Mayor Jerry L. Demings 2025 State of Orange County Address
Orange County has celebrated a year of remarkable achievements, record-breaking tourism numbers and strong economic growth. Even as we faced challenges, we remained focused on efficiency in government. Today’s highlights show how Orange County is “Building Better Through Efficiency.”
Fiscal Responsibility and Economic Health
Because of fiscal prudence, Orange County maintains the highest credit ratings in Florida. With the lowest tax rate among Florida’s counties with more than one million residents — and the 11th lowest statewide — we’re committed to keeping taxes low and our budget balanced. Even amid economic headwinds, we continue to make careful decisions to ensure stability.
Affordable Housing and Community Investment
Orange County continues to invest in affordable housing, committing $160 million to workforce and affordable housing initiatives. Last year, we approved $32 million for seven developments, and this year we opened or broke ground on more than 900 new units. Our community is also benefiting from the Financial Empowerment Centers, a first-of-its-kind program in Florida offering free financial counseling to residents and workers.
Transportation and Mobility
With over 800 people moving to Orange County each week, we’re preparing for growth through Vision 2050 and Orange Code — frameworks to guide development sustainably. Our Accelerated Transportation Safety Program (ATSP) has completed more than 60 projects, including 14 miles of sidewalk, new roadway lighting and enhanced safety measures. We’ve invested $55 million to improve LYNX transit, leading to a 35 percent increase in ridership. The Board also funded a study on extending SunRail and contributed to Brightline’s success in connecting millions of passengers across Florida.
Innovation and Technology
For 20 years, Orange County has leveraged artificial intelligence to prevent cyber intrusion attempts and enhance services. Our partnership with Plug and Play continues to drive innovation, with local and international startups bringing cutting-edge solutions to our community.
Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness
Orange County dedicates nearly $1 billion annually to public safety. The Orange County Fire Rescue Department’s new $52 million training center ensures our firefighters are ready for any emergency. Our commitment to efficient service delivery extends to programs like the Orlo Vista Flood Mitigation project, which successfully protected residents during Hurricane Milton.
Community Services and Health
Orange County leads the region in supporting the homeless, investing more than $56 million this year in housing, mental health and healthcare. Our Medical Clinic celebrated 30 years of service, providing care to more than 10,000 uninsured and underinsured residents annually. Through a partnership with Undue Medical Debt, we eliminated over $472 million in medical debt, offering relief to more than 310,000 residents.
Environmental Stewardship
We’re committed to doubling the amount of protected land in the next decade, preserving 23,000 additional acres of sensitive lands. The County also updated its Wetland Protection Ordinance and boasts Central Florida’s largest ground-mounted solar array, offsetting facility energy costs by 60 percent and saving $400,000 annually.
Arts, Culture and Community Spirit
Orange County’s investment in the arts has grown to more than $35 million — three times the national average. Our County proudly supports more than 40 arts organizations and major events like Fusion Fest and the ACT Awards. We also honor our diverse communities, from celebrating Vietnam Veterans to investing in new community centers like the $10 million Tangelo Park Community Center.
Tourism and Economic Development
Tourism continues to thrive, with 75.3 million visitors generating nearly $93 billion in economic impact. We recently celebrated Universal’s grand opening of EPIC Universe, where Orange County issued 1,500 permits and conducted 34,000 inspections efficiently, saving 300 workdays. Our support for the Orange County Convention Center and events like the NFL Pro Bowl and the Florida Classic boosts the local economy and enhances our community’s visibility.
Celebrating Our Employees and Looking Ahead
Our 8,000 County employees continue to provide vital services and set new fundraising records, raising $1.4 million for United Way. Their dedication earned regional, state and national awards for innovative programs and processes. We’re proud of their achievements and remain committed to building a better Orange County through efficiency, innovation and service.
Orange County is, indeed, a great place to live, work and play.