October 28, 2021 8:02 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 10/27/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS

As of Wednesday, October 27, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 3.51 percent. Additional County statistics include:

CDC level of community transmission: SUBSTANTIAL (down from high)
Eligible residents (12+) who have one vaccine dose: 75 percent
Eligible residents (12+) who have completed their vaccination series: 66 percent
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 232,110
Total deaths in Orange County: 2,178

It is important to note that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate has been below 5 percent for 17 consecutive days. This is the fifth day the positivity rate is at 4% or below.

UPCOMING VACCINATION OPPORTUNITIES

Effective Sunday, November 1, 2021 in addition to the COVID-19 vaccines, Orange County Health Services will continue to offer all three COVID -19 vaccination boosters to our community at its Barnett Park vaccination site.

Boosters are available through the FREE drive thru site daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Sunday, with resources to accommodate up to 2000 vaccinations per day.

It is important to note that Orange County Health Services does not ask for an individual’s social security number or proof of residency to receive a vaccine.

Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle

For more vaccine information, or for additional sites, visit ocfl.net/VaccineSites.

COVID-19 TESTING

Effective November 1, 2021, the Barnett Park testing site will be the County’s only testing site.

Residents who are interested in receiving a COVID-19 test are recommended to arrive early to Orange County’s free drive-thru testing sites, as sites may close early due to reaching its daily capacity or severe afternoon weather.

Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Econ Soccer Complex – This site will close effective November 1, 2021
8035 Yates Road, Orlando, FL 32807
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle

For more testing information, visit ocfl.net/Testing.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE UPDATE

Orange County Government’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program continues to provide relief to households that are struggling to pay rent due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As of Wednesday, October 25, 2021, $11.9+ million have been distributed to keep 2,214 families in their homes.

For more information or to review program details, visit ocfl.net/RentalAssistance.

October 22, 2021 9:10 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 10/21/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS

As of Wednesday, October 20, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 4.09 percent. Additional County statistics include:

CDC level of community transmission: SUBSTANTIAL (down from high)
Eligible residents (12+) who have one vaccine dose: 75 percent
Eligible residents (12+) who have completed their vaccination series: 66 percent
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 231,363
Total deaths in Orange County: 2,147

It is important to note that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate has been below 5 percent for 10 consecutive days.

UPCOMING VACCINATION OPPORTUNITIES

Orange County Health Services Department continues to offer free drive-thru COVID-19 vaccines at Barnett Park. It is important to know that Orange County Health Services does not ask for an individual’s social security number or proof of residency to receive a vaccine.

Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle

COVID-19 vaccines are available to eligible individuals seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., unless otherwise noted. For more vaccine information, or for additional sites, visit ocfl.net/VaccineSites.

COVID-19 TESTING

Residents who are interested in receiving a COVID-19 test are recommended to arrive early to Orange County’s free drive-thru testing sites, as sites may close early due to reaching its daily capacity or severe afternoon weather.

Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Econ Soccer Complex
8035 Yates Road, Orlando, FL 32807
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle

COVID-19 testing will take place seven days a week at both sites unless otherwise noted. For more testing information, visit ocfl.net/Testing.

October 15, 2021 4:26 PM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 10/14/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS

As of Wednesday, October 13, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 5.37 percent. Additional County statistics include:

Eligible residents (12+) who have one vaccine dose: 74 percent
Eligible residents (12+) who have completed their vaccination series: 65 percent
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 230,300
Total deaths in Orange County: 2,126

COVID-19 VACCINE AT BARNETT PARK

As a reminder, Orange County Health Services has transitioned its free drive-thru COVID-19 vaccination site from Camping World Stadium to Barnett Park. Vaccinations will take place seven days a week at Barnett Park unless otherwise noted. The site will administer the following vaccines:

Pfizer – first dose, second dose, booster for eligible individuals
Moderna – second dose only
Johnson & Johnson – single dose

To date, Orange County Government has administered more than 1.7 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine throughout the community. For more COVID-19 vaccine information, visit ocfl.net/Vaccines.

#IGOTMYSHOT – UPCOMING VACCINATION OPPORTUNITIES

The #IGotMyShot Mobile Vaccination Trailer continues to visit convenient community locations across the County. For a list of upcoming locations, visit ocfl.net/IGotMyShot.

COVID-19 TESTING

Residents who are interested in receiving a COVID-19 test are recommended to arrive early to Orange County’s free drive-thru testing sites, as sites may close early due to reaching its daily capacity or severe afternoon weather. Testing will take place seven days a week at both sites unless otherwise noted.

Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Econ Soccer Complex
8035 Yates Road, Orlando, FL 32807
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle

To date, Orange County Government has administered more than 460,000 COVID-19 tests throughout the community. For more COVID-19 testing information, visit ocfl.net/Testing.

October 11, 2021 5:15 PM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 10/11/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS

As of Sunday, October 10, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 6.04 percent. Additional County statistics include:

CDC level of community transmission: HIGH
Eligible residents (12+) who have one vaccine dose: 74 percent
Eligible residents (12+) who have completed their vaccination series: 65 percent
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 229,673
Total deaths in Orange County: 2,090

COVID-19 VACCINE AT BARNETT PARK

As a reminder, Orange County Health Services has transitioned its free drive-thru COVID-19 vaccination site from Camping World Stadium to Barnett Park. Vaccinations will take place seven days a week at Barnett Park unless otherwise noted. The site will administer the following vaccines:

Pfizer – first dose, second dose, booster for eligible individuals
Moderna – second dose only
Johnson & Johnson – single dose

For more vaccine information, visit ocfl.net/Vaccines.

COVID-19 TESTING

Orange County Health Services continues to offer free drive-thru COVID-19 testing at two mass-testing sites across the County — Barnett Park and Econ Soccer Complex.

Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Econ Soccer Complex
8035 Yates Road, Orlando, FL 32807
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle

Testing will take place seven days a week at both sites unless otherwise noted. For additional COVID-19 testing locations, please visit ocfl.net/Testing.

TOURIST DEVELOPMENT TAX COLLECTIONS

Orange County Comptroller Phil Diamond announced that Tourist Development Tax (TDT) collections received by Orange County for August, 2021 were $16,462,100, a 184.2 percent increase compared to August, 2020. Additional statistics include:

Month-over-month, August 2021 collections were lower than July, 2021 collections by $8.2 million and also lower than August 2019 collections by $3.5 million.

For more TDT information, visit the Office of the Comptroller’s website to read its news release.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

This month, Orange County residents have several ways to stay involved with their local government. The following events are free and open to all residents to participate:

Redistricting Meeting
Monday, October 11, 2021 at 6 p.m.
Meetings on Orange County’s 2021 Redistricting process are scheduled now until the end of the year. Residents are highly encouraged to participate in readjusting the population between County commission districts to ensure fair and equal representation. To learn more or to find a meeting near you, visit ocfl.net/redistricting.
Virtual Community Conference
Saturday, October 16, 2021 at 10 a.m.
Orange County’s annual Community Conference provides residents an opportunity to learn about innovative ways to improve neighborhoods by connecting residents and community leaders with their local government. To view the conference agenda or to register, visit ocfl.net/CommunityConference.

COVID-19 WASTEWATER MONITORING

Orange County Government’s Utilities Department continues its participation in the National Wastewater Surveillance System. The program monitors wastewater from water reclamation facilities to analyze the concentration and spread of the coronavirus. Below is concentration information from October 7.

