Nesta: Taking care of Apopka means taking care of our employees too

In this opinion column, Apopka Mayor Nick Nesta says that protecting taxpayers and supporting city employees are compatible goals. He outlines his rationale for restructuring leadership and urges a thorough review of spending before reducing services residents depend on.

Former Apopka City Commissioner Alexander H. Smith speaks during the South Apopka annexation discussion: “That (Dowdell) lawsuit was 45 years ago, and here we are 45 years later still discussing the same issue. Our excuse for the past 8 years was that we needed to get this study done; now that it’s feasible, we no longer have an excuse.”

City Commission advances South Apopka annexation proposal toward 2028 ballot

The Apopka City Commission unanimously voted to advance the proposed annexation of South Apopka toward county consideration and a March 2028 referendum. Commissioners debated a projected $5.5 million funding gap, while historian Francina Boykin presented a petition opposing annexation.

DRC raises concerns over Crossroads at Kelly Park plans

Apopka’s Development Review Committee raised concerns about the Crossroads at Kelly Park commercial layout and its connection to a roadway funding agreement. The committee also reviewed upcoming events, including the Apopka Christmas Parade, K92.3’s Jingle Jam, and a Bee Gees tribute fundraiser.

Weather disrupts Apopka PRIDE and Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive weekend plans

Hope CommUnity Center has postponed Apopka PRIDE 2026 because of Saturday’s forecast for inclement weather; a new date will be announced. Heavy rainfall and saturated roads will also close the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive to motorized vehicles Oct. 9–12.

APD reports arrests on carjacking, sexual battery, and aggravated assault charges

Apopka police reported arrests involving carjacking, sexual battery, aggravated assault, DUI, and other charges during the week of September 27 through October 3. The department also recorded 1,587 calls for service, 53 citations, and 35 crashes.

FPL partnership provides Florida firefighters training on battery storage systems

Florida Power & Light and the Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association are partnering to train first responders on battery energy storage systems. More than 200 firefighters and emergency personnel have completed the program this year as FPL expands its use of battery storage across Florida.

DRC to review 363 apartments, Kelly Park projects and Crescent Ridge subdivision

The Apopka Development Review Committee will consider several residential projects Wednesday, including 363 apartments at The Ridge and the second phase of Crescent Ridge. Two Kelly Park Road proposals, a seven-lot subdivision and six special events, are also on the agenda.

OP/ED: Energy choice starts with giving people options

Energy decisions should work like other choices families and businesses make based on their needs, priorities, and budgets, according to Lake Apopka Natural Gas District CEO Brent Haywood. During Public Natural Gas Week, Haywood argues that preserving natural gas infrastructure gives current and future Apopka residents another option rather than requiring them to use it.

Free, low-cost mammograms coming to Apopka

The Mammolink Mammography bus will visit Apopka on October 29 to provide free or low-cost breast cancer screenings for eligible women. The mobile unit will be at the Community Health Center, 225 E. Seventh St., from 8 am to 4 pm.

APD responds to five burglaries during the week

The Apopka Police Department reported five burglaries the week of September 27 through October 3: three vehicle burglaries, one residential burglary, and one commercial burglary.

CRA extension, South Apopka annexation study headline City Commission agenda

The Apopka City Commission will review the South Apopka annexation feasibility study results and consider extending the Community Redevelopment Agency at its October 7 meeting. The agenda also includes a 502-home development plan, a 55-home rezoning proposal, and three separate annexation requests.

Apopka PRIDE 2026 to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community on National Coming Out Day weekend

Hope CommUnity Center will host Apopka PRIDE 2026 on Saturday, October 10, with an afternoon of performances, health services, local vendors, and community activities. This year’s “Bloom Without Permission” theme focuses on LGBTQ+ visibility, resilience, and community during National Coming Out Day weekend.

Flock cameras have popped up across Florida, especially in metro areas.

Florida’s Flock camera restrictions leave privacy questions for Apopka drivers

Florida’s restrictions on automated license plate readers along state highways have brought new attention to how the technology is used in Apopka. While APD says the cameras help solve crimes and locate missing or wanted people, questions remain about data retention, outside access and oversight.

