Mayor Nick Nesta at the Apopka Homeless Resources Town Hall in September 2026

Nesta: Progress takes time, but the work has started

Apopka Mayor Nick Nesta says his first six months in office have focused on improving communication, supporting city employees, and reorganizing City Hall. In this op-ed, he addresses residents’ concerns about sidewalks, roads, traffic, and water service while outlining plans to review utility finances and impact fees.

DRC to review redevelopment plans and Trader Maes Christmas Festival

The Apopka Development Review Committee will review two construction site plans and a proposed Trader Maes Christmas Festival at its October 14 meeting. The meeting begins at 9 am in the Apopka City Hall Commission Chambers.

Dirt bike riders line up for a race at the Pax Trax MX motocross track in Bunnell. Volusia County officials want to build their own motocross track on land that was bought for conservation. The owner says the new Volusia track would put Pax Trax out of business.

Volusia County motocross proposal sparks fight over conservation land

Volusia County’s proposal to build a motocross facility on land purchased with conservation funding has drawn opposition and a lawsuit. In this commentary, Craig Pittman examines the environmental concerns, financial questions, and competing interpretations of what voters intended the land-buying program to accomplish.

Children play at RCMA Bowling Green Daycare Center on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, in Bowling Green, Florida. Citrus and fruit were the founding industries of Bowling Green and Hardee County.

Amendment 3 could squeeze children’s programs despite school funding exemption

Florida’s public school districts are exempt from Amendment 3’s proposed property tax reduction, but programs supporting their students could still face substantial cuts. Children’s services leaders warn that reduced local revenue could mean fewer after-school opportunities, higher family fees and added pressure on school budgets.

APD reports 10 burglaries for October 4-10

The Apopka Police Department reported 10 burglaries during the week of Oct. 4-10, including five residential, three vehicle, and two commercial incidents. The weekly list includes two residential reports on Stonechapel Court and two vehicle burglary reports on Nicole Lee Circle.

Development hearings, Friday football, and a family event at Camp Wewa highlight Apopka’s calendar

Development hearings, conservation office hours, and Camp Wewa activities highlight Apopka’s schedule for October 13–18. Apopka hosts Timber Creek Friday night, while Wekiva has no varsity game listed this week.

Planning Commission to consider daycare proposal and Sir Arthur Court rezoning

The Apopka Planning Commission will hold public hearings Tuesday on a proposed Chandler Road daycare center and a rezoning request involving three Sir Arthur Court properties. The meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall, with opportunities for residents to comment on both proposals.

Orange County confirms two more local dengue cases, plans aerial mosquito spraying

Two additional locally acquired dengue cases have brought Orange County’s total to five, according to the Florida Department of Health in Orange County. Health officials and Orange County Mosquito Control are expanding prevention efforts, including planned aerial spraying in affected communities.

The other housing crisis: How neglected repairs erode affordable housing

The housing crisis involves more than the need to build new homes: Deferred maintenance also pushes existing affordable housing out of use. Contributors to “The Other Housing Crisis” argue that targeted repair assistance can preserve homes while reducing health problems, energy costs, and displacement.

Florida households are projected to pay an additional $630 per year for energy by 2035 and $710 by 2040 under federal energy policies enacted since January 2025, according to an Energy Innovation analysis.

Analysis projects higher energy bills, job losses for Florida under federal policy changes

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

In Case You Missed It: Code violations, Flock cameras, and South Apopka annexation

A rejected code-enforcement settlement, concerns about Flock cameras and a South Apopka annexation proposal brought major community issues before city commissioners. Catch up on those stories, plus Matthew’s Hope’s possible expansion, development questions at Kelly Park and Mayor Nick Nesta’s perspective on city employees.

A rivalry separated by just eight miles returned Friday night as Apopka scored a touchdown and converted a two-point attempt in the final minute to defeat Lake Brantley 21-15 in front of a homecoming crowd.

Apopka rallies late to beat Lake Brantley 21-15 on homecoming night

Apopka erased a fourth-quarter deficit with a touchdown in the final minute to defeat Lake Brantley 21-15 on homecoming night. Kai Goodling connected with Ceon Cotton for the decisive score and a two-point conversion as the neighboring programs renewed their rivalry.

