The Ombudsman's most significant role is to serve the public. And who is the public? To the Ombudsman, the public is private citizens, members of the regulated community, staff of other branches of local or state government, legislators and their staffs, members of the news media and staff within the office.

Here are a few of the situations in which the Ombudsman can help: 

• "Stop the run-around!" The Ombudsman helps those who have questions to find those who have answers.
• "Translation, please!" The Ombudsman can clarify or explain the sometimes complicated actions of the Department of Environmental Protection.
• "And in this corner…" The Ombudsman can help to resolve disagreements with the public and the regulated community before they get out of hand.
• "Somebody help me!" The Ombudsman is one of the public’s advocates inside the Department of Environmental Protection.

If you think one of the Southwest District’s Ombudsmen might be able to help you, here’s who to call:
Tampa office - Ana Gibbs (813) 632-7600 Ext. 475 or  Ashley Douthirt - (813) 632-7600 Ext. 339  -- All areas of the District including internal issues.