Mayor Nick Nesta promised leadership changes at City Hall, while questions remained about filling three key positions, and three Apopka development proposals needed revisions after DRC review. Florida honored John Anderson’s legacy with recognition for “Seminole Wind” and plans for tributes in his hometown. Also in this week’s roundup: once-a-week watering beginning in November and Orange County’s latest round of medical debt relief.

In Case You Missed It: City Hall changes, John Anderson honored and medical debt relief

Questions about Apopka’s next leadership team and Florida’s tribute to hometown country music star John Anderson lead this week’s look back. Catch up on those stories, development reviews, seasonal watering restrictions and another $199 million in medical debt relief for Orange County residents.

Leadership votes, spending decisions and Horsepower for Heroes in Apopka

Apopka commissioners will review discretionary spending Wednesday, then return Friday to consider ratifying four department leaders, including a chief financial officer. The week also brings development reviews, Camp Wewa’s Parents’ Night Out, and the Horsepower for Heroes car show.

Apopka blanks Wekiva 35-0 to claim Mayor’s Cup

Apopka scored early and often Friday night, building a 35-0 halftime lead over Wekiva and preserving the shutout to claim the Mayor’s Cup. Mayor Nick Nesta capped the celebration by presenting his first rivalry trophy to his alma mater.

Florida’s Department of Health is considering ending the school requirement for chickenpox vaccines. ArtistGNDphotography/E+ via Getty Images

Florida Department of Health considers dropping 4 school vaccine requirements – here’s what that could mean for kids

Florida health officials are considering removing four vaccination requirements for school and childcare entry. Epidemiologist Katrine L. Wallace explains the diseases these vaccines prevent and why declining vaccination rates could put more children at risk.

Sierra Club Florida opposes Amendment 3, warning of risks to parks, water protection, and local services

A coalition of 20 Florida organizations is opposing Amendment 3, warning that its proposed property tax changes could weaken funding for conservation, flood protection and community services. The groups say voters should weigh the potential effects on local budgets alongside the promise of tax relief.

Nesta promises leadership changes as questions remain about three key positions

Apopka Mayor Nick Nesta told commissioners on October 21 that he expected to assemble his leadership and support teams within two to three weeks. The city administrator application deadline has passed, and the finance director and chief of staff positions are not posted, raising questions about how the city will fill those roles.

One trophy, two schools: Apopka, Wekiva meet for Mayor’s Cup

Apopka and Wekiva will close their football seasons with the Mayor’s Cup, putting a rivalry trophy and hometown bragging rights on the line. Festivities at Wekiva begin at 6 pm, with kickoff scheduled for 7 pm.

Ready to work: Opening doors for people with developmental disabilities

A job can provide purpose, structure, and independence, but people with developmental disabilities often face barriers to employment. In this guest opinion, Quest Inc. President and CEO John Gill outlines how businesses, families, and community members can help create opportunities.

Orange County Mosquito Control plans aerial mosquito spraying over parts of Apopka and Pine Hills beginning around 7 pm on Friday, October 30. Residents may see low-flying aircraft and should monitor official county communications for weather-related schedule changes.

Aerial mosquito spraying planned Friday over parts of Apopka

Orange County Mosquito Control plans aerial mosquito spraying over parts of Apopka and Pine Hills beginning around 7 pm Friday, October 30. Residents may see low-flying aircraft and should monitor official county communications for weather-related schedule changes.

Three Apopka development proposals need revisions after DRC review

Three development applications need additional work after the Apopka Development Review Committee recommended denial during its Oct. 28 meeting. A fourth application, a future land use amendment for recently annexed property on Clark Connelly Road, received a recommendation for approval.

Orange County adopts speed limits and safety rules for e-bikes and scooters

Orange County has adopted new rules governing e-bike and electric scooter speeds, parking and safe operation. The ordinance requires riders to yield to pedestrians and allows citations and device impoundment for certain violations.

Halloween is an opportunity for children to explore the balance between excitement and fear.

Boo! How to pick scary books for kids that thrill but won’t haunt for life

A spooky story that delights one child may terrify another. From “Frog and Toad” to “Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark,” literature professor Liz Rosenberg explores how adults can match Halloween books to a child’s readiness for fright.