Orange County seeks input on housing and community development priorities

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

Her name was Noelle: The story behind Apopka's Red Ribbon Spooktacular

Project Noelle’s Red Ribbon Spooktacular will bring costumes, contests, and a drug-prevention message to the Apopka Community Center on October 24. Behind the free family event is a nonprofit founded by Keli Clark after her daughter’s overdose death, dedicated to helping children affected by a parent’s addiction.

Could Matthew’s Hope be the next chapter in Apopka’s fight against homelessness?

Matthew’s Hope already serves people experiencing homelessness in Apopka four days a week through mobile outreach and transportation to Winter Garden. Founder Scott Billue hopes to expand that presence with a local service center and access to a sleeper bus, but funding, property, and partnership arrangements remain unresolved.

Flock camera debate puts privacy concerns before city commission

Residents urged the Apopka City Commission to reconsider its use of Flock license plate reader cameras, raising concerns about privacy, data handling, and tracking people’s movements.

City Commission rejects $30,000 settlement for longstanding code violations on apartment complex

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

City Commission advances South Apopka annexation proposal toward 2028 ballot

Former Apopka City Commissioner Alexander H. Smith speaks during the South Apopka annexation discussion: “That (Dowdell) lawsuit was 45 years ago, and here we are 45 years later still discussing the same issue. Our excuse for the past 8 years was that we needed to get this study done; now that it’s feasible, we no longer have an excuse.”

The Apopka City Commission unanimously voted to advance the proposed annexation of South Apopka toward county consideration and a March 2028 referendum. Commissioners debated a projected $5.5 million funding gap, while historian Francina Boykin presented a petition opposing annexation.

DRC raises concerns over Crossroads at Kelly Park plans

Apopka’s Development Review Committee raised concerns about the Crossroads at Kelly Park commercial layout and its connection to a roadway funding agreement. The committee also reviewed upcoming events, including the Apopka Christmas Parade, K92.3’s Jingle Jam, and a Bee Gees tribute fundraiser.

DRC to review 363 apartments, Kelly Park projects and Crescent Ridge subdivision

The Apopka Development Review Committee will consider several residential projects Wednesday, including 363 apartments at The Ridge and the second phase of Crescent Ridge. Two Kelly Park Road proposals, a seven-lot subdivision and six special events, are also on the agenda.

OP/ED: Energy choice starts with giving people options

Energy decisions should work like other choices families and businesses make based on their needs, priorities, and budgets, according to Lake Apopka Natural Gas District CEO Brent Haywood. During Public Natural Gas Week, Haywood argues that preserving natural gas infrastructure gives current and future Apopka residents another option rather than requiring them to use it.

CRA extension, South Apopka annexation study headline City Commission agenda

The Apopka City Commission will review the South Apopka annexation feasibility study results and consider extending the Community Redevelopment Agency at its October 7 meeting. The agenda also includes a 502-home development plan, a 55-home rezoning proposal, and three separate annexation requests.

Nesta projects millions in Apopka revenue losses if Amendment 3 passes

Apopka Mayor Nick Nesta said Amendment 3 could reduce city revenue by $7 million in its first year and $11.5 million in its second. Speaking alongside four other municipal leaders, he discussed potential effects on city services and residents’ expectations.

CRA advances downtown projects, removes pedestrian upgrades from budget

The Apopka CRA’s latest project report shows progress on downtown amenities, housing renovations, and a proposed homeless resource center. However, the fiscal year 2027 budget removed two pedestrian improvement projects due to inactivity, while the master plan update and the second phase of the Downtown Apopka Trail remain pending.

Peanut Butter Challenge returns to fight hunger; Orange County looks to build on winning effort

The annual Peanut Butter Challenge is collecting donations to stock local food pantries, and Orange County hopes to expand its impact after winning last year’s competition. Residents can donate sealed, unexpired peanut butter at participating Extension offices during October, with collections continuing into November in some counties.

South Apopka annexation study finds path forward, but substantial costs remain

A feasibility study finds that annexing South Apopka is legally and physically achievable, but estimates approximately $30.5 million in capital needs for police, fire, and public services. The City Commission will discuss the report on October 7 and consider a procedural step needed to keep a possible March 2027 referendum on track.

