Welcome to the Land Use Lowdown, podcast from the Greenspoon Marder land use team where we will share updates and trends on land‑use policy, development, and litigation shaping our region.

In this episode of The Land Use Lowdown, Greenspoon Marder Partner Liz Somerstein sits down with Matt Levinson, Chief Operating Officer of O’Connell Goldberg, a leading PR and public affairs firm representing developers and builders across Florida. Together, they unpack the often misunderstood but critically important role that public relations plays in navigating land use and entitlement processes.

Matt shares insights from more than two decades of experience guiding developers through complex rezonings, land use changes, and politically sensitive projects. From why PR needs to begin before a single document is submitted under Florida’s broad Sunshine Law, to how early community engagement can prevent costly delays, this episode explores the strategies that shape the outcome of development proposals long before they reach a commission agenda.

Whether you're a developer, attorney, planner, or anyone involved in Florida’s land use landscape, this conversation offers invaluable insight into how thoughtful, early-stage PR can influence outcomes, build trust, and keep projects on track.

Tune in to learn how effective storytelling, community engagement, and coordinated messaging can make all the difference in land use decisions long before a project ever hits the headlines.

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Featured Speaker Contact:

Name: Liz Somerstein (Host)

Title & Company: Partner, Greenspoon Marder

Phone: (954)527-2459

Email: elizabeth.somerstein@gmlaw.com

Company Website: www.gmlaw.com

Connect with and learn more about Liz at: