This page is intended to be a resource for our constituents to see the policies we have accomplished and those are we continually working on.
Above all, responsible land use is environmentalism. As sprawl continues to create traffic, isolate communities, and more, we are fighting for good land use practices. Schools, roads, parks, police, and fire should be able to handle new residents before the new subdivisions come. We are fighting for this every day.
Local Government Infrastructure Surtax
Our community continues to experience the consequences of rapid growth without a sustainable, voter-supported funding mechanism to address its impacts. The surtax would fund quality-of-life infrastructure residents expect and rely on, including conservation lands, sidewalks, trails, parks, roads, and other critical public assets.
This item will be discussed on Board of County Commissioners (BCC) meeting on March 2nd, 2026.
OEP Public Audit
Recent reports regarding an alleged Ponzi scheme are deeply concerning. These types of financial crimes have real and lasting consequences for individuals, businesses, and the public trust. Given that the implicated organization has had a relationship with the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP), it is critical that we ensure we are being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars.
I believe we must always carefully vet our county partnerships, particularly when working with a large organization like OEP, to confirm that funds are being used appropriately and that the return on investment for our community is clear and measurable.
For that reason, I have asked the Comptroller’s Office to review and confirm that proper safeguards are in place to protect public funds within OEP and ensure full financial accountability moving forward.
Zoning for Tobacco Shops
Vape and smoke shops have opened in close proximity to public schools, including near Olympia High School, raising serious community concerns about whether these uses are appropriate next to youth-centered environments. To create a safer atmosphere around our schools and limit our youth’s exposure to highly addictive and harmful substances, I have asked the Board to direct staff to initiate a code amendment to prevent future vape and smoke shops from locating within a reasonable distance of public schools.
This item will be heard at the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) meeting on April 7th, 2026.
Please read my official memo below for additional details.
Urgent Request for Evaluation & Letter of Opposition Against the Anti-Diversity in Local Government
The “Anti-Diversity in Local Government” bills, SB 1134 and HB 1001, pose significant legal, operational, and financial risks to counties and municipalities across Florida. The bills prohibit the use of county and municipal resources for activities that “promote or fund” diversity-related programs and impose sweeping enforcement mechanisms, including provisions that expose local governments and elected officials to misfeasance or malfeasance for actions as minor as placing a social media post recognizing a cultural holiday. Accordingly, I have requested that the BCC direct the County Attorney’s Office to prepare a brief evaluation of the potential impact of these bills, and send a formal letter of opposition to our local legislative delegation and state leadership.
Shoreline Protections
In 2023, the Windermere Water and Navigation Control District reported significant aquatic habitat damage along our shorelines caused by unregulated contractors. I quickly requested a Commissioner’s Report to explore stronger protections, and now the Environmental Protection Division is seeking public input to better safeguard shorelines along lakes, ponds, and streams. Your feedback can make a real difference in preserving these vital ecosystems.
Please read my official memo below for additional details.
Temporary Moratorium for Non-Municipal Detention Facilities
On January 19, 2026, I filed a memo requesting that our board discuss temporarily banning detention facilities in Orange County. This decision stems from significant land use, environmental, infrastructure, and economic concerns.
Please read my official memo below for additional details.
Pro-Smart Growth
By increasing impact fees for the first time in over a decade, I have worked to fundamentally change the way Orange County holds developers accountable for their impact on our communities.
Wetland Protections
In 2023, years of hard work paid off as Orange County’s Wetland Ordinance was finally updated! We now have more tools to define, categorize, and protect our most precious natural resources.
Strong Fertilizer Ordinance
The science is clear: fertilizer full of nitrates and phosphorous is immensely destructive to our waterways and the species who live there. We worked hand-in-hand with scientists and environmental groups to strengthen our county’s fertilizer restrictions.
Tree Protection Ordinance
We have crossed the finish line, and big updates to Orange County’s tree protection ordinance are taking effect! This is one more tool to protect our natural lands from destructive development practices.
Banning Harmful Pet Sale Practices
In June of 2021, I helped champion an ordinance banning the retail sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits to combat unethical practices in pet sales.
Conserving Land Through Green PLACE
Upon taking office, I worked to restore Orange County’s GreenPLACE program, through which we are able to buy and conserve parcels of environmentally sensitive land.
Protections for Bird Island
Since October 19, 2021, I have been advancing efforts to protect Bird Island, addressing safety hazards and preserving its status as a bird sanctuary.
Energy Efficiency
My involvement in Orange County’s innovative projects, including the largest floating solar array in the Southeastern U.S. and a cutting-edge Water Reclamation Facility, showcase a commitment to energy efficiency.
Food System Resiliency
In August of 2021, I contributed to the passing of an ordinance permitting up to four hens per household to promote local food systems and enhance food security.