HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem B4 B4
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
COUNTY of MONROE Mayor James K.Scholl,District 3
The Florida Keys Mayor Pro Tern Michelle Lincoln,District 2
Craig Cates,District 1
David Rice,District 4
Holly Merrill Raschein,District 5
Board of County Commissioners Meeting
May 21, 2025
Agenda Item Number: B4
2023-4030
BULK ITEM: No DEPARTMENT: District 1
TIME APPROXIMATE: STAFF CONTACT: Amanda Walker
AGENDA ITEM WORDING: Recognition of Diane Schmidt for her dedication to the Tourist
Development Council and for being named the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association Hotelier of
the year and being inducted into its hall of fame.
ITEM BACKGROUND:
PREVIOUS RELEVANT BOCC ACTION:
INSURANCE REQUIRED:
No
CONTRACT/AGREEMENT CHANGES:
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
DOCUMENTATION:
Diane Sch idt.docx
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
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Diane Schmidt's unwavering support of the Florida Keys and Key
West is evident in everything she does, from tirelessly advocating for
Monroe County's tourism industry to mentoring the next generation of
hospitality leaders. For the past five decades, including nearly 35 in Key
West, Diane has served not only as a respected hotelier but also as a
trusted community leader serving on numerous boards including the
Monroe County TDC, Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association and Key
West Chamber of Commerce.
Through her leadership and vision, the Monroe County TDC has
undergone a complete transformation in the past 8 months, laying a new
foundation built on improved transparency, community involvement and
destination stewardship.
Diane was appointed to the TDC on August 15, 2018 and
reappointed on September 21 , 2022. She was elected Co-Treasurer in
October 2018 and Chair in September 2024.
Prior to being appointed to the TDC, she served on DAC I from June
2013 - August 2018, when she then was appointed to the TDC. The
Monroe County TDC is deeply grateful for her continued service and
guidance, which help to strengthen the destination every day.
Diane's active involvement in the Florida Restaurant & Lodging
Association and her efforts to elevate the hospitality industry led to her well-
deserved induction into the 2024 FRLA Hall of Fame as the Hotelier of the
Year. Additionally, her service on the board of the Greater Key West
Chamber of Commerce, with roles including past president, underscores
her commitment to local economic development.
Diane's ability to bring people together, build strong partnerships and
lead with integrity has earned her the admiration of colleagues, elected
officials and business owners alike. And her dedication to this community
continues to shape its future in meaningful, lasting ways.
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