Local News in Orange County
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Orange County 407 storiesWiden to Greater Orlando

A child’s ZIP code can shape the risk of being shot in Florida
More than 4,000 Florida children were hospitalized with firearm injuries from 2018 through 2024, with a small number of ZIP codes accounting for a disproportionate share of the cases. Orange County's 32805 ZIP code recorded the state's highest rate.

UF/IFAS invites public to explore plant research at Apopka field day
UF/IFAS will host a free Landscape, Nursery, and Controlled Plant Production Field Day on September 16 at its Mid-Florida Research and Education Center in Apopka. Visitors can tour the facilities, meet researchers, and explore work involving horticulture, controlled-environment…

OCPS cuts $8.5 million after enrollment falls nearly 8,000 students
In a memo sent to families Tuesday night, Orange County Public Schools said it is making another $8.5 million in budget cuts after its 10-day enrollment count last week showed about 7,672 fewer students than projected.

John Morgan boasts about recording staff at home, a policy that pushed 23 employees to quit
While billionaire Orlando attorney John Morgan’s law firm fights to protect the rights of U.S. workers, Morgan revealed last week that he’s not above creating a surveillance state for his own workforce. Speaking to hosts of the podcast “Iced Coffee Hour,” Morgan said that when…

Florida football teams adjust early morning practice, avoiding dangerous heat
Their record isn’t the only thing that’s hot. Practice in the afternoon has had dangerous temperatures, forcing teams adjust how they prepare for the big game.

Anna Eskamani Is Handing Orlando Teens the Mic Tonight in Mills 50
Florida State Representative Anna Eskamani is inviting some of Orlando’s younger residents to tell Tallahassee what’s actually on their minds tonight. Eskamani will host a Teen Town Hall from 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3, at The Burrow Cafe and Play, 618 N. Mills Avenue. The…

City Commission to consider $228.9 million tentative budget, millage rate Thursday
The Apopka City Commission will consider a $228.85 million tentative budget and a 4.6761-mill property tax rate during a public hearing Thursday. The compromise rate ended two earlier deadlocks, but commissioners can still reduce taxes or adjust spending before the final…

Joyce Boudoin appointed interim Orange County clerk following Moore Russell’s departure
Chief Administrative Officer Joyce Boudoin has been appointed interim Orange County clerk of courts following Tiffany Moore Russell's departure. Moore Russell left the office after advancing to a Nov. 3 runoff against Chris Messina for Orange County mayor.

Federal SNAP cuts put free school meals at risk across Florida
Federal SNAP reductions could affect Florida classrooms by weakening the formulas that fund free school breakfast and lunch programs. Most Orange County Public Schools students remain covered this year, but declining enrollment in assistance programs could reduce future federal…

Environmental groups challenge federal order keeping Orlando coal plant open
Three environmental groups are asking a federal appeals court to overturn a U.S. Department of Energy order keeping an Orlando coal unit operating beyond its planned retirement. The groups argue the extension is unnecessary and could cost ratepayers an average of $21 more per…

APD reports 20 arrests in the final week of August
The Apopka Police Department reported 20 arrests on 32 charges during the final full week of August. Charges included theft, battery, false imprisonment, child abuse, drug possession, and out-of-county warrants.

Eatonville puts off decision on higher fines for delayed data center
The Eatonville Town Council considered Tuesday whether to double the fine from $250 to $500 a day. Instead, council members decided to meet with the developer before making a decision.