APD reports fraud, burglary, and weapons arrests during Oct. 18–24

Apopka police reported fraud, burglary, weapons, battery and drug arrests during the week of Oct. 18–24. The department also logged 1,624 calls for service, 44 crashes and 74 citations.

Gov. Ron DeSantis has designated John Anderson’s “Seminole Wind” as Florida’s official anthem, honoring the Apopka native who died on October 21 at age 71. His executive order also directs state officials to establish historic markers in Apopka and rename the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive and Trail System in Anderson’s memory.

From Apopka Proud to a Florida anthem: State honors John Anderson’s legacy

Gov. Ron DeSantis has designated John Anderson’s “Seminole Wind” as Florida’s official anthem, honoring the Apopka native who died Oct. 21 at age 71. His executive order also directs state officials to establish historic markers in Apopka and rename Lake Apopka’s wildlife drive and trail system in Anderson’s memory.

OCPS reviews early academic progress as micromobility enforcement moves forward

Orange County School Board members reviewed initial student assessment results and campus micromobility enforcement during their Oct. 27 work session. Approximately 1,150 devices are registered at district high schools, with repeated violations potentially leading to confiscation and loss of campus privileges.

A Lighter Financial Burden: Orange County erases another $199 million in medical debt

Orange County’s fourth round of medical debt relief has eliminated $199 million owed by more than 112,000 residents. Recipients will receive confirmation letters from nonprofit partner Undue Medical Debt, with no application required.

Warehouse proposal, residential projects head to DRC

Apopka’s Development Review Committee will consider a proposed warehouse use on Clarcona Road, an 11-lot replat on East Lisa Lane, and two returning residential applications on Wednesday. The meeting begins at 9 a.m. in the City Hall Commission Chambers.

When AI screens out opportunity: Why human connections still matter in hiring

AI hiring tools can streamline recruitment, but they can also reinforce biases and leave qualified applicants struggling to get an interview. Second Harvest’s Keonna Yearwood-Branch explains how job training and direct employer relationships can help candidates move beyond automated screening.

DRC approves Kelly Park revision, seeks changes to warehouse and car wash plans

Apopka’s Development Review Committee approved a revised construction site plan for Crossroads at Kelly Park Phase 3B during its Oct. 21 meeting. Applicants for a Hogshead Road warehouse and Lux Car Wash agreed to address remaining city comments before resubmitting their plans.

City Commission to discuss legal representation, impact fees and 55-home development

The Apopka City Commission will discuss attorney representation and impact fees Wednesday before considering a 55-home development and three annexation ordinances. The October 21 meetings begin at 5 pm and 6 pm at City Hall, with public comment opportunities and a livestream.

Auto Vault Orlando opens in Apopka following investment of more than $10 million

Auto Vault Orlando has opened in Apopka, bringing secure vehicle storage and a private automotive club to a 53,000-square-foot facility. The business represents an investment of more than $10 million, with lounge memberships and vehicle storage available separately.

Apopka’s Development Review Committee will consider a Hogshead Road warehouse, Lux Car Wash construction plans and revisions to Crossroads at Kelly Park Phase 3B on Oct. 21

Warehouse, car wash and Kelly Park revisions head to DRC

A proposed 30,000-square-foot warehouse, the first phase of Lux Car Wash and revised plans for Crossroads at Kelly Park Phase 3B are on Apopka’s Wednesday development review agenda. The committee meets at 9 a.m. Oct. 21 in the City Hall Commission Chambers.

A seat at the table: Apopka seeks Planning Commission applicants after chairman’s resignation

Apopka is accepting applications for a vacant Planning Commission seat following former Chairman William Gusler’s June resignation amid disagreements over the board’s role in managing growth. City residents interested in helping review development proposals and guide land-use policy have until November 6 to apply.

From the fields to the family table: Farmworker Association plans Apopka community dinner

The Farmworker Association of Florida invites the community to a family-style dinner featuring harvests from its gardens on Friday at the Apopka Community Center. The evening will also include live entertainment, a raffle, an auction, and a market of local makers. Tickets are still available.

