Table of Contents
Connect with Commissioner Emily Bonilla
Welcome to the 89th 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.
Update on Allocation of American Rescue Plan (ARPA) State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds
During our recent Board of County Commission meeting, we received an update on the $270.8 million allocated to Orange County through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The Board deliberated on options for reallocating the remaining $23 million in ARPA funding. A presentation on medical debt relief was included as part of this ARPA update. Attentively listening to constituents sharing the profound impact the medical debt relief program would have on their lives and healthcare affordability, I ardently advocated for its implementation. Despite facing differing perspectives from my colleagues on the Board, I stood firm on the necessity of the medical debt relief program. I presented alternative ways to reallocate resources from other programs to fund this crucial initiative. As discussions continue, I will persistently advocate for this vital initiative to address the pressing needs of our community.
EmpowerHer: Women’s Self-Defense Class
Last week, my office hosted the “EmpowerHer” Women’s Self-Defense Class in collaboration with Soul Sisters WEG Corp. Inspired by a constituent’s harrowing experience shared during a County Commissioners meeting, I recognized the urgent need for women to feel empowered, prepared, and united in today’s world. This hands-on event immersed participants in real-life scenarios, fostering connections among like-minded women and equipping them with essential life skills. More than just a self-defense class, ‘EmpowerHer’ symbolized a commitment to providing women with the confidence, skills, and community support essential for thriving. I am immensely proud of the women who attended, as they not only learned self-defense but also strengthened themselves individually and as a collective force.
New Facility for Our Orange County Animal Shelter
The Orange County Animal Shelter has undergone various renovations over the years, with the existing facility dating back to 1987. The current shelter is no longer adequate to meet the evolving needs of animal services. The facility faces persistent challenges, such as high temperatures, and, as the largest shelter in Florida, it grapples with the substantial intake of dogs and cats. Orange County is embarking on a progressive project to construct a new animal services shelter. This initiative aims to address ongoing issues and provide a conducive environment for over 250 dogs and 250 cats, ensuring their well-being while facilitating disease control. This project embodies forward-thinking significance, especially as our population burgeons. While we might not realize immediate returns on investment, it underscores a vital operational duty of the local government. I have eagerly anticipated the updates on this project since 2017, and I look forward to the updates as it progresses in the future.
Vision Zero Action Plan Community Meeting
On Thursday, I led a community meeting with our Traffic Engineering department to gather input on the Vision Zero Action Plan. My unwavering advocacy for Vision Zero stems from the concerning reality that the Orlando-Sanford metro area consistently ranks among the most perilous for pedestrians and cyclists. Due to alarming statistics, including 209 fatalities and 1,208 severe injuries on Orange County roadways in 2022, I collaborated with fellow Board members to pass a resolution initiating the plan. Expect the Vision Zero Action Plan back for review in June, as we collectively strive to make our streets safer for pedestrians and cyclists in Orange County.
Case Closed!
A constituent raised concerns about a semi-truck parked for over 30 days at the entrance to Dubsdread Heights, obstructing visibility at the Overspin Drive and Fairbanks Ave intersection. Despite unsuccessful attempts with the Orange County Sheriff’s non-emergency line and the Winter Park Police, our District 5 staff swiftly engaged the Parking Enforcement Unit. Through continuous monitoring, we ensured the timely removal of the semi-truck, alleviating safety and environmental hazards. This success was achieved through proactive communication with the constituents, demonstrating the our commitment to addressing community concerns and efficiently resolving issues for the residents of Dubsdread Heights.
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
Orange County Domestic Violence Commission Update
Harbor House is leading efforts to establish a centralized location to offer information, assistance, and wrap-around services to victims of domestic violence. County staff will continue to work with our Criminal Justice partners to discuss further implementation of the Batterer’s Intervention Programs. Beginning in October 2023, all Orange County employees are required to receive Domestic Violence Awareness 101 training, covering the history, prevalence, patterns, and warning signs of domestic violence. Orange County law enforcement agencies provide follow-up contact with domestic violence victims to assist them in connecting with resources available.
The Salvation Army Women’s & Children’s Shelter
The Salvation Army shelter is set to reopen next week. The 62-bed shelter for women and children experiencing homelessness shelter closed for refurbishment in spring 2022. With the help of over $3 million dollars from your Board of County Commissioners, the facility has been updated with new safety rooms, a kitchen, a dining hall, bunkrooms and bathrooms, and a playground for children. The organization will also offer a community garden and seed-to-table healthy meals for families. The county contributed
Orange County Consumer Protection Office
Protect yourself from scams, fraud, and illegal business practices! Join Orange County Library for an educational session hosted by the Orange County Consumer Protection Office as part of National Consumer Protection Week.
