Table of Contents
Connect with Commissioner Emily Bonilla
Welcome to the 95th edition of the Newsletter!
I am honored to serve the people of Orange County District 5. From College Park to Christmas, our office is here to represent your interests. We are working tirelessly to meet with as many constituents and community groups as possible in order to learn about your concerns and priorities first-hand. We encourage you to stay informed and voice your opinions as we move forward to improve the quality of life in our district.
Noteworthy
Visit our timeline to see many of our past accomplishments for District 5.
Annexation Charter Amendment
At the July 9th BCC, we had the first work session for my proposed Annexation Charter Amendment. The proposal establishes a new process for voluntary
annexation petitions, which would include establishing criteria for approval, public notice, and public hearing requirements before the Board, prohibiting annexations outside the County’s Urban Service Area with exceptions for existing joint planning area agreements, requirements for interlocal agreements, and establishment of an appeal process. The next public hearing will be at the BCC July 30th, come let your voice be heard!
Rural Boundary
I am proud to announce the progress made in the efforts to get the Rural Boundary on the ballot. On June 18th, we had a work session on this initiative in the BCC meeting. We moved the process forward, and a public hearing will be held at the July 30th BCC. We are one step closer to ensuring you can decide the future of Orange County’s Rural Areas!
Vision 2050 / Orange Code Community Meeting
On Wednesday, July 17th, District 5 had our first collaborative community meeting to share concerns about the county’s new Comprehensive Plan. I arranged for Districts 1, 3, 4, and 5 Commissioners and citizen representatives to come together to share their insights and collaborate on a brighter future for our community. Unfortunately, District 1 Commissioner could not make it due to family emergency. The full video can be found below.
Vision 2050 / Orange Code Community Meeting
I am thrilled to announce that “Emily Tells All” Has won Bronze in TWO categories at the Telly Awards!
🌟Public Engagement and Awareness – Online Series
🌟Social Impact – Online Series
Thank you to everyone who supported us and made this achievement possible. Your engagement and dedication have helped us create impactful content that resonates and inspires.
You can watch our videos on our YouTube Channel @EmilyTellsAll
Bike/Walk Central Florida
I am thrilled to announce that we’ve received an Honorable Mention in the Outstanding Bike/Ped Advocacy Champion category for the Bike/Walk Central Florida Wheel of Achievement Awards! Thank you for supporting our mission to create safer, more accessible spaces for all. Let’s keep moving forward together!
Case Closed!
A constiuent contacted our office to report a standing water issue on the Cady Way Trail after heavy rainfall. We were able to get public works out to remove the debris clogging the drainage along this part of the trail.
CASE CLOSED!
If you have an issue that needs to be resolved, use our contact form and we will connect you with the right people and resources.
District 5 Videos
You can watch our videos on the YouTube Channel or special content only available on our Roku Channel where you will find full episodes of the Emily Tells All talk show and bonus segments.
Subscribe to the YouTube Channel to not miss any videos and Install the “Emily Tells All” channel on your Roku.
Important Updates and Information
Calling All Central Florida Artists!
The Hispanic Heritage Network of Orange County is accepting original artwork submissions. Their upcoming showcase, “Pioneers of Change, Shaping the Future Together”, is looking for artists of all levels to sumbit their original art inspiried by Hispanic Heritage and Culture. The Dealine to apply is August 2, 2024.
Hurricane Awareness Community Meeting
Join us Thursday, August 1st, at 6:00 p.m. at the Bithlo Community Center for a community meeting on Hurricane Awareness. The address is 18501 Washington Ave, Orlando, FL 32820.
Learn about:
– Emergency plans and evacuation routes
– How to prepare your home and family
– Essential supplies and safety tips
– Q&A session with experts
Ragtime The Musical
Don’t miss the milestone tenth Central Florida production this spring! Presenting “Ragtime,” the quintessential American musical about the white, black, and immigrant experience, starring 58 talented actors aged 5-65+ from across Orlando at the Alexis and Jim Pugh Theater at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. August 2nd – 4th.
Orange County Extension August Events
From raising chickens to a series on Gardening, don’t miss out on these great events from Orange County Extension for August! Please visit their website for all event information here: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/events/?location=orange
Past Community Events
Juneteenth
Orange County held this year’s Juneteenth Celebration, “Juneteenth: Progression from Then to Now Through Song & Dance” at the Orange County Multicultural Center.
Art in the Chambers
June’s “Art in the Chambers” highlighted art from local museums and collections, as well as, from nationally known local artists. Art is rotated 3 times a year. Learn more at: https://www.orangecountyfl.net/CultureParks/Exhibitions.aspx
Best Local Elected Official
Thank you for your support in the Orlando Weekly’s “Best of Orlando 2024 vote. The winners will be revealed on August 21st!
