Economic development in Apopka was perhaps the primary debate issue in the 2022 mayoral election. Mayor Bryan Nelson wants to take on the job himself, along with a partnership from the Chamber of Commerce. Commissioner Kyle Becker wanted to bring in an economic development director or department to facilitate the vision.
But now, almost a month after the election, the topic continues to spark interest on local social media pages.
The Apopka Critic, a local Facebook page with over 9,500 followers, has been a social media sounding board for the community for years. On Monday, the site reposted an Orlando Sentinel article by Stephen Hudak about Winter Gardens' vision for future economic development, quoting its Economic Development Director Tanja Gerharzt in the story.
The Apopka Critic posted the following statement above the article:
"Doing it the right way. Winter Gardens Economic Development Director Tanja Gerharzt explains how the city is focused on its downtown revitalization efforts and the success that comes with a vision and proper planning."
The article received 28 likes and 15 comments, including from an Orange County commissioner and former Apopka mayor.
But Susan Hurst Clem was the first to respond.
"Apopka is the second-largest city in Orange County, and yet we can’t compete with Winter Garden. Or Maitland. Mayor Nelson doesn’t think we need an Economic Development Director/Department."
But Christine Moore, the Orange County Commissioner for District 2 (which includes Apopka) is not ready to throw in the towel just yet.
"Don’t give up. So many things we can get done to make a difference."
Like what? Asked Deb Robbins. "Why hasn’t anything been done in the last 15 years?"
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