Florida home sales edge higher in third quarter, but September brings a slowdown

Florida’s housing market posted modest sales gains in the third quarter of 2026, with existing single-family home sales rising 0.2% and condo-townhouse sales increasing 3.1% from a year earlier. However, September sales declined in both categories as higher mortgage rates weighed on market momentum.

City meetings and Halloween fun on Apopka’s calendar highlight a busy schedule

Apopka faces a busy week of city business, including development reviews, code enforcement hearings, and a City Commission workshop and meeting. Residents can also attend a Bronson Peak community meeting with Mayor Nick Nesta, visit Camp Wewa’s Climb Club, or enjoy Saturday’s Halloween in the Park.

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Florida’s stormwater cleanup promises deserve more than paper credits

Florida’s approach to stormwater pollution is drawing criticism over whether credits sold to developers will represent measurable improvements in water quality. For Apopka, the debate raises questions about protecting local waterways and sustaining Lake Apopka’s restoration.

DRC to review redevelopment plans and Trader Maes Christmas Festival

The Apopka Development Review Committee will review two construction site plans and a proposed Trader Maes Christmas Festival at its October 14 meeting. The meeting begins at 9 am in the Apopka City Hall Commission Chambers.

Four local dengue cases in Apopka prompt aerial mosquito spraying plans

Health officials confirmed four locally transmitted dengue cases in the Apopka area and one in Pine Hills as of Oct. 12. Orange County announced aerial mosquito spraying for designated neighborhoods, with treatments scheduled for Oct. 16 or, if weather delayed operations, Oct. 17.

SHINE offers free Medicare counseling during open enrollment

The Senior Resource Alliance’s SHINE program is offering free, unbiased Medicare counseling during open enrollment, which runs from October 15 through December 7. Apopka residents and others across Orange, Osceola, Seminole, and Brevard counties can get help comparing coverage, understanding costs, and reviewing prescription drug plans.

Orange County confirms two more local dengue cases, plans aerial mosquito spraying

Two additional locally acquired dengue cases have brought Orange County’s total to five, according to the Florida Department of Health in Orange County. Health officials and Orange County Mosquito Control are expanding prevention efforts, including planned aerial spraying in affected communities.

UF study finds dengue-transmitting mosquito species common in residential yards

A University of Florida study found the primary mosquito species capable of transmitting dengue was more common than researchers expected in residential yards in Indian River County. Participants frequently reported bites while gardening and walking dogs, highlighting how everyday activities close to home can bring people into contact with mosquitoes.

Several flu vaccine options are available, including a new one that’s mRNA-based, the first of its kind.

Flu season is near – here’s a guide to available vaccines

Flu activity is beginning to increase in parts of the United States, although national levels remain low. With the season approaching, an epidemiologist outlines available vaccines and explains why getting vaccinated before widespread transmission matters.

Open enrollment for 2027 ACA coverage begins November 1. Enrollment assisters said the first step is checking whether your primary physician will still be in-network next year.

Florida Open Enrollment: Check doctor networks before choosing a health plan

Floridians comparing health coverage for 2027 should confirm that their doctors are in-network and their prescriptions are covered. Experts also recommend starting early and weighing deductibles, copays, and coinsurance alongside monthly premiums.

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.

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.

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.

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.

APD responds to six burglary reports

Apopka police listed six burglaries in their Oct. 18-24 report: three residential, two vehicle, and one commercial. Four of the incidents were reported Oct. 18, with the remaining two reported Oct. 20 and Oct. 23.

Reminder: Once-a-week watering beginning soon

Once-a-week watering begins Nov. 1. Residents should review the schedule that applies to their property and adjust automatic irrigation timers accordingly.

In case you missed it: Apopka remembers a music legend, honors its history and debates City Hall spending

Apopka remembered hometown country music legend John Anderson and celebrated state recognition for Mead’s Bottom, while commissioners debated discretionary spending and legal services. This week’s roundup also includes Mayor Nick Nesta’s call for residents to find common ground and strengthen their community.

