The meeting opened with the acknowledgment of the retirement of Chief Assistant City Attorney Roy Payne, who had served Orlando for over three decades. The Deputy City Attorney spoke highly of Payne’s dedication and substantial contributions to the city, and Mayor Buddy Dyer honored Payne’s service with a proclamation.

In terms of community engagement and initiatives, the council members reported on events and projects within their districts. Commissioner Tony Ortiz shared updates regarding his recent visit to Washington, D.C., where he discussed legislative concerns involving environmental issues, specifically PFAS contamination and the National Flood Insurance Program. He emphasized the necessity of simplifying the process for local government grants. Additionally, Ortiz, along with Commissioner Stuart, mentioned various neighborhood events and community initiatives, such as the 33rd annual Fringe Festival, and the opening of a new food hall in the Packing District.

Commissioner Bakari F. Burns highlighted several community events, including the Haitian Heritage event and the MK humanitarian award banquet, which celebrated high school students who exemplify Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s principles. Burns also mentioned the Athletes Connection scholarship event and a family reunion fund day, designed to foster connections within the community.

Commissioner Jim Gray acknowledged the opening of a Family Resource Center at Nemours Children’s Hospital and a groundbreaking ceremony for a new Advent Health hospital. He expressed his support for the local business community by attending the Visit Orlando luncheon and recognized a Memorial Day event held at Greenwood Cemetery.

The council discussed the “ride dto” proposal, a fare-based ride-share service aimed at providing downtown Orlando residents and visitors with convenient transportation options. The service would operate with a fleet of fully electric vehicles, including one that is ADA compliant, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., covering the entire CRA. The program aims to enhance mobility by offering last-mile service to connect individuals with commuter rail and SunRail stations.

Furthermore, the meeting addressed funding agreements under the DTO Facade Program for improvements to two properties on North Orange Avenue and North Magnolia Avenue. The updates are intended to revitalize the buildings’ exteriors through painting, tiling, and the addition of awnings. Additionally, the council reviewed funding agreements for a Jamaican cuisine restaurant and a retail location undergoing buildouts and renovations.

During the hearings and ordinances segment, the council conducted the first reading of an ordinance concerning the annexation of land into the city’s corporate limits and an amendment to the city’s growth management plan. A second reading of an ordinance related to district use standards within the Paramore Heritage Overlay District was also on the agenda, which proposed changes to the Land Development Code. Both ordinances were passed with the required motions and votes.

Lastly, the council introduced for the first reading an ordinance related to the Citizens Police Review Board. The ordinance suggested amendments to the city’s code, including the repeal of specific sections and provisions for corrections of scriber errors. The proposed changes were approved with the necessary motions and votes.