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>> Heat. [music] Heat. >> [music] >> Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [music] Heat. Heat. [music] [music] Good morning and welcome to the December 12th, 2025 um workshop of the Orlando
City Council. And I'd like to start out by just taking a moment to recognize the legacy and the impact of Brenda March who passed away late last month. Her service was on Saturday and it was beautiful, a great tribute to her. And
she was a member of our city team for over 30 years and she was so much more. She was a servant leader, a relationship builder, and a friend to every single person that she encountered, including all the members of this city council. She held a number of different roles in
her time with the city, but I think there's no question that her work and leadership with FPR, which uh since we're having the workshop today is kind of appropriate. Uh with Lisa, she helped launch and then guide the Parore Kids Zone. She worked to ensure that every
young resident of Orlando had access to opportunities to help them prepare for successful futures. So, she provided mentorship, support, and guidance to countless young residents and to city staff and friends over the years, and she influenced much of the success that
we're going to talk about this morning. So, if you all would, let's just take a moment of silence in her honor. Thank you very much. Okay. Our family parks and recck department runs several very effective programs. um to improve
the well-being of children across the city. And this workshop will examine some of those efforts in investing from cradle to career programs. Our parks family parks right director Lisa Early has led those efforts for nearly two decades.
>> 22 years. >> 22 years. >> Um and Lisa was actually one of my very first hires when I became mayor. So let's turn it over to Lisa. And it looks like she brought a crowd of >> Yeah. FPR is in the house. Woo.
[applause] >> All right. >> Take it away. >> We are full of talent in this room. So, um you mentioned um starting out as one of your uh first hires. So, that was 2003. It's when I started. I was actually in Mayor Dyer's office as the
city's first director of children and education. So, a little bit of this presentation is going to be a look back of where we were and where we are today and how we got here. So, um just by way of context, before I um came over to the city, I worked for Arnold Palmer
Hospital for Children and Women. And um three of the programs that I oversaw were in the child abuse and neglect field. And um so at the time, and I'm I'm a data nerd as some of you may know, but I had my staff do a study on um what
were the risks for child abuse and neglect in Orlando? Why were kids ending up in the uh child abuse and neglect system and what were the systems in place in our city to help prevent that? And so they did, it was a research study. Literally, they had three
cohorts, three groups that they compared. one of kids who had never been in the uh child welfare system, uh one of kids who were at risk of being in the child abuse and neglect system, and one of kids that were in the system. And what they found overwhelmingly was that
the biggest factor was poverty. And you can say the same for how do kids end up in the juvenile justice system? How do they end up failing out of school? How do they end up in the teen pregnancy system? A lot of it goes down to poverty and a
lot of it is related to families having the capacity to um provide services and support to their children. Uh families not having enough money to pay for affordable housing and so moving from home to home to home and kids moving
from school to school to school or if you want to have a job but you don't have uh even a high school education your salary is very limited. how are you gonna hold a job and pay for child care? And so, uh, a lot of times kids are being left in unsafe circumstances
ending up, um, actually most child abuse and neglect is children under the age of five who, um, and it's neglect. It's not actually child abuse. That's the biggest number of kids that end up in the system. So, we also looked at the systems in place and what we found were
systems for supporting families are very fractured. I'm going to give some examples. So, at the time, you know, there's federal funding for child care subsidies for low-income working families. There was a 6,000 child waiting list in Orange County for that.
Um, there's also the Section 8 program for subsidized housing for low-income families. At the time, there had been waiting lists for so long that they had shut down the waiting list. You couldn't get access to it. Um, and I can tell more stories about and then this the systems themselves are very
bureaucratic, very strict rules for who qualifies. So, for instance, if you finally got a childare subsidy and then you lost your job, you don't qualify for it anymore. Or, you know, you have to wait for weeks for an appointment. It's nowhere near your neighborhood. You have to get there somehow and then you have to go through the appointment. You may
not even get the service that you applied for. So, it's a very, very bureaucratic and fractured system of support. So, Mayor Dyer gets elected and he asked me to join the city and I loved my job at Arnold Palmer Hospital. It was probably the best job I ever had. No
offense to anybody, but [laughter] it was an amazing place to work. And um at at some point at one point, you know, Mayor Dier kind of I was living in College Park at the time and would bump into him at Publix and he'd be like, "When are you going to join the city?"
Um because we had pres presented the study to him in his first weeks in office. We actually presented the study and its results to him in the cabinet room and um at some point I said you know what we're not going to solve these problems unless our community leadership
understands what's causing them and we have the political will to do something about it. So I just that's why I decided to come to the city and I just want to thank you mayor Dyer but all of you commissioners because none of this work could have happened without you all advocating for it. I think of um
Commissioner Ortiz advocating for Anglewood Kids Zone for so many years. You got it. I think of uh Commissioner Burns wanting a 21st century program at the Smith Center. He got it. So, I just want to thank the commissioners. It took all of you and this whole team to make
this happen. So, let me get into this now. All right. So, this is what we're our goals are. We want to um improve academic achievement, workforce readiness, health and wellness of Orlando's youth and reduce juvenile
arrest, teen pregnancies, and child abuse and neglect in our city. And so, you know, I come, this is my background. This is why I got my degree in um child well-being. We call it human development. Um, but you know, when you
look at evidence-based practice, what the research says is going to move the needle on things like teen pregnancies and child abuse and neglect and academic performance, first thing you need is safe, supervised places for youth during out of school hours. They can't be running around the streets. Parents can't work if they
don't have safe places to leave their kids. Um, and especially older youth, too, and I'm going to talk about that later. If they don't have safe places, older youth are going to cause trouble. Uh but then in addition to that they need stable places to live, food,
clothing, school supplies, transportation, high-quality child care, healthcare, mental health services, academic support, and caring adults to guide and mentor them. You know, for those of you who are parents, this is what you do for your own kids. Make sure they have this wraparound support so
that they can end up being um healthy, well educated, socially uh successful adults. So that's what we focused on in order to move the needle on all of those indicators. So let's start with safe supervised places during
out of school hours. So I'm going to start with our neighborhood centers and our youth athletic athletics programs. And I I just want to start off by saying this is the infrastructure I inherited. This has been here for decades. Um our neighborhood centers have been providing
afterchool programs. We've been providing athletic programs to kids to their grandparents, to their parents, to the children. Now, even our staff at our neighborhood centers come from the surrounding neighborhoods. They have that deep impactful relationship all the
way up to the management level at our neighborhood centers. And so, if you think of the city as a tree, I think you should think of our neighborhood centers as the roots. And they have been there for decades. And so I I just want to, you know, really give a shout out to our
recreation division staff here. If you're here, raise your hands. Amazing work that you do. And [applause] these are our roots. These are our roots. And I thank you for all that you've done. So this was last fiscal year. Um we had uh just over 1500
children enrolled in our afterchool programs at our neighborhood centers. You see some neighborhood centers have a lot more than other. Well, that's because some of them are really small, like Citrus Square is really small and Langford Park is really small and some of them are really big, like Rosemont is big and it now has a gym because of you
guys. Thank you for that. Um, Grand Avenue is really big. So, so a lot of this has to just do with size. And then this is summer enrollment at our neighborhood centers. Just over 2,000 children. This is across the whole city.
And then athletics programs, we had 2,300 participants. Basketball was the big one, swim, football, cheer, all kinds of programs. And
a shout out also to my um marketing team who have really put together some really cool stuff for us. Can you get the volume higher? I don't know if you guys can get the volume higher on this.
Got it. Okay, let's see. neighborhood centers at the summer showcase. Um, and those are their parents in the crowd, um, watching them on stage at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. So, very cool stuff. And I inherited this, too. This has been going on in the recreation
division for decades as well. Um, and a little bit on sports. Okay, so let's move on. Okay, so I want to talk about Orlando After School Allstars, too. Um, let's pivot over. They're operating at every middle school in the city of Orlando. It
was started by the late uh Commissioner Betty Wyman and Mayor Glenda Hood actually who we just saw the other day at her new park. Um in 1995 it started it was called the Inner City Games but then it became After School Allstars in 2003. And um shout out to Tyler Chandler and
his team Allstars. Woo! Raise your hands. [applause] They have done so much to grow this program. Um just going to show you some numbers here. So this is enrollment. Um the school year is the dark blue and the summer is
the light blue. The reason that uh the dark blue went down No, I think it's the other way around. Yeah, it's the other way around. The reason that the dark blue and the summer went down is because those three schools, four schools were under renovation. So we actually pivoted and had the kids um move over to other
sites. Uh but um of those schools since Tyler took over we added innovation, Lake Nona, Luminary and Odyssey. Did I get that right? Okay. So we he's really been effective at growing this program
and making it available to kids across the whole city. Um and the funding that he brings in also he gets 21st century funding. So he's able to push teachers into the after-school programs. They're able to do all kinds of academic enrichment program. He's able to provide
transportation to the kids. So if they don't get on the bus at the end of the school day to go home, they can stay there for the after school program and then we have buses that take them home at the end of the afterchool program. Um, and so, uh, just for experts in the children's services field, what we know
is when you expand the school day into out of school time hours, so you you don't just have recreation in your out of schooltime space, you actually have learning going on, even though it's project based, you're not sitting there like in a classroom. Um, that that helps kids be much more successful in school
in the long run. And that's what he's been able to do at these sites. Okay. So, oopsie, those are some of the numbers. 20 just over 2,300 youth in the school
year and just shy of 1,200 youth in the summer. That was this past year and some of that was affected by the closure of the schools. Okay. So, Okay. So, here's another thing. Um
so for decades we also had uh federally funded summer feeding programs. In 2013 we and this city council um approved an agreement with the state for federal funding for afterchool programs as well. So after school meals as well. So now
every single day after school at all of our sites, whether they're after school allstars or city neighborhood centers, all of the kids get a supper and they still have their um summer meals as well. All this is federally funded. Last year we served 383,669
meals to children just last year alone. So pretty amazing. Okay. So, I talked about after school allstars leveraging funds for um academic support for kids in uh the out of school time
space. And starting in 2018, the recreation division began doing the same thing. They leveraged 21st century community learning center dollars just like afterchool allstars does. and they now have 21st century sites at our Englewood, uh, Callahan, Rock Lake, and
Dr. Smith centers. And, uh, I'm going to show you some of the results of that. Well, okay. First, wait, we talked about food. Wait, wait. Okay, here's some food for you. [laughter] Okay. So, academic impact. All right. So, these are federally funded grants.
They run through the Florida Department of Education. And so, we have to track academic performance of kids who are in the programs. This is the afterchool all-star side of the house. So 100% of youth in the program were promoted to the next grade level at the end of the
school year. Nobody flunked out. Um 83% of the kids increased their English language arts and math grades or they maintained an A or B average. Less than 1% were ex suspended or expelled from school. And Allstars was
recognized as a model program by the Florida Department of Education for the 14th consecutive year. This is across all their sites. Okay. Our neighborhood centers. Again, now we're talking about this is for uh the Callahan, Anglewood, and Rock Lake
centers. That's one of the grants. It covers three of the sites. This is their outcomes. So, 58% of the kids increase their um English language arts fast scores. What fast is is that test you take at the end of the school year. It's the statewide test to see if you're
doing English language arts at grade level or below grade level or above grade level. 58% increased their scores. Um 62% increased their English language arts report card grades over the school year. 76% increased their math fast scores and
67% increased their math report card grades. And then at the Smith Center D, 62% increase their English language art fast scores. 57% increase their report card grades for English language
arts. 90% increased their math fast scores and 56% increased their math report card grades. [applause] And all these things came before you guys at city council. We could not do this without your vote and you saying this is what we want to do. This is our
mission. We have political will to do this. Okay. I got some more music for you. Okay. So let's um you know with this uh degree in in human development and so you know I I there
are stages of a child's life when you're supposed to expect certain things and they're supposed to behave a certain way and and all that kind of stuff. And um for me, believe it or not, my favorite age group was always teenagers. Believer, not everybody feels that way,
right? I like teenagers. What can I say? Um, it's more challenging. I like the challenge. Okay, so um here's the thing about teenagers. So, the teenage brain's ability to handle planning and impulse control
doesn't fully mature until about age 25. And for this reason, adolescence are especially susceptible to engaging in risky behaviors including alcohol, vaping, drug use, unprotected sexual activity, dangerous driving, illegal activities, fighting, and violence. This
is normal for teenagers to do. And you know, one of the things um one of the things I have to say when I first started, I remember going to our neighborhood centers and seeing a lot of little kids, a lot of elementary school
age kids and a few middle school age kids and the older youth were outside on the streets. And this is something you see anywhere in the country. We, you know, the the children's services field is not good at providing programming for older youth. It's different. They have to want to come. They have to feel like
they have a voice in what's being provided at the site. They have to start telling their friends, "This place is really cool. You need to come here." Um, and so we just didn't have that expertise. But this was a passion project that we need to do this. Um, if you're going to reduce teen pregnancies,
if you're going to reduce juvenile arrests, you got to get the kids off the streets and into safe, supervised programming. And you can't just make them do it. They have to want to do it. So, um, fast forward after the past 20 years, FPR has grown its programs for older
youth. This one, this is actually a partnership we have with OU. Uh, it's called the AMI Kids program. It's a pre-apprenticeship program. is currently operating at the Rock Lake Jackson and Ivy Lane neighborhood centers. It's for youth ages 16 to 24 and it's they're
getting um certifications and they're learn certifications in the construction industry. So these are the programs that were started during Mayor Dyer's term of office. You ready? So the teen center, the downtown wreck,
we opened it in 2024. Thank you all for making that happen. I can't say enough how important that was. This is the city's first teen center. Uh we have dedicated space now for older youth at all of these neighborhood centers. Anglewood, Callahan, Northwest, Grand Avenue, Jackson, Rosemont, Colonial Town, Ivy Lane, and Citrus
Square. We bring in programming that the kids want that they like that they're going to come on their own for on their own and bring their friends. And some examples are barbering, driving classes, the sustainability adventure program, which
you're going to see a little bit about that later. Thank you, Mike Hes. I saw you in the back. Um, one of his staff, Daniel Freedelline, does this with us and he created it and it's an amazing program. Cooking, weightlifting, hiking, mental health services, tutoring, jiu-jitsu, fishing, film production,
writing, the lit teen program, and teen advisory councils. We have our youth employment program. I'll talk about that later. Our My Brothers Keeper program, I'll talk about that. Operation Americanore at three high schools. I'll talk about that. And Peace Orlando, our community violence intervention
initiative. So, youth employment program, last year we had 470 kids enrolled. They first go through a four-week job readiness training program where they're learning things like financial literacy and time management and customer service and what you need to do to be successful on your job. Then
there each is coached one-on-one by a youth employment coordinator. We have several youth employment coordinators. Each youth is that creates a portfolio, their resume, letters of recommendation, a cover letter, references, a personal statement. So, they're ready to go to the job market with everything they need
to get a job and keep a job. After the training sessions, the youth are deployed for six to eight weeks of paid work experience with local employers. I've named some of them here. Swedes Ice Cream, which is actually owned by a former Paramore Kids Zone participant. Um, we print Blue Swan
Boulders, Pet Grooming, Cuddly Critters, Impress, Inc., and Dier Dominican Salon. That's just a few of them. We got a whole long list. and the coordinators then help the youth secure post internship jobs. So I'm going to talk about Operation Americanore. This is run
by Orlando After School Allstars. Um last year we had 15 Operation Americanore members. They worked with over 1,500 juniors and seniors in high school at Edgewater Jones and Colonial High Schools.
