- Enjoy hobbies that combine physical activity with outdoor exploration
Kara Kahle Baxter
Palm Beach County,FL
Summary
Experienced attorney specializing in regulatory, environmental, and administrative law, with a focus on advising utilities, developers, and public entities on infrastructure, land use, and water resource challenges in Florida. Skilled in navigating environmental permitting processes, including water use and resource management, regulatory compliance, and coordination with state and federal agencies. Strong writing abilities honed through permit applications, due diligence reports, grant proposals, and advocacy documents. Seeking to contribute to SFWMD's mission of safeguarding South Florida's water resources.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Attorney
Greenberg Traurig
01.1999 - 01.2009
- Guided major developers through environmental permitting and land use approvals for intricate projects, partnering with engineers and consultants to address surface water, wetlands, stormwater, and quality standards.
- Supported municipal utilities in water use permitting and proceedings related to regional supply planning, working closely with Florida water management districts and FDEP.
- Performed regulatory due diligence for infrastructure mergers and acquisitions, assessing permitting requirements, land constraints, and environmental risks, including endangered species considerations with USACE and USFWS.
- Evaluated regulatory challenges in environmental and scientific contexts for infrastructure developments, preparing analyses on permits, conditions, and compliance.
- Represented clients in public hearings and administrative processes for sensitive projects, managing interactions across multiple regulatory bodies.
- Prepared procurement materials for the Miami-Dade Expressway Authority, such as RFPs and contracts, with attention to regulatory adherence.
Education
J.D. - High Honors
University of Florida, Fredric G. Levin College of Law
Gainesville, FL1999
Bachelor of Arts - Geology, Highest Honors
University of Florida
Gainesville1995
Skills
- Environmental Permitting & Resource Management
- Water Use & Supply Planning
- Wetlands, Stormwater & Water Quality Compliance
- Regulatory Due Diligence & Risk Evaluation
- Agency Coordination (FDEP, USACE, USFWS)
- Administrative Proceedings & Public Advocacy
- Grant Development & Nonprofit Oversight
- Legal Research & Precise Drafting
Leadership Experience
Founder and Executive Director
Ta Ta for Now, Inc. (Nonprofit Serving Youth in Homelessness and Foster Care), South Florida
2021–Present
- Directed organizational governance, regulatory compliance, and operations for a multi-county nonprofit, including oversight of financial reporting, IRS Form 990 filings, and adherence to state/federal guidelines—maintaining skills in administrative law and compliance.
- Drafted detailed grant proposals with structured narratives, research, and budgeting, securing over $500,000 in funding through partnerships (e.g., Victoria's Secret) while ensuring alignment with funding regulations.
- Built collaborations with shelters, schools, and community organizations to expand essential services.
- Managed day-to-day operations, including program development, volunteer coordination, and outreach across South Florida counties.
Community Leadership & Environmental Education
Palm Beach County, FL
2009–2021
- Balanced family priorities while sustaining Florida Bar membership via CLE and engaging in youth-focused community efforts emphasizing environmental awareness.
- Held leadership positions in scouting for more than a decade, as troop leader and treasurer, facilitating outdoor activities on South Florida's ecosystems, water resources, and conservation.
- Organized volunteer and service initiatives to foster stewardship of regional environments and water systems.
- Led planning, budgeting, and coordination for youth programs, sharpening skills in compliance and stakeholder collaboration.
Certification
Florida Bar, Member in Good Standing, 1999 - present
Interests
Timeline
Attorney
Greenberg Traurig
01.1999 - 01.2009
J.D. - High Honors
University of Florida, Fredric G. Levin College of Law
Bachelor of Arts - Geology, Highest Honors
University of Florida