The Eastern Water Reclamation Facility (EWRF) decreased to 147,160
South Water Reclamation Facility (SWRF) decreased to 301,016
Northwest Water Reclamation Facility (NWRF) increased slightly to 189,266

All three reclamation facilities decreased dramatically over this time last month.

The Northwest facility decreased by 78% over September 6.
The South Water facility decreased by 47% over September 6.
The Eastern Water facility decreased by 80% over September 6.

The results for two of the three service areas are lower than the previous sample results and continue to show a sustained downward trend in our service areas. Also, these results are starting to resemble the lower concentrations seen in May and June.

The Lambda and Mu variants were not detected in any of the three (3) service areas.

October 4, 2021 3:21 PM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 10/4/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS

As of Sunday, October 3, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 7.67 percent. Additional County statistics include:

CDC level of community transmission: HIGH
Eligible residents (12+) who have one vaccine dose: 74 percent
Eligible residents (12+) who have completed their vaccination series: 64 percent
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 228,156
Total deaths in Orange County: 2,045

COVID-19 VACCINE UPDATES: VACCINES MOVE TO BARNETT PARK

Beginning, Saturday, October 9, 2021, Orange County Health Services will move its free drive-thru COVID-19 vaccination site from Camping World Stadium to Barnett Park. Staff at Barnett Park will administer the following vaccines:

Pfizer – first dose, second dose, booster for eligible individuals
Moderna – second dose only
Johnson & Johnson – single dose

Vaccines will be available at Camping World Stadium until 5 p.m. on Friday, October 8, 2021, then begin at Barnett Park at 9 a.m. on Saturday, October 9, 2021. Vaccinations will take place seven days a week at Barnett Park unless otherwise noted.

For more vaccine information, visit ocfl.net/Vaccines.

COVID-19 TESTING UPDATES: CLARCONA SITE CLOSURE
On Sunday, October 10, 2021, at 5 p.m., Orange County Health Services will permanently close its free drive-thru COVID-19 testing site at the former Clarcona Elementary.

It is important to know that Orange County Health Services will continue providing free drive-thru testing at Barnett Park and Econ Soccer Complex. Testing will take place seven days a week at both sites unless otherwise noted.

For additional COVID-19 testing locations, please visit ocfl.net/Testing.

COVID-19 WASTEWATER MONITORING

Orange County Government’s Utilities Department continues its participation in the National Wastewater Surveillance System. The program monitors wastewater from water reclamation facilities to analyze the concentration and spread of the coronavirus. Below is concentration information from September 30.

South Water Reclamation Facility: decreased to 321,384
East Water Reclamation Facility: increased to 789,993
Northwest Water Reclamation Facility: decreased to 349,457

Current samples were included in beta testing for four additional mutations and two new variants of the Coronavirus. Based on that testing, the Lambda and Mu variants were not detected in any of our service areas. Overall, Orange County Utilities is seeing a sustained downward trend in our service areas.

October 3, 2021 8:31 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 9/30/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS

As of Wednesday, September 29, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 8.39 percent. Additional County statistics include:

CDC level of community transmission: HIGH
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 227,004
Total deaths in Orange County: 2,000

UPCOMING VACCINATION OPPORTUNITIES

Camping World Stadium is open on weekends, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., to administer first and second doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.

Additionally, residents can visit a mobile vaccination unit or the #IGotMyShot Mobile Vaccination Trailer at a community location near them. For a list of upcoming mobile vaccination events, visit ocfl.net/IGotMyShot.

COVID-19 BOOSTERS

As a reminder, Orange County Health Services Department is now administering Pfizer booster shots to eligible individuals at Camping World Stadium. Residents who are receiving their booster are required to bring their COVID-19 vaccination record card/form.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control, at this time, the Pfizer booster authorization only applies to people whose primary 2-dose series was the Pfizer vaccine. Additionally, the CDC recommends that the following groups should receive a booster shot at least 6 months after completing their 2-dose series:

65 years and older
18+ who have underlying medical conditions
18+ who work in high-risk settings
18+ who live in high-risk settings

Eligible individuals are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider about whether receiving a booster shot is appropriate for them. For more information about Pfizer booster shots, visit the CDC’s website.

COVID-19 TESTING

COVID-19 testing is available each weekend at all Orange County Government Health Services locations. Testing will take place seven days a week at all site unless otherwise noted.

Econ Soccer Complex
8035 Yates Road, Orlando, FL 32807
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Former site of Clarcona Elementary School
3607 Damon Rd, Apopka, FL 32703
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle

For additional COVID-19 testing locations, please visit ocfl.net/Testing.

NEMOURS CHILDREN’S HEALTH

What do parents need to know about the COVID-19 vaccine for children?

Nemours Children’s Health experts have produced an online webinar regarding the current impact of the Delta variant on children, the science behind the vaccine, and why getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and your children from COVID-19. Experts share strategies for helping kids cope with COVID-19 anxiety and tips for having tough conversations with family and friends who are still unsure about getting vaccinated.

Watch the full webinar on Nemours’ YouTube Channel.

September 29, 2021 11:35 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 9/27/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS

As of Sunday, September 26, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 9.31 percent. Additional County statistics include:

CDC level of community transmission: HIGH
Eligible residents (12+) who have one vaccine dose: 73 percent
Eligible residents (12+) who have completed their vaccination series: 63 percent
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 225,988
Total deaths in Orange County: 1,968

COVID-19 BOOSTERS

Beginning Tuesday, September 28, 2021, Orange County Health Services Department will begin administering Pfizer booster shots at Camping World Stadium. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that the following groups should receive a booster shot of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after completing their 2-dose series:

Individuals 65+ years old
Those with underlying medical conditions
Workers with increased risk for COVID-19 exposure (ex. first responders)

Individuals are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider about whether receiving a booster shot is appropriate for them. For more information about Pfizer booster shots, visit the CDC’s website.

It is important to note, Camping World Stadium will continue to administer first and second doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.

COVID-19 TESTING

Residents who are interested in receiving a COVID-19 test are recommended to arrive early to Orange County’s free drive-thru testing sites, as sites may close early due to reaching its daily capacity or severe afternoon weather. Testing will take place seven days a week at all site unless otherwise noted.

Econ Soccer Complex
8035 Yates Road, Orlando, FL 32807
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Former site of Clarcona Elementary School
3607 Damon Rd, Apopka, FL 32703
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle

For additional COVID-19 testing locations, please visit ocfl.net/Testing.

September 23, 2021 5:58 PM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 9/23/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS

As of Wednesday, September 22, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 10.57 percent. Additional County statistics include:

CDC level of community transmission: HIGH
Eligible residents (12+) who have one vaccine dose: 73 percent
Eligible residents (12+) who have completed their vaccination series: 63 percent
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 224,587

COVID-19 SERVICES EXTENDED THROUGH OCTOBER

As a reminder, Orange County Government’s Health Services Department has announced it will extend both COVID-19 testing and vaccination until the end of October 2021.

Free Drive-thru COVID-19 Vaccinations:

Camping World Stadium
1 Citrus Bowl Place, Orlando, FL 32805
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No appointments needed, only four (4) persons per vehicle

For additional information about COVID-19 vaccines, please visit ocfl.net/VaccineSites.

