Orange County, FL — June 6, 2025 — Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings delivered his annual State of the County Address Friday morning, spotlighting a year of economic strength, record tourism, and bold investments in public services. With the theme “Building Better Through Efficiency,” the mayor emphasized how the county is navigating rapid growth while maintaining strong fiscal discipline and improving residents’ quality of life.
“Orange County is, indeed, a great place to live, work, and play,” Mayor Demings said, speaking to a crowd of civic leaders, elected officials, and community stakeholders. “Together, through innovation, service, and smart governance, we are building a better tomorrow.”
Fiscal Responsibility and Economic Growth
Mayor Demings opened the address by pointing to Orange County’s sound financial footing. The county maintains the highest credit ratings in Florida and boasts the lowest property tax rate among counties with populations over one million. Despite national economic headwinds, the county has kept its budget balanced and avoided raising taxes.
Tackling Housing Affordability
Housing affordability remains a top priority. Over the past year, Orange County committed $160 million to workforce and affordable housing, including $32 million to support seven new developments. More than 900 housing units were opened or broke ground during that period.
The mayor also highlighted the launch of Financial Empowerment Centers — the first of their kind in Florida — which provide free financial counseling to residents and workers in the county.
Managing Growth Through Infrastructure and Mobility
With an estimated 800 people moving to Orange County each week, Demings emphasized the need for sustainable growth. Through its Vision 2050 and Orange Code initiatives, the county is guiding development with a long-term plan focused on land use, transportation, and housing.
The Accelerated Transportation Safety Program completed over 60 infrastructure projects last year, including 14 miles of sidewalks and new street lighting. A $55 million investment in LYNX transit helped increase ridership by 35 percent. The county also supported studies to expand SunRail service and contributed to Brightline’s growing presence in Florida.
Leading Through Innovation
Orange County’s use of artificial intelligence to enhance government efficiency and prevent cyberattacks is entering its 20th year. Mayor Demings praised the county’s ongoing partnership with Plug and Play, a global innovation platform that brings cutting-edge startups to the region.
Public Safety and Emergency Readiness
Public safety remains a major focus, with nearly $1 billion allocated annually. The Orange County Fire Rescue Department opened a new $52 million training facility, enhancing readiness and response capabilities. The Orlo Vista Flood Mitigation project, part of the county’s resiliency efforts, proved its worth during Hurricane Milton, successfully preventing flood damage in vulnerable neighborhoods.
Health and Human Services
Orange County invested more than $56 million this year to support unhoused residents and expand access to mental health and medical care. The county’s Health Services Department also celebrated the 30th anniversary of its medical clinic, which provides care to over 10,000 uninsured and underinsured residents each year.
In partnership with the nonprofit Undue Medical Debt, Orange County also helped eliminate $472 million in medical debt, bringing relief to over 310,000 residents.
Environmental Commitment
Environmental stewardship was another key theme. The mayor reaffirmed the county’s pledge to double its protected lands over the next decade, with a goal of preserving an additional 23,000 acres. Orange County also updated its Wetland Protection Ordinance and installed Central Florida’s largest ground-mounted solar array, offsetting facility energy costs by 60 percent and saving $400,000 annually.
Investing in Arts, Culture, and Community
Orange County has tripled the national average for arts funding, investing over $35 million into cultural organizations and events such as FusionFest and the ACT Awards. The county also celebrated the grand opening of the new $10 million Tangelo Park Community Center and honored veterans, including local Vietnam War heroes.
Driving Tourism and Economic Development
Tourism continues to be a cornerstone of the region’s economy, with 75.3 million visitors generating nearly $93 billion in economic impact. Mayor Demings praised the county’s role in supporting Universal’s new EPIC Universe theme park, where the county issued 1,500 permits and completed 34,000 inspections — streamlining the process and saving more than 300 workdays.
The county also continues to invest in the Orange County Convention Center and major events like the NFL Pro Bowl and the Florida Classic, which draw visitors and boost local businesses.
Celebrating County Employees
The mayor closed his remarks by recognizing the contributions of Orange County’s 8,000 employees, who raised a record-breaking $1.4 million for United Way this year and earned accolades at regional, state, and national levels for innovation and service.
“Through their dedication and talent, our employees have once again proven that public service is not just a job — it’s a calling,” Demings said.
With a forward-looking agenda focused on efficiency, equity, and innovation, Mayor Demings reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that Orange County remains a thriving, inclusive place for all who call it home.
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