This week we remember the horrors of 9/11 and the heroes who helped our nation get through it. As we reflect on the bravery, hope, and resilience of everyday Americans during that trying time, let us remind ourselves that it is those qualities which will always carry our nation through all trials and tribulations. InContinue reading “9/11”
Category Archives: Uncategorized
Shingle Creek
This upcoming week, we are discussing one of the most important water bodies in Orange County, Shingle Creek. You may know Shingle Creek as the Headwaters of the Everglades, from the 528 sign near International Drive. Shingle Creek serves as our quintessential drainage basin in major rain events, water treatment before it touches the Everglades,Continue reading “Shingle Creek”
District 1 Powers the County
We recently had a Board presentation on residential development activity using permitting data. The data confirmed what we all know: District 1 is the main recipient of new housing of all types in the County. District 1 is the economic bread and butter of the County from housing to employment. As Labor Day approaches, let’sContinue reading “District 1 Powers the County”
Traffic Safety
Last week, I went out to Apopka Vineland Rd to review traffic safety issues with our residents. Yet again, we saw an example of a flawed process. The way we fund transportation infrastructure is broken: we wait for a development to be built out to evaluate traffic and to build the necessary sidewalks and infrastructureContinue reading “Traffic Safety”
High School Parking Spot Art
For those of us with high school seniors, last week was a joy. I love seeing our students back at school, making plans for their future and expressing their individuality with creative and witty parking spot art. It was extra special to see the Horizon High seniors building traditions for their school and setting theContinue reading “High School Parking Spot Art”
Transportation Planning
I recently had the pleasure of going out with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office to examine a crosswalk on Seidel Road. On my way, I saw a person in neon orange leapfrogging across the street; drivers going 70mph in a 35mph zone; a crossing guard struggling to do her job; and pedestrians chasing shade. ThisContinue reading “Transportation Planning”
TDT Reserves
The Orange County Comptroller recently presented an analysis of our Tourist Development Tax Reserves to the Orange County Board of Commissioners. I am happy to report we have recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic revenue dip with a strong comeback. However, it is critical we build our reserves so that we may stay resilient in theContinue reading “TDT Reserves”
Rural Settlements
In Orange County, we have 21 Rural Settlements. As we sprawl out and land values keep skyrocketing, it is crucial that we keep our promise to residents who bought into rural spaces. Rural settlements provide value beyond aesthetics: they serve as critical recharge points for our aquifer, air purification zones, and economic drivers of agriculture.Continue reading “Rural Settlements”
Nazism
At a gender affirming care rally last weekend, hateful individuals displayed signs that said “Stop Grooming Kids” with a Star of David. QAnon and related conspiracies are rooted in the idea that Jews are wealthy pedophiles trying to run the world and that the ‘Jewish/LGBTQ+/immigrant/etc. Agenda’ is out to replace you. There is no ‘agenda.’Continue reading “Nazism”
Early Voting
Last week, the County Commission voted to require landlords give 60 days notice before rent increases larger than 5%. This is a small step toward creating a comprehensive tenants’ bill of rights. In August, we will have the final hearing to consider putting a 1-year rent freeze of existing rentals on the ballot. This willContinue reading “Early Voting”