Table of Contents
Connect with Commissioner Emily Bonilla
Welcome to the 81st 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.
Film Incentive Sunshine Meeting
A meeting was held by Commissioner Emily Bonilla to discuss a crucial topic about the potential of boosting Orange County’s film industry. The meeting focused on an initiative that aims to allocate Tourist Development Tax (TDT) funding for a Film Incentive Program. Commissioner Michael “Mike” Scott and Commissioner Maribel Gomez Cordero were also present. The main objective of this program is to attract production companies, create job opportunities, and stimulate the local economy. This program also presents Orange County as an appealing filming location, which can attract long-term visitors and promote growth among local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and catering services. By investing in the film industry, Orange County can ensure a prosperous future and put economic growth in the spotlight.
Wetland Conservation Areas Ordinance
Orange County staff will present the fourth and final update on the revisions to the Wetland Conservation Areas Ordinance. The objective is to safeguard crucial wetlands and surface waters while harmonizing these protections with property rights. Additionally, efforts are being made to enhance the ordinance’s clarity. This update will cover various aspects, including the ordinance’s structure, essential definitions, novel permit categories, review processes, upland buffer stipulations, modified mitigation strategies, the introduction of Special Protection Areas, and other vital concepts.
ECFRPC Council Meeting
Our focus: Affordable Housing initiatives. The Live Local Act passage allocates $811M and tax incentives for housing. We’re committed to promoting mixed-income housing through code changes. Community Engagement is vital, raising awareness for council initiatives. Valuable County Updates from Board Members foster collaboration. Progress in enhancing the community through Charger Review efforts. Together, we’re building a brighter future!
Tourist Development Tax Funding and Future Allocations
Orange County Commissioners recently made significant decisions regarding the allocation of Tourism Development Tax (TDT) dollars. They unanimously approved a UCF proposal, committing $10 million annually over nine years to build a new football stadium tower at FBC Mortgage Stadium. Additionally, the board voted 5-2 in favor of a $560 million renovation of the Orange County Convention Center, with Commissioner Bonilla voting no. Commissioner Bonilla advocated for an economic and social impact analysis beforehand. Future discussions will address funding for other venues recommended by the TDT task force. There is a call to reconsider the Visit Orlando and Orange County agreement to allocate resources more effectively.
Celebrating Funding for Loch Haven Chain of Lakes
In the 2023-24 Florida budget, the Loch Haven Chain of Lakes (FLHCL) secured $1,350,000 for a hydrologic and nutrient load study, stormwater modeling, and infrastructure improvements. FLHCL collaborated with Commissioner Emily Bonilla, Senator Jason Brodeur, and Representative Anna Eskamani to advocate for this funding. It aims to enhance water quality and prevent flooding in the Orlando, Winter Park, and Orange County areas. The St. Johns River Water Management District will oversee the project, marking a significant achievement in citizen advocacy and environmental preservation efforts.
Case Closed!
Addressing concerns about speed limit enforcement is a priority. Upon receiving complaints from a concerned constituent, we immediately engaged with Public Works. We are pleased to report that their swift action resulted in the installation of two new speed limit signs and a pavement marking. These enhancements will significantly aid in enforcing speed limits, ensuring the safety of all residents and commuters.
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 where you will find episodes of the Emily Tells All talk show.
Subscribe to the YouTube Channel to not miss any videos.
Important Updates and Information
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Domestic violence is not a private family matter. Rather, it is a public health and safety issue that spans gender, age, sexual orientation, and religion, and affects people of all socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds. In the United States, one in three women, and one in four men are victims of domestic violence. This translates to more than 10 million abuse victims annually. For more resources visit Orange County Domestic Violence Commission (ocfl.net)
Why Being Trauma-Informed Matters
Join the Peace and Justice Institute and Commissioner Emily Bonilla at the Resilience Network workshop in Bithlo on November 1, 2023. This event focuses on implementing a trauma-informed approach in organizations, covering key concepts and principles. It’s free and open to the public, taking place at the Bithlo Community Center from 9 am to 12 pm. Contact resilience@peacejusticeinstitute.org for questions or accommodations.
