Table of Contents
Connect with Commissioner Emily Bonilla
Welcome to the 78th 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.
Live Local Act
As a County Commissioner, my support for adopting the Standard Operating Procedures to implement the Live Local Act marks a significant achievement for Orange County and District 5. This comprehensive statewide housing strategy will greatly enhance the availability of affordable housing, fulfilling the needs of our community members who aspire to reside within the areas they contribute to. The legislation’s diverse range of programs, incentives, and opportunities will undoubtedly contribute to making housing more accessible and cultivating a stronger, more vibrant local environment.
Christmas Town Hall
Our office was happy to participate in a remarkable town hall event in Christmas, where I joined forces with the mayor and the Vision 2050 team to provide essential updates on the developments in District 5. With an impressive turnout of over 80 attendees, we were profoundly grateful for the overwhelming support shown by our Christmas residents. Their active engagement highlights our shared dedication to advancing our community’s growth and progress. Notably, the insights and concerns shared by residents regarding the Vision 2050 Plan play a pivotal role in shaping the future of rural Orange County. As we move forward, we eagerly anticipate their participation in upcoming District 5 events, underscoring our joint commitment to a brighter future.
Emily Tells All
I’m thrilled to share that we’ve achieved something exciting – filming for Season 4 of “Emily Tells All.” When I first entered this role, I wanted to bridge the gap between vital information and our community. From media literacy to affordable housing and beyond, our show dives deep into topics that matter most to our lives. Many of you have told me how you’ve discovered these fantastic resources through the show, stuff you might have never known about otherwise! That’s the magic of “Emily Tells All” – it’s a pathway to exploring what’s right here in our backyard. Thank you everyone who’s been a part of this journey. And if you haven’t joined us yet, now’s the perfect time to tune in, trust me there’s something for everyone! Head over to our YouTube channel and subscribe so you won’t miss a thing. I believe knowledge is power, and when we’re informed, we’re empowered.
Case Closed!
A caring resident in College Park contacted my office regarding the health and strength of their four large oak trees in preparation for any and all upcoming hurricanes this season. We connected them with an ISA Certified Arborist from Orange County who offered expertise on tree health and care. This guidance not only helped the resident but also enhanced public safety. Stay prepared during this Hurricane Season – reach out for tips and resources to safeguard yourself, your family, and your property.
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
2023 USHCC National Conference
U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce chooses Orlando to host its 2023 National Conference. The annual conference is America’s largest gathering of Hispanic business leaders. The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) actively promotes the economic growth, development, and interests of more than 5 million Hispanic-owned businesses, that combined, contribute over $800 billion to the American economy every year.
Winter Park and Ocoee Branches Open for New Services
The Winter Park and Ocoee branches will be open for services such as marriage licenses and ceremonies, passports, and payments on the third Saturday of every month for the rest of this year. These branch offices are open on the following Saturdays, from 8-12 PM: August 19, September 16, October 21, November 18, and December 16.
International Overdose Awareness Day
The Orange County Drug-Free Office and Project Noelle will host a candlelight vigil on International Overdose Awareness Day on Sunday, August 27 at the Lake Eola Amphitheater. Join us as we raise awareness and commemorate those lost to drug overdose. There will be free Narcan and Narcan Training.
Orange County Head Start
There’s still time to enroll your little one in Orange County Head Start! This nationally recognized program provides pre-school age children (3-5 years old) with FREE high-quality early childhood education, healthcare services, nutritious meals, and more. Check your eligibility at ocfl.net/HeadStart or call 407-836-6590.
Past Community Events
Grand Opening for Johannessen Lights
We are pleased to support Johannessen Lights during their Grand Opening Ceremony over the weekend. Johannessen Lights, known for their passion for Christmas lights, have grown to adorn hundreds of homes, businesses, and communities. Whether it’s welcoming parents from afar or reuniting college kids, their enchanting displays are unforgettable. Be sure to support their business and consider them for your upcoming Halloween or Christmas events to witness the magic firsthand.
City Beautiful Café Ribbon Cutting
Exciting day at Town Hall as we celebrated the grand opening of the new City Beautiful Cafe! Joined by City Commissioner Robert Stuart and Mayor Buddy Dyer, the ceremony welcomed this delightful family-owned business to our community. Town hall is now even luckier to have this spot serving up delicious food. Drop by and savor the flavors!
