Apopka’s next City Administrator: A promise, a placeholder, and unanswered questions

Mayor Nick Nesta says Apopka’s permanent city administrator is lined up, but a public records request produced only interim administrator Brian Mater’s application and résumé. The city confirmed the position was publicly posted but left questions about the candidate, an anticipated March start, and Mater’s possible move to chief of staff unanswered.

Apopka planning commissioners examined tree preservation, connected open spaces, and the potential costs and benefits of future data centers during a Tuesday workshop. During their regular meeting, they approved a child care permit and recommended approval of a commercial land use amendment and residential rezoning.

Planning Commission weighs open space rules and data centers, approves child care permit

The Apopka Planning Commission examined tree preservation, connected open spaces, and the potential costs and benefits of future data centers during a Tuesday workshop. During their regular meeting, they approved a child care permit and recommended approval of a commercial land use amendment and residential rezoning.

Free concerts, holiday movies and nightly snowfall return to Dr. Phillips Center

Dr. Phillips Center’s Frontyard Holiday Festival returns with more than 80 FREE live performances, Sunday movies, Thursday theme nights, and nightly snowfall. The downtown Orlando celebration runs Nov. 27-Dec. 31, with headliners including Maggie Rose, The Frontmen, Michael Cavanaugh, and Emmaline.

Winn-Dixie and Second Harvest bring Thanksgiving meals to Apopka families

Winn-Dixie, the Winn-Dixie Gives Foundation, and Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida partnered with Patmos Chapel for a Thanksgiving food distribution in Apopka on Thursday. The effort aimed to help 500 families prepare a holiday meal amid continued demand for food assistance.

Blue Darters coach looks ahead to 2027 after missing playoffs

Apopka finished the 2026 football season with consecutive victories but missed the FHSAA playoffs, leaving head coach Neeson questioning the state’s new ranking system. The Blue Darters now turn their attention to getting stronger, developing returning players, and helping college prospects take their next steps.

When Arguments turn to Gunfire: Apopka faces hard questions about youth gun violence

An argument outside Apopka’s Fall Family Festival left a 21-year-old dead and a 17-year-old facing a murder charge. The case renews questions about how young people obtain firearms and what the community can do before another confrontation turns deadly.

Pocket park initiative, pedestrian improvements on CRA agenda

The Apopka Community Redevelopment Agency will meet Thursday, November 12, to consider downtown initiatives involving a pocket park, historic markers, and pedestrian improvements near Kit Land Nelson Park. The 2 pm meeting also includes Fifth Street lighting, termination of the Station Street agreement, and a CRA work plan update.

I'm dead, now what?

Planned giving can have a major impact on how an organization like Matthew’s Hope plans for its future and sustains itself in the long run. This is also an excellent way for people to create a legacy and help others, no matter what resources they have now.

Florida Lottery urges adults to gift responsibly

The Florida Lottery is encouraging holiday shoppers to leave lottery tickets off children’s gift lists. Through the 2026 Gift Responsibly Campaign, the agency is joining a broader effort to raise awareness about youth gambling risks and promote responsible play.

From traffic stops to felony charges: A week on Apopka’s police blotter

Apopka police recorded 1,449 calls for service, 49 crashes, and 55 citations during Nov. 1-7. The weekly arrest report includes juvenile firearm charges, a murder charge, battery allegations, theft cases, drug offenses, and DUI arrests.

The Station Street project was once pitched as a transformational development that could redefine downtown Apopka with housing, restaurants, public space, and trail connections. Now, city leaders are considering a formal default notice after developers allegedly failed to submit required plans under the project agreement.

Station Street project heads toward cancellation as CRA considers mutual termination

Apopka’s CRA will consider a mutual termination agreement Thursday that would end the stalled Station Street redevelopment deal for up to 60 affordable apartments, a public plaza and trail improvements. The developer has signed the document, but the supplied copy remains unsigned by the city and CRA and attributes the project’s halt to environmental clearance issues.

Retired Marine Corps Maj. Gen. James S. Hartsell greets 102-year-old Navy Veteran Dominick Paternoster prior to the Tampa Bay Lightning game, Nov. 5. Paternoster was honored as the national anthem guest of the Bolts at the beginning of the game. Hartsell, who serves as executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs, participated in the ceremonial puck drop.