Students recovered 1623 core credits. that means is that in order to graduate from high school, you need to have a certain number of key core credits. If you don't have them, you will not cross that stage. You will not graduate. So, a lot of kids were on track to fail those classes. And so, what the Americanore
members do is they sit with them and tutor them and get them through and help them recover the core credits that they missed so that they graduate. And they do that with juniors and seniors at the three high schools. 100% of the seniors they work with graduated and enrolled in either
post-secary education, trade, or technical school, military service, or employment. 100% graduation rate of those kids. And 100% of the juniors were back on track by the time they entered 12th grade in order to be able to graduate at the end of the year. And the
Americanore members helped seniors earn over $2.65 million in scholarships. So big shout out [applause] shout out to After School Allstars. Those are their Americanore members last year and staff who who managed them.
Okay, so we talked about um safe supervised places during out of school hours even for older youth, right? But what about all the other things we need our our kids need in order to be successful? What about stable places to live? food, clothes, school supplies,
transportation, child care, health care, mental health services, academic support, and at least one caring adult who guides and mentors them. What about all of that? So, you know, we couldn't um we couldn't do it all for every kid in
the city. We had to narrow it down. So, back in 2005 2006, we actually saw the um the New York Times had a a cover page magazine article on Harlem Children's Zone. So, Rodney and I went up to Harlem. At the time, I was still in the
mayor's office. Rodney was in FPR at the time. We went up to Harlem and we saw Harlem Children's Zone. And what they had done is they they narrowed their focus to 10 square blocks in Harlem. and they were going to invest in the things that research says makes a difference in a child's life like high-quality early
childhood education, uh afterchool programs, tutoring, mentoring, um stable housing situations, all of those kinds of things. They they they invested in that in a critical mass of children from cradle to career in that neighborhood with the theory that if you do this, the
needle will move on things like child abuse and neglect and teen pregnancies and and juvenile arrests and so on and and academic performance. So we decided to replicate that here and we decided to start in Paramore. Um and then to create what we call maparound or we sometimes call it from
the heart which is a zero barrier ecosystem of family success services targeting those key populations. So this was to kind of get out of this very bureaucratic system that exists. We didn't want families to face long waiting lists or to be told you have to
go all the way, you know, to aka to get an interview and we can't schedule you for three more weeks or all of those sort of or you don't qualify anymore so we're going to have to take your kid out of childcare. All of those kinds of things. So, we created a um an ecosystem
of those services in the neighborhood um that had zero barriers to entry. So key populations, right? So we started in Paramore, right? And then we scaled up to um three additional kids zones, Anglewood, um Holden Heights, and Mercy
Drive. And they were selected because those are the Orlando neighborhoods where child poverty, juvenile arrest, teen pregnancies, and child abuse and neglect were highest and academic performance the lowest. And so uh that's one of our key populations. The second, my brother's keeper. So these are kids
most likely to be suspended or expelled from school. They are in each school. We're working in seven seven schools right now. Five middle schools and two high schools. And the kids actually get referred by the school district or by the the principal to us. And these are the kids that are most troublesome, most
likely to get suspended or expelled from the school. And we work with 25 kids in each one of the sites. And then peace Orlando. And this is otherwise known as CVI, community violence intervention. And these are individuals most likely to be involved in gun violence. So that ecosystem
supports all of those that are in these targeted key populations and enrolled in those programs. So here it is, right? So you have the child and family in the center. So if children have child care and after school programs, they're safe and their
parents are able to sustain employment. If they have mental health services, they improve their coping skills, healthy relationships, reduce stress and depression. If they have food assistance, there's less hunger and despair, improved ability to perform at school and work. If they have academic assistance and enrichment programs, they
have improved high school and post-secary graduation rates and higher earnings as adults. If they have safety, they're not afraid to be at home in the neighborhood at school or anywhere. If they have employment assistance, they have increased income and development of career pathways. And if they have housing assistance, families are less
likely to face eviction, homelessness. Children have stable places to live. And then you have our student advocates who provide that one-on-one mentorship year round, making sure they get connected to services. So the role of a student advocate, I know we have several in here
today. Um, but their roles are positive relationships with the family, with the kids, with the schools they're working in, uh, with the providers of services that are in our the ecosystem that we've created. maintain those positive
relationships with the entire 360deree circle. They provide mentorship and create a life map with each one of the kids. That means sitting down with the kid. What do you want to become? Where do you want to go in life? What are the barriers you're facing? And working through those barriers every single day with that kid
to get them through to push them forward to get them past the things that are preventing them from being successful. Parent engagement. We work with all of the parents. They're involved in all of this at all times. service referral. So again, getting the kids connected and their families connected to the
ecosystem and then academic support. Okay, so here are results. This is just our kids zones right now. This was last fiscal year. We had uh 2344 kids enrolled. You see the biggest group were the middle schoolers, 30%, the next
biggest group were elementary school, 26%, then high school 22%. then the birth to five population and finally the 19 to 25 population. You see on the right the chart shows all of the programs they participated in. Note that um academic after school and academics
was the biggest one um followed by health and wellness programming and then programs for older older youth. So um these are the services that they received. Okay, here's data. This is number of juvenile arrests by year and zone. So we go back to 2006 when we started in
Paramore and then uh for Holden Heights Mercy Drive in Englewood we have data going back to 2019 before we started there and you see the numbers going down every year. Reduction in juvenile arrests in the
four zones in Paramore down 88.6%. Holden Heights down 80%. Mercy Drive down 53.9%. Anglewood down 58.5% all zone. Okay, that's the total arrests prior to zone
launch is 943 177 in 2024. [applause] There you go. Tell you got to take those teenagers off the streets. It's all I can say. and then give them things to do, a future, a job, somebody who cares about them, somebody who can help them
navigate the issues and problems that they face. Okay. Trends in high school graduation rates. We we're looking from 2020 to 2024 and we're comparing the Orlando Kids Zones population to Orange County
public schools and the state of Florida. Okay, those yellow numbers are Orlando kids zones. So 2024 there was an 87% high school graduation rate. Last year 98%, higher than everybody else, higher than
Orange County public schools in the state of Florida. Um and actually you see the only two lines that go up and get better are the kids zones and Orange County public schools. The ones that are going down, the state of Florida is going down. And then the state also
calculates graduation rates among disadvantaged students. And for Orange County and the state of Florida, disadvantaged students, um, graduation rates have gone down in all three of those instances, unfortunately.
Okay, this is teen births. And I notice here I've got 2018 here when we really have started like our baseline number should be 2019 for for Holden Heights, Mercy Drive in and Anglewood. So, I have to say that I think our numbers are
actually better than the ones I'm going to show you here. So, I'm going to go back and adjust them one of these days. But, Paramore teen births down 97.6%. Again, get the kids off the streets um with a mentor uh with a a positive future and things they know they're
going to do in their lives and somebody to help them get there. Holden Heights down 56.1%. Anglewood down 42.1%. and um commiss commissioner Ortiz. Okay, that's calculated based on the 19 teen
births in 2018 and 11 in 2022, but really we should start with the 27 in 2019. So you're it would go down even more just so you know. And Mercy drive down 7.7% and that will go down even more as well by the way
when we recalculate. Overall down 45.8%. and child abuse and neglect, which is kind of the place I started. So, we're only able to get data at the um zip code level. So, for Paramore, Holden Heights, we have to use two uh uh 3281, which is
the northern part of Paramore, and 3285, which is southern part of Paramore and um Holden Heights. So, their numbers are combined here. Um confirmed cases of child abuse and neglect down 89.5%. Unbelievable.
Mercy Drive. [applause] And I I credit this to that that um high quality child care for all the kids. They're no longer at the back of the line on the waiting list. Um they're getting it right away from day one. Their parents have safe places to leave
them and they can go to work. Um Mercy Drive down 50%, Anglewood down 50%. And all zones combined down 68%. It's a lot. Okay. So, I'm going to ask um one of our uh Mercy Drive Kids Zone youth, Ali Z Stinson, to come up and say
a few words um about his experience in Mercy Drive Kids Zone. [applause] >> Good morning, everyone. >> Good morning. My name is Alise Stinson and I want to speak on how the Orlando Kids Zone and the Downtown Wreck have helped guide me, support me, and keep me
moving forward. Through the Mercy Drive Kid Zone, I've been given access to life-changing opportunities. I've been on college trips that show me there is more to life and that I should strive for more. I've met mentors who genuinely care about me and push me to do better. And I've also
had chances to work with youth employment so I could learn ways to make money the right way. At the downtown wreck aka the yard. I learned yes. I learned lessons most people my age don't get to learn. They brought in a group called eight cents in
a jar to help teach us financial literacy. We learned about stocks, mutual funds, and the basics of credit which is real knowledge that you will need in the future. And the hot meals that the yard provide daily may not seem like much, but for
the kids who are hungry, it means a lot. It shows that someone cares. When I was going through my legal issues, which caused me to get expelled from school, my mentors in both of these programs showed up for me, coming to my many court dates, advocating for me, my
school meetings to help fight for my diploma, and taking the time to write judges letters about who I truly am. They connected me with the right resources, and they didn't give up on me. today. They're still keeping me surrounded with
good guidance and positive energy. As of today, I'm currently enrolled, waiting to start my trade at Valencia College and working to buy a car. I'm truly thankful for the Orlando Kids Zone in the downtown wreck. Because of
them, I see myself going places. Special shout outs to Miss Shante, Mr. Abe, Mr. Joe, Mr. G and Commissioner Mike Scott for showing up for me when everyone else counted me out. Thank you. [applause] [applause]
Thank you so much, Alise. Shout out to all you guys. Kids zones. Awesome. Shante, stand up. >> [applause] >> I see your manager of the teen center at the downtown rep. Thank you. Okay. Well, okay. We talked about the
kid zones. Now, what Oh, what happened? I should not be on that screen. So, um, special shout out. Okay, I saw Mike Hess in the room. Where are you, Mike? So, uh, that guy with the beard, that's, um, Daniel Freeline. He started this
program. Those kids are are out on a camping trip out somewhere in the woods somewhere, and he organizes all this for them. and they've been going all over the state of Florida having amazing experiences. These are the kids. So, there's 25 kids in each school. We're in uh Roberto Clemente, Carver, Memorial,
Ace, and >> College, >> uh, College Park Middle Schools, and then Edgewater and Jones high schools. In each school, we're working with 25 kids that have been referred to our staff as most likely to be expelled or suspended.
and uh they're doing that wraparound, that maparound with those kids to keep them on track just like Alise was talking. Um these are results. We had 175 participants last year, 3,100 and change
hours of one-on-one mentoring. Uh over 3,000 crises mediated, 1766 hours of exposure opportunities. That was an exposure opportunity you just saw on that video. um 1100 plus hours of parent and
guardian engagement. And these are results. We've had a 20% increase in attendance at school, 20% decrease in suspensions, 10% decrease in expulsions among that population, kids. Okay. And lastly, um individuals most
likely to be involved in gun violence, Peace Orlando, or CVI, Community Violence Intervention. I saw Ray Sean Rayan Brown in the room. Where are Ray, he's the man who runs it on the streets. Thank you, Ray, for all that you do.
So, the city, as you know, has a two-pronged approach. Um, invest in law enforcement to divert and hold individuals accountable for violent offenses and invest in programs such as Peace Orlando to engage those at highest risk and provide pathways to opportunity, helping them become
productive contributors to society. And again that maparound everything they need a life map everything support ongoing support from mentors. Who are the participants? We had 54 we call them fellows enrolled last year. Average age was 21. Only 17% had
received any services before joining CVI. 80% had a family member killed by gun violence. 68% were previously incarcerated. 56% had been shot prior to enrollment. So this is a heavy lift. How do you
pivot people who have had this background away from that lifestyle? And that's what our staff are doing in this program interventions. Okay. So there was over 21,000 hours of engagement including
almost 8,000 hours of outreach. 549 conflicts were successfully mediated. In 20 26 of them there was a gun present. There's been a 47% drop in gunshots in Orlando, a 34% decrease in gunshot
wounds, a 26.5% reduction in homicides. This is in Orlando. This is Orlando data since the program started. And we we calculate approximately 20 to$22 million was saved by taxpayers in the first two years of the program.
Okay, let me just do a shout out to our children, youth, and families division because they run all three, the kids zones, my brother's keeper, and um community violence intervention. You guys raise your hands. Children, youth, and families. [applause] Okay, I'm going to close out a little
bit here. Um, so the work, you may not know commissioners that the work that we're doing has been all over the stage across the country. As a matter of fact, the reason Abe Morris isn't here is because last week he had to be um on a panel at Harvard Graduate School of
Education Edesign Lab explaining to other communities around the country how we did this, how it works, and helping to advise on how they can replicate this work in their own communities. Um and uh then today he is up in New York
City where I wish I could be but I'm here instead. Okay. So [laughter] so uh he's up in New York City on another panel of philanthropy community organizations around the country um researchers talking about our work how we did it here and helping to advise how
other communities can do it. All of these sites let me let me just say this. Okay. So, um, I've got a list of them here. You can see the list of all of the places that we've been involved with and national organizations that have all come here. We do immersion experiences
where we take them on deep dive looks at our work on the ground. Um, some of them are actually doing case studies of the work, some have invested funding. Um, some have engaged us in efforts to help because they want to replicate the work around the country. So, they've engaged
us to help with that work. Um, so it's been quite a remarkable, you know, experience. And, you know, you may not know it, but Orlando is on the map around the country when it comes to children's services and moving the needle on things because communities want to do that everywhere. They want to
reduce juvenile crime and teen pregnancies and improve academic performance and shootings and all that kind of stuff. And they don't know how to do it. And they come here and they take a look at it and a deep dive. Matter of fact, we had last week a legislator from um Gainesville here and
she wants to replicate um our program in Gainesville. So anyway, um I will move on and just give some final thoughts. So um this work takes more than one generation. It started before we were
born and it will continue after we leave this earth. And um as most if not all of you know I'm gonna be retiring in dece in February. Not December. Okay. Um in February. So I will be um passing this
on and changes will be coming on the deis as well. Um we have some new commissioners coming on. Um who knows if the mayor will be here two years from now or commissioner Shien's also talking about maybe not. So we're we're having
changes in our city leadership and there will be changes like changes in FPR leadership and possibly other city departments, the CEO's office, the CFO's office, legal um you know there may be changes in the leadership and remember
when I started this was about political will. So the question is you know you have had the political will to do this. What will the next generation of leadership have the political will to do? Will they sustain this? Will they grow it like we grew the kids zones? Will they continue this work and take it
to the next level? So, um, for my staff and the thousands of youth like Alise, we want you and we implore you. And as um, Bishop M Bishop McCrae said several
times uh, during his speech um, at Brenda's Celebration of Life, we implore you to march on. to march on. We've been making a remarkable impact. Sorry.
