South Apopka’s annexation study and proposed changes at City Hall led 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.

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.

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

OCPS partnership expands arts and literacy opportunities for students

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).

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.

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.

Native yards tour to support future museum at Apopka Birding Park

Orange Audubon’s Bird-friendly Native Yards Tour will showcase eight Central Florida home landscapes on Sunday, October 4, from 9 am to 2 pm. Proceeds will support the planned Natural History Museum at Apopka Birding Park, and participants should register by October 2 to access a gated-community stop.

Flock cameras capture a vehicle’s license plate, location, and distinguishing marks, down to dents or a bumper sticker. Buena Vista Images/Getty Images

The trouble with Flock cameras is the surveillance system’s architecture, not just some of its users

Reports of misuse of Flock license plate cameras have raised questions about how police access and share vehicle movement records. Arizona State University professor Henry F. Fradella argues that the system’s design requires stronger safeguards beyond internal policies and audit logs.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 on Wednesday morning. The agenda also includes three community events including a Turkey Trot at the Northwest Recreation Facility.

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.

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.

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.

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.

A fire truck is parked outside a fire station.

Florida first responders warn Amendment 3 could slow 911 response

Florida public safety leaders are opposing Amendment 3, warning that its reduction of local property tax revenue could mean fewer first responders and slower 911 response times. They say meaningful tax relief should be paired with a clear and sustainable plan for funding police, fire and emergency medical services.

DRC denies 312-unit Floridian Town Center apartment plan

A proposed 312-unit apartment development at Floridian Town Center must return to Apopka’s Development Review Committee after staff recommended denial because several issues remain unresolved. The DRC also advanced a 78-lot Crossroads at Kelly Park plat and reviewed three upcoming special events.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Florida Blue Foundation offers $3 million for maternal health initiatives

The Florida Blue Foundation is accepting grant applications from nonprofits working to improve maternal health outcomes statewide. Approximately $3 million will support programs addressing chronic health conditions, maternal mental health, and barriers to care in rural and under-resourced communities.

AdventHealth hosts Apopka, Central Florida hiring events for clinical professionals

AdventHealth will host hiring events at eight Central Florida locations, including AdventHealth Apopka, from 9 am to 1 pm on Wednesday. Clinical professionals can meet hiring managers, participate in on-site interviews, and potentially receive same-day offers for select positions.

Labor, Community, and Faith Organizations Call on World’s Largest Grower and Apopka Employer to Join National Program called ‘Planting Justice’ to Eradicate Labor Abuses

Apopka groups will rally September 8 urging Costa Farms to join Planting Justice and address labor and human rights concerns among plant nursery workers.

Apopka commissioners offer four perspectives on City Hall dismissals

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

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.

Brown, Crabb debate highlights different approaches to growth, spending in District 2

Orange County Commission District 2 candidates Kamia Brown and Mike Crabb agreed that infrastructure, traffic, water quality, and public safety are among the district’s most pressing concerns. Their debate revealed sharper differences over growth, government spending, economic development, and how broadly county government should respond to community needs.

Drug warrants stand out in APD's weekly arrest report

Drug-related charges and warrants account for many entries in the Apopka Police Department’s Sept. 13-19 arrest report. The report also lists battery, DUI, hit-and-run, and other charges, along with 1,645 calls for service during the week.

Anderson alleges a political agenda behind the discretionary funds debate

Commissioner Nadia Anderson alleges that last Wednesday’s debate over discretionary spending and a proposed amphitheater event was part of a broader political effort against her.

Cars, storefronts and a residence targeted in Apopka burglary report

The Apopka Police Department reported six burglaries between September 16 and September 19. The incidents included three auto burglaries, two commercial burglaries, and one residential burglary.

Florida projects $1 billion budget deficit by 2030

Florida is projected to run multibillion-dollar surpluses over the next two fiscal years before expenditures exceed available general revenue by about $1 billion in 2029-30. The state’s long-range outlook says lawmakers will need to adjust revenue or spending to avoid the projected shortfall.

ICYMI: Apopka budget adopted, City Hall tensions erupt and apartment plan denied

Apopka’s top stories this week included a contentious City Commission meeting, adoption of a $237.25 million budget, and the denial of a proposed 312-unit apartment development. Bojangles opened a new restaurant, while Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings encouraged men to undergo prostate cancer screening.

Orange County steps up sidewalk safety across 2,700-mile network

Orange County maintains more than 2,700 miles of sidewalks that connect residents to schools, parks, neighborhoods, and transit stops. Public Works completed 1,072 sidewalk repairs last year and encourages residents to report hazards through the Orange County 311 app.

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.