Table of Contents
Connect with Commissioner Emily Bonilla
Welcome to the 96th 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.
Voluntary Annexation Charter Amendment
In meeting the needs of our residents in Orange County, I was honored to play a key role in advancing the annexation charter amendment, which aims to enhance Orange County’s oversight of voluntary annexations. This amendment, recently approved by the Board of County Commissioners, ensures that any voluntary annexation, whether inside or outside the Rural Boundary, undergoes a more rigorous review process. By mandating an affirmative vote from a majority plus one of the Board members and requiring municipalities to enter into interlocal agreements with the County, this amendment seeks to protect the integrity of rural areas and manage growth effectively. The Board’s decision to move this amendment forward reflects our commitment to responsible and strategic development, and it will now be presented to voters in the November 2024 ballot.
Medical Debt Relief
Jobs with Justice approached the Board with this initiative, and I was proud to be a strong supporter of it. I am pleased to announce the agreement with Medical Debt Resolution, Inc., doing business as Undue Medical Debt. This partnership will allow for the cancellation of over $400 million in medical debt for Orange County residents. Additionally, it will provide valuable information and access to no- or low-cost medical care, helping to alleviate the financial burden on our community and ensure that residents have access to the care they need.
Homeless Prevention and Diversion
During our recent Board meeting, I proudly supported the approval of $1.6 million to assist COVID-19 impacted residents currently living in remote camps within Orange County. This investment is expected to support approximately 480 families, ensuring they receive the necessary help and resources during these challenging times. The initiative underscores our commitment to addressing the needs of all our residents, particularly those in the most vulnerable and hard-to-reach areas.
Hospital-based Registered Nurses for Opioid Use Disorder Program
In partnership with Advent Health and Orlando Health, I proudly voted to approve funding for new hospital-based registered nurses dedicated to aiding in the treatment of opioid use disorder and providing mental health services to eligible residents. This initiative represents a critical investment in addressing the opioid crisis in our community, ensuring that residents receive the comprehensive care and support they need during their recovery journey. This is one of many programs we are implementing.
Housing for Low-Income Disabled Veterans
We recently approved $584,000 in funding for the Grand Avenue Economic Community Development Corporation to convert vacant space into six ADA-compliant studio apartments for low-income disabled veterans. Veterans represent a disproportionate number of individuals who are homeless or struggling to make ends meet. This initiative is a significant step toward providing safe, accessible housing for those who have served our country and now need our support.
Donation of Surplus Property for Affordable Homes
We recently approved the donation of 12 surplus county properties to four affordable housing non-profits as part of our ongoing commitment to the Housing for All initiative. These organizations will convert the properties into 13 single-family homes available to qualified low- to moderate-income homebuyers. This effort addresses the urgent need for affordable housing in our community and ensures that these homes are accessible to those who need them most.
Case Closed!
A constituent contacted our office with concerns about increased traffic in their neighborhood. We connected the constituent with Traffic Management, who conducted a study and used the results to get a speed hump installed.
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.
Subscribe to the YouTube Channel.
Important Updates and Information
Share the Magic!
What is Share the Magic? It is the Orlando Magic ticket donation program made possible by the generosity of Orlando Magic players, coaches, and executive leadership members. The program advances our belief that all youth should have the opportunity to experience the legendary atmosphere of an Orlando Magic home game. Through Share the Magic, youth-serving non-profits receive complimentary tickets to a home game, meal vouchers, and more! Deadline: October 1, 2024. Apply here.
Orange County Government Community Conference
Our Orange County, Florida Government Neighborhood Services is excited to host the 26th annual Orange County Community Conference, “Bridging Technology, Community, and You”. It is scheduled for Saturday, October 12, 2024 at the newly renovated Multicultural Center and will offer relevant workshop topics, interactive exhibitors’ space, dynamic speakers, breakfast, awards luncheon, swag bags, exciting door prizes, and more! The cost is only $10, register here
OC Extension September Events
Sign up for a class or attend a Pop-Up Plant Clinic. OC Extension offers a variety of community and online events and workshops. Find events and sign up at their website! https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/events/?location=orange
Campaign Sign Recycling
With the primary election now over, Orange County encourages residents to recycle campaign signs instead of throwing them in the trash.
In partnership with the City of Winter Park, the City of Orlando and the League of Women Voters, Orange County will collect campaign signs so they can be used as a cleaner energy source. Find drop off locations here!
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Past Community Events
School Supply Giveaway
I’m excited to share that our School Supplies Giveaway was a tremendous success! We provided 200 students with the essential tools they need for school. A big thank you to Bishop & Buttrey, Inc. and CrossLifeFL for their invaluable support and partnership.
Empowering Good
We’re so proud of our amazing Empowering Good graduates! Last week, we celebrated nonprofits who’ve mastered impact measurement, financial management, and more. Our program equips Orange County nonprofits with the tools they need to thrive.