Lee Road Safe Neighborhood Community Meeting
My team joined Rep. Anna Eskimani to support the Lee Road community safety initiative to delve into crucial property insurance legislative updates. The event also saw the participation of Orange County Neighborhood Services, who explored ways to provide valuable support to homeowners. At the heart of it all was the Lee Road Safe Neighborhood Program, a remarkable endeavor aimed at revitalizing our community by addressing crime, traffic concerns, and blight.
BIPOC@Home Event
My team and I attended a significant event to lend our support to the BIPOC@Home Program, a crucial initiative addressing the vast disparities in homeownership rates within our four-county market area (Orange, Osceola, Seminole, and Lake Counties). The event highlighted stark statistics revealing the significant gap in homeownership between White households and BIPOC households, especially within lower-income brackets. This initiative aims to tackle barriers to BIPOC homeownership, including affordable housing shortages, income disparities, rising home prices, and systemic challenges. The BIPOC@Home Initiative seeks to empower more BIPOC households to achieve homeownership.
Upcoming Events
Please click on the Event Title to find more details about the event.
District 5 Neighborhood Advisory Council Meeting
Don’t miss out on the chance to meet and engage with Commissioner Emily Bonilla and discuss critical issues shaping our district’s future! This month we have some hot topics on the agenda Pluris-Wedgefield Project, Charter Review Commission, Development in North Pickett area, and Live Local Act. The significance of your experiences and ideas cannot be overstated. Our community’s vitality and uniqueness stem from the contributions of each member, and we invite you to actively participate in the decisions that will influence our district’s trajectory.
Location: Goldenrod Recreation Center, 4863 N. Goldenrod Rd., Winter Park, FL 32792
Date: Tuesday, August 29, 2023
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Can’t attend? Don’t worry, you can join us live via Zoom.
2024 CRC District 5 Public Hearing
The CRC is endeavoring to reach all county citizens by holding public hearings in several communities. The Commission desires that Orange County citizens speak at the hearings regarding any issues they have concerning their charter and our Orange constitution. It is essential that the Orange County Charter reflect the concerns of its citizens in order to have an effective county government. Your opinion is important and will be considered when preparing for the November 2024 general election. We look forward to seeing District 5 residents attending these public hearings and speaking before the CRC.
Location: Goldenrod Recreation Center, 4863 N. Goldenrod Rd., Winter Park, FL 32792
Date: Monday, August 21, 2023
Time: 6:00 p.m.
District 5 Torchbearer
Torchbearer: a person who leads or inspires others in working toward a valued goal
Don and Tutu Harrell, co-founders of Orisirisi African Folklore, have dedicated their lives to sharing the richness and significance of African culture with the world. Their internationally acclaimed performing arts company has touched countless lives through spirited performances, lectures, and interactive experiences. With backgrounds spanning folk-artistry, music scholarship, and cultural heritage, they embody the power of art in promoting positive social change. Through their unwavering commitment to community engagement and education, Don and Tutu inspire individuals from diverse backgrounds to connect with the beauty and depth of African traditions, making them remarkable leaders in working towards a valued goal and contributing to their community’s enrichment.
Having had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know Don and Tutu Harrell personally, I was deeply moved by their powerful stories and dedication to sharing their rich cultural heritage. Through their remarkable journey with Orisirisi African Folklore, they have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to promoting understanding and unity through the arts. I encourage you to experience their incredible performances and immerse yourself in the beauty of African culture. Stay tuned for their feature on my talk show “Emily Tells All” in its upcoming Season 4, where you can learn more about their inspiring journey.