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DRC flags access and infrastructure concerns in 165-home proposals

Apopka’s Development Review Committee recommended denying two residential submissions totaling 165 proposed homes and lots because access, safety, and infrastructure questions remain unresolved.

DRC to review housing lots, charter school revision and community park

Apopka’s Development Review Committee will consider residential plans, a charter school revision and an amenity park Wednesday morning. The agenda also includes access roads near State Road 429 and applications for three community events.

UF study finds dengue-transmitting mosquito species common in residential yards

A University of Florida study found the primary mosquito species capable of transmitting dengue was more common than researchers expected in residential yards in Indian River County. Participants frequently reported bites while gardening and walking dogs, highlighting how everyday activities close to home can bring people into contact with mosquitoes.

Flu season is near – here’s a guide to available vaccines

Several flu vaccine options are available, including a new one that’s mRNA-based, the first of its kind.

Flu activity is beginning to increase in parts of the United States, although national levels remain low. With the season approaching, an epidemiologist outlines available vaccines and explains why getting vaccinated before widespread transmission matters.

Florida Open Enrollment: Check doctor networks before choosing a health plan

Open enrollment for 2027 ACA coverage begins November 1. Enrollment assisters said the first step is checking whether your primary physician will still be in-network next year.

Floridians comparing health coverage for 2027 should confirm that their doctors are in-network and their prescriptions are covered. Experts also recommend starting early and weighing deductibles, copays, and coinsurance alongside monthly premiums.

Free, low-cost mammograms coming to Apopka

The Mammolink Mammography bus will visit Apopka on October 29 to provide free or low-cost breast cancer screenings for eligible women. The mobile unit will be at the Community Health Center, 225 E. Seventh St., from 8 am to 4 pm.

Orange County launches Green PLACE Hiking Spree with 40 trails to explore

Orange County’s Green PLACE Hiking Spree invites residents to explore 40 trails and earn rewards for completing three, 10, 15, or more hikes. The program runs through Earth Day, April 22, 2027, and also offers free monthly guided hikes.

AAA: Two-thirds of Florida adults have seen children ride e-bikes or e-scooters without helmets

A survey from AAA found that 66% of Florida adults have seen children riding e-bikes or e-scooters without helmets, while 83% support helmet requirements. AAA urges riders to wear properly fitted helmets certified for their devices' speed and capabilities.

Survey finds mental health concerns remain high among young adults

In a UnitedHealthcare survey, 62% of college students and young adults not enrolled in college reported a mental or behavioral health concern in the past year. Dr. Danielle Madril recommends open conversations, careful use of AI tools, and greater awareness of professional and community resources.

Florida Blue Foundation awards $3.1 million to combat food insecurity

The Florida Blue Foundation is awarding $3.1 million to eight community-based initiatives addressing food insecurity across the state. The programs will serve students, farmworkers, uninsured residents, people experiencing homelessness, and rural communities.

Two dengue cases confirmed in the Apopka area

Health officials have confirmed two additional locally acquired dengue fever cases in the Apopka area, prompting a mosquito alert for Orange County. Mosquito Control is expanding surveillance and targeted treatment in Apopka, Pine Hills, and other parts of the county.

Orange County adds faster testing for mosquito-borne illnesses

Orange County Mosquito Control has added new laboratory technology to detect viruses in mosquito samples more quickly. The PCR testing capability could deliver same-day results, reduce costs, and improve mitigation efforts.

AdventHealth grant helps Quest expand transportation access for people with developmental disabilities

Quest, Inc. has been selected as a 2026 AdventHealth grant partner to help reduce transportation barriers for people with developmental disabilities. The funding will allow the Central Florida nonprofit to enhance its accessible transportation fleet and improve connections to healthcare services.

Orange County Mayor shares prostate cancer journey, urges men to get screened

Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings is sharing his experience with Stage 1 prostate cancer to encourage men to discuss screening and risk factors with their doctors. After undergoing surgery earlier this year, Demings says early detection gave him more treatment options and helped save his life.

Nesta: Taking care of Apopka means taking care of our employees too

In this opinion column, Apopka Mayor Nick Nesta says that protecting taxpayers and supporting city employees are compatible goals. He outlines his rationale for restructuring leadership and urges a thorough review of spending before reducing services residents depend on.

