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The President and CEO of Florida’s economic Development Agency, Enterprise Florida, apologized today for a remark made in June, but as Mike Vasilinda tells us, the agency continues to face tough questions about it’s  performance in creating jobs.

Enterprise Florida President and CEO Bill Johnson was on the preverbal hot seat. Back in June, he called lawmakers “shameful” when he was unhappy about his level of funding.It was clear they hadn’t forgotten. Sen. Jack Latvala (R-St. Petersburg)  tried to calm emotions.

“The rhetoric on this whole issue needs to be lowered” said Latvala.

“I do know some of my comments have offended, and I apologize for that.I’m very passionate about what we are doing” responded Johnson.

Enterprise Florida, which is chaired by the Governor, wants 85 million more from lawmakers.

Even if the state closed on every project they are considering “hot”, it would only cost 44 million. They’ve got a hundred eighteen million in the bank.”

Some of the 118 million in cash has been promised to corporations who have yet to live up to their promise to create jobs. Chairwoman Nancy Detert (R-Venice) confronted the CEO over why he needs so much more when he has so much in the bank.

“Historically, you;’ve never spent more than 19 million in a year. So why do we have an 80 million dollar request when you have money in the bank?” asked Detert.

During the hour and a half meeting, Johnson was never able to fully justify the need for more money, which left Detert with more questions.

“I want to see specifically, what company, how much did we give them, and what’s the average salary” she asked rhetorically afterward.

The agency also claims jobs it’s brought to Florida pay an average 59 thousand a year, but it offered no backup as proof.

Enterprise Florida says  having cash in the bank is a sign to companies that the state is serious about the promises it makes. Lawmakers are also considering telling the development agency to partner with tourism officials to promote the state.