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
08/08/23 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 08/22/23 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
- 23-1175 Approval for the Orange County Sheriff’s Office to spend $5,000 from the FY 2023 Law Enforcement Trust Fund-State Forfeitures for an eligible contribution to National Latino Peace Officers Association. (Office of Management and Budget)
- 23-1281 Approval to award Invitation for Bids Y23-170-AV, Landscape Maintenance – Bithlo Area Section I, to the low responsive and responsible bidder, Lawnwalker Services, Inc. The estimated contract award amount is $494,197 for the base year. ([Public Works Department Roads and Drainage Division] Procurement Division)
- 23-1205 Approval and execution of Contract for Purchase and Sale by and between Teddy J. McIlrath and Ina Mae McIlrath, as Trustee of the McIlrath Revocable Trust and Orange County, approval of Warranty Deed, and authorization for the Manager of the Real Estate Management Division to exercise all delegations of authority expressly provided for by the Contract for Purchase and Sale, disburse funds to pay purchase price in the amount of $604,118, and perform all actions necessary and incidental to closing for Green PLACE Parcel 122. District 5. (Real Estate Management Division)
- 23-1222 Approval and execution of (1) Resolution of the Orange County Board of County Commissioners regarding the Local Agency Program Supplemental Agreement with the State of Florida Department of Transportation for the Little Econ Trail Phase 3 Project and (2) State of Florida Department of Transportation Local Agency Program Supplemental Agreement FPN: 444993-1-38-01. District 5. (Transportation Planning Division)
- 23-1190 Approval of Amendment No. 4, Contract Y22-2411, Food Distribution Programming, Federal Subrecipient Agreement, with Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, Inc., in the amount of $5,000,000, for a revised total contract award amount of $14,000,000. ([Community and Family Services Department Citizens’ Commission for Children Division] Procurement Division)
- 23-1212 Approval and execution of 2023-2024 Fiscal Year Funding Agreement by and between Orange County and the International Drive Master Transit and Improvement District. (Fiscal and Operational Support Division)
Discussion Agenda
- 23-1227 Selection of one firm and three ranked alternates to provide Design Services for Orange County Convention Center North-South Meeting Rooms Renovation, Request for Proposals Y23-814-GO, from the following five firms, listed alphabetically: Architectural Design Collaborative, Inc., Helman Hurley Charvat Peacock/Architects, Inc., KZF Design LLC dba KMF Architects, Populous Inc. + C.T. HSU a Joint Venture, LLC, TVS Florida, Inc. Architecture.
- 23-1228 Selection of five firms and three ranked alternates to provide Continuing Engineering Services for the Utilities Department, Request for Proposals Y23-904-ZR, from a list of eleven firms: Atkins North America, Inc., Barnes, Ferland and Associates, Inc., Black & Veatch Corporation, CHA Consulting, Inc., CPH Consulting, LLC, Dewberry Engineers, Inc., Hazen and Sawyer, Inwood Consulting Engineers, Inc., Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc., Tetra-Tech, Inc., Woolpert, Inc
- 23-1229 Acceptance of the Orange County Citizens Safety Task Force Report. All Districts.
Work Session Agenda
- 23-1230 Update on Tourist Development Tax Future Available Funding and
- Project Requests with Supplemental Information.
BZA Recommendations
- 23-1232 August 3, 2023 Board of Zoning Adjustment Recommendations
Public Hearings (2:00 PM)
- 23-1047 Lake Pickett, amend for general lake cleaning maintenance, aquatic
- plant control and navigational improvements; 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 mayor, commissioners may see 25% pay increase: Commissioners would get a nearly $23,000 pay bump going from $91,000 to more than $113,000. District 5 commissioner Emily Bonilla also voted against the proposal. “I felt like it was wrong,” Bonilla said. Bonilla originally called for the county to do a market analysis on the commissioners’ salaries last summer. But she said she’s against the change after money wasn’t approved for her office’s budget. “Now we’re being asked to raise our salaries to benefit our own pocket,” she said.
- Orange County commissioners accept TDT task force report but question recommendations: The task force that reviewed requests for tourist-tax funding handed its findings Tuesday to Orange County commissioners, who accepted the document but not necessarily the panel’s priorities. The commission, which has final say on spending plans, voted 5-2 to accept the panel’s report. But commissioner Emily Bonilla, one of two “no” votes, questioned the evaluation process, which required panelists to weigh a project’s ability to attract tourists, likely return on investment and other factors. “What we’re being asked to do is to commit hundreds of millions of dollars to projects that we really don’t have all the information for,” she said, noting tourist-tax revenues can rise and fall. “We don’t know what the impacts on our communities are going to be. It’s not all rainbows and unicorns, you know. The tourism industry has created some harmful impacts to our economy as well.”