Plug and Play Orlando
I had the pleasure of attending the Plug and Play Tech Center Orlando Partner Lunch at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts! It was an excellent opportunity to network with corporate leaders and discuss the future of Smart Cities in Orange County.
UCF’s 2024 Countdown to Kickoff Luncheon
Had an amazing time attending UCF’s 2024 Countdown to Kickoff Luncheon as an alumni! It was great to connect with fellow Knights, meet the new players, and get hyped for the upcoming season. The energy and excitement for UCF Football is off the charts! Let’s go, Knights!
Upcoming Events
District 5 Youth Advisory Council
Empower Yourself Through Engagement
This council is designed to empower you by providing a platform to dive deep into community issues, raise your voice, and take charge of your ideas. By collaborating with other passionate youth, you can help shape the future of our district. Plus, you can earn valuable volunteer hours that count towards graduation and scholarships. This experience will not only enhance your leadership skills but also give you a sense of accomplishment and pride in contributing to the community.
Date and Time: Wednesday, August 28, 2024 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM
Location: Orange County Administration, 201 S Rosalind Ave., Room 105, Orlando, FL 32801
Registration Link: https://emilybonilla.com/district-5-youth-advisory-council-august-28-2024/
Coffee with the Commissioner
Engage with Your Community
I cherish these informal gatherings as they allow us to build a stronger community. Let’s talk about your vision for District 5 and how we can achieve it together. Your insights and ideas are vital in shaping the future of our neighborhood.
These meetings provide a relaxed setting where we can discuss various topics, from local development projects to community events. I am here to listen and understand your perspective. By working together, we can create a community that meets the needs and aspirations of all its residents.
Date and Time: Wednesday, August 28, 2024 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Location: Orange County Administration, 201 S Rosalind Ave., Room 105, Orlando, FL 32801
Registration Link: https://emilybonilla.com/coffee-with-the-commissioner-august-28-2024/
District 5 Neighborhood Advisory Council
Everyone’s Voice is Important!
Meet Commissioner Emily Bonilla and engage with fellow residents in meaningful conversations. Whether you’ve lived in District 5 for years or have just moved in, your perspective is valuable. We welcome all voices to help us build a stronger, more inclusive community.
Date and Time: Wednesday, August 28, 2024 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Location: Orange County Administration, 201 S Rosalind Ave., Room 105, Orlando, FL 32801
Registration Link: https://emilybonilla.com/district-5-neighborhood-advisory-council-august-28-2024/
Pluris-Wedgefield Community Meeting
Wedgefield Residents: Your input is key as we continue discussions about the future of Wedgefield Pluris. On September 4th, join us at the County Administrative Building, 201 South Rosalind Ave, Orlando, FL 32801, for a meeting where county commissioners will also provide their insights. This is a crucial opportunity to ensure that your voice is heard and considered by county leaders.
Date and Time: September 4th, 2024 at 6:00 P.M.
Location: 201 S. Rosalind Ave. Orlando, FL 32801
District 5 Torchbearer
Torchbearer: a person who leads or inspires others in working toward a valued goal
For this edition of Torchbearer, we are proud to recognize Sam Delgado, whose dedication and foresight have made a significant impact on our community. As the Programs Manager for Central Florida Jobs with Justice, Sam has been a tireless advocate for social justice in the Orlando area for the past seven years. His work spans a wide range of critical issues, including immigrants’ rights, voting rights, and local elections. Most notably, Sam was the driving force behind bringing the medical debt relief plan to the county’s attention and played a pivotal role in initiating this life-changing program. His commitment to ensuring that residents have access to healthcare and his ongoing efforts in environmental justice continue to inspire and uplift our community. Thank you, Sam, for being a true torchbearer for change.
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
08/13/24 BCC Meeting
Watch the Board of County Commissioners’s (BCC) Meeting or download the minutes. After the meetings, the e-agenda is updated with the results of the votes.