Orange County Community Clean Up
Don’t miss out on the chance to make a difference this Spring 2024! The season runs from March through May. Contact Orange County Neighborhood Services Division to see if your group/community qualifies for a cleanup. Call or email now Alina Rivera Campo, Program Coordinator – Community Outreach. Email: alina.riveracampo@ocfl.net Phone: 407-836-4261
Past Community Events
The Central Florida Pledge Launch
Leaders invested in the promise of a safe and inclusive community for all gathered to help amplify the message of unity to stop antisemitism, islamophobia, racism, homophobia, and all other forms of discrimination. Myself and other members of our community signed a pledge to lead by example, treat everyone with kindness and respect, refrain from inflammatory words and actions, and report threatening incidents of hate and violence.
Lunar New Year Dragon Parade
The District 5 team celebrated culture, community, and diversity in the Lunar New Year Dragon Parade! I would like to thank Mills 50 District, Asia Trend Magazine, R.E.A.C.H. of Central Florida, and the YESS Center Florida for hosting the successful parade. The Dragon Parade has brought the community a sense of belonging for the past 12 years!
Vision Zero Planning Process Community Meeting
I am excited to launch the Vision Zero Plan in Orange County, a collaborative effort to end traffic deaths and serious injuries. Together with Orange County Public Works, Traffic Engineering Division, and consultants, we’re taking the first step towards securing funding for crucial improvements. Your feedback and local knowledge matter. Together, we can achieve zero fatalities on Orange County roadways!
Orlando Science Center Life Exhibit Event
I had a blast last night at the OSC Life Exhibit VIP Event! Get ready for Spring 2024 when Life, the new conservation exhibit at Orlando Science Center, will take you on an immersive journey through our planet’s ecosystems. Let’s protect our planet together! Stay tuned for more updates.
Upcoming Events
Please click on the Event Title to find more details about the event.
District 5 Youth Advisory Council
We welcome all high school students to our youth in government initiative called the District 5 Youth Advisory Board! Join us as we embark on a journey of volunteerism, engaging discussions, and hands-on deep dives into critical local legislative topics. This month, we are privileged to have Representative Anna Eskamani join us for an insightful conversation on Florida laws surrounding our public school education. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this empowering journey!
Location: Orange County Administration, 201 S Rosalind Ave., Room 105, Orlando, FL 32801
Date: Wednesday, March 27, 2024
Time: 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM
Register: Click here!
Welcome to our exclusive ‘Coffee with the Commissioner’ event, an invaluable opportunity for District 5 constituents to engage directly with Commissioner Emily Bonilla in person. This gathering serves as open office hours, where community members can voice their needs, ideas, and concerns firsthand. Attendees will enjoy freshly brewed coffee and delightful refreshments while engaging in meaningful conversations.
Location: Orange County Administration, 201 S Rosalind Ave., Room 105, Orlando, FL 32801
Date: Wednesday, March 27, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Register: Click here!
District 5 Neighborhood Advisory Council
Join us for an engaging evening at the District 5 Neighborhood Advisory Council’s monthly meeting! 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, March 27, 2024
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Register: Click Here!
Tenant to Owner: Navigating Renting and Buying
Discover the keys to renters’ rights and first-time homebuyer success with expert speakers from the Legal Aid Society of Orlando and Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando and Osceola County. Gain invaluable insights into your rights as a tenant during our Renters Rights Education session. Then, learn more about Homeownership Programs that empower individuals to apply for the purchase of a new home, realizing the dream of homeownership with a mortgage tailored to their financial goals.
Location: Goldenrod Recreation Center, 4863 N Goldenrod Rd, Winter Park, FL 32792
Date: Thursday, March 28, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Register: Click Here!
Commissioner’s Emily Bonilla’s Sustainable Science Showcase
Are you a student with a vision for a greener tomorrow? Join us for an inspiring opportunity to showcase your innovative science projects and compete for scholarships at our Sustainable Science Showcase, sponsored by Duke Energy! We proudly announce this event under the theme “Sustainable Solutions for a Greener Tomorrow,” highlighting your crucial role in shaping a more sustainable future. Hosted at the Orlando Science Center, this event promises an immersive experience surrounded by cutting-edge science and environmental inspiration.
Location: Orlando Science Center, 777 E. Princeton St., Orlando, FL 32803
Date: Sunday, April 21, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Register: Click Here!
District 5 Torchbearer
Torchbearer: a person who leads or inspires others in working toward a valued goal
Dr. Sarah Layton embodies environmental stewardship and serves as a beacon of inspiration in Orlando, earning her the esteemed recognition of District 5 Torchbearer. Her extraordinary generosity demonstrated through a significant $3.3 million donation, propels the creation of the groundbreaking “Life” exhibit at the Orlando Science Center. Scheduled to make its debut in spring 2024, this immersive experience promises to redefine our connection with nature, urging visitors to actively participate in conservation efforts. Dr. Layton’s visionary leadership and steadfast dedication to biodiversity preservation truly characterize her as a torchbearer, igniting a passion for environmental activism and fostering a profound connection to the natural world for all who encounter “Life.” Beyond her financial contribution, Dr. Layton’s support underscores the importance of community collaboration in safeguarding our planet’s ecosystems. As “Life” approaches completion, her unwavering commitment serves as a testament to the transformative power of philanthropy, forging a more sustainable and harmonious relationship between humanity and nature. Dr. Layton’s inspirational leadership motivates others to join the cause, magnifying the impact of her donation and ensuring that “Life” stands as a powerful symbol of hope and resilience for generations to come.
