Table of Contents
Connect with Commissioner Emily Bonilla
Welcome to the 73rd 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.
Vision 2050 Town Hall
I am thrilled to share that our recent Vision 2050 Town Hall was a huge success! These town hall meetings are all about working together to create a brighter future for Orange County. We tackled some of our community’s biggest challenges during the event and explored innovative solutions. Your participation was invaluable in shaping our Comprehensive Plan, particularly in areas such as housing, transportation, environmental sustainability, and community development. Plus, three lucky attendees even won exciting raffle prizes! Be sure to check out our upcoming events section to learn about our next Vision 2050 Town Hall. Mark your calendar and join us as we continue to shape the future of Orange County!
Wedgefield Park Dog Park
I am delighted to share the joyous occasion of the Wedgefield Park Dog Park opening, which took place on June 1st. This wonderful addition, eagerly requested by the residents of the surrounding neighborhood, has already proven to be a source of immense happiness for our furry friends, providing them with a safe and playful environment to frolic off-leash. Moreover, it offers a picturesque setting where dog owners can bask in the warmth of sunny days while their four-legged companions have a blast. Additionally, I would like to take this opportunity to highlight the incredible work of Orange County Animal Services, which has an abundance of lovable dogs eagerly seeking their forever homes. By considering adopting one of these precious animals, you bring immeasurable joy to your family and provide a loving and caring sanctuary to these deserving furry companions.
Emergency Operations Center
When faced with a large-scale event, the importance of a coordinated response cannot be overstated! That’s where the incredible Emergency Operations Center (EOC) steps in, ensuring effective central coordination and providing vital support for emergency alert systems, sheltering, evacuation, search and rescue, resource mobilization, and recovery efforts. District 5 is in for a treat! We’re currently witnessing the transformation of the EOC into a cutting-edge facility, set to be completed in just a few short months. The progress made so far has me absolutely thrilled, as I firmly believe these improvements will make an immense and enduring impact on our community. Exciting times are ahead!
Case Closed!
Recently, a constituent contacted us about their solid waste collection not being picked up from their yard for five consecutive weeks. We immediately contacted Orange County Utilities to investigate and resolve the issue as quickly as possible. It’s important to me that we keep our community clean and ensure every resident receives the services they pay for. Thanks to our Solid Waste Division, the waste was removed from the resident’s yard within a day! We are truly grateful for their diligent efforts.
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
WPLN’s 2023-2024 Nonprofit Management Fellowship Program
The deadline for WPLN’s 2023-2024 Nonprofit Management Fellowship Program applications has been EXTENDED! For more information and to apply online, visit https://bit.ly/3IP58TL. New Deadline: Friday, June 9th, 2023.
Hurricane Season is Here!
As hurricane season begins, it is crucial to take measures to ensure your family’s safety in the event of a hurricane. The Orange County Office of Emergency Management offers valuable resources to assist residents in mitigating, preparing for, and recovering from storm disasters. Taking proactive steps and making necessary preparations will go a long way in safeguarding your loved ones and property.
Past Community Events
Vision 2050 Town Hall – Audubon Park
The Vision 2050 Town Hall Meeting was a significant event that provided a platform for residents, community leaders, and experts to come together and contribute to the decision-making process that will shape our community’s future. The meeting focused on various key topics, such as housing, transportation, and environmental sustainability, with the aim of incorporating diverse insights into an inclusive plan that reflects the aspirations and concerns of our diverse population.
Vision 2050 Town Hall – Goldenrod
The Vision 2050 Town Hall Meeting was a significant event that provided a platform for residents, community leaders, and experts to come together and contribute to the decision-making process that will shape our community’s future. The meeting focused on various key topics, such as housing, transportation, and environmental sustainability, with the aim of incorporating diverse insights into an inclusive plan that reflects the aspirations and concerns of our diverse population.
18th Annual Central Florida Earth Day Celebration
On April 22, Earth Day Celebration was held in Downtown Orlando. The event was focused on education, exhibits, and promoting earth-friendly practices. A big thank you to all of our volunteers and everyone who stopped by our tent!
Upcoming Events
Please click on the Event Title to find more details about the event.
Charter Review Commission
In 1986, Orange County voters chose to adopt a charter form of government. Every four years, a commission appointed by the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) conducts a review of the charter. This commission, known as the Charter Review Commission (CRC), determines which questions will be put to vote. At least 60 days before the election, the CRC publishes a report on the suggested changes. Ultimately, it is up to the voters to decide whether or not to implement these changes.
Location: Meadow Woods Recreation Center, 1751 Rhode Island Woods Cir, Orlando, FL 32824
Date: June 15, 2023
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Register: https://www.ocfl.net/OpenGovernment/BoardsAndSpecialDistricts/CharterReviewCommission.aspx
District 5 Neighborhood Advisory Council
Each month, the District 5 Neighborhood Advisory Council hosts a virtual town-hall-style meeting, in which community members can provide input and share ideas on challenges and initiatives. The Council works together to identify objectives to work towards and goals for the District 5 community. The most recent projects include purchasing environmentally sensitive lands and incentivizing smart development!