Free Drive-thru COVID-19 Testing:

Econ Soccer Complex
8035 Yates Road, Orlando, FL 32807
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Former site of Clarcona Elementary School
3607 Damon Rd, Apopka, FL 32703
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle

For additional information about COVID-19 testing, please visit ocfl.net/Testing.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE

It is important to know that residents do not need to wait for an eviction notice to be eligible and begin the application process for the County’s Emergency Rental Assistance program.

If the COVID-19 pandemic has caused your family to struggle with rent, or if you are facing eviction, you are not alone. If your household is behind on rent payments, Orange County may be able to help. Eligible residents can receive up to 12 months of past due rent, and up to one month of future rent, up to a total of $20,000. As of Thursday, September 23, 2021, $9.3 million have been distributed to keep 1,663 families in their homes.

Residents can visit ocfl.net/RentalAssistance to review program details, required documents, frequently asked questions and to check if their address is eligible.

REDISTRICTING

Every 10 years the Florida Constitution and the Orange County Charter calls for a reconfiguration of political boundaries. As the latest census was completed by the U.S. Census Bureau in 2020, Orange County must complete its decennial redistricting process by March 2022. The goal of redistricting is to readjust the population between commission districts so that no Orange County Commissioner is representing substantially more individual residents than the other commissioners.

The second meeting of Orange County Government’s 2021 redistricting process begins next week, Monday, September 27, 2021, at 6:30 p.m. Residents can attend in-person or stream the meeting on the County’s Facebook page or ocfl.net/OTVLive.

Learn more about the redistricting process, meetings dates and public comment by visiting ocfl.net/redistricting.

September 20, 2021 11:57 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 9/20/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS

As of Sunday, September 19, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 11.29 percent. Additional County statistics include:

CDC level of community transmission: HIGH
Eligible residents (12+) who have one vaccine dose: 72 percent
Eligible residents (12+) who have completed their vaccination series: 62.05 percent
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 223,339
Total deaths in Orange County: 1,877

COVID-19 SERVICES EXTENDED THROUGH OCTOBER

Orange County Government’s Health Services Department has announced it will extend both COVID-19 testing and vaccination until the end of October 2021.

Free Drive-thru COVID-19 Vaccinations:

Camping World Stadium
1 Citrus Bowl Place, Orlando, FL 32805
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No appointments needed, only four (4) persons per vehicle

For additional information about COVID-19 vaccines, please visit ocfl.net/VaccineSites.

Free Drive-thru COVID-19 Testing:

Econ Soccer Complex
8035 Yates Road, Orlando, FL 32807
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Former site of Clarcona Elementary School
3607 Damon Rd, Apopka, FL 32703
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle

For additional information about COVID-19 testing, please visit ocfl.net/Testing.

REPLACEMENT VACCINATION RECORDS/CARDS

Residents who have lost or damaged COVID-19 vaccination records/cards can request new documents in-person from the Florida Department of Health in Orange County, or online from Florida SHOTS.

For more information, visit the Florida Department of Health in Orange County’s website.

September 13, 2021 5:23 PM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 9/13/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS

As of Sunday, September 12, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 13.31 percent. Additional County statistics include:

CDC level of community transmission: HIGH
Eligible residents (12+) who have one vaccine dose: 71 percent
Eligible residents (12+) who have completed their vaccination series: 57.23 percent
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 218,984
Total deaths in Orange County: 1,780

COVID-19 VACCINATIONS CONTINUE

Orange County Health Services Department continues to offer free drive-thru COVID-19 vaccines – Pfizer and Moderna – at Camping World Stadium. Vaccines are available for individuals 12 year old and up receiving their first or second dose only. Minors must have a legal guardian present during time of vaccination.

Camping World Stadium
1 Citrus Bowl Place, Orlando, FL 32805
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No appointments needed, only four (4) persons per vehicle

For more information or additional COVID-19 vaccine locations, please visit ocfl.net/VaccineSites.

COVID-19 TESTING – OPERATIONS REMINDER

As a reminder, the testing site at Econ Soccer Complex will now operate from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Testing sites at the former Clarcona Elementary School and Barnett Park will remain operational from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Testing will take place seven days a week at all site unless otherwise noted.

Econ Soccer Complex
8035 Yates Road, Orlando, FL 32807
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Former site of Clarcona Elementary School
3607 Damon Rd, Apopka, FL 32703
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle

For additional COVID-19 testing locations, please visit ocfl.net/Testing.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE

The U.S. Supreme Court ended the CDC Eviction Moratorium on Thursday, August 26, 2021.

If the COVID-19 pandemic has caused your family to struggle with rent, or if you are facing eviction, you are not alone. If your household is behind on rent payments, Orange County’s Emergency Rental Assistance program may be able to help. Eligible residents can receive up to 12 months of past due rent, and up to one month of future rent, up to a total of $20,000. As of today, $8.5 million have been distributed to keep 1,508 families in their homes.

Residents can visit ocfl.net/RentalAssistance to review program details, required documents, frequently asked questions and to check if their address is eligible.

COVID-19 WASTEWATER MONITORING

Orange County Government’s Utilities Department continues its participation in the National Wastewater Surveillance System. The program monitors wastewater from water reclamation facilities to analyze the concentration and spread of the coronavirus. Below is the latest information:

South Water Reclamation Facility
Concentrations have increased from 149,113 in May to 804,578 on September 9
440 percent increase over the number of viral remnants in May
East Water Reclamation Facility
Concentrations have increased from 267,916 in May to 1,508,714 on September 9
463 percent increase over the number of viral remnants in May
Northwest Water Reclamation Facility
Concentrations have increased from 154,243 in June to 990,970 on September 9
542 percent increase over the number of viral remnants in June

Current samples were included in beta testing for four additional mutations and two new variants of the Coronavirus. Based on that testing, the Lambda and Mu variants were not detected in any of our service areas.

VISIT ORLANDO MAGICAL DINING

Visit Orlando’s annual Magical Dining Month continues until Sunday, October 17, 2021. Guests can support some of Orange County’s best restaurants by purchasing a three-course, prix-fixe dinner for $37 per person. Additionally, through Visit Orlando, $1 from each meal served will benefit Pathlight HOME and IDignity, both of which help to combat homelessness in Central Florida.

Many restaurants will have open-air seating options, as well as takeout and delivery service. For more information or a list of participating restaurants, visit OrlandoMagicalDining.com.

September 10, 2021 12:56 PM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 9/9/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
As of Wednesday, September 8, 2021, the Florida Department of Health (DOH) is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 14.32 percent. Additional County statistics include:

CDC level of community transmission: HIGH
Eligible residents (12+) who have one vaccine dose: 70 percent
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 215,997

Total deaths in Orange County are now 1,724. During the month of August, DOH reported 293 deaths, the highest monthly total since the beginning of the pandemic. Orange County Government and DOH urge residents to get vaccinated to protect themselves and others against the coronavirus.

VACCINATION OPPORTUNITY
Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines are available at the free drive-thru COVID-19 vaccination site at Camping World Stadium — first and second doses only. Third-dose booster shots are not available at this time. Camping World Stadium also provides Monoclonal Antibody therapy treatments.

Camping World Stadium
1 Citrus Bowl Place, Orlando, FL 32805
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No appointments needed, only four (4) persons per vehicle

It is important to know that Camping World Stadium does not ask for an individual’s social security number or proof of residency. For more information or additional COVID-19 vaccine locations, please visit ocfl.net/VaccineSites.