APD reports arrests on carjacking, sexual battery, and aggravated assault charges

Apopka police reported arrests involving carjacking, sexual battery, aggravated assault, DUI, and other charges during the week of September 27 through October 3. The department also recorded 1,587 calls for service, 53 citations, and 35 crashes.

FPL partnership provides Florida firefighters training on battery storage systems

Florida Power & Light and the Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association are partnering to train first responders on battery energy storage systems. More than 200 firefighters and emergency personnel have completed the program this year as FPL expands its use of battery storage across Florida.

APD responds to five burglaries during the week

The Apopka Police Department reported five burglaries the week of September 27 through October 3: three vehicle burglaries, one residential burglary, and one commercial burglary.

Flock cameras have popped up across Florida, especially in metro areas.

Florida’s Flock camera restrictions leave privacy questions for Apopka drivers

Florida’s restrictions on automated license plate readers along state highways have brought new attention to how the technology is used in Apopka. While APD says the cameras help solve crimes and locate missing or wanted people, questions remain about data retention, outside access and oversight.

A Florida wetland cypress dome, via Everglades National Park. Developers have tried tor years get DEP put in charge of issuing federal wetlands permits, but judges have ruled that that system violates the Endangered Species Act.

Congressional wetlands bill could affect development review in Apopka

A congressional proposal could return federal wetlands permitting authority to Florida, potentially changing one layer of environmental review for developments in Apopka. The issue has a local connection as city officials recently reviewed wetland mitigation associated with the Bronson Lake Drive extension at The Ridge.

South Apopka’s annexation study and proposed changes at City Hall led a busy week of local news. Also making headlines were a proposed resource center, infrastructure concerns surrounding 165 homes and more than 30 Apopka firefighters who completed the Tunnel to Towers run despite a storm.

In case you missed it: Annexation costs, City Hall changes and Apopka firefighters’ resolve

South Apopka’s annexation study and proposed City Hall changes made for a busy week of local news. Also making headlines were a proposed resource center, infrastructure concerns surrounding 165 homes, and more than 30 Apopka firefighters who completed the Tunnel to Towers run despite a storm.

Neil Goldberg’s donation supports reading programs, a student costume design contest, school arts funding, and opportunities to attend live holiday theater.

OCPS partnership expands arts and literacy opportunities for students

Orange County Public Schools students will get new opportunities to read, create, and experience live theater during the 2026–27 school year through a collaboration between the Foundation for Orange County Public Schools and POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance (PSC).

Nesta proposes Apopka government restructuring; former campaign manager expresses interest in chief of staff role

Apopka Mayor Nick Nesta outlined a proposed government restructuring that includes chief of staff and chief utilities officer positions during Monday’s town hall. His former campaign manager, Brian Mater, said he would consider the chief of staff opportunity, while Nesta said the positions would be posted publicly.

Burglary, weapons and assault charges highlight Apopka’s weekly arrest report

The APD listed burglary, weapons, assault, and drug charges among the arrests reported Sept. 20–26. The department also recorded 1,680 calls for service, 58 citations, and 31 crashes.

Insurance costs eclipse property tax worries for Central Florida homeowners

Property insurance is a bigger worry than property taxes for 62% of Central Florida homeowners, according to a new University of North Florida poll. The survey also found widespread dissatisfaction with insurance reforms and substantial premium increases.

APD responds to burglaries at a business, a home and two vehicles

Apopka police responded to four burglary incidents during the week of Sept. 20–26. The reports involved a business, a residence, and two vehicles.

Florida county officials try to eliminate public comment on development

Pine Island is a coastal area in Lee County that retains a rural flavor and lots of natural beauty, but developers want to change that.

Lee County residents organized against a sweeping growth-plan rewrite they said was rushed, poorly publicized, and designed to diminish their influence over development. Their successful opposition is especially relevant in Apopka, where the placement, livestreaming, and official recording of public comments have sparked controversy.

Apopka Historical Society President Maribel Brinkle welcomes the vision presented in Building Downtown Apopka but argues that the city cannot afford to spend another seven years planning its future. She calls for a proposed downtown museum complex designed to generate activity and revenue.

Letter to the Editor: Downtown Apopka needs action, not another seven years of planning

Maribel Brinkle welcomes the vision presented in Building Downtown Apopka but argues that the city cannot afford to spend another seven years planning its future. She calls for immediate economic-development leadership and consideration of a proposed downtown museum complex designed to generate activity and revenue.