Location: Goldenrod Recreation, 4863 N Goldenrod Rd, Winter Park, FL 32792
Date: June 21, 2023
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Register: https://emilybonilla.com/neighborhood-advisory-council/
Vision 2050 Town Hall
Orange County is blessed with a wide range of environments, including urban, suburban, rural, and natural areas. The Vision 2050 initiative will determine how and where growth will take place in the next 30 years. The plan prioritizes environmental preservation, community character, and public spaces as guiding principles for future development, with a focus on public engagement. We aim to establish a shared vision for Orange County through open conversations with community members like you. Your input is invaluable in shaping our county and the Central Florida region.
Location: Florida Technical College, 12900 Challenger Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32826
Date: June 22, 2023
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Register: www.ocfl.net/vision2050
Vision 2050 Town Hall
Orange County is blessed with a wide range of environments, including urban, suburban, rural, and natural areas. The Vision 2050 initiative will determine how and where growth will take place in the next 30 years. The plan prioritizes environmental preservation, community character, and public spaces as guiding principles for future development, with a focus on public engagement. We aim to establish a shared vision for Orange County through open conversations with community members like you. Your input is invaluable in shaping our county and the Central Florida region.
Location: Bithlo Community Center, 18501 Washington Ave, Orlando, FL 32820
Date: June 26, 2023
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Register: www.ocfl.net/vision2050
Charter Review Commission
In 1986, Orange County voters chose to adopt a charter form of government. Every four years, a commission appointed by the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) conducts a review of the charter. This commission, known as the Charter Review Commission (CRC), determines which questions will be put to vote. At least 60 days before the election, the CRC publishes a report on the suggested changes. Ultimately, it is up to the voters to decide whether or not to implement these changes.
Location: Colonial High School, 6100 Oleander Dr, Orlando, FL 32807
Date: July 17, 2023
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Register: https://www.ocfl.net/OpenGovernment/BoardsAndSpecialDistricts/CharterReviewCommission.aspx
District 5 Neighborhood Advisory Council
Each month, the District 5 Neighborhood Advisory Council hosts a virtual town-hall-style meeting, in which community members can provide input and share ideas on challenges and initiatives. The Council works together to identify objectives to work towards and goals for the District 5 community. The most recent projects include purchasing environmentally sensitive lands and incentivizing smart development!
Location: Alafaya Branch Library, 12000 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32826
Date: July 31, 2023
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Register: https://emilybonilla.com/neighborhood-advisory-council/
District 5 Neighborhood Advisory Council
Each month, the District 5 Neighborhood Advisory Council hosts a virtual town-hall-style meeting, in which community members can provide input and share ideas on challenges and initiatives. The Council works together to identify objectives to work towards and goals for the District 5 community. The most recent projects include purchasing environmentally sensitive lands and incentivizing smart development!
Location: Bithlo Community Center, 18501 Washington Ave, Orlando, FL 32820
Date: August 9, 2023
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Register: https://emilybonilla.com/neighborhood-advisory-council/
Charter Review Commission
In 1986, Orange County voters chose to adopt a charter form of government. Every four years, a commission appointed by the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) conducts a review of the charter. This commission, known as the Charter Review Commission (CRC), determines which questions will be put to vote. At least 60 days before the election, the CRC publishes a report on the suggested changes. Ultimately, it is up to the voters to decide whether or not to implement these changes.
Location: Goldenrod Recreation Center, 4863 N Goldenrod Rd, Winter Park, FL 32792
Date: August 21, 2023
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Register: https://www.ocfl.net/OpenGovernment/BoardsAndSpecialDistricts/CharterReviewCommission.aspx
District 5 Torchbearer
Torchbearer: a person who leads or inspires others in working toward a valued goal
Meet Pastor Sarah Robinson, the passionate and experienced leader of Audubon Park Covenant Church since 2013. With a love for biking and gardening, she has traveled the world serving God and greatly appreciates food and art. Pastor Robinson holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Valparaiso University and a Master’s of Divinity from North Park Seminary. Originally from Indiana, she now resides in Orlando, FL, where she enjoys biking with her furry companion, Chica.
Pastor Robinson is the District 5 Torchbearer this week due to her profound impact on the lives of numerous individuals through her dedication and commitment to serving others. She has forged partnerships with non-profit organizations, uplifting and supporting community members in need. Her church has become a community engagement and empowerment hub, hosting events that foster unity, dialogue, and growth. I am grateful to Pastor Robinson for her participation and successful hosting of our Vision 2050 Town Hall event. The event proved to be invaluable for dialogue, enabling residents to express their concerns, ideas, and visions for a better future.
