Federal energy policy changes could increase Florida households’ annual energy costs by $630 by 2035, according to modeling by Energy Innovation. The analysis also projects economic losses, fewer jobs, and additional public health costs associated with increased air pollution.

Orange County is inviting residents and community partners to identify housing needs, service gaps, and development priorities for its next five-year Consolidated Plan. Apopka residents can participate through Engage Orange by completing a community needs survey, sharing ideas, and providing feedback.

The Apopka City Commission unanimously rejected a proposed $30,000 code-enforcement settlement for nearly eight years of violations at a rental property, totaling $5.6 million. Commissioners questioned the settlement policy and discussed concerns about the conditions tenants had endured.

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.

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.

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 residents aged 60 and older reported nearly $710 million in cybercrime losses in 2025, highlighting the financial toll of scams targeting older adults. A University of Tampa cybersecurity educator outlines six steps victims and their families can take after a scam.

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.

Local governments, small utilities, homeowners associations, and multifamily properties can apply early for the St. Johns River Water Management District’s water conservation rebates. The program covers up to half of eligible project costs, with a $10,000 annual limit per applicant.

Orange County is developing its first Urban Forest Master Plan to guide how trees are planted, protected and maintained over the next 20-plus years. Residents can help shape the plan by sharing feedback through the county’s Engage Orange portal.

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.

Sierra Club Florida has announced its opposition to Amendment 3, arguing that the proposed property tax changes could undermine local storm preparations and other public services. If approved by at least 60% of voters, the measure would significantly increase the homestead exemption for non-school property taxes.

UF/IFAS research found that robotic lawn mowers can maintain and improve Florida turf, including St. Augustine grass, despite their lower cutting height. Their frequent mowing removes small amounts of grass at a time, encouraging healthier and denser lawns.

Orange County Mosquito Control is concentrating spraying efforts in targeted areas after health officials confirmed a locally acquired case of dengue fever. Residents are encouraged to prevent mosquito bites and eliminate standing water around their homes.

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.

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.

Florida pool owners can improve safety by maintaining pool surfaces and surrounding areas, supervising children and addressing potential hazards before accidents occur.

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.

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.