American Red Cross Annual Lunch
Highlighting the incredible impact of the American Red Cross! From Disaster Action Teams responding 24/7 to providing crucial support for military families and long-term disaster recovery. Whether it’s delivering supplies after Hurricane Irma or organizing local initiatives like “Vaccinate a Village,” every effort counts.
Upcoming Events
District 5 Youth Advisory Council – July 31, 2024
I invite you to join the District 5 Youth Advisory Council meeting on June 31st, 2024, from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM at the Orange County Administration Building, 201 S Rosalind Ave, Orlando, FL 32801. This is your opportunity to engage deeply with community issues, advocate for matters important to you, and lead initiatives that shape our district’s future.
Location: Orange County Administration, 201 S Rosalind Ave., Room 105, Orlando, FL 32801
Date: Wednesday, July 31, 2024
Time: 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM
Register: https://emilybonilla.com/district-5-youth-advisory-council-july-31-2024/
Coffee With the Commissioner – July 31, 2024
I warmly invite you to join me for a cup of coffee on July 31, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Orange County Administration Building, 201 S Rosalind Ave, Orlando, FL 32801. This is a wonderful chance for us to get to know each other better in an informal setting, discuss community matters, and share your thoughts and ideas.
Location: Orange County Administration, 201 S Rosalind Ave., Room 105, Orlando, FL 32801
Date: Wednesday, July 31, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Register: https://emilybonilla.com/coffee-with-the-commissioner-july-31-2024/
District 5 Neighborhood Advisory Council – July 31, 2024
This is your opportunity to connect with Commissioner Emily Bonilla and fellow community members to discuss important topics that impact our district. This meeting is open to everyone, whether you’ve been a long-time resident of District 5 or are new to the area. We believe in the power of diverse perspectives and inclusivity. Your voice matters, and we welcome your active participation in shaping the future of our community.
Location: Orange County Administration, 201 S Rosalind Ave., Room 105, Orlando, FL 32801
Date: Wednesday, July 31, 2024
Time: 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Register: https://emilybonilla.com/district-5-neighborhood-advisory-council-july-31-2024/
District 5 Torchbearer
Torchbearer: a person who leads or inspires others in working toward a valued goal
This month’s torchbearer is our District 5 Vision 2050 Workgroup! The hard work of many contributors who reviewed Vision 2050 and Orange Code for the first community meeting was outstanding. We would like to thank them and highlight the work they continue to do as Orange County moves ahead with adopting an update to it’s Comprehensive Plan.
Do you know a person or organization who is an Orange County District 5 Torchbearer? Nominate them to be featured in our email newsletter.
Updates from Past BCC Meeting
06/18/24 BCC Meeting
Watch the Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting or download the minutes. After the meetings, the e-agenda is updated with the results of the votes.
07/09/24 BCC Meeting
Watch the Board of County Commissioner’s Meeting or download the minutes. After the meetings, the e-agenda is updated with the results of the votes.
Upcoming 07/30/24 BCC Meeting
View the e-agenda of the next Board of County Commissioner’s (BCC) Meeting. The e-agenda for each BCC meeting is usually available online on the Thursday before the meeting.
As always, we do have time before the meeting starts for Public Comment, and for Public Hearings there is also an opportunity to speak. For more information and how to sign up to speak, please go to https://www.orangecountyfl.net/BoardofCommissioners/BoardAppearanceandpubliccomment.aspx#.XppXRFNKgWo
This meeting will start at 9 AM for the morning session and 2 PM for the afternoon session.
Below are a couple of highlighted agenda items. Click on the agenda number to learn more about the item.