COVID-19 TESTING CONTINUES
Effective Friday, September 10, 2021, the testing site at Econ Soccer Complex will now operate from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Econ Soccer Complex
8035 Yates Road, Orlando, FL 32807
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle

Testing sites at the former Clarcona Elementary School and Barnett Park will remain operational from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Former site of Clarcona Elementary School
3607 Damon Rd, Apopka, FL 32703
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle

Residents who are interested in receiving a COVID-19 test are recommended to arrive early to Orange County’s free drive-thru testing sites, as sites may close early due to reaching its daily capacity or severe weather. For additional COVID-19 testing locations, please visit ocfl.net/Testing.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE
Orange County Government continues to urge residents to apply for the County’s Emergency Rental Assistance program if they are behind in rent payments due to the pandemic.

The program may be able to help eligible residents pay 12 months of past due rent and 1 month of future rent, up to a total of $20,000. To date, more than $8 million have been distributed to keep more than 1,440 families in their homes.

Residents can visit ocfl.net/RentalAssistance to review program details, required documents, frequently asked questions and to check if their address is eligible.

COVID-19 WASTEWATER MONITORING
Orange County Government’s Utilities Department continues its participation in the National Wastewater Surveillance System. The program monitors wastewater from water reclamation facilities to analyze the concentration and spread of the coronavirus. Below is the latest information:

South Water Reclamation Facility
Concentrations have increased from 149,113 in May to 1,122,306 on September 2
653 percent increase over the number of viral remnants in May
East Water Reclamation Facility
Concentrations have increased from 267,916 in May to 2,800,019 on September 2
945 percent increase over the number of viral remnants in May
Northwest Water Reclamation Facility
Concentrations have increased from 154,243 in June to 2,852,840 on September 2
1750 percent increase over the number of viral remnants in June

TOURIST DEVELOPMENT TAX COLLECTIONS
Orange County Comptroller Phil Diamond announced that Tourist Development Tax (TDT) collections received by Orange County for July 2021 were $24,702,900, a 376 percent increase compared to July 2020. Month-over-month, July 2021 collections were higher than June 2021 collections by $3 million. July 2021 collections were also higher than July 2019 collections by $2.1 million.

For more TDT information, visit the Office of the Comptroller’s website to read its news release.

August 30, 2021 2:00 PM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 8/30/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS

As of Sunday, August 29, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 17.86 percent. Additional County statistics include:

CDC level of community transmission: HIGH
Eligible residents (12+) who have one vaccine dose: 66.81 percent
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 206,686
Total deaths in Orange County: 1,533

VACCINATION OPPORTUNITY
Orange County Health Services continues to administer free drive-thru COVID-19 vaccinations at Camping World Stadium. Both Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines are available at the site — first and second dose only. Third-dose booster shots are not available at this time. Camping World Stadium also provides Monoclonal Antibody therapy treatments.

Camping World Stadium
1 Citrus Bowl Place, Orlando, FL 32805
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No appointments needed, only four (4) persons per vehicle

Additionally, the full schedule for the #IGotMyShot Mobile Vaccination Trailer is now available for Monday, August 30 through Sunday, September 5 at ocfl.net/IGotMyShot.

For additional COVID-19 vaccine locations, please visit ocfl.net/VaccineSites.

COVID-19 TESTING CONTINUES
Residents who are interested in receiving a COVID-19 test are recommended to arrive early to Orange County’s free drive-thru testing sites. It is important to know that testing sites may close early due to reaching its daily capacity or severe weather.

Former site of Clarcona Elementary School
3607 Damon Rd, Apopka, FL 32703
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Econ Soccer Complex
8035 Yates Road, Orlando, FL 32807
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle

For additional COVID-19 testing locations, please visit ocfl.net/Testing.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE
Following the most recent announcement regarding federal eviction moratoriums, Orange County residents are urged to apply for the County’s Emergency Rental Assistance program if they are behind in rent payments due to the pandemic.

The program may be able to help eligible residents pay 12 months of past due rent and 1 month of future rent, up to a total of $20,000. To date, more than $7.5 million have been distributed to keep 1,356 families in their homes – and Orange County has more to provide.

Eligible residents include those living in unincorporated Orange County, Apopka, Bay Lake, Belle Isle, Eatonville, Edgewood, Lake Buena Vista, Maitland, Oakland, Ocoee, Windermere, Winter Garden and Winter Park. The program is not available for those living within the direct city limits of the City of Orlando, which has its own program for its residents.

Residents can visit ocfl.net/RentalAssistance to review program details and to check if their address is eligible.

FREE LEGAL FORUM ON EVICTIONS
The Orange County Clerk of Courts will host an upcoming Legal Matters Forum on post-moratorium evictions on Thursday, September 9, 2021.

The free event will provide the public with valuable resources and insight on the evictions process, as well as inform them of their rights in the event of an eviction. Speakers from the Clerk’s Office, Orange County Government, Legal Aid Society, Orange County Sheriff’s Office and the Judiciary will present and be available to answer questions during the event.

Legal Matters Forum: Post-moratorium Evictions
Thursday, September 9, 2021
6-8 p.m.

For more information or to register for the event, visit myorangeclerk.com.

Additionally, residents who are seeking legal advice regarding evictions may contact the following Orange County Government partners:

COVID-19 WASTEWATER MONITORING
Orange County Government’s Utilities Department continues its participation in the National Wastewater Surveillance System. The program monitors wastewater from water reclamation facilities to analyze the concentration and spread of the coronavirus. Below is information from last week:

South Water Reclamation Facility
Concentrations have increased from 149,113 in May to 1,088,540 on August 25
630 percent increase over the number of viral remnants in May
East Water Reclamation Facility
Concentrations have increased from 267,916 in May to 2,342,916 on August 25
774 percent increase over the number of viral remnants in May
Northwest Water Reclamation Facility
Concentrations have increased from 154,243 in June to 1,611,681 on August 25
945 percent increase over the number of viral remnants in June

PARKS AND RECREATION AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS
Orange County Government’s Parks and Recreation Division continues to ensure the safety of its students and staff participating in County-operated After School Programs.

Due to the increase in COVID-19 cases in our community, effective today, Monday, August 30, 2021, children who take part in After School Program must wear a facemask while indoors. Facemasks will be provided to students who do not have one. Children playing outside will not be required to wear a facemask.

Social distancing, sanitation, and frequent hand washing procedures will continue at all program sites. This new requirement is consistent with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

August 27, 2021 9:17 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 8/26/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
As of Wednesday, August 25, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 19.27 percent. Additional County statistics include:

CDC level of community transmission: HIGH
Eligible residents (12+) who have one vaccine dose: 66.51 percent
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 201,835
Total deaths in Orange County: 1,499

COMIRNATY/PFIZER VACCINE FACTS
How is the newly named vaccine Comirnaty related to the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine?

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the FDA-authorized Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine and the FDA-approved Comirnaty vaccine have exactly the same formula and can be used interchangeably to provide the COVID-19 vaccinations without presenting any safety or effectiveness concerns for those 16 and older. The vaccine is under emergency use authorization (EUA) for those 12 through 15 years old.

To learn more about the Comirnaty/Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine, visit the FDA’s website.