A Florida wetland cypress dome, via Everglades National Park. Developers have tried tor years get DEP put in charge of issuing federal wetlands permits, but judges have ruled that that system violates the Endangered Species Act.

Congressional wetlands bill could affect development review in Apopka

A congressional proposal could return federal wetlands permitting authority to Florida, potentially changing one layer of environmental review for developments in Apopka. The issue has a local connection as city officials recently reviewed wetland mitigation associated with the Bronson Lake Drive extension at The Ridge.

In case you missed it: Annexation costs, City Hall changes and Apopka firefighters’ resolve

South Apopka’s annexation study and proposed City Hall changes made for a busy week of local news. Also making headlines were a proposed resource center, infrastructure concerns surrounding 165 homes, and more than 30 Apopka firefighters who completed the Tunnel to Towers run despite a storm.

Nesta projects millions in Apopka revenue losses if Amendment 3 passes

Apopka Mayor Nick Nesta said Amendment 3 could reduce city revenue by $7 million in its first year and $11.5 million in its second. Speaking alongside four other municipal leaders, he discussed potential effects on city services and residents’ expectations.

CRA advances downtown projects, removes pedestrian upgrades from budget

The Apopka CRA’s latest project report shows progress on downtown amenities, housing renovations, and a proposed homeless resource center. However, the fiscal year 2027 budget removed two pedestrian improvement projects due to inactivity, while the master plan update and the second phase of the Downtown Apopka Trail remain pending.

Peanut Butter Challenge returns to fight hunger; Orange County looks to build on winning effort

The annual Peanut Butter Challenge is collecting donations to stock local food pantries, and Orange County hopes to expand its impact after winning last year’s competition. Residents can donate sealed, unexpired peanut butter at participating Extension offices during October, with collections continuing into November in some counties.

South Apopka annexation study finds path forward, but substantial costs remain

A feasibility study finds that annexing South Apopka is legally and physically achievable, but estimates approximately $30.5 million in capital needs for police, fire, and public services. The City Commission will discuss the report on October 7 and consider a procedural step needed to keep a possible March 2027 referendum on track.

DRC flags access and infrastructure concerns in 165-home proposals

Apopka’s Development Review Committee recommended denying two residential submissions totaling 165 proposed homes and lots because access, safety, and infrastructure questions remain unresolved.

Apopka’s Development Review Committee will consider residential plans, a charter school revision, and an amenity park on Wednesday morning. The agenda also includes three community events including a Turkey Trot at the Northwest Recreation Facility.

DRC to review housing lots, charter school revision and community park

Apopka’s Development Review Committee will consider residential plans, a charter school revision and an amenity park Wednesday morning. The agenda also includes access roads near State Road 429 and applications for three community events.

Nesta’s plan for Apopka resource center draws hope and caution from service groups

Mayor Nick Nesta invited Apopka service organizations to help shape a proposed resource center for people experiencing homelessness and other hardships. Participants welcomed the chance to coordinate their work but urged the city to set realistic goals and follow through.

Seminole County Chamber opposes Amendment 3 over economic concerns

The Seminole County Chamber’s board voted unanimously to oppose Amendment 3 after reviewing its potential local impact. Chamber leaders said the proposal could strain public services and create uncertainty for small businesses and nonprofits.

Central Florida Community Arts seeks new executive director

Central Florida Community Arts is searching for an executive director to lead the nonprofit as artist participation and production attendance grow. The organization is seeking a leader with experience in fundraising, collaboration, and community engagement.

Apopka High School seeks DRC approval for its homecoming parade from 5–7 pm on October 8 at the Northwest Recreation Complex, 3710 Jason Dwelley Parkway.

DRC to review 95-home subdivision plan, child care facility and three special events

The Apopka Development Review Committee will review a construction plan for 95 single-family lots near Kelly Park Road and a proposed child care facility on Chandler Road. The Sept. 23 agenda also includes a Bronson Peak plat and three special-event applications.