I wasn't supposed to do this, but okay. On on child well-being in Orlando. We've given Orlando's children, even the older youth, safe places to be when they're not in school, a refuge from hunger, stable places to live, and programs that positively impact their academic
performance. We've connected youth like Alise to services that have been instrumental in his success. We've moved the needle on juvenile arrest, teen, pregnancies, child abuse and neglect, high school graduation rates, school suspensions, expulsions and attendance,
gunshots and homicides in Orlando. So, I implore you to march on and when changes come to city leadership, I hope they will march on as well. And in closing, here's one of my favorite quotes.
Okay, screen. Come on. Where's the screen? There we go. Life is no brief candle to me. It is a sort of splendid torch, which I've got hold of for the moment, and I want to
make it burn as brightly as possible. Sorry. Before handing it to future generations. in memory [applause] of our beloved Bren. [applause] I brought tissues, so I knew this was
going to happen. [applause] [applause] Thank you everybody. I'm going to ask um Rodney to come up to the Dave. Morning, mayor, commissioners. >> Morning, Rodney. >> I think I can speak on behalf of the FPR
team to say that mayor, the decision to hire Lisa Early was one of the best that was ever made. [laughter] On behalf of the entire FPR team, we wish to express our profound gratitude for the visionary decision made two
decades ago to appoint Lisa Early as our director. This 20th year tenure has been nothing short of transformative for our department and most importantly for the lives within our community.
Lisa has served as a truly great leader, initiating numerous innovative and impactful programs that have fundamentally changed the trajectory for many individuals and families.
The staff is immensely grateful to have worked under a leader like Lisa Early. She has not just managed, she has poured herself into this work, demonstrating a deep love and unwavering commitment to
our mission. Her dedication, passion, and leadership have created a lasting positive legacy that will continue to benefit our community for years to come. Thank you, mayor, for recognizing her
potential and giving us the privilege of following such an inspiring director. [applause] >> I know she's threatening me, mayor. >> Listen, we wanted her to get her flowers that she so deserves. >> Okay, that looks like flowers coming.
[laughter] >> Holy cow. Lisa, I think you're going to need some assistance. >> Somebody help her. Rodney. Rodney, help her out. >> Yeah. [laughter] [laughter] >> [applause] >> Lisa, there's a lot of love in this room
for you. And Rodney's right. I think being able to beg you to come on board with the city and getting you to agree was one of the best moves that I've made in the 22 and a half so years that I've been here and we created a position for
Lisa. Originally she came in as director of children and education. Byron, Brian Brooks was the director of FPNR at the time. And then when Byron became CEO, it made sense that Lisa should go over and run the organization that actually
provided the services related to children in education. She's done an unbelievable job. And when I go to US Conference of Mayors or some of the other places around the country, I know without question that our family and um
education programs are held up as some of the best, if not the best in the entire country. And I'll give a shout out to neighborhoods, too. Um we're 25 years ahead of most cities in terms of the services that we provide in both
entities. So, we are going to miss you very much. Um, but I know that you'll have something that keeps you busy and doing good things for the welfare of children and everybody else in our community or wherever else your travels
may take you. But we thank you so much for even though it's your second favorite job, [laughter] you've had the most impact in this job. And let me just say it was it is my second maybe third but but
>> but I I wouldn't be half the person I am without having worked here. It I really grew up here. I learned how to have a backbone and how to get things to happen. And I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world. >> Well, great. Thank you so much. We have
some commissioners that would like to either congratulate you or ask you a question. something penetrating probably. >> Okay. Commissioner Burns and Commissioner Rose and Commissioner Sheen, then Commissioner Stewart. >> All right. Thank you, Mayor. Uh, and good afternoon, everyone. Lisa, I just,
um, I'm not going to be long. I just want to say thank you for for everything that you've done and your leadership. I can remember uh back in 2003 when you um I had just started at the health center and you were pitching this
um Harlem Children's Zone concept and I just remember saying, "Wow, that's a that's a uh a heavy lift." >> Yeah. >> You know, focusing on I think at that time it was about 2,000 kids that was the the population of focus. and now to see how it has progressed and then for
me to be on this side to be able to advocate and help support it. Uh it means a lot. So, so thank you. And and just to your team, I I was, you know, listening to um all the good results of everything that happened. And I was moved by Mr. Stinson uh because, you
know, I grew up at the Smith Center. That was my my community center. And I just I was sitting here thinking if some of my friends would have had some of the intervention that Mr. Snitson had uh where would they their lives be today. So uh I just want to say keep up the
good work. I'm a um a fierce advocate for you all and I want to ask the the your team to continue to be advocating advocates for our youth. Uh because a lot of the things that I've come to you Lisa you know kind of demanding it was fueled by your staff saying commissioner
uh we need this here we need this. we know what about this. So, uh just thank you uh to your team and continue to be advocates and continue to come to us with your ideas uh because you all are on the front line. So, thank you again. >> Thank you, Commissioner. Appreciate that. Thank you. [applause]
>> Good morning, Commissioner Rose. >> Good morning, everyone. Lisa, I want to thank you for your leadership, but more importantly, I want to thank the staff members that are here because our city would not function without you all. um especially Rodney, Anthony, Mike, uh that take my call and then Carrie, all
my center managers are here um that take my calls and take my requests. And so I've been part of the city family since 2013, but since I've been commissioner, there's been a lot of like, oh, and Ana, can't forget Ana back there. Um for me, there's been a lot of pressure because things I want to see more of and I want
to see more use of our um our center. So, I just want to thank you all personally. um each one of you in each in each little area that you serve within FPR. Um I think it's a great thing the merger for those that don't know it's happening the merger between parks and recreation because we're one family and we should all function as
that. Um I'm here to continue to serve you all and I want to like really I want a commitment. So Lisa may be transitioning into her next career but I want you all have been committed not just from today but you could been committed for years. A lot of you have grown up here. I want you all to keep
that same commitment. Our doors, my door is still open. My phone is always open. If there's a concern, if we want to move a different direction, if we want to add certain things, I'm here to advocate. Um Alice, uh we broke his radio. We break broke his radio um shyness a couple months ago. We took him to the radio
station. So, continue to reach out to me with uh ideas that you all have. Uh Lisa will probably be on speed doll for all of us. She's not really retiring. She doesn't know that's how city works. You just be on speed doll. And I also want to thank Mike um Hes for incorporating
sustainability with our youth because um the world of agriculture and is a is an opportunity as we're transitioning through a lot in this community. So I want to thank all of city staff, all of the city departments and Lisa, we will continue to advocate for our children here. Thank you.
>> Thank you, Commissioner. Appreciate. Thank you, [applause] >> Commissioner Sheen. >> Uh thank you, Mayor and Lisa. I want to thank you for your 22 years of very distinguished service and they say if you do what you love you'll never work a day in your life and you've really embodied that and um you know what it
might be your third favorite job but where we are most challenged is where we make the most difference and where we grow the most. >> Absolutely. So, you know, I know it's hard. I mean, this this job has been really hard for me sometimes and sometimes I just want to throw that phone through the, you know, window, but
that's where we grow. And I want to thank you for helping be part of the growth of the city of Orlando. And um, you know, and I want to personally thank you that every time I was, you know, at an event for DEI or LGBTQ equality or anything like that, I would always look
out into the crowd and I would see your kind face smiling at me. And it gave me courage, too. So, thank you for that and thank you for all of you for because you've also been a part of that bend of making the the world a better place for justice and equality. So, I want to thank all of you and I would be remiss not to not to do a little bit of
lobbying though. Colonial Town finally has a full-time manager and that's really made a difference in the neighborhood. So, thank you for that. Um, Langford didn't even have the use of their center. They had a crummy portable. We finally got those kids into a reasonable decent center and they're really thriving. So, and also Wade View,
you know, I've been funding their college programs for them to go. We need to invest citywide in children, not just, you know, I just the bare minimum. I I know we need to put more resources into, you know, areas of high crime, but you know what? We also need to invest in all the kids citywide because we don't
just, you know, we may have pockets of poverty, but we also have children that are in need throughout the city. And I know my kids in Colonial Town, Langford, and Wade Wade View also need those services. So, um, thank you for that. And we need to do some renovations at Wade if he looks terrible. [laughter]
No, I mean that you know I mean it it needs to be brought up a little bit. I mean >> understood. >> I agree. >> Let's not forget about citywide. And and one thing I want to say is the the one of the last things Brenda March did was bring piano lessons to Langford. And I will always thank be grateful and
thankful for her for that for everything that she did because you know what we always sponsored and helped for all the other programs in all the other districts. and you know it it it's finally coming back to District 4. So I want to say thank you on behalf of my kids because they have needs too. So thank you so much. >> Awesome. Thank you, Commissioner.
Appreciate that. >> Commissioner Stewart. [applause] >> Well, Lisa, um I have the honor of working with you prior to to being with the city of >> Yes. >> and knowing your heart and commitment
for children and for caring those who are impoverished in our community. And I want to tell you thank you for that. Um in addition we have the honor of working together and and um Brenda is has been a special um impact
on me because I got a chance to work with her before the city with the with the center then kind of jointly with both. And um I think the strength of a of a of an organization is that the leader um
sends that uh level of empathy and and dedication back to their team. And I think you've done that. Uh you have uh if there is a a model to use uh it is probably best
that you've left us in good hands. Got good people. Um, and I'm grateful for that. Rodney, thank you for your leadership and all the rest of you guys that will take my phone calls. [laughter] I'm so grateful. And maybe you'll take
them after I leave office, but unless you're all going to change your cell phone numbers, which you probably will. [laughter] >> I also want to say thanks that we've left out a couple of things in families families parks. I'm just for you.
>> Thank you. I appreciate that. is just our parks. Um, so it it is not it's not only important that that these recreation centers and our programs work. It's also complimentary that we have great amenities throughout our city
to provide. Uh it it wouldn't matter um if we could if we just did part of it. It ends up being the fact that we're creating the place where you can live and you can work. you can come back and have an impact on our community and much
of that has to go in your shoulders and I'm so grateful for that. Um, and I don't know what you're going to do in the future, but but maybe you and I and Jim can get together, we can kind of come up with something, can't we? >> I'm a foodie and I know some good bars downtown. So, [laughter] >> well, okay, Commissioner, not bars
downtown. I'm sorry. >> That's a That's a good idea. [laughter] Um, no, I'm really grateful for you. grateful for each member of your team and I only found out you're leaving like class on Friday. I called you Friday. What in the world is going on? Um and uh
but I'm I'm so grateful for you and and mayor grateful for your leadership. It it it takes uh the political willpower to step up and say this is important and we want to do it for the impact on our community and um and there are those throughout our state that don't quite
understand that. We understand that that we're going to be responsible for every person in our community, no matter who they are. Uh and and we're not gonna leave anybody behind and and you've said that message and and I'm so grateful for that. So, thank you very much for me.
>> Thank you, Commissioner. I appreciate [applause] >> Commissioner Ortiz. >> Thank you, Mayor. I was waiting for this. Uh >> oh, Lisa, >> trouble trouble. Lisa, this may have been your second or third most enjoyable
work, but this is the one you accomplished the most. >> I agree. >> Tell you that much because I've seen you I've seen you grow through all these years since I was in law enforcement. I've seen what this department has become. So, curiously enough, uh I work every sector of this city as a law
enforcement officer. Uh the southeast, south, I mean northeast of back in the days when it was divided so many ways, the east side, whatnot. And I've seen the changes that have taken place in this city. And a lot of times people say, "Well, the police is doing a great
job." And yeah, they are. They are. You know what? Nobody knows that the real job has been done at Family Parks and Recreation because you guys have taken our kids from cradle to professional. And you have mold them, direct them, guide them. And that's what has
transformed our city. every second that you have invested on this kids is is the transformation that has occurred in this city. And and I wish and I say this jokingly every so often, I could take everybody that works in the city and move it around the
nation and outside of the nation to other countries. Um to show them how government is best done because you guys really every member of our city staff, you guys do a superb job. Um it aches me
to see some of the commissioners that we're losing because because this group here has transformed this city. >> Yeah, >> we know how to do it and there's a lot more for us to do. Um some of us may be longer, some may be shorter or some of
us may not be that long, but who knows? God God only knows. But we I can assure you something that we're going to continue living in this city and we're going to continue pushing for quality of life. And the way this has been done is through each one of our staff. And I
think that the world doesn't know enough about you guys. And and what you have done, the legacy you have led with each one of the members of your team here is it has to be written in some book somewhere because this is a model for others to follow. And I thank you so much for what you have done. And I thank
you each one of the staff that we have in the city. I love my people at Angle Wad Shorts. And I always claim that they're the best in the city. They are. Um, but I do I do recognize what goes on in the other centers and and as I said before, you guys have transformed our
city and I know there's a lot more to come because the brains in your bodies are incredible and I see the initiative that happen here every single day. So, I'm excited about what's to come and more so I'm excited about what the next leadership and by the way I'm going to
make an announcement. Son, I want you to be to do an internship in my office as soon as you can. Okay? I'm looking forward to that. >> [applause] >> Um, I know that we are raising leaders and that's what that's what really matters. Quality of life through good leadership. So, thank you so much. God
bless you guys. >> Thank you, Commissioner. [applause] >> Okay, Lisa. Um, I guess you have one more meeting. Yes. Or >> Yeah. The rest of the day today, right? >> You know what? Don't even come to that one. This is >> No, no, it's good. I'm still here. I'm
not dead yet, as they said. Monty Python and the Holy Grail. [laughter] >> Okay, >> for those of you who are fans, >> we will stand adjourned. We're going to convene another meeting after this. So, if everybody that wants to um congratulate Lisa can take it out to the rotunda, that would be great. Thank you.