CAMPING WORLD STADIUM
Orange County Health Services continues to administer free drive-thru COVID-19 vaccinations at Camping World Stadium. Both Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines are available at the site — first and second dose only. Third-dose booster shots are not available at this time. Camping World Stadium also provides Monoclonal Antibody therapy treatments.

Camping World Stadium
1 Citrus Bowl Place, Orlando, FL 32805
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No appointments needed, only four (4) persons per vehicle

To learn more about Camping World Stadium, or for additional COVID-19 vaccine locations, please visit ocfl.net/VaccineSites.

WEEKEND VACCINATION OPPORTUNITIES
The #IGotMyShot mobile vaccination trailer continues to visit neighborhoods and businesses throughout Orange County. This weekend, the trailer will be at the following locations:

Friday, August 27
Buffalo Wild Wings – UCF
11400 University Blvd., Orlando, FL 32817
4-8 p.m.
Saturday, August 28
Engelwood Neighborhood Center
6123 La Costa Drive, #2931, Orlando, FL 32807
10 a.m.-1 p.m.

For more information about #IGotMyShot, visit ocfl.net/IGotMyShot

COVID-19 TESTING EXTENDED
As a reminder, Orange County Health Services Department has extended its free drive-thru COVID-19 testing at all of its sites until the end of September. Residents interested in getting a COVID-19 test are urged to arrive early to ensure they can be accommodated before the sites closes due to reaching its daily capacity or severe weather.

Former site of Clarcona Elementary School
3607 Damon Rd, Apopka, FL 32703
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Econ Soccer Complex
8035 Yates Road, Orlando, FL 32807
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle

For additional COVID-19 testing locations, please visit ocfl.net/Testing.

OPEN FOR BUSINESS
The Orange County Convention Center is proud to announce that it is the first convention center to once again receive the Global Biorisk Advisory Council™ (GBAC) STAR Facility Accreditation from the Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association.

After a successful year of hosting in-person events, the Orange County Convention Center remains fully committed to hosting safe events, growing our economy and prioritizing the health of all who enter the convention center.

Learn more about the certification on the Convention Center’s website.

VIRTUAL HURRICANE EXPO
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. It is important for all residents to be prepared for hurricanes and other weather-related incidents. This weekend, residents are invited to join broadcast meteorologist Amy Sweezey and Orange County Government’s Office of Emergency Management for the 2021 Virtual Hurricane Expo.

Saturday, August 28, 2021
2021 Virtual Hurricane Expo
9-10 a.m.

During the virtual event, residents will learn about:

Curfews Explained – Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings
Prepare for a Storm – Carlos Durden, Assistant Emergency Manager
Important Documents – Karina Zevallos, Senior Fiscal Officer
Stay Informed – John Mulhall, Communications Coordinator
Shelter/Evacuation – Sandy Lanier, Emergency Management
During a Storm – Samary Lopez-Hill, Emergency Management
After a Storm – Sarah Raike, Emergency Management
Safer Together – Chief Lauraleigh Avery, Emergency Manager

The event will air on Orange County’s Facebook page and OrangeTV. For more information about storms, visit ocfl.net/Storm.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE
Throughout the month of August, the Orange County Library System and Orange County’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program have been hosting in-person “office-hours” at select library branches across the County to answer questions and to assist residents applying for the program.

The program will host its final assistance event on Friday, August 27, 2021, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Chickasaw Branch located at 870 N. Chickasaw Trail, Orlando FL 32825.

It is important for applicants to know that staff will not be able to fill out their application for them. The applicant will still need to use the library computer to apply. Applicants must also bring all required documents for the program with them.

Residents can visit ocfl.net/RentalAssistance for more information.

August 24, 2021 7:39 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 8/23/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS

As of Sunday, August 22, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 19.99 percent. Additional County statistics include:

CDC level of community transmission: HIGH
Eligible residents (12+) who have one vaccine dose: 66.07 percent
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 196,825
Total deaths in Orange County: 1,480

FDA APPROVES PFIZER COVID-19 VACCINE
On Monday, August 23, 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first COVID-19 vaccine – Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine – for individuals 16 years of age and older. The vaccine continues to be available under emergency use authorization for individuals 12 through 15 years of age and for the administration of a third dose in certain immunocompromised individuals. Learn more by visiting the FDA website.

MODERNA COVID-19 VACCINE AVAILABLE
This past weekend, Orange County’s free drive-thru vaccination site at Camping World Stadium began administering the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. Both Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines will now be available at the site — first and second dose only. Third-dose booster shots are not available at Camping World Stadium at this time.

Camping World Stadium
1 Citrus Bowl Place, Orlando, FL 32805
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No appointments needed, only four (4) persons per vehicle

#IGOTMYSHOT – UPCOMING VACCINATION OPPORTUNITIES
The full schedule for the #IGotMyShot Mobile Vaccination Trailer is now available for Monday, August 23 through Saturday, August 28 at ocfl.net/IGotMyShot.

For additional COVID-19 vaccine locations, please visit ocfl.net/VaccineSites.

COVID-19 TESTING EXTENDED
Due to the increase in community demand for COVID-19 testing, Orange County Health Services Department has extended its operations at all three, free, drive-thru testing locations until the end of September.

Former site of Clarcona Elementary School
3607 Damon Rd, Apopka, FL 32703
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Econ Soccer Complex
8035 Yates Road, Orlando 32807
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle

Residents interested in getting a COVID-19 test are urged to arrive early to ensure they can be accommodated before the sites closes due to reaching its daily capacity or severe weather.

For additional COVID-19 testing locations, please visit ocfl.net/Testing.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE
As a reminder, the federal government and the CDC have issued new temporary protections from evictions. The order is in effect until Sunday, October 3, 2021. Residents who are seeking to apply for this temporary protection must complete and submit a CDC declaration form and submit it to their landlord or property management company as soon as possible.

Residents who are behind on rent payments, due to the pandemic, are urged apply to the County’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program. The program may be able to help eligible residents pay up to 12 months of past due rent and 1 month of future rent, up to a total of $20,000.

As of Monday, August 23, 2021, more than $7.2 million have been distributed to keep 1,276 families in their homes. Residents can visit ocfl.net/RentalAssistance to review program details and to check if their address is eligible.

COVID-19 WASTEWATER MONITORING
Orange County Government’s Utilities Department continues its participation in the National Wastewater Surveillance System. The program monitors wastewater from water reclamation facilities to analyze the concentration and spread of the coronavirus. Below is information from last week:

East Water Reclamation Facility
Concentrations have increased from 267,916 in May to 1,440,963 on August 19
38 percent increase over the number of viral remnants 15 weeks ago
South Water Reclamation Facility
Concentrations have increased from 149,113 in May to 1,447,891 on August 17
871 percent increase over the number of viral remnants 15 weeks ago.
Northwest Water Reclamation Facility
Concentrations have increased from 154,243 in June to 1,016,166 on August 12
559 percent increase over the number of viral remnants 11 weeks ago.

August 16, 2021 2:51 PM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 8/16/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
As of Sunday, August 15, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 20.14 percent. Additional County statistics include:

CDC level of community transmission: HIGH
Eligible residents (12+) who have one vaccine dose: 65.27 percent
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 188,724
Total deaths in Orange County: 1,452

COVID-19 WASTEWATER MONITORING
Orange County Government’s Utilities Department continues its participation in the National Wastewater Surveillance System. The program monitors wastewater from water reclamation facilities to analyze the concentration and spread of the coronavirus. The County’s water reclamation facilities serve approximately 870,000 people.