Florida Blue Foundation awards $3.1 million to combat food insecurity

The Florida Blue Foundation is awarding $3.1 million to eight community-based initiatives addressing food insecurity across the state. The programs will serve students, farmworkers, uninsured residents, people experiencing homelessness, and rural communities.

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Planning Commission to review plans for 557 homes, industrial projects

The Apopka Planning Commission will consider plans for 557 single-family homes and two industrial projects Tuesday evening. The agenda also includes a special exception for overnight commercial-vehicle parking and a Land Development Code workshop.

Florida county officials try to eliminate public comment on development

Lee County residents organized against a sweeping growth-plan rewrite they said was rushed, poorly publicized, and designed to diminish their influence over development. Their successful opposition is especially relevant in Apopka, where the placement, livestreaming, and official recording of public comments have sparked controversy.

Orange County launches Green PLACE Hiking Spree with 40 trails to explore

Orange County’s Green PLACE Hiking Spree invites residents to explore 40 trails and earn rewards for completing three, 10, 15, or more hikes. The program runs through Earth Day, April 22, 2027, and also offers free monthly guided hikes.

AAA: Two-thirds of Florida adults have seen children ride e-bikes or e-scooters without helmets

A survey from AAA found that 66% of Florida adults have seen children riding e-bikes or e-scooters without helmets, while 83% support helmet requirements. AAA urges riders to wear properly fitted helmets certified for their devices' speed and capabilities.

Survey finds mental health concerns remain high among young adults

In a UnitedHealthcare survey, 62% of college students and young adults not enrolled in college reported a mental or behavioral health concern in the past year. Dr. Danielle Madril recommends open conversations, careful use of AI tools, and greater awareness of professional and community resources.

Two dengue cases confirmed in the Apopka area

Health officials have confirmed two additional locally acquired dengue fever cases in the Apopka area, prompting a mosquito alert for Orange County. Mosquito Control is expanding surveillance and targeted treatment in Apopka, Pine Hills, and other parts of the county.

Orange County adds faster testing for mosquito-borne illnesses

Orange County Mosquito Control has added new laboratory technology to detect viruses in mosquito samples more quickly. The PCR testing capability could deliver same-day results, reduce costs, and improve mitigation efforts.

AdventHealth grant helps Quest expand transportation access for people with developmental disabilities

Quest, Inc. has been selected as a 2026 AdventHealth grant partner to help reduce transportation barriers for people with developmental disabilities. The funding will allow the Central Florida nonprofit to enhance its accessible transportation fleet and improve connections to healthcare services.

Orange County Mayor shares prostate cancer journey, urges men to get screened

Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings is sharing his experience with Stage 1 prostate cancer to encourage men to discuss screening and risk factors with their doctors. After undergoing surgery earlier this year, Demings says early detection gave him more treatment options and helped save his life.

The DeSantis administration continues to delay implementing a 2023 law that would make Florida KidCare coverage available to more children.

Florida lawmakers press AHCA for answers as KidCare expansion remains stalled

Florida lawmakers are seeking answers about when—or whether—the state will implement a legislatively approved expansion of Florida KidCare. The expansion would extend subsidized coverage to children in families earning up to 300% of the federal poverty level, but litigation over continuous eligibility remains unresolved.

Are food recalls becoming more common? UF expert puts the numbers in perspective

A steady stream of recall notices and social media posts may make the nation’s food supply seem less safe, but a UF/IFAS expert says current recall numbers are generally consistent with previous years. Consumers should review the specific products, brands, and lot numbers involved rather than avoiding an entire category of food.

Boil-water advisory issued for Welch Road area after water main break

The City of Apopka has issued a precautionary boil-water advisory for several neighborhoods and businesses following a water main break on Welch Road east of Rock Springs Road. Customers should boil water used for drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth, or washing dishes until the city lifts the advisory.

Free or low-cost mammograms available in Orange County on September 30

The Florida Department of Health in Orange County will offer free or low-cost mammograms in Winter Garden on September 30. Eligible women can receive screenings aboard the 3D Mobile Mammography bus from 8 am to 4 pm.