Downtown Apopka 2033? Apopka should use the CRA’s proposed seven-year extension to plan and pursue a transformative civic complex without placing it ahead of urgent public-safety projects. A modern library, events center, history center, and civic plaza could become the defining destination, connecting downtown’s existing investments and encouraging private development.

Opinion: Could a civic campus become downtown Apopka’s missing centerpiece?

Apopka should use the CRA’s proposed seven-year extension to plan and pursue a transformative civic complex without placing it ahead of urgent public-safety projects. A modern library, events center, history center, and civic plaza could become the defining destination, connecting downtown’s existing investments and encouraging private development.

Downtown Greenville, SC: Cities near Apopka’s size have transformed their downtowns by concentrating public resources around distinctive parks, cultural facilities, and civic destinations. Their experiences show that Apopka must move beyond disconnected improvements and decide what kind of downtown it intends to create.

Opinion: Successful downtowns begin when cities decide to build something consequential- Part 2

Cities near Apopka’s size have transformed their downtowns by concentrating public resources around distinctive parks, cultural facilities, and civic destinations. Their experiences show that Apopka must move beyond disconnected improvements and decide what kind of downtown it intends to create.

Opinion: Apopka’s CRA has the money... now it needs a transformative mission - Part 1

The Apopka CRA has completed meaningful trail, housing, park, and pedestrian projects while accumulating approximately $6.13 million in reserves and carryover funding. As the agency seeks seven more years to complete its work, it must connect those investments through a measurable strategy centered on creating a recognizable downtown destination.

The Price of Saying No: Apopka cannot have a bare-bones budget without feeling the cuts

Apopka’s elected officials want to keep the millage rate low while preserving community programs, filling staff vacancies, and addressing years of deferred needs. Eventually, they must acknowledge that rejecting recurring revenue means cutting services, drawing on reserves, or letting today’s problems become tomorrow’s more expensive emergencies.

Opinion: Apopka’s CRA has the money... now it needs a transformative mission - Part 1

The Apopka CRA has completed meaningful trail, housing, park, and pedestrian projects while accumulating approximately $6.13 million in reserves and carryover funding. As the agency seeks seven more years to complete its work, it must connect those investments through a measurable strategy centered on creating a recognizable downtown destination.

Leadership Beyond the Likes: When Doing What is Right Means Standing Alone

Social-media reactions, headlines, and popular opinion cannot replace a careful understanding of the consequences of government decisions. True leadership means remaining grounded in faith, treating residents and businesses fairly, and accepting that doing what is right may sometimes require standing alone. OP/ED by Apopka City Commissioner Nadia Anderson.

At Matthew’s Hope, service comes without conditions

After being challenged to exclude and denounce members of the LGBTQ+ community, Matthew’s Hope founder Scott Billue reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to serving everyone without discrimination. He believes that Christian faith is demonstrated not through judgment, but through unconditional compassion and a willingness to do difficult work.

Small town street-safety project offers lessons in working around local constraints

Street-safety advocates in Ivins, Utah, faced a series of unusual restrictions that eliminated many traditional options for making a school-area roundabout safer. Instead of abandoning the effort, they focused on the underlying goal of slowing traffic and developed a less expensive pilot project using painted curb extensions.

8 personal banking tasks you should automate to save time and money

Mercury reports on automating personal banking tasks to save time and money, highlighting eight tasks like automatic savings and payment setups.

How a smarter home can help families reclaim their time

(BPT) - It's a Thursday evening at home, and all you want to do is relax with your family. However, the mental list of possible to-dos stops you from being fully present with your loved ones. …

10 best cities to rent rather than own a house in 2026

TheZebra.com reports that Salt Lake City, Denver, and Austin are among the top 10 U.S. cities where renting is more affordable than buying.

6 Ways to Create a More Sustainable Bathroom

(Feature Impact) Conserving water, energy and resources is key to running an environmentally friendly household, and one of the best places to start is your bathroom. As one of the most frequently used rooms in the house, it's a small space that makes a big difference. Every flush, shower, twist of the tap and restock of restroom essentials is an opportunity to manage your ecological footprint.