Episode #178: Randy Knight – Powering the Future: How Winter Park Took Charge of Its Electric Utility

In this episode of the FCCMA Podcast, host Steve Vancore speaks with Randy Knight, City Manager of Winter Park, about the city's historic decision to acquire its electric utility—a move that reshaped local control and reliability.Randy shares insights from his early leadership role as assistant city manager, when he led the feasibility study and public campaign that culminated in a successful referendum, with 69% of voters supporting the acquisition. He walks listeners through the challenges and political gridlock leading up to the decision, as well as the long-term benefits that followed—including improved storm recovery and reliability through underground power lines.The conversation also covers the growing tension between public and private utilities, with Randy reflecting on the implications for other cities considering similar transitions. He and Steve discuss the broader importance of stable leadership—Randy has served Winter Park for 33 years—and the role of alternative revenue sources like municipal utilities in light of potential shifts in property tax policy.