We stand adjourned. [music] [music] How we doing? [music] Part: 2
Hey, hey, hey. [music] >> [music] >> Heat. Heat. Hey. [music] [music] Heat. Heat. N. Heat. Heat.
[music] Heat. Hey, heat. Hey, heat. Hey, hey, hey. [music] Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. >> [music] [music]
>> Heat. Heat. Hey, hey. >> [music] [music] >> Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. N. Heat. [music] [music] [music] Heat.
Heat. Heat. [music] Hey. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. >> [music] [music] [music] [music]
>> All All right. Good afternoon and welcome to the December 8th, 2025 uh meeting of the Orlando City Council. We're going to begin today's proceedings with the invocation and pledge of allegiance day led by Commissioner Rose.
>> Good afternoon, U mayor, commissioners, and everyone in the audience. So, I respect everyone's religion. If you are so inclined, I ask that you bow your heads for um prayer. Heavenly Father, we thank you for the opportunity to serve our community. Let us take a moment to pause and reflect.
We ask for wisdom and clarity for everyone gathered here today. May this meeting be conducted with integrity, respect, and a shared commitment to the welfare of all residents. Help us listen deeply, act justly, and work together for the greater good. May our discussions be respectful, our decisions
thoughtful, and our actions guided by a commitment to the well-being of this community. Grant us patience, understanding, and the courage to work together for the common good. in Jesus name I pray. Amen. >> Amen. >> I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the
republic for it stands one nation indivisible with liberty and justice for all. >> Okay, let's call the meeting to order. Madam clerk, would you call the role and make a determination of a quorum, please? >> Commissioner Gray >> here. >> Commissioner Ortiz
>> here. >> Commissioner Stewart >> here. >> Commissioner Sheen >> here. >> Interim Commissioner Rose >> here. >> Commissioner Burns >> here. >> Mayor Dyer >> here. >> Mayor, you have a quorum with all members present. >> All right. Uh let's see. We don't have any minutes to approve today. How about
that? So, we will go right to awards and presentations. And I think that's what a large percentage of the people are here for. In fact, and we have two special awards and presentations today that I would like um to begin as this is the
final meeting for two of our city council colleagues in between them. They have uh roughly 31 >> 33 years 33 years of experience that certainly be missed. And I'm going to
start with Commissioner Gray um who has 13 of those 33 years and has proudly served District One and our entire community with great passion and commitment. Uh District 1 is one of the fastest growing areas not just in the
city but in the entire region and has um complicated issues that Commissioner Gray has delved into for the past 13 years. He's worked it to make that area appealing not just to newcomers and new businesses, but make sure that it's a great place to live and raise a family
and has a little different viewpoint than most of the commissioners. He's pragmatic and bit businessminded and I think we've agreed on most things, but even the things that we haven't agreed on, he's always provided great insights and research and respect and I've valued
his input on so many different issues. Commissioner Gray, on behalf of the city council and our city staff and the entire entire community, thank you for serving our city and making um every day thinking about how to make this a great
place to live and thrive. So, I have a proclamation in your honor that I would like to read and we are going to do Commissioner Stewart after this and then go down and do pictures all together after that. But we will give you an
opportunity to speak right after this. Okay. Whereas Jim Gray has faithfully served the city of Orlando as District 1 commissioner since 2012. And whereas Commissioner Gray's tenure has been marked by his steady advocacy for thoughtful growth, responsible development, and economic opportunity,
contributing significantly to the vibrancy and prosperity of District 1 in the entire city. And whereas under Commissioner Gray's leadership, District 1 has experienced extraordinary transformation, including new residential neighborhoods, business centers, parks, trails, and public amenities that have enhanced the quality
of life for residents. And whereas in addition to his service on the Orlando City Council, Commissioner Gray has been the Orlando managing director for CBRE, the largest commercial real estate services investment firm in the world. And whereas Commissioner Gray is a proud veteran, having served his country in
the US Air Force with his wife of 47 years, Kathy, he has raised two children and is the proud grandfather of three beautiful granddaughters. And as the Orlando City Council, wishes to recognize and express gratitude for Commissioner Gray's many years of public service, leadership, and his lasting
contributions to shaping Orlando's future. Now therefore, I, Buddy Dyer, mayor of the city of Orlando, do hereby proclaim Monday, December 8th, 2025 as Commissioner Jim Gray appreciation day in the city of Orlando and present him
with a key to the city. [applause] [applause] [applause] Commissioner. Thank you, Mayor. Well, you know, they say going away parties are always well attended because people want to make sure you're really leaving. So, uh uh message received. Uh thank you very
much. U mayor, thanks for the kind words and and I'll I'll be brief, but there's some folks I want to recognize. So, today I'm going to do a couple things I don't normally do. One is read prepared remarks. I learned a long time ago I don't have enough sense to follow written remarks, but tonight today I'm
going to do a little better. So, I'll work on that. And then the second thing is um I think I might take my whole five minutes. Mayor, I I promise I won't pull my Sam Ings, but uh [laughter] but I'd like to say a few words of thanks u highlight some of our
collective accomplishments and reflect on what I've learned sitting here for 13 years. So, but first there's the housekeeping I've got to do. You know, there's a gentleman I need to meet and thank. Uh, he's been a professional in our engineering or excuse me, our electrical department of public works.
And for 13 years, this gentleman's received way too many phone calls and emails that were meant for me. Uh, yet I've never had the chance to meet him until today. So, I want to, you know, before I get out of here, I want to fix that and say thanks. So ladies and gentlemen, meet the real James Gray of
the city of Orlando. >> So James, come see me. [applause] [applause] >> He was such a trooper. And we joke, we start reading emails and about three sentences in either he or I'll say, "Wait, this isn't for me. This is for
the other guys." So, James, thanks for for making the effort to come down. It It's good to meet you 13 years later. Thank you, sir, very much. Um, so let's get going. I' I'd like to start with the people who supported me the most. My wife Kathy of 47 years, which should qualify her for a pension, a medal, a
statue, uh, something. Our children, Christy and Jeff, and two of my three grandchildren. Um, that would be, uh, Emma and Ally. So, we're going to talk later why you're not at school, but we're going to talk about that later. Uh, but my my granddaughters have
successfully kept me humble, broke, and wrapped around their fingers. So, uh, balancing my private sector work with city responsibilities meant missing events, dinners, ball games, and school things. Uh, you name it. But through it all, they've encouraged me, supported me, and I could not have done this
without them. So, thank you very much. [applause] uh to my district one team, support team, you know, Jeannie Wilson and Edgar Malave, you may remember them. They were with me from the start in 2012, but when they retired, um Diane Wilhelm, please
stand. You must stand. Paula Jimenez, [applause] Jennifer Wagner, and somewhere around here, Dave Evangelista. There he is over in the corner. Dave, give us a wave. >> [applause] >> Uh, you know, loyalty and commitment is sometimes hard to find, but Diane has
been with me for 10 years, Paula and Jennifer for seven, and Dave for almost two years. Uh, your support and hard work have been constant and unwavering. I've worked with some talented people in my life, but none more focused on residents than you. You responded to
emails, a couple angry phone calls, uh, organized neighborhood events, and kept me on schedule every step of the way. So, you four are best in class, and I'm deeply grateful. So, please help me acknowledge their efforts. Thank you all very much. [applause] I'd like to uh to make a few comments
about our first responders. Your commitment to the safety of our residents and visitors is unmatched. Being a firefighter, police officer, and first responder is a tough job, and it's not getting any easier. But when trouble arises, there's one number we all call,
911. I'm a proud I'm proud that this council has always supported you and the way you serve with professionalism, integrity, and heart. Thank you for your service. You have my deepest respect, gratitude, and admiration.
to our city staff and employees. At my swearing in ceremony, I said I was impressed by the talent and professionalism within our city staff. 13 years later, I can say I was absolutely right. From top to bottom, our employees are committed to serving
our residents. When service failures occur, it's rarely due to lack of expertise. More often, it's because we simply lack the resources and equipment needed, an unavoidable reality of local government. That's why I've always encouraged innovation, efficiency, and
finding new ways to do things. And along the way, I know I've managed to irritate all of you at least once along along the way. So, please accept my apologies for the tough questions and challenges, but know this. I would not have pushed you if I didn't believe in your capability
and your talents, and you seldom disappointed. Thank you for allowing me to learn from you. and to my colleagues past and present uh including Daisy Linham, Sam Ings and Regina Hill and everyone here at this
DAS. It's been a joy, not just an honor, a joy. People often ask me, "What's the mayor and council really like?" I tell them, "We're diverse in every sense. Backgrounds, beliefs, personalities, hairstyles.
Think Commissioner Sheen and Burns. [laughter] about here at all. >> Or here at all. Yeah. But we generally like each other. When we disagree, we disagree respectfully, which in politics is equivalent to
spotting a unicorn out in the wild. Um, and I often say if Washington behaved like this council, C-SPAN would finally get some ratings. Uh, one of my favorite things will always be our city and district events. The mayor speaks, the host commissioner
speaks, and the rest of us, well, we whisper jokes like, you know, middle school kids in the back of the class. That's friendship. So, to you, your true professionals, it's been an honor and a joy and to serve with you. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your team.
Um, it's no secret that District 1 is a growth story that we all share. The me the mayor mentioned that when I started Lake Nona's medical city was just beginning with three main anchors. The airport, the UCF medical school, and Neor's children's hospital. Since then,
nearly one out of every three building permits in the city has come from district 1. I didn't create the growth. I don't want credit for it. I just had the privilege of attending more than my share of ribbon cutings. Uh here's a few highlights from the last 13 years. And as I reflected on this, it surprised
even me. Construction of 10,000 h 10,000 housing units across various price points with 65% of those units being single family and 35% being multif family from having zero and I mean zero
uh to every major hospital system now is in the Lake Nona area including HCA, Advent Health and Orlando Health. And in 2015, the VA hospital opened. And today, the VA hospital serves over two million
outpatient veterans a year. 2 million come to Lake Nona outpat veterans to get service. That's amazing. Um, we've opened the Dr. Phillips UCF Nursing School and the UCF Cancer Institute. Schools increased from 5 to 16. And for
University of Florida math majors, that's almost one new school opening a year. Um, we have over a thousand kids in our uh or our afterchool Allstars program, which is amazing. Three regional parks connected by 13 miles of bike trails.
Beep brought us the first autonomous shuttle bus in the US, which I'm proud to say drove a lot better than most people on Narusi Road. [laughter] Um, the worldclass Wave Hotel featuring a sculpture garden and Michelin rated restaurants. Public art throughout our
neighborhoods. Home of the USA Tennis Center that opened 10 years ago. Host of the Lake Nona Impact Forum, annual conference that brings world leaders in medical research, technology, and innovation to Lake Nona. Corporate
employers KPMG, Johnson and Johnson, Signature Flight Systems, SIMCOM Pilot Training, Kimley Horn, and Seammens anchor over 9,000 high-paying jobs in the Lake Nona area. We have two new fire stations under construction, and next
year we'll be opening a new government center, police substation, and public library together in one location. Lake Nona has been one of the fastest growing communities not just in central Florida but in the entire US. Congratulations to everyone here who played a role in
making that possible. A special acknowledgement goes to the Tavistock Group and Mr. Joe Lewis. Their vision and investment made what you see today possible. The city could not have funded this alone. Companies like KPMG,
USA, the VA, Seammens, they could have relocated anywhere, but they chose Lake Nona. And I think I know why. It's because of the long-term vision and financial stability of the Tavistock group and also because this city has demonstrated a willingness to help those
companies grow and prosper. We are fortunate to have these partners in our community. So, I've been talking too long, but I'd like to close by sharing a couple things I've learned during my time as a commissioner. Number one, first and foremost, the
mayor matters. And if you don't believe me, try taking his parking spot, which [laughter] I did. Rookie rookie mistake. I did it. Happened once. Sorry, Mr. Mayor. But, uh, that was it. But, look, our our charter and bylaws give Orlando
a very strong mayoral form of government. We're talking about a $1.8 billion budget. That's with a B. Uh that must balance every single year. Nearly 4,000 employees, all under the mayor's oversight and a seat at the table in
virtually every major organization in Central Florida. This city was built by strong mayors, and there's none stronger than the gentleman sitting a couple seats down from me. But this office carries real responsibility, and we should never take that lightly.
Second, Orlando is financially strong. Fully funded pensions, responsible reserves, A+ or better bond ratings across the board. Few cities can make that claim. Number three, personal responsibility matters.
Government can't fix everything. Good neighbors and good citizens are what make great cities. Fourth, local politics is a participation sport. Uh, community involvement and engagement matters and
reading social media does not count even if it's all in cap letters. Um, the fifth one that I've learned is partnerships are powerful. Organization like Lyft, the Sports Commission, Dr. Phillips Charities, The Magic, United
Way, Florida Citrus Sports, the Homeless Service Network, and many more. Help us achieve what government alone cannot. And finally, I'm proof that personal growth happens outside your comfort
zone. A kid from a double wide trailer in a God, I almost made it. [laughter] a a kid from a double wide trailer in a small farming town. Never expected
to sit here. Never ever ever in my wildest dreams. So, don't ever talk yourself out of trying something bold. Go ahead and try things that challenge you. You'll be amazed how you grow. So, I'm leaving here today a
better man than when I arrived. I laughed a lot. I cried a little. I learned a lot. And I hope in some way it made things a little bit better. Thank you so much for the privilege of serving this great city I've called home for 37
years. Mr. Mayor. Awesome. [applause] [applause] [applause] >> [applause] [applause] >> Commissioner, I'm pretty sure that was your longest speech. >> It was >> and best >> and best. Okay. Next up is Commissioner Stewart.
And Commissioner Stewart has dedicated himself to a lifetime of service to our community, including 20 years on this Orlando City Council. He has worked to lead our city forward with great dedication and compassion and kindness.