Consent Agenda
- 24-1050 Approval and execution of Orange County, Florida and Women’s Business Development Center, Inc. Affiliate Service Provider Agreement, and authorization for the Manager of the Real Estate Management Division to exercise renewal option, execute a termination notice, and furnish notices, required or allowed by the Affiliate Service Provider Agreement, as needed for Women’s Business Development Center, Inc., NEC at Fashion Square Mall, 3201 East Colonial Drive, Orlando, Florida 32803. Lease File 2062-ASP10. District 5. (Real Estate Management Division)
- 24-1000 Acceptance of the findings and recommendation of the Environmental Protection Commission and denial of the request for after-the-fact waiver to Orange County Code, Chapter 15, Article IX, Section 15-343(a) to decrease the minimum allowable side setback from 10 feet to 4.2 feet and 0.2 feet from the southwestern and northern property lines, respectively, for the Anthony Thermenos and Jacklyn Thermenos After-The-Fact Dock Construction Permit BD-23-09-127. District 5. (Environmental Protection Division)
- 24-1004 Approval and execution of Orange County, Florida, Resolutions Establishing Special Assessment Liens for Lot Cleaning Services, and approval to record Special Assessment Liens on property cleaned by Orange County, pursuant to Orange County Code, Chapter 28, Nuisances, Article II, Lot Cleaning. Districts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. LC 23-0178 LC 24-0135 LC 24-0177 LC 24-0110 LC 24-0221 LC 24-0222 LC 24-0223 LC 24-0073 LC 24-0203 LC 24-0197 LC 24-0198 LC 24-0213 LC 23-0170 LC 24-0052 LC 24-0176 LC 24-0179 LC 24-0186 LC 24-0188 LC 24-0201 LC 24-0206 (Neighborhood Services Division)
- 24-1080 Approval and execution of Connection Agreement (Pine Isle Mobile Home Park) by and between Pine Isle MHP, LLC and Orange County, Florida allowing wastewater and water service to be extended to this existing development outside of the Urban Service Area, in accordance with Comprehensive Plan Policy WAT1.4.3(B). District 5. (Engineering Division)
- 24-1081 Approval of Commercial Refuse License for All County Recycling & Shredding of Orlando, LLC dba Orlando Recycling to provide solid waste hauling services to commercial generators in Orange County for a five-year term. All Districts. (Solid Waste Division)
- 24-1082 Approval of Commercial Refuse License for Standard Waste Reduction, LLC to provide solid waste hauling services to commercial generators in Orange County for a five-year term. All Districts. (Solid Waste Division)
- 24-1083 Approval of Commercial Refuse License for Hubbard Construction Company dba Mid-Florida Materials to provide solid waste hauling services to commercial generators in Orange County for a five-year term. All Districts. (Solid Waste Division)
- 24-1084 Approval of commercial refuse license for Load & Go Dumpsters, Inc to provide solid waste hauling services to commercial generators in Orange County for a five-year term. All Districts. (Solid Waste Division)
- 24-1086 Approval and execution of Resolution of the Board of County Commissioners declaring the County’s official intent to reimburse itself from the proceeds of Tax-Exempt or other Tax-Advantaged obligations for certain Capital Expenditures to be made by the County with respect to the financing of certain costs and repayment of Interfund Loans relating to the Acquisition, Construction, and Equipping of Capital Improvements to its existing Water and Wastewater Facilities; authorizing certain incidental actions; and providing for an effective date. All Districts. (Fiscal and Operational Support Division)
Discussion Agenda
- 24-1087 Pluris Wedgefield Water and Wastewater Update. (Fiscal and Operational Support Division)
Work Session Agenda
- 24-999 Lakeshore Protection Program (Environmental Protection Division)
- 24-1069 Proposed Voluntary Municipal Annexation Charter Amendment
Public Hearings
- 24-1068 Submitting to referendum a proposed amendment to the Charter of Orange County, Florida; providing for the establishment of a rural boundary and rural area; providing for voting requirements; calling a referendum on the proposed charter amendment; providing the ballot title and ballot summary for the referendum; conditioning the effectiveness of the charter amendment on voter approval at the referendum; providing for other related matters; providing for severability; and providing for effective dates; Countywide
Upcoming Land Use Cases in District 5
You can find a list of upcoming land use cases and the dates for their community meetings and public hearings at this link: https://emilybonilla.com/blog/upcoming-land-use-cases/
In The News
- Orange County Commission to explore film incentive program:“People in arts and culture do it for passion,” she said at the May meeting. “The arts in our community help with mental health. … It brings people together. It’s so needed in our community. Film is an art, and I think that’s forgotten sometimes…Film is suffering here in Orange County, and it needs support. The economic development benefits have an immediate impact…It’s a no-brainer…We can so easily become the next East Hollywood. I am so excited about this, where it’s going to go and where we are going to be in a couple of years.”
- Orange County greenlights major UCF student housing projects, adding over 3,600 beds: “We have UCF there and it continues growing with students and the students need some place to go. Closer to UCF is best because we have a lot of traffic issues on these roads and they can’t be widened anymore,” Bonilla said. “So the best way to handle traffic issues is to put student housing where they have shuttles to be able to get to UCF so we’re not adding more cars onto these roads that can’t handle any more.”
- New student housing communities approved near UCF: “We want redevelopment,” said Orange County Commissioner Emily Bonilla. “I’ve also been encouraging them to get closer to the school so that we have the shuttle ability because we don’t want more traffic on the roads.”
- Landowner applies to annex another 1,000+ acres next to Sunbridge into Orlando: Orange Commissioners are crafting a charter amendment for the November ballot that gives them veto power over voluntary annexations. During a workshop earlier this month, planning officials said the amendment would also introduce mandatory public hearings in the county. Additionally, there would be an appeal process for aggrieved parties who do not agree with the board’s votes on specific annexation requests.