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
02/20/24 BCC Meeting
Watch the Board of County Commissioner’s (BCC) Meeting or download the minutes. After the meetings, the e-agenda is updated with the results of the votes.
Upcoming 03/05/24 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
- 24-348 Confirmation of Commissioner Bonilla’s appointment of Lisa Lawrence and Denise M. Hammond to the Lake Sue Advisory Board with terms expiring December 31, 2024. (Agenda Development Office)
- 24-380 Approval and execution of Orange County, Florida and Indian American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. Resident Service Provider Agreement and authorization for the Manager of the Real Estate Management Division to exercise renewal options, execute a termination notice, and furnish notices, required, or allowed by the Agreement, as needed for Indian American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. NEC at Fashion Square Mall 3201 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando, Florida 32803. Lease File #2062-RSP14. District 5. (Real Estate Management Division)
- 24-385 Approval of Orange County Head Start Eligibility Priority Selection Criteria for 2024-2025 to establish a formal selection process for eligible children and families. All Districts. (Head Start Division)
- 24-389 Approval and execution of Interlocal Agreement Regarding Permitting of Real Property between Seminole County, Florida and Orange County, Florida for Trinity Preparatory School of Florida. District 5. (Building Safety Division)
- 24-392 Authorization to record the plat of Baldwin Park Plaza. District 5. (Development Engineering)
- 24-400 Approval and execution of (1) Financial Management Number 452932-1-52-01 Resolution of the Orange County Board of County Commissioners regarding the Locally Funded Agreement with the State of Florida Department of Transportation concerning State Road 50/Colonial Drive intersection of State Road 50 with Corner School Drive and (2) Locally Funded Agreement between the State of Florida Department of Transportation and Orange County FPN: 452932-1-52-01. District 5. (Transportation Planning Division)
Discussion Agenda
- 24-404 Selection of one firm and two ranked alternates to provide Design Services for Orange County Convention Center North-South Building Food Service Renovations, Request for Proposals Y24-807-MB, from the following three firms, listed alphabetically: – Architectural Design Collaborative, Inc. – Helman Hurley Charvat Peacock/Architects, Inc. – KZF Design LLC d.b.a. KMF Architects ([Convention Center Fiscal and Operational Support Division] Procurement Division)
Work Session Agenda
- 24-405 Recruitment and Retention. (Human Resources)
PZC Recommendations
- 24-407 February 15, 2024 Planning and Zoning Commission Recommendations. There is 1 case in District 5.
Public Hearings
- 24-261 Case # PTV 23-01-001 Cutter Smyth of Carrigan Reality Inc., on behalf of Sherri L Carrigan, vacate a portion of an unopened and unmaintained right-of-way; District 5
- 24-193 Case # VA-23-12-119 Herbert Betancourt, January 4, 2024; District 5
- 24-131 Case # CDR-22-05-162 Solange Dao, P.E., DAO Consultants, Inc., Wedgefield 10 Lot Addition – Block 40 Preliminary Subdivision Plan; District 5 (Continued from February 6, 2024)
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
- ‘A conflict of interest’: Orange County cancels contract with lobbying firm GrayRobinson: “Orange County Commissioner Emily Bonilla told Channel 9 that the text messages fueled a sense of betrayal. “I just have lots of questions and lots of distrust at this moment,” she said.”
- Women’s self defense tips: “Orange County Commissioner Emily Bonilla is here with us this morning, along with trainers Kevin and Erin”… “Commissioner Bonilla,. I mean, obviously this is important for a number of reasons, right?” “Yes, definitely. I came up with this idea because we had someone who came to the BCC saying that they were almost r*ped while they were jogging, and that’s what spurred the idea to do a Women’s Self-defense class and partnering up with Soul Sisters to do that.”
- Women’s Annual Self-Defense Class: Orange County Commissioner Emily Bonilla and Soul Sister Corps hosted the Women’s Annual Self-Defense class tonight. It was held at Iron Life Athletics for women ages 18 through 55. The goal is to empower women with practical self-defense skills and establish a support network. Three skilled instructors led the hands-on session, which featured real-life scenarios aimed at fostering inclusivity and resilience.
- Lobbyist wrote bill to protect Visit Orlando but sought to hide his role: “Commissioner Emily Bonilla scanned Carmody’s list of more than two dozen clients. “Looking at all the organizations he represents, there’s just a lot of potential conflicts there,” Bonilla said, highlighting one in particular, the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association, which opposed a cut of Visit Orlando’s budget…Uribe and Bonilla voted no on the mayor’s plan.”