Contractor board approves four license actions, including reciprocity and reinstatement

The Escambia County Contractor Competency Board met in Pensacola and unanimously approved four licensing requests, including an application to sit for an air‑conditioning class A exam and two reciprocity requests for master‑plumber licenses.

Staff introduced Adolphus Haynes, who presented military DD214 documentation and a bachelor of science degree and whose application included a disclosed prior criminal history that staff said required board approval. Haynes told the board, “I didn't, have anything to really discuss, but I've been into it for a long time.” The board approved his request to take the class A licensing examination on a unanimous motion.

The board also approved reciprocity for Richard Winfield (license RF11068067) from Santa Rosa County; staff noted Winfield’s test scores (trade 75%; business and law 78%) and his disclosure of prior criminal history. Winfield told the board he has worked around Escambia County for many years and said, “I've been here 20 23 years in Florida.”

Brandon Devine's reciprocity (license RF11068060) was approved after he described more than 11 years' experience and provided exam scores (trade 77%; business and law 82%); he confirmed prior criminal history and submitted court records and an explanation. The board reinstated Jansen Butterford's delinquent license (RB29003786) after staff reported a related small‑claims matter had been paid and a stipulation agreement provided.

Board members repeatedly noted that staff deferred to the board on applications where prior criminal history was disclosed. Several approvals were recorded after motions and seconds from board members and passed unanimously.

The board's packet included references to state statute 4 89.1131 (military experience credit) and state statute 4 89.111 (education experience equivalency), which staff cited when summarizing applicants' qualifying credentials.