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.

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 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.

Orange County Government and the Hispanic Heritage Network of Orange County are celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with cultural exhibitions, student awards, and other community events. The 2026 celebration carries the theme “Unidos, Somos Más,” meaning “Together, We Are More.”

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.

Apopka Involved Voters will host forums on Sept. 21 and 22 for candidates in the Orange County mayoral and District 2 commission runoffs. Both events will begin at 7 pm at Victory Church and will be open to an in-person audience, with a livestream.

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.

Orange County has increased mosquito surveillance and targeted treatments following reports of elevated West Nile virus activity and a locally acquired dengue case. Officials are asking residents to help reduce the risk by eliminating standing water and taking precautions against mosquito bites.

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.

Chief Administrative Officer Joyce Boudoin has been appointed interim Orange County clerk of courts following Tiffany Moore Russell’s departure. Moore Russell left the office after advancing to a Nov. 3 runoff against Chris Messina for Orange County mayor.

Orange County Animal Services saved 7,191 cats during the 12 months ending in September 2025, according to a nationwide study by cat-care brand KittySpout. That placed the shelter among the top 1% in the country and represented approximately one cat saved every hour and 13 minutes.

Southwick Commons has opened 192 affordable apartments in Apopka after years of litigation and permitting disputes with the City. Rents at the community begin at approximately $1,103 for one-bedroom units, $1,440 for two-bedroom units, and $1,647 for three-bedroom units.

The Florida Department of Health in Orange County is reporting increased mosquito-borne disease activity after several sentinel chickens tested positive for West Nile virus. Health and mosquito-control officials have expanded surveillance and targeted treatments in affected communities.

Mike Crabb took the oath of office Tuesday as Orange County’s District 2 commissioner, filling a seat vacant since April. Apopka Mayor Nick Nesta attended the ceremony and said he looks forward to working with Crabb to advance Apopka’s interests through a stronger county partnership.

Orange County employees received high customer-satisfaction ratings for services provided during permitting, inspections and plan reviews. Customers repeatedly praised employees who took ownership of problems, communicated clearly and helped make complicated processes easier to manage.

An Apopka homeowner who spent three years living with Hurricane Ian damage has returned to a fully renovated, wheelchair-accessible home through the Orange County Recovers program. The federally funded program continues to accept applications from Orange County homeowners with unresolved damage from Hurricanes Ian and Milton.

Orange County mayoral candidate Mayra Uribe believes that voters should judge candidates by their public records, not only their campaign promises. She points to eight years on the County Commission as evidence of her positions on housing, transportation, taxes, public safety, and accountability.

Orange County Fire Rescue and Children’s Safety Village use realistic simulations to teach children how to prevent injuries and respond during emergencies. Lessons in the Fire Safety House help participants practice escaping smoke, checking doors, and following a safe evacuation plan.

The Orange County Clerk of Courts will raise its starting wage for entry-level positions from $17 to $21 an hour beginning August 17. The increase reflects the office’s ongoing efforts to attract, retain, and fairly compensate employees.