The concentrations tested reflect both symptomatic and asymptomatic infections, alerting to spikes in infections four-to-ten days before positive case numbers would be available. Below is information from last week:

East Water Reclamation Facility

Concentrations have increased from 267,916 in May to 2,073,070 on August 12

674 percent increase in approximately a 14-week time frame

South Water Reclamation Facility

Concentrations have increased from 149,113 in May to 1,252,508 on August 12

740 percent increase in approximately a 14-week time frame

Northwest Water Reclamation Facility

Concentrations have increased from 154,243 in June to 1,016,166 on August 12

559 percent increase in approximately an 11-week time frame

VACCINATIONS AT CAMPING WORLD STADIUM
Beginning on Monday, August 16, 2021, Camping World Stadium will no longer administer the one-dose Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, and only administer the Pfizer vaccine. Residents who have already received their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine at a different location can receive their second dose at Camping World Stadium. As a reminder, COVID-19 testing is NOT available at this site.

Camping World Stadium
1 Citrus Bowl Place, Orlando, FL 32805
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No appointments needed, only four (4) persons per vehicle

For additional COVID-19 vaccination locations, please visit ocfl.net/Vaccine.

ADDITIONAL VACCINE OPPORTUNITIES
The full schedule for the #IGotMyShot Mobile Vaccination Trailer is available for Monday, August 16 through Saturday, August 21 at ocfl.net/IGotMyShot.

ORANGE COUNTY HEALTH SERVICES COVID-19 TESTING SITES
Residents interested in getting a COVID-19 test are urged to arrive early to ensure they can be accommodated in case the sites closes early due to reaching capacity or severe weather. It is important to know that residents who pre-register for testing, which is recommended but not required, may use their barcode at any of the below testing sites.

Former site of Clarcona Elementary School
3607 Damon Rd, Apopka, FL 32703
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Econ Soccer Complex
8035 Yates Road, Orlando 32807
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle

For additional COVID-19 testing locations, please visit ocfl.net/Testing.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE STILL AVAILABLE
Orange County’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program continues to accept applications from residents who are behind in rent due to the pandemic. As of Monday, August 16, 2021, more than $6.57 million have been approved to keep 1,177 families in their homes. It is important to note that the program is not available for those living within the direct city limits of the City of Orlando, which has its own program for its residents.

Residents who have questions or require assistance with the application may visit a participating library, from Tuesdays through Fridays, to speak in-person with program representative.

Residents can visit ocfl.net/RentalAssistance to review program details and to check if their address is eligible.

August 13, 2021 9:40 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 8/12/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
As of Wednesday, August 11, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 20.07 percent. Additional County statistics include:

CDC level of community transmission: HIGH
Eligible residents (12+) who have one vaccine dose: 65.14 percent
Single-day positivity rate for Wednesday, August 11, 2021: 20.41 percent
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 183,330
Total deaths in Orange County: 1,442

UPCOMING VACCINATION OPPORTUNITIES
The #IGotMyShot mobile vaccination trailer continues to visit neighborhoods and businesses through Friday of this week. Sites for Saturday, August 14 and Sunday, August 15 have been canceled due to potential severe weather. For future schedules or for more information about the #IGotMyShot campaign, visit ocfl.net/IGotMyShot.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 13
Orlando Police Department
1250 W. South Street, Orlando, FL 32805
9-11:30 a.m.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 13
FAMU Law School
201 Beggs Avenue, Orlando, FL 32801
4-7 p.m.

The mobile vaccination trailer will now administer the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine only, and will no longer provide the one-dose Johnson and Johnson vaccine.

For additional COVID-19 vaccine locations, please visit ocfl.net/VaccineSites.

VACCINATIONS AT CAMPING WORLD STADIUM
As a reminder, Camping World Stadium will administer the Pfizer or one-dose Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine seven days a week from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Residents who have already received their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine at a different location can receive their second dose at Camping World Stadium. Additionally, COVID-19 testing is NOT available at this site.

Camping World Stadium
1 Citrus Bowl Place, Orlando, FL 32805
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No appointments needed, only four (4) persons per vehicle

For additional COVID-19 vaccination locations, please visit ocfl.net/Vaccine.

ORANGE COUNTY HEALTH SERVICES COVID-19 TESTING SITES
Orange County Health Services continues to offer free testing at three drive-thru testing sites across the County. Residents interested in getting a COVID-19 test are urged to arrive early to ensure they can be accommodated before the sites close. Additionally, COVID-19 vaccinations are NOT available at these sites.

Former site of Clarcona Elementary School
3607 Damon Rd, Apopka, FL 32703
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
Econ Soccer Complex
8035 Yates Road, Orlando 32807
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle

For additional COVID-19 testing locations, please visit ocfl.net/Testing.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE
In partnership with the Orange County Library System, Orange County’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program will host in-person “office-hours” from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at select library branches across the County for the remainder of August. Staff will be available during these hours to answer questions and to assist applicants applying for the program.

South Trail Branch – Tuesdays, August 17, 24
4600 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando FL 32839
South Creek Branch – Wednesdays, August 18, 25
1702 Deerfield Blvd., Orlando FL 32837
Fairview Shores Branch – Thursdays, August 19, 26
902 Lee Road, Suite 26 Orlando FL 32810
Chickasaw Branch – Fridays, August 13, 20, 27
870 N. Chickasaw Trail, Orlando FL 32825

It is important for applicants to know that staff will not be able to fill out their application for them. The applicant will still need to use the library computer to apply. Applicants must also bring all required documents for the program with them.

Residents can visit ocfl.net/RentalAssistance for more information.

COVID-19 WASTEWATER MONITORING
Orange County Government’s Utilities Department continues its participation in the National Wastewater Surveillance System. Below is information from this week:

Eastern Water Reclamation Facility
concentrations have increased from 267,916 in May to 1,237,263 on August 9
362 percent increase in approximately a 14-week timeframe
Southern Water Reclamation Facility
concentrations have increased from 149,113 in May to 1,307,889 on August 9
777 percent increase in approximately a 14-week timeframe
Northwest Water Reclamation Facility
concentrations have increased from 154,243 in June to 2,090,649 on August 5
1,255 percent increase in approximately a 10-week timeframe

August 10, 2021 7:45 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 8/9/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
As of Sunday, August 8, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 19.72 percent. Additional County statistics include:

CDC level of community transmission: HIGH
Eligible residents (12+) who have one vaccine dose: 64.33 percent
Single-day positivity rate for Sunday, August 8, 2021: 19.18 percent
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 179,192
Total deaths in Orange County: 1,426

THIRD COVID-19 TESTING SITE OPENS IN APOPKA
Orange County Health Services will open a third drive-thru COVID-19 testing site at the old Clarcona Elementary School location in Apopka. This new testing site will join Orange County’s two other testing sites at Barnett Park and the Econ Soccer Complex. All three testing sites will be open through the end of the month, at which time the County will evaluate if the sites need to remain open.

Orange County’s testing sites operate seven days a week from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. However, it is important for residents to know that due to the rising demand from residents wanting to be tested, sites may close earlier than 5 p.m. Residents interested in getting a COVID-19 test are urged to arrive early to ensure they can be accommodated before the sites close.