Neighborhood Beautification Grant
The grant program’s mission is to empower communities. We offer matching grants up to $10,000 to eligible neighborhood organizations, promoting partnerships and enhancing community quality. Applicants share 50% of project costs, while we cover the rest. Together, let’s beautify and strengthen our neighborhoods. To learn more visit:
https://www.orangecountyfl.net/NeighborsHousing/NeighborhoodRevitalization/NeighborhoodGrants.aspx
Movie in the Park – Goosebumps 2
Get ready for Creepy Fun in October! Join us at Bithlo Community Park, 18501 Washington Avenue, Orlando, on Saturday, October 21, for the FREE Movie in the Park: Goosebumps 2 – Haunted Halloween! The spooky fun begins at 7 p.m. Bring your family and friends, lawn chairs, and snacks. No alcohol or pets, please. See you there!
Past Community Events
District 5 Neighborhood Advisory Council Meeting
During our recent Neighborhood Advisory Council Meeting, we engaged in meaningful discussions about various important topics concerning our District. Some key highlights included conversations about the Live Local Act, Pluris Wedgefield, the Wildlife Corridor, and the Home Ownership Collective. These discussions play a vital role in shaping the future of our community.
Riqueza Latina
Celebrating Latin Artists in a vibrant showcase of the rich and diverse talents within the Latin community. We celebrated the artistry, culture, and contributions of Latin artists from all walks of life.
Florida Council of Churches Annual Banquet
The Florida Council of Churches is a diverse coalition of faith-based groups and leaders committed to fostering interfaith collaboration and unity. Their mission centers on advocating for God’s love and unity among Floridians while partnering with secular and interfaith organizations to promote peace, progress, and positive change. Their goal is to be a unified voice representing inclusivity and diversity in faith communities.
Hispanic Youth Leadership Awards Ceremony
Orange County Government and the Hispanic Heritage Network of Orange County are proud to announce the 2023 Hispanic Youth Leadership Awards (HYLA). These awards will honor exceptional Hispanic youth in Orange County who have excelled in academics, athletics, community service, and leadership. We were thrilled to celebrate these outstanding young leaders and their achievements.
Upcoming Events
Please click on the Event Title to find more details about the event.
District 5 Neighborhood Advisory Council
Don’t miss this chance to shape a dynamic and forward-thinking community. Connect with Commissioner Emily Bonilla and fellow community members to discuss crucial topics affecting our district. Some of our most pressing topics are Pluris Wedgefield, Charter Review Commission, and the development in the North Pickett Area. This event is open to all – Register now to secure your spot.
Location: Goldenrod Recreation Center, 4863 N Goldenrod Rd, Winter Park, FL 32792
Date: 10/13/23
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
District 5 Spooktacular Candy Bash
I am organizing a family-friendly event that is suitable for people of all ages. Attendees can put on creative costumes and gather at the Goldenrod Recreation Center, where they will find various themed stations offering candies and treats. We aspire to create a sense of community, encourage creativity, and offer families a chance to celebrate while making lasting memories of spooky fun and togetherness.
Location: Goldenrod Recreation Center, 4863 N Goldenrod Rd, Winter Park, FL 32792
Date: 10/28/2023
Time: 12:00 – 4:00 p.m.
District 5 Torchbearer
Torchbearer: a person who leads or inspires others in working toward a valued goal
We wholeheartedly acknowledge Valerie Guzman as the deserving recipient of the Youth Advocacy Award. Her outstanding dedication and tireless efforts in our community have made a profound impact. Valerie’s commitment to positive change inspires us all. Thank you for your remarkable work, Valerie. Your advocacy sets an inspiring example for future generations. Congratulations!
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
09/26/23 BCC Meeting
Watch the Board of County Commissioner’s (BCC) Meeting. After the meetings, the e-agenda is updated with the results of the votes.