And I can say unequivocally that Commissioner Stewart's love for Orlando is undeniable. I think that love has guided him on every decision that he's made on this council over the years. Commissioner, we thank you for your advocacy, which dates
back to your not for-profit leadership days, your commitment to helping our city address complex challenges and working to uplift every person in Orlando. And now I have a uh would like to read a proclamation in your honor and share a special honor for those who have
served more than 16 years on the Orlando Council. Whereas Commissioner Robert F. Stewart has been a lifelong resident of Orlando along with his wife of more than 49 years and he raised his family in our community. And whereas as a proud
graduate of Edgewater High School in the University of Florida, he was first elected by the residents of District 3 in 2006. And whereas in addition to his service on the Orlando City Council, Commissioner Stewart has led a full life of civic engagement, including 25 years
of leadership at the Christian Service Center and volunteering with countless other community and faith-based organizations. And whereas as commissioner, he has focused on making Orlando's neighborhoods the best places to live, work, and raise a family, keeping our city safe, and supporting
small businesses in our main streets. And whereas Commissioner Stewart's experience in city government and community affairs led him to serve as city of Orlando's longtime representative on the board of directors of the Florida League of Cities. And whereas Commissioner Stewart has worked to preserve and celebrate Orlando's
history, most recently launching and hosting Orlando history makers podcast. And whereas Commissioner Stewart's exceptional public service is even more impressive and admirable in light of his devotion as a husband, father, grandfather, and brother. Now therefore, I buddy Dyer, mayor of the city of
Orlando, to hereby proclaim Robert F. Stewart as commissioner ameritus of the city of Orlando in recognition of his nearly two decades on the city council and present him with a key to the city. Commissioner [applause] >> [applause]
>> It's my turn. >> Your turn. >> My turn. Oh my. >> Um, all those nice things that Jim said I agree with. And so, mayor, I turn it back over to you. [laughter] >> No, no, no, no. I'm going to do a Sam Ings also for those of us who've been
around for a while. Uh, poor Sam. I wish Sam were here. We'd have some fun with him. >> No, we never he wouldn't get out until midnight. I um uh it is such an honor to be here. An honor to see my friends and my family. Uh, and
an honor to to um be here. It's good to know that I've got two years longer than yours in terms of marriage. Uh that makes me feel that makes me feel so much older than you, Jim. Thank you and I appreciate that. But I have uh written some comments and I have made some comments in the past. So mine aren't
quite as long as Jim's which all of you will be very thankful for. Right, Corey? Thank you, Corey. Um uh but I do want to share some comments and some things that uh I want to reflect on a little bit. So if you allow me, I will read this if I can if I can get through it. Jim, if
not, will you read mine? >> Okay. For the past 20 years, it has been an honor to serve uh on my life to serve the incredible people of District 3 from Bowwin Park to Rosemont in nearly every neighborhood in between. I've had the
privilege of representing this historic, diverse, and vibrant communities that make up district that make district 3 so special. No words will ever capture how grateful I am that you have trusted your place. You placed your trust in me for the
journey to walk alongside you through this remarkable I'm not reading very well for the chance to walk alongside you through this remarkable journey. When I stepped into office in 2006, Orlando was on the verge of transformation. And what a transformation it has been. Together, we
built Sunrail, revitalized and created world-class venues, invested in the very heart of our city, our parks, our roads, our infrastructure, our services, and the safety of our families. We support the brave men and women of our police and fire departments, making
Orlando a safer and stronger community that we all can call home. I've been blessed to serve during an era of tremendous change, working with visionary leaders, including Mayor Dyer and 10 council members, CL colleagues
over the past years. Together, we helped guide Orlando through some of its most defining moments, the great recession, the tragedy of Pulse, and the COVID 19 crisis. Through it all, our community has shown resilience,
unity, and a spirit that simply cannot be broken. I'm so proud to have played a small role in this collective strength, and to have formed friendships that I will cherish my entire life. And stop
it. [laughter] My sister's crying over there. I can't get through it. When I first ran for Lando City Council in 2005, I saw an enormous untapped potential in District 3. With the launch of our Main Street program, the
potential became reality. Today, three of our city's original main streets have flourished here in District 3, earning national recognition of becoming hubs for innovation and community and pride. I think often of the places that shaped
my childhood. and my children's childhoods like Albert Park and Dartmouth Park and Lake Fairview Park where we built new spaces for the next generation, including my own grandchildren. I remember when Bowman Park was nothing
but a vision and a vacant dirt. Now it's one of our most vibrant communities. We brought long-awaited resources to Rosemont, including a state-of-the-art gymnasium, now filled with weeks, week after week, with families. We built
historic Dubstread or rebuilt historic Dubstread Golf Course into one of the nation's premier inner city public golf courses. We secured Lake Juwid Park and created a unique gym for our city. Found a new home for the Orlando Ballet, built
Grove Park in the packing district. And developed a brand new Orlando tennis center with beloved partners like the Tap Room at Dubstreed and Russell on Lake Ivanho. We strengthened the legacy of our city's historic spaces.
These projects, big and small, are more than just accomplishments. They are pieces of our shared story, building blocks of the community that we love. As I reflect on this journey, my heart turns to the people who inspired me, supported me, and kept me grounded.
First and foremost, my incredible wife. Stop it. 49 years. As I tell everybody, we the day after our anniversary, I told And we're starting our We're in our 50th year in soccer terms. Some of y'all will catch that.
[laughter] Others of you will not have a clue. You still think you're in football. Okay. She's been my partner in every season of my life whose love and patience made every long day sorry
and late night possible. To my children and grandchildren who have been my joy and my motivation and my greatest reminder of why community building matters. You've been the heartbeat behind everything I've done. Also want to thank Jessica Steed, Kevlan
Kurpatre, Steve Smith, D Carlos Hill, Milton Sumpner, and Maria Montano. Each of you have walked beside me in unique and meaningful ways. Your dedication, encouragement, and friendship have helped me carry have carried me through this journey, and I
am deeply grateful. To my parents who taught me that faith is best expressed through service and to my friends who've offered wisdom, humor, strength, perspective, and sometimes an opposing opinion. Thank you to Mayor Dyer and my
colleagues here on this council. It's been an honor to serve with you and a privilege to serve our citizens together. And to the staff and the thousands of city professionals who worked with me, listen to me, or simply just put up with me. Thank you.
You inspired me to serve better, lead better, and build an environment where people could thrive. You made this journey worthwhile and I have had the opportunity to thank you personally. I hope you'll accept this as a gratitude as my gratitude is both genuine and
heartfelt. At almost every meeting, you've heard me say, "I'm grateful that you, our neighbors, have placed your trust in me. I appreciate it and I don't take it lightly. Today I say those words again
with deeper sincerity. Thank you for trusting me. Thank you for allowing me to serve you. And thank you for making these past 20 years one of the greatest blessings of my life. Thank you. [applause] >> [applause]
>> We do have [applause] [applause] >> I was trying to lead the way, but nobody's paying attention to me. >> I'm gone, so nobody cares. Hold down the floor. Hold down. Yes, sir. [applause]
>> [applause] >> Good morning, officer. Officer [applause] Yes, sir. just said the word >> George, how many years did you serve? >> But it was three years ago. [applause]
There's four cops here. I'm a security team. >> Yeah, I know. >> What don't we know? >> All right, commissioners. It's just all about Okay. Does anybody else [applause]
If you were here primarily for the tributes, I'm going to take a 30 second recess. And now would be a good opportunity for you to >> escape. >> Well, I was going to say that, [laughter] but do feel like sand beings, don't I?
Okay, then we will uh move on to the mayor's update and um I'm going to generally not repetitive between some things that I say at uh gender view and the meeting, but I think it's appropriate that I begin the update
um so that we can celebrate the legacy and impact of Brenda March who passed away last month. Brenda was a city employee for over 30 years and she was so much a servant leader. She's a relationship builder friend to every
person she ever encountered including every member of this Orlando city council. She hold held a number of different roles in the city including in the mayor's office but probably foremost so was her work and leadership at FPR.
She was uh she helped launch and guide the parore kids zone for many years. every day. She worked with young residents of our city to help them gain access to opportunities to prepare them for successful futures. She uh provided
mentorship and support and guidance to counsel countless young residents and city staff. She will be missed and she leaves a lasting legacy. If you would join me in a moment of silence for Brenda March. Thank you.
Okay. If you are a resident of district three and you haven't voted yet, tomorrow is the runoff election for the city council seat that Commissioner Stewart has so aably abley
served for the last 20 years. If you have an absentee ballot, it is probably a little late to mail that in. So, simply take that ballot to your polling place and turn it in and they will let you vote at the polling place. And if you don't know where your polling place
is, go to orlando.gov/election. Saturday, December 13th, we'll host wreaths across America starting at 12:00 in Greenwood Cemetery. So, join us in honoring our veterans through the laying of remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country's fallen heroes. items of
note quickly from the agenda. Um on today's agenda, we will be voting on funding 31 mayor's matching g grant projects and those grants support local schools, neighborhood associations, and not forprofits. If there are
representatives from any of the agencies or not forprofits that are receiving um those grants, would you please stand and let us recognize you? [applause] >> [applause] >> We are proud to be able to help you with
your missions and appreciate what you do for our community. Thank you. We have um homeless services funding. There are a number of not forprofits um that support our efforts to offer assistance and hope to individuals
experiencing homelessness. There's $200,000 funding two of those groups. Uh first is healthc care center for the homeless for outreach specialist and the other organization is the salt outreach which provides access to hygiene services and uh operates a cooling
center during the summertime. We have a number of affordable housing related items to support the creation and preservation of affordable housing. First, we will consider the 2025 report of the recommendations from the city's affordable housing advisory committee.
This committee meets several times a year to review current initiatives and policy and make recommendations on specific actions. I would like to recognize and thank Chairman Calvin Fam and Commissioner Tony Ortiz for their
time and efforts dedicated to um service on that committee. And I know Commissioner Gray served a number of years on that committee before Commissioner Ortiz. And secondly, we have um funding for the acquisition and rehabilitation of 12 affordable apartment units on Don's Avenue. Um with
that, we'll move on to the consent agenda. And the consent agenda is a number of items that are acted upon through a single vote of council. We let each of the commissioners um comment on items on the consent agenda and update you on important happenings from their
districts. We um vary the order and today Commissioner Rose is first up. >> Good afternoon everyone. Again, um I want to congratulate the Jones High School football team on their win. Um
they're headed to state championship this weekend. Um, I want to thank state reps and Orange County government for approving the road designation and unveiling of new road signs for Harris Rosenway. This is a great tribute and honor to Mr. Harris Rosen, a renowned
philanthropist and business leader in Central Florida who sadly passed away last November. Um, I want to thank you to all of the partners, all of the volunteers, and all the organizations who came together this Thanksgiving to serve over 3,000 families um in District
5 at various events and activities. Um, this is our way to continue to make sure that families have meals and can enjoy the holiday together. Um, Turkey Bowl 2025 was one for the books. Um I was fortunate to partner with um Cynthia Louderder and several other community
partners to bring it back to the Jackson Center and we will look forward to hosting it every year as this has been a pair more tradition for a long time. Um City Arts Factory um now has a cafe that's open and I want to encourage everyone to stop by 37 South Magnolia
Avenue. Uh I want to thank Mission Orlando, the Desire Foundation, EA 102 Jams and all community partners. So this past Friday we had a large um tree lighting ceremony at Lake Eola but the west side misses that. So I intend we
started this will be the first annual and every year on the first Friday we will have a tree lighting ceremony at the northwest center so that the west side of Orlando can also enjoy the holidays. Um I also want to thank Sherry and CRA for adding additional decorations at the other some of the
other district 5 parks. So we have one at Luminary now, ZL Riley, um Paramore Heritage Park, as well as Lake Lonadune. Um as we look forward to continue to make sure that the whole community celebrates the holidays together. Um couple of activities coming up in the
district um on the 19th, next Friday, please join us for at South and Division, we will be unveiling Senator Geraldine Thompson Way at 10:30 a.m. at the Wellsbuilt Museum. Next Saturday, the 20th, please join Commissioner Burns, myself, and Commissioner Scott
with a partnership with Athlete Connections and other sponsors. Saturday, December 20th at 9:00 a.m. at Grant Avenue. And I will also be having a toy giveaway at the Ivy Lane Neighborhood Center at the same time. Um, I want to encourage everyone,
there's been a lot going on in around District 5. There's a lot of people here who want to speak, so I'm going to yield my time. I'm going to um encourage everyone to follow the district 5 page on both Instagram and Facebook. And I have a couple of items on the agenda. Uh 3A2, congratulations to the recipients
for the mayor's matching grant. 3A4, thank you to Salt for all your hard work in the community. Um 3F2, I am grateful for us as a city to continue to provide affordable housing opportunities within our community. The home agreement
between the city and Graham LLC is the Dolins Avenue apartment project consisting of 12 units in a three-story walk up with concrete buildings. This will allow us opportunity to provide three units for those individuals with 50% or less AMI
as well as nine units for those with 80% or less AMI. So, this is our commitment to increasing affordable um housing. And then 3J2 has been um a very rapid uh conversation and I want to thank all
departments for coming together. So, as you all may be aware, Camping World Stadium is going through a $400 million renovation, but it was critical and important for us to make sure that the rest of the two side roads around the stadium get the same impact. And so, we're not redoing the Camping World
Stadium and not forgetting about the rest of the the and what I call is the the gateway for our communities. And so, residents are going to be able to get Rio Grand in Tampa. So, this has been a great fastm moving um opportunity where we will be redoing everywhere around
Camping World Stadium. So, we'll also be able to do Rio Grand Tampa, but this has been a partnership every city department has had um hands in because it's been a rapid project where we want to make sure we do complete streets and not just a stadium. So, I'm glad to see 3J2 where
this is our agreement with CFX. Um there are a couple more things that we'll talk about as we get into the um ordinances and and the at the end and that's all I have today. Mayor, >> thank you, Commissioner Burns. >> All right. Uh [clears throat] thank you, Mayor, and good afternoon, council, and
all who are in attendance. Um first, I would uh also like just to take a moment to remember uh Miss Brenda March, who dedicated her life to the youth and families of Orlando uh for more than 30 years. uh she will be truly missed [clears throat] but her legacy will
definitely uh live on. Also to uh our outgoing commissioners uh Commissioner Gray I just like to say thank you for your service. um uh your business insight and all of that and and and I I will um bow
to you that I'll continue to ask the hard questions uh or the difficult questions and before anything comes up that may be difficult, I'll I'll uh ask WWCGA, what would Commissioner Gray ask?