Governor recognizes November as Veterans Appreciation Month in Florida

Gov. Ron DeSantis has issued a proclamation recognizing November 11 as Veterans Day and November as Veterans Appreciation Month in Florida. The proclamation honors veterans and their families while highlighting earned benefits, support services, and the state’s Honor Flight network.

Uniformed participants march during the Veterans Day parade in Manhattan on November 11, 2025.

A thank‑you on Veterans Day won’t close the growing military‑civilian gap

Public attention to veterans surges on Veterans Day but quickly fades, while media coverage often portrays former service members as heroes, charity recipients or victims. University of South Carolina professor Scott Parrott examines how those portrayals shape perceptions and why meaningful connections require more than expressions of gratitude.

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 alma mater with his first rivalry trophy.

Strong finish, no playoff ticket: Apopka’s season ends at 5-5

Apopka closed the regular season with consecutive victories, but its 5-5 finish wasn’t enough to earn a playoff berth. The Blue Darters’ season highlights how computer rankings weigh more than wins and losses when determining postseason opportunities.

Vehicle break-ins dominate Apopka’s burglary report

Apopka police recorded eight burglary reports during Nov. 1-7, including six involving vehicles and two involving commercial properties. Five auto burglaries were reported on November 6, including three in the same address range on Panoramic Circle.

Apopka prepares to honor veterans with ceremony, community support and special offers

Apopka will honor veterans at 11 am. The ceremony will be held Wednesday, November 11, at Kit Land Nelson Park, with Vietnam veteran Loretta Forlaw serving as the guest speaker. The surrounding week includes a job fair, community programming, and special offers, including free meals and haircuts, discounted groceries, and complimentary attraction admission.

Open space workshop, daycare proposal lead Planning Commission agendas

Apopka’s Planning Commission will hold an open-space workshop at 4:30 pm on Tuesday, November 10, followed by its regular meeting at 5:30 pm. Three public hearings concern a proposed Chandler Road daycare, a future land-use amendment near Kelly Park Road, and a rezoning request on Sir Arthur Court.

Florida voters approve property tax cuts as Amendment 3 clears passage threshold

Florida voters approved Amendment 3, a homestead property tax reduction that state economists estimate could reduce local government revenues by as much as $12 billion annually at full implementation. Two other proposed constitutional amendments failed to reach the required approval threshold in unofficial results.

Turning purchases into purpose: A path to nonprofit sustainability

As demand for services grows and traditional funding becomes less predictable, nonprofits are looking for additional ways to sustain their work. Derrick Chubbs shares how Second Harvest’s Plate Above Catering turns meal purchases into support for hunger relief in Central Florida.

DRC to review charter school plat, Ridgebrooke changes and Kelly Park amenity park

Apopka’s Development Review Committee will consider a K-8 charter school plat, proposed Ridgebrooke subdivision changes and an amenity park at Crossroads at Kelly Park on Nov. 4. The meeting begins at 9 a.m. in the City Hall Commission Chambers.

Foundation for OCPS receives $400,000 to expand school food pantries

The Foundation for OCPS has received a $400,000 grant from the Florida Blue Foundation to strengthen school-based food pantries and expand access to nutritious food. The funding will support students and families facing food insecurity throughout Orange County Public Schools.

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.

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.

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.

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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.

Federal appeals court finds Florida’s Medicaid termination letters insufficient

U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit Judge Barbara Lagoa issued a 23-page ruling this week upholding the lower court's opinion that the Medicaid termination letters were deficient.

A federal appeals court upheld a ruling that Florida failed to adequately explain why people were losing Medicaid coverage during its post-pandemic eligibility review. The decision reinforces the requirement that recipients receive enough information to understand and challenge the state’s determination before their benefits end.

Florida’s ACA enrollment opens as rising premiums strain household budgets

Floridians shopping for 2027 health insurance face higher premiums and difficult decisions about what coverage they can afford. Twelve insurers offer plans through HealthCare.gov, where eligible consumers can receive subsidies to lower monthly premiums.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Orange County launches 16th annual toy drive to brighten holidays for local families

Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings has launched the county’s 16th annual toy drive, continuing an effort that has collected more than 110,000 toys and gifts since 2011. Donations will support children from infancy through their teenage years through local youth and family agencies, schools and nonprofit organizations.

