Category Archives: Uncategorized

The Board of County Commissioners recently advanced a Tenant Bill of Rights for Orange County residents. This measure would establish a framework for assisting tenants as well as educate renters of their rights. Almost half (46%) of Orange County rents their home. Everyone benefits when landlords and tenants are knowledgeable about their rights.

This week, the Board of County Commissioners advanced discussion of a Community ID program. Community ID’s are not a substitute for state or federal ID and cannot be used as a drivers license or voter ID  but can be used by law enforcement and social service agencies to help identify vulnerable residents. Many victims ofContinue reading “Community IDs”

We rely on your to help save our aquifer. From now until March 11, 2023, watering residential lawns drops to once a week . Watering between 10:00am and 4:00pm leads to rapid evaporation and less absorption, so try to water overnight and not for more than an hour. Orange County homes with odd-numbered addresses waterContinue reading “Reminder of New Watering Rules”

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, connection with loved ones, and full bellies. We reflect on what we have and how to assist those in our community who aren’t so lucky. We must also remember the land we inhabit as we recognize Indigenous Peoples Day. I hope everyone has a safe, happy, and healthy holidayContinue reading “Thanksgiving”

Last week, our community remembered the Ocoee Massacre of 1920. The Ocoee Massacre has been described as the single bloodiest day in modern American political history. The violence perpetrated on black residents in Ocoee was an effort to suppress their votes and preserve white supremacy. We must honor the victims of this horrible event byContinue reading “Ocoee Massacre”

Regardless of political affiliation, this election was emotionally draining for many people. Our democracy is by the people and for the people, yet insidious conspiracies recently found a foothold in the process giving some folks a reason to stay home on election day. We have to reclaim our democracy and begin to rebuild a civilContinue reading “Breathe Through Politics”

Ahead of Election Day, it is important to protect yourself from election misinformation. Ask yourself some basic questions before believing or sharing information. Did the information come from an advertisement? Can it be verified by more than one source? Reliable sources will always be transparent about how they gather information. Distinguishing between opinion pieces andContinue reading “Election Information”

Over the weekend, our community saw several shootings by and between young people. We cannot become desensitized to gun violence tragedy and we have to look for every opportunity to prevent gun violence. Until meaningful gun safety legislation is passed, we should focus on youth and community-based programming as well as mental health resources. ItContinue reading “Youth Gun Violence”

Last Monday was the first day of early in-person voting.Visit a nearby precinct between 8am and 8pm. If you are choosing to vote by mail, I urge everyone to remember to sign your ballot.Voting by mail is a convenient and safe way to vote early. Ensure your ballot is counted by checking your signature. YourContinue reading “Voting”

A month after Hurricane Ian, Orange County is working hard to get back on track with yard waste and storm debris. Thank you for your continued patience. In the meantime, filing 311 reports has helped the county know where issues exist, and there has been fast response. Be sure to bag or bundle your yardContinue reading “Yard Waste”