Clarcona Elementary School (NEW)
3607 Damon Rd, Apopka, FL 32703
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
COVID-19 vaccines NOT available
Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
COVID-19 vaccines NOT available
Econ Soccer Complex
8035 Yates Road, Orlando 32807
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only four (4) persons per vehicle
COVID-19 vaccines NOT available

For additional COVID-19 testing locations, please visit ocfl.net/Testing.

COVID-19 VACCINATIONS MOVE FROM BARNETT PARK TO CAMPING WORLD STADIUM
Orange County Health Services has announced its COVID-19 vaccine operations will transfer from Barnett Park to Camping World Stadium beginning on Tuesday, August 10, 2021, at 9 a.m. This means Barnett Park will no longer conduct vaccinations after 5 p.m. on Monday, August 9, 2021.

Camping World Stadium will administer the Pfizer or one-dose Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine seven days a week from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Camping World Stadium
1 Citrus Bowl Place, Orlando, FL 32805
Open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No appointments needed, only four (4) persons per vehicle
COVID-19 testing NOT available

Residents who have already received their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine at a different location can receive their second dose at Camping World Stadium. Residents will be required to bring their vaccination card.

For additional COVID-19 vaccination locations, please visit ocfl.net/Vaccine.

#IGOTMYSHOT MOBILE TRAILER
The full schedule for the #IGotMyShot Mobile Vaccination Trailer is available for Monday, August 9 through Sunday, August 15 at ocfl.net/IGotMyShot.

For additional COVID-19 vaccine locations, please visit ocfl.net/VaccineSites.

TOURIST DEVELOPMENT TAX COLLECTIONS
Orange County Comptroller Phil Diamond announced that Tourist Development Tax (TDT) collections received by Orange County for June 2021 were approximately $21,717,000 – the highest collection since the beginning of the pandemic. June was the second month in a row in which the County did not have to use reserves to offset the TDT.

For more information, visit the Office of the Comptroller’s website to read its news release.

August 7, 2021 11:37 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 8/5/21

As of Wednesday, August 4, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 20.83 percent. Additional County statistics include:

CDC level of community transmission: HIGH
Eligible residents (12+) who have one vaccine dose: 63.43 percent
Single-day positivity rate for Wednesday, August 4, 2021: 19.10 percent
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 173,503
Total deaths in Orange County: 1,417

COVID-19 WASTEWATER MONITORING
Orange County Government’s Utilities Department is participating in the National Wastewater Surveillance System. The program monitors wastewater from water reclamation facilities to analyze the concentration and spread of the coronavirus. The concentrations tested reflect both symptomatic and asymptomatic infections, alerting to spikes in infections four-to-ten days before positive case numbers would be available. Below is information from last week:

Eastern Water Reclamation Facility
Concentrations have increased from 267,916 in May, to 4,832,793 on July 26
1,704 percent increase in approximately an 11-week timeframe
Southern Water Reclamation Facility
Concentrations have increased from 149,113 in May, to 1,107,822 on July 26
643 percent in approximately an 11-week timeframe
Northwest Water Reclamation Facility
Concentrations have increased from 154,243 in June, to 2,595,699 on July 26
1,583 percent increase in approximately a 6-week timeframe

CDC ORDER: TEMPORARY PROTECTION FROM EVICTION
Earlier this week, the federal government and the CDC have issued new temporary protections from evictions. The order is in effect until Sunday, October 3, 2021.

Residents who are seeking to apply for this temporary protection must complete and submit a CDC declaration form and submit it to their landlord or property management company as soon as possible.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE
Orange County’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program is still open. Although the CDC moratorium has been extended, Orange County residents are urged to review the program details if they are behind in rent due to the pandemic. The program may be able to help eligible residents pay up to 12 months of past due rent and 1 month of future rent, up to a total of $20,000. As of Wednesday, August 5, 2021, more than $5.9 million have been distributed to keep 1,071 families in their homes.

Residents can visit ocfl.net/RentalAssistance to review program details and to check if their address is eligible.

TESTING SITES: BARNETT PARK AND ECON SOCCER COMPLEX
On Wednesday, August 4, 2021, COVID-19 testing services at both Barnett Park and Econ Soccer Complex reached its daily-capacity limit before 5 p.m. It is important for residents to know, that due to the rising demand from residents wanting to be tested, sites may close earlier than 5 p.m. Individuals interested in a COVID-19 test are urged to arrive early to ensure they can be accommodated before the sites close.

Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Seven days a week
9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only 4 persons per vehicle
COVID-19 vaccines available
Econ Soccer Complex
8035 Yates Road Orlando 32807
Seven days a week
9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or until capacity is reached
No walk-ups, only 4 persons per vehicle
COVID-19 vaccines NOT available

For additional COVID-19 testing locations, please visit ocfl.net/Testing.

UPCOMING VACCINATION OPPORTUNITIES
The #IGotMyShot mobile vaccination trailer continues to visit neighborhoods and businesses throughout Orange County. This weekend, the trailer will be at the following locations:

Friday, August 6
Citrus Square Neighborhood Center
5624 Hickey Drive, Orlando, FL 32822
2:30 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday, August 7
Winter Park Farmers Market
New York Ave. & Morse Blvd.
8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Saturday, August 7
Waterford Lakes
413 N. Alafaya Trail, Orlando, FL 32828
Near Cooper’s Hawk and Banana Republic store
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

For additional COVID-19 vaccine locations, please visit ocfl.net/VaccineSites.

August 3, 2021 8:31 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 8/02/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
For vaccination information and locations, visit the county’s website, www.ocfl.net/vaccine.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the level of community transmission in Orange County, FL remains high.

As of Sunday, August 1, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 17.97 percent. Additional County statistic include:

Orange County residents 12+that have had at least one shot of vaccine: 62.91%
Single-day positivity rate for Sunday, August 1, 2021: 21.34 percent
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 169,745
Total deaths in Orange County: 1,402.

A LOCAL STATE OF EMERGENCY AND MASK RECOMMENDATION
Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings announced and signed Executive Order 2021-24 on Wednesday July 28, 2021, declaring a State of Local Emergency for Orange County.

Read the full Executive Order: ocfl.net/ExecutiveOrders

In accordance with the CDC’s recent announcement, Mayor Demings continues to strongly recommend that all residents – vaccinated and unvaccinated – consider wearing a mask indoors while in a crowded environment. Additionally, businesses are encouraged to display signs recommending patrons wear a mask when indoors.

By instituting these measures, Orange County wants all residents and visitors to know that the County is taking the coronavirus resurgence seriously and is doing its best to institute safety measures to try to mitigate the number of new, COVID-19 cases.

NEW TESTING SITE: Econ Soccer Complex Opens Tuesday
Orange County Health Services has announced a new drive-thru testing site at the Econ Soccer Complex starting on Tuesday, August 2, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It will operate seven days per week through the month of August.

The site is drive-thru only and can serve up to 1,500 people per day offering COVID-19 rapid tests and PCR.
No vaccinations will be available at this site.

Econ Soccer Complex
8035 Yates Road Orlando 32807
Monday – Sunday | 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
No walk ups and only 4 persons per vehicle.

BARNETT PARK EXTENSION THROUGH AUGUST 31
Orange County Government’s Health Services will continue to offer FREE drive-thru COVID- 19 testing and vaccines at Barnett Park through August 31, 2021 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. – seven days per week. Both rapid and PCR/molecular tests are offered.
Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer vaccines are available.