In Case You Missed It: City Hall tensions, election upsets, and a milestone for the APD

A heated City Commission exchange and election victories for Kamia Brown and Jarod Fox lead this week’s “In Case You Missed It.” Catch up on those stories: Mayor Nick Nesta’s call for accountability, our post-election analysis, development concerns, and the Apopka Police Department’s reaccreditation.

The Week Ahead: Planning hearings, Veterans Day and a CRA meeting on Apopka’s calendar

The Apopka Amphitheater will host “Love Story,” an unofficial Taylor Swift tribute, from 5 to 7 pm on Saturday. The concert is part of the city’s free Saturday Sounds series.

Apopka’s Nov. 9-15 calendar includes Planning Commission hearings, a Veterans Day ceremony and a rescheduled CRA meeting Thursday at 2 p.m., with no agenda available yet. Saturday brings a morning park cleanup and a free Taylor Swift tribute concert at the Apopka Amphitheater.

Anderson’s 2023 call for collegial government contrasts with clash over Heart and Soul Music Festival funding

Three years after criticizing City Commission bickering and advocating for collegial government, Commissioner Nadia Anderson clashed with Mayor Nick Nesta over the city's support for the Heart and Soul Music Festival. The exchange included accusations of dishonesty, but commissioners unanimously approved the related budget amendment.

Orange County receives a $7 million grant for Wekiwa Springs septic-to-sewer conversions

Orange County has been awarded $7 million in state funding to help convert 367 properties from septic tanks to central sewer service in the Wekiwa Springs area. The project aims to reduce nitrogen pollution reaching the springs while grant support helps limit costs for homeowners.

City Commission suspends discretionary spending after heated exchange

A heated exchange between Mayor Nick Nesta and Commissioner Nadia Anderson preceded a unanimous vote to suspend commissioner discretionary spending Wednesday. The decision followed competing proposals to tighten event spending rules or redirect attention toward infrastructure and the financial implications of Amendment 3.

Mayor Nick Nesta says Apopka must stop accepting delayed projects and postponed repairs as normal. In this op/ed, he outlines a commitment to clear priorities, fair treatment of employees, and honest reporting on his administration’s progress.l

Nesta: Apopka deserves accountability and results at City Hall

Apopka Mayor Nick Nesta says Apopka must stop accepting delayed projects and postponed repairs as normal. In this op/ed, he outlines a commitment to clear priorities, fair treatment of employees, and honest reporting on his administration’s progress.

Byron Donalds delivers his victory speech in Hollywood, FL.

How Amendment 3, vaccine mandates, and school vouchers will shape Florida under the leadership of Byron Donalds

Byron Donalds will enter the governor’s office facing consequential decisions about local government funding, school vaccination requirements and education spending. This analysis examines how his campaign promises could shape Florida policy and where a changed Legislature could complicate his plans.

Toxic algae bloom taints the St. Johns River thanks to its excessive pollution. DeSantis promised to fix this problem but failed to do so.

An environmental cleanup list for Florida’s next governor

Florida’s next governor will inherit environmental problems that demand more than campaign promises. This opinion column offers Byron Donalds a pointed to-do list, drawing on experts’ recommendations for cleaner water, healthier parks and protected land.

Analysis: A national demand for change reaches Apopka’s doorstep

Apopka-area voters chose new voices in county government and Tallahassee, unseating Mike Crabb and Doug Bankson after campaigns focused on residents’ everyday concerns. The winners now face the challenge of turning promises on affordability, growth and public services into improvements voters can see.

Ridgebrooke access concerns lead DRC discussion; Kelly Park tract advances

Questions about a secondary access road, paving requirements, and potential occupancy delays dominated the Apopka Development Review Committee’s Nov. 4 discussion of Ridgebrooke. The committee also reviewed needed revisions to the Apopka K-8 Charter School plat and recommended approval of a Crossroads at Kelly Park park tract.

APD reports 34 arrests, four burglaries in weekly roundup

Apopka police reported 34 people arrested and four burglaries during the week of Oct. 25-31. The department’s weekly report details arrests for property crimes, battery, drug offenses, and traffic violations, along with more than 1,500 calls for service.

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 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.

A typical stormwater retention pond in a Florida community is both a visual amenity and a poorly functioning pollution control device. New standards were supposed to make the stormwater system more effective, but the Florida DEP removed their teeth.

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.

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

Nesta: Progress takes time, but the work has started

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.

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.

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.

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.