[laughter] So, uh I'll I'll I'll make sure I I do that. But uh thank you. Thank you for that. Also, uh, Commissioner Stewart, you know, I've had the pleasure of being a colleague of yours prior to both of our time on the, uh, on the city council in our our, uh,
initiative to address homelessness in our our community. And then fast forward to be a colleague on this council. Uh, I see it as truly an honor. So, I just want to say thank you for your service. Thank you for uh, all that you've done to for our community. our community is
definitely a better place because of what you've done and I appreciate your support, your guidance and your friendship as well. So, thank you, Commissioner. Uh on November the 12th, um Orlando Police Department with uh Chief Eric Smith here at the District 6
community meeting at the Elclaia Allen Center. So, thank you, Chief, for that. I believe District 6 proudly holds the attendance record for the chief's meeting and I do believe this is a testament to uh Chief Smith's engagement with our community uh as well as uh all
of the officers. So we we appreciate that engagement. Uh on uh November the 13th, I was truly honored to receive the distinguished leadership award from the International Drive Resort Area Chamber of Commerce during their annual membership meeting. And I believe this
was due uh in part to the establishment of the North IDrive targeted revitalization and site redevelopment initiative that is designed to incentivize highquality development for dilapitated buildings and vacant lots on iDrive. So I just like to say thank you
to the commissioners for supporting district 6 with passing uh passing that. Also, uh during uh November, we've had uh several uh Thanksgiving uh meal giveaways. I just like to say thank you to Route 7, Lee Wesley, Care Plus,
Humanana, We Print, and the Central Florida Knights Football and Cheer for your sponsorships that allowed uh these giveaways to happen. Also, the Florida Classic uh weekend welcomed over 5,500 fans who actually bought tickets and
attended the FAMU and BCU game. Uh this is a classic like no other because the universities actually own this classic. So it's not a uh a promoter that comes in and promotes this. The universities own this own this classic. And I say
that because the more tickets we sell, the more revenue goes to these two great institutions. So, I want to encourage everyone, you know, not just to come and hang out, but buy a ticket for the game and and support uh the uh the these two institutions. During the uh Florida
Classic, um I had the opportunity of attending the VIP reception at the varsity club, which welcomed the new presidents, Dr. uh Mosley, president of BCU, and uh President uh Johnson of FAMU. Also, uh I was honored to bring
greetings on behalf uh of the city and Mayor Dystead uh along with my uh colleague Commissioner Rose. Uh also I held my first annual uh views uh scholarship happy hour where we
awarded uh $12,500 in scholarships to FAMU and BCU students and thanks to the Goan and uh rivaling families. Uh, FAMU lost this game in the final seconds. Um, however, the
game-winning touchdown, the game-winning touchdown for Bthoon was caught by a District 6 resident, [laughter] uh, Mr. Josh Evans. And actually, I had awarded him a $2,500 scholarship the night before. So, I'm taking a little
credit for that. I've been catching some heat from my fellow uh FAMU because I attended FAMAU saying that I'm I'm paying BCU uh uh uh athletes to uh to beat FAM, but it's all good. Uh so again, congratulations to Josh Evans and
all of the uh recipients. Uh December 4th and 5th, I attended the Florida League of Cities annual board meeting and legislative conference, and I'm excited to serve on the Florida League of Cities board of directors. Thank you, mayor, for this opportunity, as well as to Commissioner Stewart and Ortiz for
your service on the Florida League board. Uh, as well, uh, December 5th, I attended the Orlando Fire Department graduation ceremony. So, congratulations to our new graduates and welcome, uh, to the family. Also, that day, I attended the rededication of Harbor Park honoring
uh, Orlando Mayor Glenn Glenda Hood. I also had the opportunity to join the seniors at the Elclaia Allen Center senior center for their holiday lunchon that recognized seniors who completed their um their senior planet licensing
technology class. Uh these classes uh cover topics for basic computer skills, smartphones, online safety, social media and streaming. So thank you to FPR for uh this investment in our seniors and truly making our seniors future ready. I
think uh that uh using a little something from you, mayor. Uh our future ready seniors. Uh for upcoming events, uh on this Wednesday, I have my satellite office hours from 10:00 a.m. to 4 at the Elclaia Allen Senior Center. This is an opportunity for residents to
come meet with me directly uh outside of uh city hall. Uh December the 13th, breakfast with Santa and part in partnership with the uh Delta Sigma Theta uh sorority. Uh, as Commissioner Rose mentioned, December the 20th, uh, Athletes Connection
holiday toy drive. Excited about that. And then Christmas in the park, uh, December the 20th as well at Willie Mays Park at 10, uh, 10 a.m. Uh, Commissioner Stewart, just so you you I'm not sure if you heard what Commissioner Rose stated,
but uh, Orlando Jones is going to the state for a football championship. [clears throat] And, uh, that's right. Uh, we're going to the ship commissioner and we will represent Orlando. Well, >> and I'm so honored because they have one
loss, right? Doesn't have one loss. >> Well, we have two losses, but >> one was to Edgewater. >> Yeah. And the other champion >> and the other one was to Evans, which both made it to the playoffs, but didn't get as far. So, but we we're going to represent for for the city. Beautiful.
>> Let's represent. >> Right. We will. We will. Uh also on the agenda, mayor, uh just like to say thank you to the citizens who citizens who've agreed to volunteer their time on the various uh citizen uh city advisory boards. We would not be able to run our great city without your assistance. And
at one uh time I also spent time on one of those advisory boards on the municipal planning board. It was truly an educational and and inspiring experience. So, I would um ask those of you all who are looking for opportunities to volunteer and get
involved with your city, these advisory boards are a great way to do so. Also, I'd like to say congratulations to all of the recipients of the uh fiscal year 2025 2026 mayor's matching grant. Uh more specifically, I would like to
highlight and thank those serving district 6 uh and for all that you do to support and uplift our community. Athletes Connection. I saw Mr. Cross. Dan, thank you for everything that you do. Uh, Elevation Scholars, Humble Visionaries, which is which is a film
production program. I see my destiny if you foundation. I see Fernanda and her team here. Um, lie down or stand up incorporated. Uh, Opera Orlando count or Orange Council PTA page 15 uh
language and arts empowerment program and she foundation. Um, mayor, on item uh 3A3, I need to um it's a funding agreement with the Healthcare Center for the Homeless, and I'll need to abstain from this vote. And uh, as you know, I
serve as the president and chief executive officer of the Healthcare Center for the Homeless. The 2025 2026 funding recommendation for community investment program grants for this year and for several years prior to my service on the city council have included funds that provide grant
funding to the healthcare center for the homeless. None of that money goes toward my compensation. Additionally, these funds would not be granted to the healthcare center for the homeless unless and until the city and the healthc care center enter into a separate written agreement. Such
agreements come before the city council for individual approval and I want to make it clear that when those items come before the council, I have and will abstain from voting on any grant funding agreement between the city and the healthcare center for the homeless. I have filled out the necessary paperwork
required and has provided that to uh to the city uh to the city clerk. Also uh on the agenda 3B uh 3B22 uh meeting minutes of adopting the
resolution to amend the fiscal year 2025 budget and fiscal year 2024 budget uh on for November 25th in the budget review committee. Uh first I just like to say congratulations to our finance team for your uh fiscal management as well as the
other departments for managing their respective budgets. I [clears throat] would like to uh just highlight a few items uh in support of the Grand Avenue Center uh gym soundproofing, the Turkey Lake pool uh pump room, uh the pavement
uh rehabilitation that will be happening throughout the city, as well as the system equipment and traffic calming that will happen throughout the city. Uh also, I was uh glad to see additional funding that will be put into affordable housing. Originally, it was uh about $1
million, but after further discussion, there were an additional $2 million put into affordable housing. So, I'd like to thank the uh the staff for that. Also, uh as it relates to the interim financing for the uh the interim financing alone, if you will, that the
city is providing for the Lake Nona Library in the amount of $8 million. Very supportive of that. Uh, mayor, I would like to see that uh once this uh loan is paid back uh at the completion of construction versus uh repaid on a
longer pro tracked time frame that that $8 million uh from that repayment of that loan also goes into the city's affordable housing trust fund. U and along those lines, I would like for the council to consider some parameters on
how that funding is utilized and allocated. Uh I believe that this is this action is consistent with the city's affordable housing uh advisory committee recommendations where they mention explore more creative and direct funding sources for affordable housing.
So again, thank you to our finance team for looking at that. But I do believe that uh it's imperative that we continue to invest and set aside money that will help the development of affordable housing in our community. again the uh
supportive of the affordable housing advisory report and thank you to uh Commissioner Ortiz and the entire committee for for your work on those recommendations. And that's all I have. Mayor, thank you. >> Thank you, Commissioner. Commissioner Gray. >> Yeah, thank you, Mayor. I think I've
said enough for the day, but I do want to invite anybody if you have nothing to do this Saturday morning at 4:30 in the morning, um we'd love to have you at the Target store at Hunter Creek. uh compliments of the Nabalo Foundation. We're taking 30 kids from our afterchool
all-stars program to uh to go holiday shopping. So, love to have you out there. 4:30 Saturday morning, come and join us. But uh other than that, on the agenda, I have to declare a conflict on item 3B28 uh for City of Holdings as a client of the the private sector firm I work for. So, I'm going to abstain from that one.
But other than that, that's all I've got. Mayor, thank you. >> Thank you, Commissioner. Commissioner Ortiz. >> Thank you, Mayor. Um it's a sad day for me here between these two great people living uh their spaces and um they're
going to be um heavily missed. Um it's been as they say in the Navy, it's been more than a than a job. It's been an adventure working with you guys. Um, and as they say in the army, there's an
army of one, right? I'm going to go for the >> what they say in the Marines. >> For the real one, the Marines, the few, the proud, right? So, working with you guys have been beyond my ever expectations. Um, God has blessed me with y'all's company and and
your wisdom and I've learned quite a great deal from you guys and and um I know that this is just the DAS but um and our friendship is going to go beyond that or it is goes beyond that and and I know we're going to stay in touch and I know you guys are going to stay in touch
because you're going to be watching making sure that we continue the work we're doing around here. So, but um the two of you will be hardly m very missed and uh not hardly missed but very missed. [laughter] I wanted to accentuate, you know, the
heck hard. [snorts] >> Yeah, it's hard to that's that's what I mean. Thank you, Commissioner. I appreciate it. It's my Spanish coming out. Anyhow, so um um I'm holding myself from not getting that tackle in. So, anyhow, I love you
guys. I love you guys and I'm I'm going to miss you guys incredibly. Uh changing the subject, another sad, you know, um story here is Brenda March. Losing Brenda March is incredibly to me I wasn't expecting that and and
it's a huge loss to the city. Uh we attended her service and the amount of people that walk through mayor your words Marcia Hope and everybody that talked about her is it's almost like the words not only
encompass her life but also um showcase what a great star she was and and she's also going to be very missed. Lisa, on top of all this losses we're having, you too is leaving us and and I don't know, I'm
going to be all depressed when I live here today. [laughter] Um, you have been such a great mentor in so many ways and and I'm going to miss you so much. um help thank you for helping me expanding those programs that I I remember
admiring so much from the days when I was in law enforcement, you know, the the kids zone, the after school allstars. Um and and thank you so much for helping us and Rodney, I know Rodney's not here, helping us getting those fields from Aelia Park, bringing
them into into the city. That's going to be a great venue for all our kids. And that's what this is all about. those little things that really help our people in our in our communities that bring that quality of life and that happiness, that joy to those kids, you
know, to to those small faces. So, um, this Christmas, I thought it was going to be a lot of [laughter] a little more joyful. Oh, Lord. Um, a lot of great people. I hope you guys don't go too far. We need you guys. We still need you guys. So,
let me talk a little bit about the things going on in my district. see if we can say something a little bit uh more joyful around here. [laughter] On um the morning of November 18th, we opened fire station 6. Let's talk about that. [snorts] Fire station 6 completely
completing our three stations modernization project. New facility enhances technology workspace and support for our firefighters which are awesome. We also unveil climb a sculpture by Dave. Don't ask me to pronounce his last name. Boya Boyan Boan
or something like that. Boayan I guess that reflects the station's dual air and ground mission. Gorgeous station. Uh once again and this for our community. It fills me with joy every time I see one of these great great stations either law enforcement or firefighters because
those are the guys out there in the community saving life either way uh fighting crime or saving life uh through through medical. and and we need to make sure that just like schools, we have great locations to
to host this great uh soldiers that are out there fighting for our community. So, um that's another great accomplishment for the district. That evening, I joined Chief Smith and OPD for our final District 2 community meeting of the year. We discussed accountability, transparency, and
building stronger trust between residents and law enforcement. Chief Smith reported promising progress. Shootings are down 65%. Thank you, boss. Violent crime is slightly lower and thousands of traffic stops have been completed. Thank you to
all the residents who participated. I don't know if I can compete. I don't remember. I didn't pull the numbers. Commissioner um uh Burns to see if it was yours or it was mine, the one who was best attended. But it but it's up there. It was well attended to [laughter]
school. I take it. I take it. But your engagement helps move our community forward and that's what we need our community to continue to get involved. [snorts] The afternoon of November 19th, I was grateful for the opportunity to tour 26 health. What an asset we have in
the city and learn more about the vital services they provide. Dedication to supporting our residents is evident in every corner of the facility. Thank you to the entire 26 health team for the work you do to strengthen our community. The morning of November 24th, our team
delivered 200 turkeys, Thanksgiving turkeys. Uh yeah, let's let me let me make that clear. It was Thanksgiving turkeys. Um to seniors and families at Johnson Manners, Elorado Senior Apartments, Citra Square, and Halleberg.