Upcoming 10/10/23 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
- 23-1423 Approval and execution of Orange County, Florida and Hispanic Business Initiative Fund of Florida, Inc., d/b/a Prospera FY 2024 Grant Agreement authorizing the disbursement of $147,519 as provided in the FY 2023-24 adopted budget. (Office of Economic, Trade and Tourism Development)
- 23-1424 Approval and execution of Orange County, Florida and Veteran Entrepreneurship Initiative, Inc. FY 2024 Grant Agreement authorizing the disbursement of $167,121 as provided in the FY 2023-24 adopted budget. (Office of Economic, Trade and Tourism Development)
- 23-1425 Approval and execution of Orange County, Florida and Black Business Community Development Corporation FY 2024 Grant Agreement authorizing the disbursement of $162,155 as provided in the FY 2023-24 adopted budget. (Office of Economic, Trade and Tourism Development)
- 23-1426 Approval and execution of Orange County, Florida and Rollins College Crummer Center for Advanced Entrepreneurship FY 2024 Grant Agreement authorizing the disbursement of $97,850 as provided in the FY 2023-24 adopted budget. (Office of Economic, Trade and Tourism Development)
- 23-1427 Approval and execution of Orange County, Florida and Starter Studio FL, Inc. FY 2024 Grant Agreement authorizing the disbursement of $159,650 as provided in the FY 2023-24 adopted budget. (Office of Economic, Trade and Tourism Development)
- 23-1428 Approval and execution of Orange County, Florida and GROWFL, INC., Inc. FY 2024 Grant Agreement authorizing the disbursement of $35,937 as provided in the FY 2023-24 adopted budget. (Office of Economic, Trade and Tourism Development)
- 23-1429 Approval and execution of Orange County, Florida and Black Orlando Tech., Inc. Inc. FY 2024 Grant Agreement authorizing the disbursement of $200,000 as provided in the FY 2023-24 adopted budget. (Office of Economic, Trade and Tourism Development)
- 23-1430 Approval and execution of Orange County, Florida and Social, Employment & Educational Impact Corp., FY 2024 Grant Agreement authorizing the disbursement of $77,250 as provided in the FY 2023-24 adopted budget. (Office of Economic, Trade and Tourism Development)
- 23-1431 Approval and execution of Orange County, Florida and CFF I, LLC, FY 2024 Grant Agreement authorizing the disbursement of $103,000 as provided in the FY 2023-24 adopted budget. (Office of Economic, Trade and Tourism Development)
- 23-1455 Approval of Change Orders No. 2 and 3, Task Authorization No. 9, Additional Design and Bidding Services for Bithlo Rural Area Water – Phase 1 West Project, Contract Y20-905A, with CPH, Inc., in the amount of $15,188.02 and $10,380.49, for a revised award total of $681,556.45. ([Utilities Department Engineering Division] Procurement Division)
- 23-1462 Approval and execution of Temporary Access and Construction Easement from Orange County Board of County Commissioners to Duke Energy Florida, LLC, d/b/a Duke Energy for OCU Operations Property at 8100 Presidents Drive. District 6. (Real Estate Management Division)
- 23-1470 Approval of four new positions within the Zoning Division to support amendments to Chapter 15, Article VIII, Tree Protection and Removal Ordinance. All Districts. (Zoning Division)
- 23-1471 Approval and execution of Resolution of the Orange County Board of County Commissioners regarding the Orange County Fee Directory as to certain fees charged for a Tree Protection And Removal Application or Plan Review and creating new certain fees for a Tree Protection And Removal Plan Review or inspection; and Providing for an Effective Date. All Districts. (Zoning Division)
- 23-1477 Approval and execution of Orange County, Florida and Bike/Walk Central Florida FY 2024 Grant Agreement by and between Orange County and Bike/Walk Central Florida in the amount of $76,908. All Districts. (Traffic Engineering Division)
Discussion Agenda
- 23-1418 Selection of one firm and an alternate to provide Contractor of Record for the Office of Emergency Management (OEM), Request for Proposals Y22-140-MV, from the following four firms, listed alphabetically: – Elite Business Strategies, LLC – Hagerty Consulting, Inc. – Innovative Emergency Management, Inc. – Integrated Solutions Consulting, Corporation ([Fire Rescue Department Office of Emergency Management] Procurement Division)
Work Session Agenda
- 23-1419 Office of Tenant Services Update. (Housing and Community Development Division)
- 23-1420 Language Access Title VI Nondiscrimination
BZA Recommendations
- 23-1421 September 21, 2023 Planning and Zoning Commission Recommendations. There are 3 cases in District 5.