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
05/23/23 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 06/06/23 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
- 23-824 Confirmation of the Mayor’s managerial appointment of Mark lkeler, P.E, as Manager II, Water Reclamation Division, Utilities Department.
- 23-826 Approval of the check register authorizing the most recently disbursed County funds, having been certified that same have not been drawn on overexpended accounts. (Finance/Accounting)
- 23-827 Approval of Letter of Agreement authorizing the Central Florida Crimeline Program, Incorporated to act as the County’s agent for the purpose of applying, receiving, and disbursing the Crime Stoppers Trust Fund.
- 23-828 Approval of the Membership and Mission Review Board’s recommendations for advisory board appointments. (Agenda Development Office) A. Agricultural Advisory Board: Appointment of Brenda A. Hagemeister to succeed Michael Sterner in the equine industry representative category and Russell L. Woodall to succeed Commissioner Alexander Smith in the lawn spraymen or pest control representative category with terms expiring December 31, 2024. B. Citizens’ Commission for Children: Appointment of Talia P. Decant to succeed Dick J. Batchelor in the at large representative category with a term expiring December 31, 2023. C. Housing Finance Authority: Appointment of Ray D. Colado to succeed Sascha Rizzo in the finance representative category with a term expiring December 31, 2026.
- 23-829 Confirmation of the County Mayor’s staff reappointments for the fourth quarter, (July-September) FY 2022-2023. (Human Resources Division) Cannata, Marc, Deputy Director, Utilities Castillero, Humberto, Manager, Traffic Engineering Chestang, Angela, Manager, Citizens Commission for Children, Community and Family Services Cuartas, Edgar, Manager, Customer Services, Utilities Drozeck, Michael, Manager, Stormwater, Public Works Ferguson, Sheena, Manager, Business Development, Administrative Services Hall, Thomas, Director, Drug Free Office, Health Services Layton, Troy, Manager, Field Services, Utilities Lucas, Bryan, Manager, Fleet Management, Administrative Services Morales, Alex, Manager, Fiscal and Operational Support, Fire Rescue Neely, Everett, Deputy Chief, Corrections Petrelli Jr., John, Director, Risk Management and Professional Standards, Administration and Fiscal Services Salcedo, Jaime, Deputy Director, Utilities Salem, Tracy, Deputy Director, Community and Family Services Snead, Lisa, Assistant County Administrator, County Administration Steiger Jr., Richar
- 23-830 Approval for the Orange County Sheriff’s Office to spend $15,500 from the FY 2023 Law Enforcement Trust Fund-State Forfeitures for eligible contributions to Running 4 Heroes, Inc. ($500), Holocaust Memorial Resource & Education Center of Florida ($10,000), and Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranches ($5,000). (Office of Management and Budget)
- 23-834 Approval to award Invitation for Bids Y23-144-KK, MSBU and Non-MSBU Retention Pond Mowing and Maintenance – West Orange Area, to the low responsive and responsible bidder, Seasonal Effects, LLC. The estimated contract award amount is $356,400 for the base year. ([Public Works Department Stormwater Management Division] Procurement Division)
- 23-835 Approval to award Invitation for Bids Y23-193-ZR, Supply and Installation of Traffic Signal Equipment, to the low responsive and responsible bidders, The New Florida Industrial Electric, Inc., in the estimated contract award amount of $5,027,800.91, for a one-year term and Traffic Control Devices, LLC, in the estimated contract award amount of $5,301,104.05 for a one-year term. ([Public Works Department Traffic Engineering Division] Procurement Division)
- 23-838 Approval to award Invitation for Bids Y23-757-TA, Utilities Pump Station Improvements Package 34, to the low-responsive and responsible bidder, Felix Associates of Florida Inc. The total contract award amount is $5,359,926.46. ([Utilities Department Engineering Division] Procurement Division)
- 23-841 Approval to award Invitation for Bids Y23-791-ZR, Head Start Countywide Playground Renovations, to the low responsive and responsible bidder, Sky Living Co., Inc. The total contract award amount is $1,299,805.99. ([Administrative Services Department Capital Projects Division] Procurement Division)
- 23-842 Approval of Contract Y23-1050, Primary Care Behavioral Health Integration Pilot, with Pediatric Associates, in the estimated contract award amount of $1,035,000 for a one-year term. ([Community and Family Services Department Mental Health and Homelessness Issues Division] Procurement Division)
- 23-843 Approval of Amendment No. 2, Contract Y23-2400, Substance Abuse and HIV Prevention Navigator Program for Racial and Ethnic Minorities, with Miracle of Love, Inc., in the amount of $50,000, for a revised total contract amount of $149,000. ([Health Services Department Fiscal and Operational Support Division] Procurement Division)
- 23-847 Selection of Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc. to provide University Boulevard Pedestrian/Cyclist Safety Study, Request for Proposals, Y23-813-SH. ([Planning, Environmental, and Development Services Department Transportation Planning Division] Procurement Division)