AdventHealth grants will help 13 nonprofits serve more than 123,000 Central Floridians

AdventHealth is supporting 13 Central Florida nonprofits working to improve housing stability, food access, transportation, and maternal health. The grants are expected to help the organizations serve more than 123,200 people, including families in the Apopka area.

OCPS partnership expands arts and literacy opportunities for students

Neil Goldberg’s donation supports reading programs, a student costume design contest, school arts funding, and opportunities to attend live holiday theater.

Orange County Public Schools students will get new opportunities to read, create, and experience live theater during the 2026–27 school year through a collaboration between the Foundation for Orange County Public Schools and POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance (PSC).

Nesta proposes Apopka government restructuring; former campaign manager expresses interest in chief of staff role

Apopka Mayor Nick Nesta outlined a proposed government restructuring that includes chief of staff and chief utilities officer positions during Monday’s town hall. His former campaign manager, Brian Mater, said he would consider the chief of staff opportunity, while Nesta said the positions would be posted publicly.

Burglary, weapons and assault charges highlight Apopka’s weekly arrest report

The APD listed burglary, weapons, assault, and drug charges among the arrests reported Sept. 20–26. The department also recorded 1,680 calls for service, 58 citations, and 31 crashes.

Despite the ferocity of storms like Hurricane Milton, which destroyed Florida homes like this one in 2024, 80 percent of Central Floridians believe their homes are at medium to low risk for severe damage in a given year.

Insurance costs eclipse property tax worries for Central Florida homeowners

Property insurance is a bigger worry than property taxes for 62% of Central Florida homeowners, according to a new University of North Florida poll. The survey also found widespread dissatisfaction with insurance reforms and substantial premium increases.

APD responds to burglaries at a business, a home and two vehicles

Apopka police responded to four burglary incidents during the week of Sept. 20–26. The reports involved a business, a residence, and two vehicles.

More than 30 Apopka firefighters complete Tunnel to Towers run despite storm

More than 30 Apopka firefighters joined Sunday’s Tunnel to Towers run in New York City despite travel delays and stormy conditions. Former Fire Chief Chuck Carnesale called the group “relentless” in its commitment to honoring those lost on September 11.

Orange County approves $9 billion budget with $1.1 billion for public safety

Orange County commissioners approved a roughly $9 billion budget that directs more than $1.1 billion to the Sheriff’s Office, Fire Rescue and Corrections. The county also set aside $19.5 million for affordable housing while warning that Amendment 3 could reduce future property tax revenue.

Apopka’s four city commissioners have responded to Mayor Nick Nesta’s decision to remove interim City Administrator Radley Williams and Finance Director Blanche Sherman. Their statements differ on the dismissals, but each points to the same question now facing City Hall: how the administration will reorganize and explain what comes next.

Apopka commissioners offer four perspectives on City Hall dismissals

Apopka’s four commissioners responded to the departure of interim City Administrator Radley Williams and Finance Director Blanche Sherman. Their statements offer different views on the changes underway at City Hall and what should happen next.

In Case You Missed It: Firefighter pay, a District 2 debate and a City Hall dispute

Apopka approved a firefighter contract with a $12,000 first-year base pay increase, while Orange County District 2 candidates Brown and Crabb debated growth and spending. The week’s coverage also examined a dispute over city discretionary funds, sidewalk safety, and drug warrants in APD’s arrest report.

Apopka approves firefighter contract with $12,000 first-year base pay increase

The Apopka City Commission unanimously approved a three-year contract with the city’s firefighters’ union. The agreement includes a $12,000 first-year increase in base pay for bargaining-unit employees and runs through September 2029.

Apopka to host fifth annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration on Saturday

Apopka’s fifth annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration will take place Saturday, September 26, from 4 to 8 pm at Kit Land Nelson Park. The free event will feature live entertainment, food vendors, and community organizations.

Proposed firefighter contract includes $12,000 raises, pension increase and new pay incentives

A proposed three-year contract would give Apopka firefighters a $12,000 first-year raise, additional annual increases, and a uniform 4% pension accrual rate. Union members overwhelmingly ratified the agreement, which now awaits City Commission approval.

