This week on Smith Lane, Monaca and Callie sit down with Bill Conerly, Vice President and Senior Project Manager at Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc., and member of the Florida House of Representatives representing District 72. He shares insights from the intersection of his careers in civil engineering and politics.Throughout the conversation, Bill explains why housing affordability remains one of his top priorities, reflecting on how factors like density and housing fees contribute to sustainable development. He also unpacks the challenges of flooding and stormwater design, emphasizing how thoughtful planning can reduce risks for communities.At the heart of the episode is Bill’s belief in the power of communication and education to guide meaningful change. The conversation concludes with his thoughtful response to the Smith Lane question. Join us for an episode that balances heart, practicality, and education.About Bill Bill Conerly was born in South Florida and grew up in the Keys and Arcadia. After graduating high school, he left his hometown of Arcadia to enlist in the United States Navy. Serving aboard the USS LaSalle in the Indian Ocean, Red Sea, and Persian Gulf and the USS Fidelity homeported Panama City, Florida.Bill used the technical skills he acquired in the Navy to put himself through college while working full-time. His diverse work experiences included jobs as a robotics technician on the Jaws ride at Universal Studios and a Civil Engineering Aide at the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in Gainesville.In 1997, Bill earned his Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Biological Engineering with a specialization in Soil and Water Conservation from the University of Florida. Bill began his engineering career in Southwest Florida, focusing on stormwater modeling and routing. By 2001, Bill had earned his Professional Engineer (PE) license in Civil Engineering with a focus in Water Resources. Over the past 28 years, Bill has worked on a wide variety of projects, including Healthcare, Affordable & Senior Housing, Roadway, Utility, Landfill, Single & Multifamily Residential, and Educational projects.Bill is a 26-year resident of Manatee County and has been deeply committed to his community. Serving on many voluntary boards, including as a member of the Planning Commission, MPO CAC, Manatee County Environmental Lands Management and Acquisition Committee and Affordable Housing Advisory Committee.Bill was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2024 and recently finished his first Session. When asked why he wanted to serve as a Representative, he replied, “I have a spirit of service and want to use my skills, knowledge, and experience to make Southwest Florida a better place. As an engineer, I bring a unique skillset and problem-solving perspective to Tallahassee.”Connect With BillLinkedInFlorida House of RepresentativesKimley-Horn

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