Florida Pool Pro
sm
• March 2015
29
Each January, the FSPAChapter presidents select a “Person
of the Year” for the Florida Swimming Pool Association. It is based
on the effort and effectiveness of the individual in providing the
FSPA with leadership, commitment and service.
Rob Sanger is recognized as the 2014 Person of the Year
for his leadership in bringing the FSPA and United Pool & Spa
Association (UPSA) together in 2014. Rob worked tirelessly
to have members from both associations start communicating
to address the challenges facing public pools. The improved
discussions andmeetings allowed the associations to find common
ground and work to find solutions for the pool professionals
building and repairing commercial pools. By working together, the FSPA and UPSAwere
successful in getting legislation passed in 2014 which clarified permitting issues between
the building and health departments. Rob’s idea to have better collaboration between
the two Associations grew into what is today the Public Pool Coalition – in addition to
FSPA and UPSA, BOAF and DOH are part of this coalition, which meets once a month
to discuss public pool concerns. The coalition has worked together to address changes
to 64E-9, the public pool rule. Currently the coalition is working to put forth legislation
that will address the maintenance of public pools and the ability for DOH to continue
inspecting items that fall under the Florida Building Code. This is of critical importance
for the safety of both the citizens and tourists who enjoy the 37,000 plus public pools and
spa in Florida. Without Rob encouraging this alliance between FSPA and UPSA, the
good work that has been done and continues would not have occurred.
Rob is a licensed commercial pool contractor and holds a gas installers license. He
is the president of Galaxy Pools in Sarasota and
has been in the pool industry for 38 years.
Rob has been on the Manasota Chapter
Board for many years holding the offices of
treasurer, vice president and president. He has
been chosen as the chapter Director of the Year.
He has also been on the state Board off and on
for many years. Rob served on the Executive
Committee as an at-large director in 2011,
secretary in 2012, treasurer in 2013 and vice
president in 2014.
Congratulations and many thanks for your
hard work and support of FSPA.
Person of the Year
FSPA Treasurer Brian Kelly, Vice
President Rob Sanger (Person of the
Year), President John Garner and
Executive Director Wendy Parker Barsell.