Individuals vaccinated will receive free masks and hand sanitizer.
For more information, visit ocfl.net/Testing and ocfl.net/vaccines.

UPCOMING VACCINATION OPPORTUNITIES
For future schedules or for more information about the #IGotMyShot campaign, visit ocfl.net/IGotMyShot.

Tuesday, August 3
Goodwill – Taft Outlet
1729 W. Taft Vineland Rd, Orlando, FL 32837
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Tuesday, August 3
Rosemont Community Center
4872 Rose Bay Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
2:30 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Wednesday, August 4
Bomberos Field Park
11485 Moss Park Rd, Orlando, FL, 32832
9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Wednesday, August 4
Lake Eola
Corner of Rosalind Ave. & Washington St.
9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Wednesday, August 4
Smith Neighborhood Center
1723 Bruton Blvd., Orlando, FL 32805
2:30 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Thursday, August 5
Orlando City Hall
400 S. Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Thursday, August 5
Northwest Community Center
3955 W D Judge Drive, Orlando, FL 32808

ECONOMIC RECOVERY TASK FORCE
With Orange County experiencing double-digit COVID-19 positivity rates and averaging nearly 1,000 new COVID-19 cases a day, Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings reconvened the ‘Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force’ in effort to work with business leaders on getting their employees vaccinated, and keeping patrons safe.

Watch the August 2, 2021 meeting.

For more information on the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force, visit www.ocfl.net/EconomicRecovery. For questions or additional information regarding the Task Force, contact EconomicRecovery@ocfl.net.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Orange County’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program is for residents who are behind in rent due to the pandemic. The program may be able to help eligible residents pay up to 12 months of past due rent and 1 month of future rent, up to a total of $20,000.

To date, more than $5.5 million have been distributed to keep 1,033 families in their homes.

The program is not available for those living within the direct city limits of the City of Orlando, which has its own program for its residents. Residents can visit ocfl.net/RentalAssistance to review program details and to check if their address is eligible.

COURT ADMINISTRATION – COURT OPERATIONS

The Florida Supreme Court and the Ninth Judicial Circuit have taken significant measures to limit and modify court operations to ensure the safe administration of justice.

Masks are required in all public spaces of court facilities, including all courtrooms and hearing rooms.
Masks will be available if you arrive without one at the courthouse
Social distancing is highly recommended
Anyone who has tested positive for COVID in the last 14 days, regardless of vaccination status, is prohibited from entering court facilities
If you are under mandatory quarantine or isolation, you are also prohibited from entering court facilities
Whenever possible proceedings will be done remotely

If you have a concern or question please email the Court at COVID@ocnjcc.org.

July 29, 2021 11:28 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 7/28/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the level of community transmission in Orange County, FL is high.

As of today, July 28, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is more than 15.58 percent. Additional County statistic include:

Orange County residents 12+ with at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine: 62.34 percent
Single-day positivity rate for July 27: 19.18 percent
New COVID-19 cases in Orange County: 1,371—an all-time high
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 160,503
Total deaths in Orange County: 1,390

A LOCAL STATE OF EMERGENCY AND MASK RECOMMENDATION
Today, July 28, 2021, Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings announced and signed Executive Order 2021-24, declaring a State of Local Emergency for Orange County.

The executive order strongly considers the data from Orange County health care providers that have experienced an increase in emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and deaths related to COVID-19 resulting in more inpatients and more ventilator use for some providers than at any other time during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Read the full Executive Order: ocfl.net/ExecutiveOrders

In accordance with the CDC’s recent announcement, Mayor Demings continues to strongly recommend that all residents – vaccinated and unvaccinated – consider wearing a mask indoors while in a crowded environment. Additionally, businesses are encouraged to display signs recommending patrons wear a mask when indoors.

By instituting these measures, Orange County wants all residents and visitors to know that the County is taking the coronavirus resurgence seriously and is doing its best to institute safety measures to try to mitigate the number of new, COVID-19 cases.

ORANGE COUNTY GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES – VACCINE AND MASK REQUIREMENT
To provide a safe working environment for employees and residents, Mayor Demings announced that all Orange County Government employees will be required to wear a mask or face covering when in the presence of others inside any County facility, effective immediately.

In addition, all new and existing non-union Orange County Government employees will have until September 30, 2021 to become fully vaccinated. Employees who decide to receive a two-dose vaccine will need to receive their first shot by August 31, 2021.

The County will provide reasonable accommodations for employees who are unable to be vaccinated for documented legally covered reasons. For those employees who are in a union, the County will engage in impact bargaining with the respective collective bargaining units regarding these requirements.

ECONOMIC RECOVERY TASK FORCE TO CONVENE
In an effort to create a measured approach to keeping the local economy open for business during the pandemic, Mayor Demings announced that the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force will reconvening on Monday, August 2, 2021, from 1 to 2 p.m., for a virtual WebEx meeting.

With the local state of emergency in place, the County wants to ensure local businesses stay open and are ready to serve the public in the safest manner possible. Orange TV will carry the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force meeting live at ocfl.net/OrangeTV.

BARNETT PARK VACCINATIONS AND TESTING
Orange County Government Health Services Department continues to make COVID-19 testing and vaccinations easily accessible for residents. Barnett Park’s free drive-thru COVID-19 vaccination and drive-thru COVID-19 testing services are available seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

COVID-19 VACCINES: Individuals may select either Pfizer or the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine. For more information, visit ocfl.net/VaccineSites.
COVID-19 TESTING: Individuals may select only one type of test, Molecular PCR or Rapid Antigen, per day. For more information, visit ocfl.net/Testing, and click on #1 on the map.

As a reminder, Barnett Park’s services have been extended until August 31, 2021. It is important to know that the site may close earlier than 5 p.m. due to reaching its daily capacity or late-afternoon storms. Individuals interested in a COVID-19 test or vaccination are urged to arrive at Barnett Park early to ensure they can be accommodated before the site closes.

UPCOMING VACCINATION OPPORTUNITIES
The #IGotMyShot mobile vaccination trailer continues to visit neighborhoods and businesses throughout Orange County. During the rest of this week, the trailer will be at the following locations:

Thursday, July 29
Intown Suites Extended Stay Orlando – Lee Rd
736 Lee Road, Orlando FL, 32810
1:30 p.m.–5 p.m.
Friday, July 30
La Bendicion Supermercado
1717 W. Oak Ridge Rd, Orlando, FL 32839
10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Friday, July 30
Congregación Mita De Florida, Inc.
200 W. Lancaster Road, Orlando, FL 32809
4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday, July 31
Oak Ridge High School
700 W. Oak Ridge Road, Orlando, FL, 32809
10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Saturday, July 31
Waterford Lakes
413 N. Alafaya Trail, Orlando, FL 32828
2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

For future schedules or for more information about the #IGotMyShot campaign, visit ocfl.net/IGotMyShot.

July 29, 2021 11:28 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference – 7/28/21

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the level of community transmission in Orange County, FL is high.

As of today, July 28, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is more than 15.58 percent. Additional County statistic include:

Orange County residents 12+ with at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine: 62.34 percent
Single-day positivity rate for July 27: 19.18 percent
New COVID-19 cases in Orange County: 1,371—an all-time high
Total positive cases for Orange County residents: 160,503
Total deaths in Orange County: 1,390