Halloween Highway, development reviews, and town hall highlight Apopka’s week ahead

Apopka closes October with free drive-thru trick-or-treating, four development applications scheduled for review, and the Apopka Works for All Town Hall. The Oct. 26-31 calendar also includes Camp Wewa’s Climb Club and a Halloween morning run benefiting The Gina McReynolds Foundation.

Nesta urges Apopka residents to find common ground and build a stronger community

Apopka Mayor Nick Nesta is encouraging residents to look beyond social media divisions and strengthen their community through everyday connections. In his latest message, he acknowledges questions surrounding changes at City Hall while urging residents to support local businesses, enjoy city parks and get involved.

Commissioner Sam Ruth sought to revisit safeguards governing city-supported commissioner events, citing concerns about spending oversight.

Commissioners' discretionary spending debate turns contentious

A discussion about safeguards for commissioners’ discretionary spending escalated into accusations of racism and disagreements over the Hearts and Souls concert. The Apopka City Commission ultimately voted unanimously to leave the existing policy unchanged until further discussion on Nov. 4.

Mead’s Bottom earns state historical marker honoring Apopka’s Black history

Florida has approved a state historical marker for Mead’s Bottom, one of Northwest Orange County’s oldest Black settlements. The designation recognizes a community’s role in Apopka’s development and follows three years of research and advocacy by the Apopka & Northwest Orange County Historical Society.

Eligible Duke Energy Florida customers can earn a $7.50 monthly bill credit by charging their electric vehicles during designated off-peak hours. The program requires a Level 2 charger and allows customers to enroll up to two EVs per account.

Orange County residents dig into food waste composting pilot

Orange County’s residential composting pilot drew interest from more than 600 people, with more than 220 residents participating through free composting bins or food waste collection service trials. Enrollment has closed, but participant feedback will help guide potential improvements and expansion.

Apopka officials are exploring legal representation options, including scheduled attorney hours at City Hall. The discussion drew support for greater access to counsel and concerns about pursuing changes while essential leadership positions remain vacant.

City Commission weighs bringing legal counsel into City Hall

Apopka officials are exploring legal representation options that could include scheduled attorney hours inside City Hall. The discussion drew support for greater access to counsel and concerns about pursuing changes while essential leadership positions remain vacant.

APD reports four burglaries, including Timberline Road case, leading to an armed burglary arrest

Apopka police reported four burglaries during Oct. 11-17, including a vehicle burglary linked to an arrest on armed burglary and aggravated assault charges. The department’s weekly reports also list battery, theft, DUI and drug cases, along with 1,563 calls for service.

UF/IFAS Orange County offers November classes on housing, gardening and backyard chickens

UF/IFAS Extension Orange County’s November schedule features eight programs ranging from financial education for renters and homebuyers to backyard chicken care and wildlife habitat. Events run Nov. 4-19, with registration required and fees ranging from free to $12.51.

In case you missed it: Spending allegations, a CRA vacancy, and a dengue update

City spending allegations, an open CRA board seat, and two more locally acquired dengue cases made headlines this week. Catch up on those stories, along with Mayor Nick Nesta’s commentary on city progress and a Christmas festival moving through development review.

Nesta: Progress takes time, but the work has started

Mayor Nick Nesta at the Apopka Homeless Resources Town Hall in September 2026

Apopka Mayor Nick Nesta says his first six months in office have focused on improving communication, supporting city employees, and reorganizing City Hall. In this op-ed, he addresses residents’ concerns about sidewalks, roads, traffic, and water service while outlining plans to review utility finances and impact fees.

Dirt bike riders line up for a race at the Pax Trax MX motocross track in Bunnell. Volusia County officials want to build their own motocross track on land that was bought for conservation. The owner says the new Volusia track would put Pax Trax out of business.

Volusia County motocross proposal sparks fight over conservation land

Volusia County’s proposal to build a motocross facility on land purchased with conservation funding has drawn opposition and a lawsuit. In this commentary, Craig Pittman examines the environmental concerns, financial questions, and competing interpretations of what voters intended the land-buying program to accomplish.

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.

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.

Pine Island is a coastal area in Lee County that retains a rural flavor and lots of natural beauty, but developers want to change that.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.