Thanks to uh the Levy Restaurant, to Hispanic Federation, OPD, and our volunteers for helping us bring holiday support and kindness to our residents. A lot of people were very happy, especially our seniors. >> [snorts] >> Uh in the afternoon of November 25th, we returned Citra Square with Chief uh
Smith and OPD to deliver more uh food bags and check in with seniors. Supporting our elders residents remain one of the most uh meaningful parts of our work. Thank you, Chief. You brought a lot of uh you brought a lot of smiles to all those guys over there and uh I
know that is always good to see that those stars walking around the community. So, thank you. On December 2nd, I attended the 2025th state of downtown. Nobody has talked about that yet. It was a great state of downtown, mayor. Uh especially the the people we
had over there talking about the future of downtown and and the plans are. I mean, is it's exciting to see what our downtown is going to be turning into. Uh what we have accomplished and what's to come. David, that was a great event and everybody who participated. So, um
congratulations. I want to congrat congratulate all the mayor's matching grant recipients. Thank you so much for the work you do. I know that that money is going is an investment in our community. So, we're very grateful for what you do. I also want to congratulate all the appointees
to the new city boards. Um that's the only way we can make it and we have we need more volunteers. So, let's keep incentivizing people and uh asking people to come over and serve and and learn more about government. It's the only way we're going to come out of this catastrophic issue we had around
the nation. But, um we need to empower people with the knowledge of government. So, it's uh joining boards is a great start. On the morning of December 4th, I joined Mayor Buddy Dyer and District 3 Commissioner Robert Stewart to celebrate the ribbon cutting of the newly renovated Albert Park with a pavilion
stage improving lighting enhance uh seating and other great I'm sorry. I'm still thinking about that thing in front of the uh pavilion that you were talking about the little decoration thing. The mayor was explaining that there was a part missing over there and and and he
was explaining that it was because it's like a concert hall type of thing. Turned out to be something else. Uh it's still it's coming. What it is is coming. It's a park mason. It's going to be there. So anyhow um with a pavilion stage, improved lighting, enhanced seating and other upgrades, the park now
offers an even more welcoming space for residents and families. December 4th to 5th, I joined fellow municipal leaders at the Florida League of Cities legislative conference to discuss statewide policies, issues, and advocate for our community. When I talk about the Florida League of Cities, I can help but think that we need more involvement from
our communities. We need people to know what's going on in Tallahassee. Ladies and gentlemen, legislations are being passed without you guys know what's what's happening in Tallahassee. Please, please, please get into the internet, get whatever you can, and learn about what kind of legislations. Call your
representatives. Make sure that they're representing us here in the city of Orlando, that they're passing laws that go with our communities. All of a sudden, the government is being centralized and we need to continue to
be decentralized because your voice matters. So, please get involved. Please come to us. We we work uh Commissioner Stewart, Commissioner Burns, my many of us for that matter. ask us how to get involved or how to get with those
legislators in Tallahassee. And it's not only our delegation, it's other people in Tallahassee. A lot of people are making decisions that are not necessarily benefiting you. And you don't find out until after the legislations are passed. Some of these legislations affect us greatly. So,
let's get together. Let's work together. We have an academy. We have twomies actually. We have the mayor's academy and we have a government academy where we teach anything and everything that has to do with government. Please join us. Learn about how to do government and how to navigate government is so
important especially in this day and age. Um on December 5th, Harbor Park was rededicated in honor of former mayor Glenda Hood celebrating her leadership and lasting contributions to our city. [snorts] On the evening of December 5, I joined a Renaisser Foundation to
celebrate candle-like night nochce develas at the door community center, a cherished Colombian tradition. We had the honor of the performance by the Nucleus Symphonic Orchestra. It was wonderful. Um, and on December 6, I participated in the Hispanic Federation
Get Up, Get Moving event, which promotes health, wellness, and community engagement. and I appreciate her dedication to supporting families and encouraging healthier lifestyles, especially now that some of the programs, the government um federal government programs like SNAP have been affected and there's so many people out
there uh driving to Megan's meat uh in their households. So, and just to add to what Commissioner Burns was talking about in terms of housing, we're trying to do the best we can and
the with the monies that we are allocated the the the revenues that we have and and I'm glad for the mayor and for for the uh the staff and our council to have created that uh the fund for housing. Nonetheless, we still have to
fight Tallahassee to make sure that we get the proper allocation of for housing from the Saddowski fund. That fund was created to benefit those in need with housing with uh down payment assistant uh revitalization
of of of um housing also and apartment rents and whatnot. And the homeless that money every year the legislature redistributed in different ways and sometimes the the funds get ransacked
for other purposes. We can we got to stop that. That money was created to help our people, especially those who are having a lot of trouble with housing. So, let's let's work about let's work together on this and let's continue to make sure that the city of
Orlando keeps shining when it comes to all our people. God bless you guys. Thank you. >> Thank you, Commissioners. Commissioner Stewart, >> thank you. And thank you, Sam. I appreciate all that you doing that >> on my last meeting, right? >> On my last meeting. I'm sorry. I just
couldn't help it. Uh thank you very much. Um and thank you for everybody who's been very kind to me. I appreciate that, Jim. It's going to be uh gonna miss you, Jim. Uh and I'm looking forward to you finally inviting me to play golf down there. >> I know I'm on your list somewhere when
you get to it if you let me know. Uh, a couple things I want to share and I won't go too long I pro I promise. Uh, one is I want to say thank you to uh, those who are involved in Albert Park. We did the re renovation of Albert Park and did it uh, last week. Um, we also are doing the renovation of Dartmouth
Park and Dartmouth Park will be finished sometime in the next week or so. So, we will have two uh, I would call them big bookends but they're more like sisters uh, that will that will frame College Park. And I'm excited about that. along with that and and the Lake Fairview Park
and the park we did in Rosemont and park we've done Alto I mean and Ottabbon but I'm excited about doing that. Mayor, thank you for your leadership and and the renaming of Glenda of Harbor Park to Glenda Hood Park. Uh I think it's a wonderful tribute to a woman who devoted
her time and effort to Orlando and to cities continuing throughout the throughout the nation. I appreciate you recognizing that. So, thank you very much. Um, Dazzling Lights, uh, nights are going on over at Lou Gardens. If you hadn't had a chance to go, please get a chance to enjoy it. It's expanded from
where it was last year. Um, you can find that on, I think, uh, Lou Gardens website or on dazzling nights.com or.org, one of those two. Um, I want to say thank you those involved in Holiday on the Drive last week. Uh, we got that done in in College Park Main Street and
down Edgewater Drive. I appreciate that work. Also, thank you to the College Park Neighborhood Association for allowing me to spend so much time with them over the course of the past 20 years. I appreciate that. Last week, I got surprised by our uh College Park Neighborhood Center with a surprise good
retirement party done by all the kids that are over there. It was so sweet. Uh and it was especially for those who who may have gone to like Florida&M or something else that it was all Gator themed. I just wanted you to know. Um, so, um, so we, you know, mayor and I would have been very comfortable there.
All the rest of you guys, not quite so much. Um, but we had a great time. It was so sweet for them to do that for me. I appreciate it. I've shared earlier about Brenda March. Uh, Brenda is a was a wonderful friend of ours in Fender City. I got a chance to work with Brenda
u when I was at the Christian Service Center. got a chance to know her there and her commitment to the Fairmore community and then seeing the continued work with her and then work with her here has been something special. We will all miss her enthusi enthusiasm and we'll also miss her talking about
Steinway pianos for goodness sakes. I do love her but she's the only person who could talk me into giving money to Steinway pianos. I don't know why but she could do that. Um, coming up real quickly, I'll share with you the jingle jog. The YMCA over at uh the Groves uh
the um uh is going to have their jingle jog. So, it's going to be this Sunday at um I think 8:00 a.m. Um so, please it's a walk run over there, 5K walk run through the Groves. Um, on December 10th, we're creating a uh special
partnership with Lake Highland Preparatory School and the Orlando Fire Museum to begin to identify, recognize, and get stories about the memorabilia we have at the Fire Museum. You get a chance, get over there, that's open on Friday afternoon, I think Saturday and Sunday afternoon. So, um, get a chance
to go see the fire museum. It is really one of the top fire museums in the southeast, if not the entire country. So, get a chance to get over there. So, um, Rosemont Neighborhood Center is having a football banquet coming up. The packing district holiday social is
December 13th. Those are all on my website. Um, and I want to share that with you. On the an agenda today, we spent some uh effort into Lou Gardens and starting to work on the master plan. I appreciate everybody's input on that and love the opportunity to continue to
kind of be part of that as it moves forward. But it's really been special for us to get gather the community together. I had an opportunity to talk with news media just last week and I reminded that if we don't we we got to where we are today because we did a master plan 30 years ago. We revised the
master plan. We got to where we are today. I'm just excited about what's going to happen over the next 30 years with our new master plan and I appreciate everybody's input in that. Um let me kind of jump off something real quickly. So, um, Commissioner Sheen, are
you going to talk about the the calendar? >> You are? >> We can talk about >> Okay. Well, I just I just want to share one quick thing. I, uh, we have our calendar. Commissioner Sheen's going to share a little bit about it and we'll see a presentation. It's done sponsored by McCoy Federal Credit Union. There's
some calendars outside. Take one home with you. uh mayor when we had the opportunity to spend time with all of the artists and so I had them sign for you each artist sound a page um of the work that they've done as a gift to you
signed by the artist that uh that's my gift to you that to make sure that you uh are a constant reminder of it it's the first time that's been in color in many years but it's um uh as Richard Forbes says and thank you for his work is uh it's our painted ladies it's our
buildings that show color and throughout the entire community from PAR all the way down to Michigan I think right um so it's really been nice to be part of that and and we have a few from district three and obviously from out the entire
city so um and with that that's all that I have thank you very much oh wait one last thing I do want to share this with you on the agenda we have some of the mayor's matching grants and I want to just mention a couple that are in district three uh the central Florida vocal arts uh the lie down and stand up
group. Um the uh international fringe festival is in actually in three but start and it's we're all over between us three and four and five. Um Joshua's House Foundation and then uh let me share one with the Orlando family stage. I'm so thrilled about them and the work
that you all are doing. So thank you very much. And that's all I have. Mayor, thank you very much. >> Thank you, Commissioner. Commissioner Sheen. >> Well, thanks Mayor and uh Commissioner Stewart. I'm I I wore this jacket just for you today. [laughter] So, um I'm always festive. I love the holidays and um I fought for years to
get that tree at Lake Yiola. We used to do a commissioner's message every holiday and we used to put a live tree at Lake Yola and every year it would die. It would blow over the would break. It looked awful. And the one year they put that dead tree in the background of my commissioner's message. I had a fit.
And so after that, Thomas Chapman got that amazing tree and every year we added to it. So I just want to say that yeah everybody you know people like oh we don't want to spend money on that that has been a huge economic development to tour tool it brings so many people into downtown it has created
this whole amazing holiday David thank you for continuing Sherry for your for your leadership too it is a le it is an economic development tool so don't bust on our holiday decorations it makes a difference and it really it's it's beautiful and I love seeing it and uh I
also want to shout out to David and Frank the Clemwood Wood boys who brought their um they just finished doing decorating Eola House because it got overwhelming for the neighborhood. It was kind of like the Osborne lights and now it's at Lake Eola at beautiful Eiola House. Um I will forever miss Brenda
March. One of the last things she did was bring the Steinway piano lessons to Langford Park and uh what a tremendous loss to all of us. And uh you know rest in power my dear friend. Um, Commission, and I'd also like to say just a couple
words to my colleagues. Commissioner Gray, I have really admired your business acumen, and it is good to have a council with different strengths and and outlooks and opinions. That's a strong council. Um, you've been unfairly attacked for being too conservative. I
just want to point out that you were part of a unanimous support for transgender rights and you were also a tremendous advocate in the aftermath of Pulse. Um, unfortunately, super PACs have arrived at the city council level. They have really nice names like Save
Orlando and Citizens for Whatever. And then they write they do the most nasty negative attacks on people that are so unfair. I got it the last election, too. And it's just wrong. We shouldn't bring the dysfunction of Tallahassee and
Washington to Orlando. We have important work to do. And this partisan bickering is not going to get our streets paved, is not going to get our garbage picked up, and it's not going to get the work done. So, I would just like to say I appreciate your service. And I and and I
think it's important to have differences of opinion because you know what, where they've got rubber stamp uh councils across the nation, they've had a hard time getting the work done. I think it's important to have diversity of opinion. So, I just want to say thank you for your service and thank you for
everything that you've done um for me personally and professionally. Commissioner Stewart, we're the middle middle children. [laughter] Sometimes we argue a little bit. We like to tease each other. I really admire your advocacy for those less fortunate
and for kids and for families. and [clears throat] you've really made a live difference in the lives of so many and for your compassion your call for community compassion in the aftermath of pulse that will forever be something that you know that impacted our city but again your your your call for kindness
and compassion was very very important during that time public service isn't about riding in parades and cutting ribbons it's about the day in day out hard work and we sometimes we have to do a lot of
hard work for folks folks who really don't appreciate it. I often say a broke clock is right twice a day and sometimes people can be just mean as they can be, but they still deserve to have a level of service. And I appreciate the professionalism all of the all of you provide every single day. But I also
want to thank you all as you as you exit city hall. Know that you really did make a difference and I appreciate you from the bottom of my heart. Thank you very much. You are you are greatly appreciated. Um on the agenda today, I just had a couple things. Um I just want
to uh say thank you for staff. I know you've been working with United Against Poverty on some issues on their campus and master plan. That's a very they do very very important work. So thank you for that. And McCoy Federal Credit Union, they have been sponsoring the historic calendar and photo competition
for many many years. The funding actually got cut during the budget cuts that we had and I funded it for one year through my office and then McCoy stepped up and has done it year after year after year. So I just want to say thank you to them. It really is a beautiful calendar. It's in color this year. You can't do
painted ladies in in black and white. It just doesn't work. So it is it really is a beautiful calendar. And uh the last thing I have on the agenda today is the voyage tasting room. I know this was a funky weird corner in in in Thornton Park and I want to thank everybody that worked on it because it looked awful and
now we're going to have a new use come in there. It's going to look good and I just want to thank you because I know sometimes I bring you guys stuff that's a little funky and weird and crazy. But again, it's going to really redevelop a corner and I would just like to wish everyone whatever you whatever you celebrate or do not celebrate the
happiest holiday you possibly can have. um get together with your friends or chosen family or or your families um because you never know when they're not going to be around anymore. And uh I miss my mom every single day. And uh don't don't take your family for
granted. They you never know when you're not going to be there anymore. And with that, I'm going to move the agenda. Mayor, thank you. [snorts] >> Motion by Commissioner Sheen, second by Commissioner Rose. All in favor indicates so by saying I. >> Those opposed? And so the motion carries. Okay. Congratulations to
everybody that had something on the consent agenda. And if you were only here for your item on the consent agenda, now would be a really good time to take your leave while we take about a 30 second break for you to do that. >> I was going to mention
how you pronounce my name. >> What's that? Commissioner Commissioner every time you say my name Commissioner Stewart [laughter] I have fun with that Stewart.
Don't know why you say that but that's I'll never forget that. >> Okay we are going to recess the city council meeting and convene the CRA meeting. Uh first item of business is meeting minutes from the October 22nd 25
2025 CRA advisory board meeting. Is there a motion? >> Motion by Commissioner Sheen. Second by Commissioner Rose. All in favor indicate so by saying I. >> Those opposed and so the motion carries. All right. David, you want to take it from there?