Letter to the Editor: Downtown Apopka needs action, not another seven years of planning

Apopka Historical Society President Maribel Brinkle welcomes the vision presented in Building Downtown Apopka but argues that the city cannot afford to spend another seven years planning its future. She calls for a proposed downtown museum complex designed to generate activity and revenue.

Maribel Brinkle welcomes the vision presented in Building Downtown Apopka but argues that the city cannot afford to spend another seven years planning its future. She calls for immediate economic-development leadership and consideration of a proposed downtown museum complex designed to generate activity and revenue.

Downtown Apopka 2033? Apopka should use the CRA’s proposed seven-year extension to plan and pursue a transformative civic complex without placing it ahead of urgent public-safety projects. A modern library, events center, history center, and civic plaza could become the defining destination, connecting downtown’s existing investments and encouraging private development.

Opinion: Could a civic campus become downtown Apopka’s missing centerpiece?

Apopka should use the CRA’s proposed seven-year extension to plan and pursue a transformative civic complex without placing it ahead of urgent public-safety projects. A modern library, events center, history center, and civic plaza could become the defining destination, connecting downtown’s existing investments and encouraging private development.

Downtown Greenville, SC: Cities near Apopka’s size have transformed their downtowns by concentrating public resources around distinctive parks, cultural facilities, and civic destinations. Their experiences show that Apopka must move beyond disconnected improvements and decide what kind of downtown it intends to create.

Opinion: Successful downtowns begin when cities decide to build something consequential- Part 2

Cities near Apopka’s size have transformed their downtowns by concentrating public resources around distinctive parks, cultural facilities, and civic destinations. Their experiences show that Apopka must move beyond disconnected improvements and decide what kind of downtown it intends to create.

Opinion: Apopka’s CRA has the money... now it needs a transformative mission - Part 1

The Apopka CRA has completed meaningful trail, housing, park, and pedestrian projects while accumulating approximately $6.13 million in reserves and carryover funding. As the agency seeks seven more years to complete its work, it must connect those investments through a measurable strategy centered on creating a recognizable downtown destination.

The Price of Saying No: Apopka cannot have a bare-bones budget without feeling the cuts

Apopka’s elected officials want to keep the millage rate low while preserving community programs, filling staff vacancies, and addressing years of deferred needs. Eventually, they must acknowledge that rejecting recurring revenue means cutting services, drawing on reserves, or letting today’s problems become tomorrow’s more expensive emergencies.

Opinion: Apopka’s CRA has the money... now it needs a transformative mission - Part 1

The Apopka CRA has completed meaningful trail, housing, park, and pedestrian projects while accumulating approximately $6.13 million in reserves and carryover funding. As the agency seeks seven more years to complete its work, it must connect those investments through a measurable strategy centered on creating a recognizable downtown destination.

Leadership Beyond the Likes: When Doing What is Right Means Standing Alone

Social-media reactions, headlines, and popular opinion cannot replace a careful understanding of the consequences of government decisions. True leadership means remaining grounded in faith, treating residents and businesses fairly, and accepting that doing what is right may sometimes require standing alone. OP/ED by Apopka City Commissioner Nadia Anderson.

At Matthew’s Hope, service comes without conditions

After being challenged to exclude and denounce members of the LGBTQ+ community, Matthew’s Hope founder Scott Billue reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to serving everyone without discrimination. He believes that Christian faith is demonstrated not through judgment, but through unconditional compassion and a willingness to do difficult work.

Small town street-safety project offers lessons in working around local constraints

Street-safety advocates in Ivins, Utah, faced a series of unusual restrictions that eliminated many traditional options for making a school-area roundabout safer. Instead of abandoning the effort, they focused on the underlying goal of slowing traffic and developed a less expensive pilot project using painted curb extensions.

Rich guys with racecars want to roar into Florida panther habitat

Developers want to transform a former Collier County automotive test track into a private motorsports club with resort amenities and up to 100 residential units. Environmental advocates warn that the project would fragment vital Florida panther habitat near several public preserves.