida’s consumers with the essential services of electric, natural gas, telephone, water and wastewater.
“My job will be to protect and preserve the public interest while allowing the utility companies to have the necessary resources to deliver safe, reliable service that is affordable to everyone,” said Brisé.
Although Brisé will act on behalf of all Floridians as commissioner, his appointment does give the diverse South Florida population representation in the PSC. “The south Florida area is a large financial contributor; more than any other part of the state,” said Brisé. “The decisions made by the PSC affect this area disproportionately.”
Brisé, 36, said he applied for the commission because his combined experience in the telecom industry and the Florida Legislature would allow him to strike a balance in the PSC and work in a fair manner to benefit the public. He was one of eight candidates under consideration for the two open seats.
“I believe Gov. Crist and the council appointed me for two reasons,” said Brisé. “My background provides me with a sensitivity for the well being of the constituents, as well as an understanding of the policy intent of the legislature. I’m also mild mannered and a consensus builder, which are positive attributes to bring to this commission.”
In a statement regarding Brisé’s appointment, Gov. Crist said Brisé is dedicated to serving the people of Florida and protecting their best interests.
Brisé has served in the House since 2006 and prior to that was the chief operating officer of Miami-based voice-over-Internet provider IPIP Corporation. He received a bachelor’s degree in biology from Oakwood College in Huntsville, AL and received MBA degrees in management and marketing from American Intercontinental University in Illinois. Brisé was born in Haiti and moved to Miami at age seven. He attended Miami Union Academy in North Miami where he played basketball and was a student council member.
Brisé recalls the epiphany that prompted him to run for the legislature.
“I was among friends and we were discussing how we could make a difference and have an impact,” he said. “To affect change, you have to become a whole lot more involved and ultimately increase your sphere of influence.”
Brisé ran for the house in 2002 and lost, but was successful in 2006. As a state representative, Brisé was named Democratic whip from 2006 to 2008 and served on many councils, including the Energy & Utilities Policy Committees and the Transportation & Economic Development Appropriations.
While serving his diverse district, Brisé has promoted public assistance programs that provide invaluable services to those in need. Lifeline Across America offers discounts on telephone services to those who qualify and the government program, Safe Link Wireless, provides a free cell phone and airtime service to income eligible customers.
Brisé also sponsored successful legislation to expand broadband deployment throughout the state, making it possible for underserved areas to have access to broadband technology.
“Children need to have access to the 21st century,” said Brisé. “As commissioner, I will continue to push for stronger outreach efforts across the state and strive to make people aware of the many programs and opportunities that are available to them.”
Brisé and his wife JoAn, a healthcare professional, have one son and are members of the Tabernacle Seventh Day Adventist Church. Brisé likes to travel, read and play tennis and golf. He and his family will move to Tallahassee this summer, following senate confirmation of his appointment.