- 23-850 Approval and execution of 1) Federally Funded Subaward and Grant Agreement for DR – 4673 – Hurricane Ian by the State of Florida, Division of Emergency Management and Orange County Agreement Number: Z2892; 2) Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility and Voluntary Exclusion; 3) Systems Access Form (Contacts) FEMA/Grantee Public Assistance Program Florida Division of Emergency Management; 4) Certification Regarding Lobbying; and 5) any other supplemental documents as may be additionally required by the federal or state governments to finalize the agreement; and authorization and delegation of signature authority as requested in the memorandum. (Office of Emergency Management)
- 23-851 Approval to increase the Health Services Department Manning table by four positions; two Senior Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists and a Sr. Financial Analyst will allow Orange County’s Drug Free Office to oversee the County and Region’s annual Opioid settlement fund award and one additional Senior Community Services Worker is needed to assist with implementing services funded by the Opioid Settlement. (Drug Free Office)
- 23-852 Approval and execution of 1) Agreement between the City of Orlando, Florida and Orange County, Florida for the Administration of the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) Grant Program for fiscal years 2023-2026 in an estimated total award amount of $16,634,211 (including the fiscal year 2023 award amount of $5,544,737); 2) Certification regarding Lobbying Certification for Contracts, Grants, Loans and Cooperative Agreements; and 3) Affidavit Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (FFATA) and authorization for the Mayor or designee to sign any future amendments to this agreement. No county match is required. (Fiscal and Operational Support Division)
- 23-856 Approval and execution of First Amendment to Interlocal Agreement between Orange County, Florida and the Ranger Drainage District. District 5. (Roads and Drainage Division)
- 23-858 Approval and execution of Cost-Share Agreement between the St. Johns River Water Management District and Orange County, Florida for the Orange County Utilities Water Conservation with Advanced Targeting Phase 2 Project Agreement No. 38045. All Districts. (Water Division)
Discussion Agenda
- 23-860 Selection of one firm and an alternate to provide Professional Construction Engineering and Inspection (CEI) and Compliance Services for the Lake Apopka Connector Trail Project, Request for Proposals Y23-807-CC, from the following two firms, listed alphabetically: – AE Engineering, Inc. – Civil/Site Engineering, Inc. ([Public Works Department Highway Construction Division] Procurement Division)
- 23-861 Selection of one firm and an alternate to provide Hancock Lone Palm Road Roadway Conceptual Analysis, Request for Proposals Y23-812-GO, from the following two firms, listed alphabetically: – HDR Engineering, Inc. – Inwood Consulting Engineers, Inc. ([Public Works Department Transportation Planning Division] Procurement Division)
- 23-862 Approval and execution of Resolution of the Orange County Board of County Commissioners Regarding Certain Services Fees Charged by Orange County Fire Rescue Department. (Planning and Technical Services Division)
- 23-863 Orange County Mental and Behavioral Health System of Care Community Analysis Update. (Mental Health and Homelessness Issues Division)
- 23-864 Accelerated Transportation Safety Program.
Work Session Agenda
- 23-866 Groundwater Vulnerability Assessment. (Environmental Protection Division)
PZC Recommendations
- 23-865 May 18, 2023 Planning and Zoning Commission Recommendations
Public Hearings
- 23-645 Case # CDR-22-10-317 Rebecca Wilson, Lowndes, Drosdick, Doster, Kantor & Reed, P.A., for Tag Land Orlando, LLC and John Webb, Tramell Webb Partners, Inc., The Quadrangle Planned Development/Land Use Plan (PD/LUP); amend plan; 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
- Orange County residents asked for feedback on Vision 2050 plan: “District 5 Commissioner Emily Bonilla acknowledged the residents’ frustrations, saying, “I don’t feel that the draft we have right now fully represents what the people of at least east Orange County want.” She encouraged citizens to share their feedback, adding, “We can get to a place where they are being represented.” Bonilla stated that she would not support the current draft of Vision 2050 but expressed hope that more residents would make their voices heard, allowing for necessary amendments. “We want their feedback to be implemented so that it becomes something that really belongs to the people that live here,” she emphasized.”
- Orange County Government Invites Community to Participate in Vision 2050 Town Hall Meetings: “Thursday, June 22, 2023, 6 p.m.Orange County District 5 – Commissioner Emily Bonilla Florida Technical College 12900 Challenger Parkway Orlando, FL 32826
- Monday, June 26, 2023, 6 p.m. Orange County District 5 – Commissioner Emily Bonilla Bithlo Community Center 18501 Washington Avenue Orlando, FL 32820″