>> I can. Mayor. Good afternoon, Mayor and commissioners. We have a number of items on the CRA today. a lot of businesses doing some uh improvement work to their buildings, which we're excited about, as well as some new businesses coming to downtown. Uh so 4B, uh this is the first of five facade grants uh that we have
for your review today. This one's specifically for 219 uh Lime Avenue. So that's in the Paramore area. Um it's south of Church Street, if you're familiar, of the northeast corner of Lime and Jackson. They're doing some exterior lighting, some roofing and fencing. The total cost of their work uh
is just shy of 53,000 uh for which they qualify for about $42,330 of assistance from the CRA. It did go to our November 6th uh advisory board for our facade committee and they recommended approval and I'm happy to
address any questions. >> Motion by Commissioner Rose. >> Second. >> Second by Commissioner Stewart. Discussion hearing none. All in favor of the motion indicate so by saying I. Those opposed. Motion carries. All right. C. >> Thank you, mayor. 4 C. This is another
facade grant. Uh this one for 620 East Colonial Drive. So that's the south side of Colonial between Capkart and Summerland. Uh this property owner is doing some facade improvements including uh walls, stucco panels, windows, and some work to their parking lot. Uh the
total cost of their work is $60,500. They qualify for 50% assistance from the CRA. Uh, so the total award could be $30,250. It as well went to the November 6th committee meeting and was recommended for approval. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Motion by Commissioner Sheen, second by
Commissioner Stewart. Discussion hearing none. All in favor of the motion indicates so by saying I. I. >> Those opposed. So the motion carries. >> D. For D, this is our facade grant for 27 East Pine Street. So that's right here
in the CBD. It's on the north side of Pine Street between Orange and Court or across the street from Chase Plaza if you're familiar with that. Uh that property owner is doing some tuck pointing masonry, new exterior doors, windows, signage, awnings, exterior lighting, roof replacement, and decking. So, a lot of work going into this
building. Total cost of the work is $255,477.80. Uh because of the area they are in, they qualify for 80% assistance from the CRA. So the award can be $179,478.40. Uh this went to a November 14th facade review committee meeting. It was
recommended for approval and I'm happy to address any questions. Second >> motion by Commissioner Rose, second by Commissioner Sheen. Discussion hearing none. All in favor of the motion indicates say by saying I. >> Those opposed. >> So the motion carries. E
>> 4E uh another facade grant. this one for 108 East Central Boulevard. Uh so this is on the south side of Central between Magnolia and Rosland, right across from the downtown library. Uh this particular property is doing uh an some eyebrow roof installation as well as some
exterior painting. Uh the total cost of the work there is $69,850. They qualify for assistance of up to $34,925. Uh this went to our November 6th committee meeting and was recommended for approval. >> Second. Motion by Commissioner Rose,
second by Commissioner Sheen. Discussion hearing none. All in favor, the motion indicates so by saying I. I. >> Those opposed? Motion carries. >> F. >> Thank you, mayor. For F, this is our our last uh facade uh agreement for today. This is for 898 East Washington Street.
So, over in Thornton Park. Uh this is the Voyage Tasting Room. So, uh this is the southwest corner of Washington and higher. Uh so, they are doing they're enclosing their storefront. They're also um doing some building cleaning, stuckle res stucco restoration, painting, exterior doors, windows, and exterior
lighting. Uh the total cost of the work is $139,692.58. Uh they qualify for assistance from the CRA of $69,84629. It went to our November 6th committee meeting and it was recommended for approval. >> Second.
>> Motion by Commissioner Sheen, second by Commissioner Stewart. discussion hearing. None. All in favor of the motion indicate so by saying I. >> I. >> Those opposed. So the motion carries. Okay. Let's move on to the restaurant program. >> There we go. We'll do, mayor. Uh so now we have three restaurant incentives uh
uh for you all to consider. The first of which item 4G. This is for DTO Hospitality LLC. Uh they are looking to open up a restaurant at 24 East Washington Street. Uh so that's the south side of Washington between Orange Avenue and Court across the street from the region's building. Uh specifically
here, uh they're looking to open a full-ervice restaurant, uh that will have 2400 square feet and 49 seats. Uh the business owner has five years of experience in the restaurant industry. The total cost of the work that they are are doing to improve that individual
establishment is $400,000. Uh that includes plumbing, flooring, mechanical, electrical, interior finishing, as well as wall work. Um, our program allows them to qualify for $120,000 of assistance towards those tenant improvements, which I referenced, in
addition to $50,000 in rental assistance for their first year of operations for a total award of $170,000. And I'm happy to address any questions. >> Second. >> Motion by Commissioner Rose, second by Commissioner Stewart. Discussion hearing none. All in favor indicate so by saying
I. Those opposed and so the motion carries. H. >> Thank you, mayor. For H, this is a restaurant program funding uh agreement uh for a business that's doing business as the Milkshake Factory in downtown Orlando. Uh this is in Paramore. So, it
is in the City View building, but if you're not familiar with where that building is located, it's the north side of Church Street uh between Terry and Division. Uh so, they signed a 10-year lease on that space. It's 1500 square ft. Uh and they were going to open a franchise ice cream shop uh that has 16
seats. Uh and it's going to be one of several different M milkshake factories that this uh specific franchisee is going to be opening up in the Orlando area. The overall buildout of the space uh is expected to cost $286,500. Uh they're doing upgrades to lighting,
full interior buildouts, uh and making some changes to ADA compliance, adding a grease trap, flooring, drywall, all the things that you need when you have a food and beverage establishment. Uh they qualify for assistance uh from the CRA program. uh for a total amount of
$71,418. Uh that's inclusive of both tenant improvement dollars as well as first year's rental expenses. >> Motion by Commissioner Rose, second by Commissioner Stewart. >> Excuse me. I I have one question. Um I I
wasn't aware that this is a franchise >> and so I thought there were some um regulations that didn't allow us to support franchises in this way. Is this a a franchise that was started locally or is it a national franchise?
>> The the CRA program does allow uh franchises to qualify. They do they are capped at a lower amount of assistance. So regardless of the franchise size, so the way our programs have it's a per square foot assistance uh based on the size of the space. So the maximum a
franchise can receive from the CRA 75,000. It's a little bit different than some of the city programs that do have different restrictions for franchises. >> Okay. Thank you. Yep. Absolutely. >> Further discussion hearing. None. All in favor of the motion indicates so by saying I. I.
>> Those opposed. Motion carries. >> And item I. >> Item I, the last item is another restaurant coming into downtown. This is for Auststeria Esther Orlando LLC. Uh so another establishment uh by the Salt Group uh from Jason and Sushin who we're
all very familiar with uh uh who were also referenced at state of downtown last year. So, they are opening up a new restaurant. Uh, it's the northwest corner of Central and Summerland over in Thornton Park. It's Thornton Park Central. Uh, many of us have probably been there over the years for a variety of different uh things that line that
entire building on both the Central and Summerland sides. Uh, so the total area of that restaurant is just over 4,000 square feet. Uh, um, the ownership group, as we all know, has over 18 years of experience. They own Sato Sushi, Sparrow, the Osprey, Reyes, as well as
the Monroe. Their overall buildout expenses for the space are $150,000, they qualify for 75,000 uh in assistance from the CRA towards those improvements, which includes plumbing, flooring, mechanical, electrical, as well as interior finishes. Uh in addition to
$25,000 in rental assistance for their first year for a total award of $100,000. >> Second. Motion by Commissioner Sheen, second by Commissioner Stewart. Discussion hearing none. All in favor of the motion indicates so by saying I.
>> Those opposed. Motion carries. All right, David. Any further business come before the CRA? >> That is all, ma'am. >> All right. Then as to the CRA, we will stand adjourned. We will reconvene the city council meeting. And that brings us to new business and the election of two
mayors pro Tim for one-year terms beginning January of 2026 and running through December of 2026. >> Yes, mayor. I'd like to move uh prom one for district 4 and prom 2 for district 2.
>> Okay. So, Commissioner Sheen for prom one and commissioner Ortiz for prom 2. Yes, ma'am. >> Second. >> Okay. Motion and a second. I'll accept that as a slate unless unless anybody has an objection to that.
>> Okay. Discussion. Commissioner Ortiz. >> Oh, no. That I was going to do what Commissioner [clears throat] Bur did. So, I appreciate that. >> Okay. Well, that sounds like a consensus then. All right. All in favor of the motion indicate so by saying I. >> I. Those opposed.
>> All right. Congratulations, Commissioner Sheen. Congratulations, Commissioner Ortiz. Yes, sir. >> Proms one and prom two. >> We will move to um item 9A, which is a hearing on the disposition of 1.6 acres
of vacant land on West Jefferson Street and the North Orange Blossom Trail. This is a public hearing for the sale of city-owned land valued in excess of $500,000 as required by chapter 13, section 7 of the city charter. Notice of the hearing was published in the Orlando
Sentinel on December 1st, 2025. And approval of this transaction will require a majority vote of all members of the city council. Properties located south of West Jefferson Street, north of Pulk Street, and east of the north and east of North Orange Blossom Trail in the Callahan neighborhood of the
Fairmore community. The estimated fair market value of the property is 1,544,000 based on an independent appraisal appraisal to encourage and incentivize much needed affordable housing. The proposed purchase price is $1. Per the city charter sale of city owned property
real property for a price below the estimated fair market value requires a specific good cause shown. Orin Henry, our director of housing, come give us a presentation on the good cause shown.
>> Uh good afternoon, mayor, commissioners, and uh everyone in attendance. Um as uh the mayor stated, this is uh property at uh on West Jefferson and Orange Blossom Trail. And uh here's a
site map just showing the location and the various parcels that make up this particular site. Uh and uh just to echo uh a little more of what the mayor's comments were. Uh we intend to sell the property to Blossom
Trail Housing Partners Limited Partnership. That's also known as the New Rock Companies. uh below the $1,544,000 appraised value for $1. Uh for good cause shown uh first is increase the
supply of much needed safe affordable housing to loan moderate income households. Also to increase the availability of permanent supportive housing and to foster uh community development that enhances the surrounding neighborhood.
uh the residents at Blossom Trail proposed and here you can see a uh uh rendering of what the building uh may ultimately look like. Uh and it's 140 affordable housing units. There is a mix
of bedrooms uh at various income levels, some at 30, some at 60, and some at 80%. And there will be one, two, and threebedroom units in the building. and I'm happy to answer any questions.
>> Questions? All right. Do we have a motion? This is in district five. >> Motion by Commissioner Rose, second by Commissioner Sheen. I don't have Madam Clerk. I don't have any requests for public comment. >> I have no speakers.
>> No speakers. Discussion hearing. None. All in favor of the motion indicate so by saying I. >> Those opposed. So the motion carries. Thank you all. >> Okay. Thank you. All right, madame clerk, you're up. Hearings, ordinances, first reading 11A.
>> Ordinance number 2025-46, an ordinance of the city council of the city of Orlando, Florida, annexing to the Jenny Juel Drive right ofway from Orange Avenue to South Roslin Avenue and to the South Rosen Avenue right ofway from Jenny Jewel Drive to Highway Place
vacated promised comprised of approximately 1.24 24 acres of land into the corporate limits of the city providing amendment to the city's boundary description and for the amendment of the city's official maps providing for servability correction
scrier's errors and an effective date >> motion by commissioner sheen second by commissioner >> Stewart >> you go again >> okay um discussion hearing done none all in favor of the motion indicates so by saying I
>> I those opposed motion She carries. Okay. Hearings. No, not hearings. Ordinances. Ordinances on first reading number one. Madam clerk. >> Ordinance number 2025-42. An ordinance of the city council of the city of Orlando, Florida. Amending the
state's growth management plan to change the future land use map designation for certain land generally located north of Park Lake Street, east of Highland Avenue, south of Mark Street, and west of Broadway Avenue comprised of 0.56 acres of land more or less from office low intensity
to residential medium intensity deleting sub area policy S.14.7 providing for amendment of the city's growth management plan providing for severability correction of scrier's error and an effective date. So move. >> Motion by Commissioner Stewart, second
by Commissioner Ortiz. I don't have any requests for public participation. Discussion hearing none. All in favor of the motion indicates so by saying I. I. >> Those opposed. Motion carries. 13B. Madame clerk. >> Ordinance number 2025-43. An ordinance
of the city council of the city of Orlando, Florida annexing to the corporate limits of the city certain land and generally located north of East Michigan Street, east of Mayor Street, west of Brown Avenue and south of East Crystal Lake Avenue and comprised of 0.32 acres of land more or less
providing for servability correction of scrier's error and an effective date. >> Second motion by Commissioner Sheen, second by Commissioner Stewart. I have no request for public participation discussion. None. All in favor, the motion indicates so by saying I. I.
Those opposed. Motion carries. 13 C. Ordinance number 2025-44, an ordinance of the city council of the city of Berland of Florida, amending the city's birth management plan, designating certain land generally located north of East Michigan Street, east of Mayor Street, west of Brown Avenue, and south of East Crystal Lake
Avenue as residential low inensity on the city's official land use maps and designating the property as one family residential with the tra with the traditional city overlay district on the city's official zoning maps providing for amendment city's official future land use and zoning maps. providing for
serverability, correction of scrivener's errors, permit disclaimer, and an effective date. >> Motion by Commissioner She and second by Commissioner Stewart. I have no request for public participation discussion hearing none. All in favor, the motion indicates so by saying I.
>> Those opposed. Motion carries. 13D. Ordinance number 2025-45, an ordinance of the city council of the city of Orlando, Florida, reszoning certain land generally located north of Park Lake Street, east of Highland Avenue, south of Mark Street and west of
Broadway Avenue, and comprised of 2.2 2 acres of land more or less from lowintensity office residential with the traditional city overlay district to the plan development with the traditional city overlay district providing a development plan and special land development regulations of the plan development district providing for
servability correction scrier's errors permit disclaimer and an effective date. So move second. >> Last motion ever by Commissioner Stewart. >> I can do one more. >> Second. >> No, we're going to let Gray have
>> um second. >> Well, well, usually Commissioner Gray has half of the ordinances [laughter] and today. How about that? Okay. There was a motion by Commissioner Stewart, second by
Commissioner Ortiz. No public participation discussion hearing. None. All in favor of the motion indicates so by saying I. I. >> Those opposed and so the motion carries. Congratulations, Commissioner Stewart. Good advocacy for that ordinance. Okay.
13E. Ordinance number 2025-47, an ordinance of the city council of city of Orlando, Florida, relating to the procurement of goods, services, and supplies providing for the creation of a small and local business enterprise preference and the suspension of chapter
7, article 2, section 7.1101 and chapter 57, articles 2 and three, related to the minority and women business enterprise and providing for servability, codification, correction, scrier's errors, and an effective date. Mayor, >> how about district one?
>> I've done enough. >> Yeah, we can do. Commissioner Gray, you're recognized. >> Motion to approve. >> Commissioner second. >> Second. >> Motion by the commissioner from district one. Second from the commissioner for district three. Is there discussion? I
will mention one thing that we have been working collaboratively with the county to try to have um consistent policies related to the creation of the small and local business preference programs so that there could be potentially
reciprocity and so that our small and local businesses won't have to go through the red tape of different types of policies at the city and the county. And I would hope to enlist the uh airport and the expressway authority to try to go along and everybody be
consistent on their policies and Stacy's been working on this. So thank you for that. Okay, further discussion hearing none. All in favor of the motion indicate so by saying I. I. Those opposed. And so the motion carries. Okay. Ed, could you let us get us ready
for general appearance? [snorts] >> [music] [music] [music] [music] [music]