Upcoming 08/27/24 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
- 24-1224 Approval and execution of Agreement for Sale and Purchase by and between Richard John Douglas and Martha Jo Douglas and Orange County, Florida, approval of Warranty Deed, and authorization for the Manager of the Real Estate Management Division to exercise all delegations of authority expressly provided by the Agreement for Sale and Purchase, disburse funds to pay purchase price in the amount of $880,745, and perform all actions necessary and incidental to closing for Green PLACE Parcel 244. District 5. (Real Estate Management Division)
- 24-1225 Approval and execution of Resolution of the Orange County Board of County Commissioners regarding repudiation of any interest in that certain Easement recorded as Document Number 20220705394 of the Public Records of Orange County, Florida, approval of Sidewalk Easement between Vaishnav Sangh of USA Inc. and Orange County, and Subordination of Encumbrance to Property Rights to Orange County, and authorization to record instruments for Vaishnav Sangh Academy Permit B22905721. District 5. (Real Estate Management Division)
- 24-1226 Approval of Utility Easement between Vaishnav Sangh of USA Inc. and Orange County, and Subordination of Encumbrances to Property Rights to Orange County, and authorization to record instruments for Vaishnav Sangh Academy Permit B22905721 OCU File 100345. District 5. (Real Estate Management Division)
- 24-1222 Approval of Temporary Construction Easement from Thi Hong Loan Huynh to Orange County, and authorization to disburse funds and record instrument for Bob’s Market Canal (Parcel 705). District 5. (Real Estate Management Division)
- 24-1218 Approval and execution of Non-Substantial Deviation Amendment to Development Order for the Quadrangle Development of Regional Impact. District 5. (Development Review Committee)
- 24-1237 Approval and execution of Proportionate Share Agreement for Autozone Store No. 0419 Colonial Drive by and between AutoZone Stores, LLC and Orange County for a proportionate share payment in the amount of $248,543. District 5. (Roadway Agreement Committee)
Discussion Agenda
- 24-1246 Approval and execution of Resolution of the Orange County Board of County Commissioners regarding Orange County’s Adoption of a Vision Zero Action Plan with a goal of eliminating all traffic related fatalities and serious injuries by 2040. All Districts. (Traffic Engineering Division)
Work Session Agenda
BZA Recommendations
- 24-1220 August 1, 2024 Board of Zoning Adjustment Recommendations. There are 4 cases in District 5.
Public Hearings
- 24-1175 Adoption of Future Land Use Amendment, Ordinance, and Concurrent PD Substantial Change Request a. Amendment SS-24-04-004 Rebecca Wilson, Office (O) to High Density Residential – Student Housing (HDR-Student Housing); District 5 And b. Ordinance for Proposed Amendment And c.v CDR-23-09-293 Office to Student Housing; District 5
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
- Effort to attract TV, movie crews ramps up with new Orange County workgroup: “Orange County Commissioner Emily Bonilla has been among those interested in such a program, previously writing, “I believe that establishing a film incentive program will attract creative talent, promote local businesses, increase our [hotel] bed tax dollars and showcase our region’s unique assets.””
- Impoverished Bithlo gets first connection to high-speed internet: “Bithlo is the largest of three areas expected to receive cheap offers for high-speed, online access through newly installed fiber optic cables and a partnership between the county and Charter Communications, parent company of Spectrum.”
- Orange County commissioners OK rural boundary amendment on voluntary annexations: “Orange County commissioners voted Tuesday to pass the second and final portion of the rural boundary amendment on voluntary annexations that will grant the county veto power over an attempt to annex land. This decision was unanimously voted on by commissioners and will advance a referendum to the November ballot, giving voters the opportunity to cast ballots on whether to change the county’s charter to include voluntary annexations.”
- Orange County unanimously OKs rural boundary amendment: “Ordinance 24-1068, also known as the Rural Boundary Proposal, would establish a rural area and rural boundary, as shown below on the map. It would require a majority-plus-one vote of the commission to either approve more urban development on property located in the rural boundary or to remove property from it altogether. Dozens signed up to speak on the issue at a public hearing before the final vote Tuesday afternoon. Commissioners approved it unanimously. It will now go on the November ballot as an amendment to the county’s charter.”
- Orange voters to decide if county can veto annexations: “The newest proposed amendment to the county’s governing document would grant it the “authority to approve or deny voluntary annexations” and approval would require a super-majority of the board of county commissioners.”
- Orange lets voters decide: Should the county more closely guard its rural areas?: “At least 75 people spoke at the Tuesday Orange County board meeting, which was focused on the so-called “rural boundary” issue, and almost all were in support of boundaries that would erect higher hurdles for the approval of urban-style housing and commercial projects in rural areas.”
- Orange County commissioners OK rural boundary ballot measure: “‘Save Orange County’ organization board member Tom Narut has been living on the west side of the Econlockhatchee River for over 27 years. When he first moved in, he says all there was at the time was a “dirt road. He says, now, his property will be on the drawing line of this newly voted in rural boundary. He’s among many Orange County citizens who share the same goal, which is to protect their homes from additional commercial and residential development. “(I can) still be a part of some services that are more convenient not far away but you have the rural side of the county in our backyard,” said Narut. It’s a lifestyle that he and many others who vouched for the rural boundary amendment want to preserve.”
- Orlando city officials oppose proposed ballot measures imposing restrictions on urban development: ““When I first moved here back in the late 70s, my parents moved up and we grew up in Winter Park because this was actually the last area of development going east. There was nothing east of here,” said Stoccardo. He says he expects to see hundreds of people from the community present at Tuesday’s meeting, demonstrating their support for the proposed amendment. Finally, he recognizes that development projects in the city are inevitable and will happen no matter what. “We in the community feel that we have to have something to control our future as citizens who’ve lived here for decades and many people are upset that we have these people coming in, annexing, developing and then going back to where they live in some other part of the country,” Stoccardo said.”
