A group of children cool off on a hot summer day at the Fort Gatlin Recreation Complex.

MAYOR DEMINGS' DIGEST

Greetings,

I hope this message finds you well. As we enter the month of July, I want to take a moment to welcome you all to this exciting time of year. With the summer season in full swing, there are many events and activities taking place throughout our community. I also hope you had a wonderful time celebrating our nation’s independence on the Fourth of July and had a chance to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy.

From concerts and festivals to farmers markets and theme parks, there is something for everyone in Orange County. I am proud of the vibrant and diverse community we have built here, and I know many of you will take advantage of everything we have to offer.

For families who are exploring our community’s parks, outdoor spaces, natural lands and culture attractions, don’t forget to take advantage of our state’s Freedom Summer Sales Tax Holiday. Florida consumers can make tax-free purchases on qualifying outdoor activity supplies, as well as admissions to entertainment and cultural events until September 4, 2023.

I thank you for reading this newsletter. It is a privilege to be your mayor,

WFTV | Tourism Workers Complete ESOL Program

WESH | Citizens Safety Task Force Recommendations

Other Orange County News:

• Hurricane Expo Helps Residents Prepare for Hurricane Season
• Mayor Demings Delivers 2023 State of the County Address
• Orange County Expands ESOL Pilot Program
• Mental Health and Behavioral Services Expanded in Orange County
• Largest Active Shooter Training Event Held in Orange County

Did you know Orange County’s fertilizer rules help keep fertilizer runoff from rain out of our lakes, rivers and springs? There are many ways to green up your yard without greening up our natural waters with algae. Skip the nitrogen fertilizer during the rainy summer months from June 1 to September 30.

Visit Orange County’s Fertilize Responsibly web page to learn more about the ordinance.

Orange County Library System July Events

July 2023

July is full of events at the Orange County Library System. Find a virtual or in-person event at a branch near you.

Hispanic Heritage Month: Call For Artists

July 2023

Calling all Central Florida artists! Submit your original artwork inspired by Hispanic heritage and culture for the annual Hispanic Heritage Month Art Exhibit.

Adopt-A-Tree: Fort Christmas

July 15, 2023

Join us at Fort Christmas Historical Park from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. or until supplies last. Residents can take home two trees per household for free with proof of residency.

Sensory Sunday: Retro and Roadside Wonders

July 17, 2023

Join the Orange County Regional History Center for sensory-friendly fun for the whole family. Learn how retro and roadside attractions have helped shape our community.

Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday

July 24-August 6, 2023

Consumers can purchase qualifying back-to-school supplies exempt from tax during the 2023-2024 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday.

Join the conversation about our future! Vision 2050, our new comprehensive plan, will guide our next phase of growth. The plan strives to protect natural resources and habitats, respect the diversity and character of established communities, increase transportation choices, encourage housing that meets the needs of every family, and shape connected vibrant places.

Learn more about Vision 2050 by attending one of our upcoming Town Hall meetings in your area.

Upcoming Town Hall Meetings

Visit the Interactive Map

Learn More About Vision 2050

Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 through November 30. Make sure you family is prepared before, during and after a storm. Visit ocfl.net/Storm or Ready.gov for helpful emergency tips.

National Park and Recreation Month

Parks help build strong, vibrant and resilient communities. Enjoy one of Orange County’s more than 100 parks, boat ramps, trails, recreation centers and natural lands.

Find a location near you: ocfl.net/Parks

Smart Irrigation Month

Orange County Utilities, in partnership with UF/IFAS Extension Orange County, offers Efficient Irrigation classes to maintain a healthy, environmentally friendly landscape.

Register now: http://bit.ly/SIM2023-Classes