Public Hearings
- 23-1336 Adoption of Regular Cycle Staff-Initiated Comprehensive Plan Map Amendment and Ordinance a. 2023-2-B-TRAN-1 Map amendment to adopt changes to the Long Range Transportation Plan of the Orange County 2010 – 2030 Comprehensive Plan to reflect changes in project status, add the proposed “Sunshine Corridor” rail alignment, and remove the Alternative Mobility Area per the adoption of Ordinance No. 2022-16; Countywide And b. Ordinance for Proposed Map Amendment.
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 approves hundreds of millions in TDT funding for these projects: ‘“Right now, we don’t have accurate data, accurate studies to make any decisions on anything,” said Commissioner Emily Bonilla of District 5.’
- Orange County commissioners back four tourist tax projects: ‘”You know, if that study says that all of this is correct and we should do all this, then I would go for it, but we don’t have that study,” Bonilla said. “We don’t have that information. We don’t have the evidence. We don’t have the numbers to make sure we are making the best decision, economically and socially, for our communities.”‘
- Orange commissioners approve nearly $800 million in tourist-tax funding: ‘Commissioners Emily Bonilla and Nicole Wilson voted against the expansion of the Pentagon-sized convention center, a previously approved project halted in 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic when theme parks closed and tourist-tax collections cratered to all-time lows. “I will continue to have grave concerns about its return on investment,” Wilson said. She and Bonilla want an independent economic analysis of the expansion.’
- Demings backs $560M for convention center, says other projects can wait: “Shortly after the mayor’s memo hit commissioners’ email accounts, Commissioner Emily Bonilla presided over a previously scheduled public meeting with fellow commissioners Mike Scott and Maribel Gomez-Cordero to discuss using TDT revenue to create a local fund to incentivize film projects.”
- Orange County Commission funds projects for UCF, Convention Center, arts and cultural grants: ‘There’s still plenty of money left over, but the commission decided to wait before deciding how to spend it. District 5 Commissioner Emily Bonilla argued that the county should gather more data before moving forward with its decisions. “We don’t have that information, we don’t have the evidence, we don’t have the numbers to make sure that we are making the best decision economically and socially for our communities,” said Commissioner Bonilla. The commission tabled the discussion about funding requests from Camping World Stadium, the Amway Center, and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.’
- Winter Park passes $208 million budget: ‘Anderson and Knight also provided a short update about a recent meeting with Orange County Commissioner Emily Bonilla, who represents Winter Park. They said she was receptive to the city’s proposal to extend and expand its Community Redevelopment Agency or the special tax district centered on downtown that is scheduled to end in 2027.’
- Orange County Board votes to expand Convention Center, UCF Stadium Tower, ARC and local arts and cultural affairs funding with Tourist Development Tax revenues: “District 3 Commissioner Mayra Uribe made the first motion of the day to move forward the Orange County Convention Center expansion, receiving a second from District 2 Commissioner Christine Moore, which ultimately saw a 5-2 supermajority in support. District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson and District 5 Commissioner Emily Bonilla cast the two nay votes.”
- Orange County Convention Center, UCF win hotel tax funding: “The $560 million first phase Orange County Convention Center’s expansion secured a voted 5-2 — Commissioners Emily Bonilla and Nicole Wilson in dissent — to unfreeze and fund the project that was put on ice due to the Covid-19 pandemic and its effect on tourism.”
