July 2, 2020 7:55 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 7/1/20

WORK TO FLATTEN THE CURVE
On June 29, Orange County broke the 10,000 mark for COVID-19 cases. Just in the last 14 days, there have been 7,223 positive cases.  On June 30, there was an increase of 540 cases. Orange County’s average positivity rate is 7.9%.

“Although we have had more than 1,000 positive cases per day, it is still too early to tell if the pandemic is deescalating in our County,” said Dr. Raul Pino, Health Administrator for the Florida Department of Health in Orange County. “We thank the community for wearing face masks and taking this pandemic seriously. Using face masks is the best tool we have in our toolbox right now.”

Please make sure to remember the Three Ws:

• Wash your hands and/or use hand sanitizer
• Wear a mask or covering over your nose and mouth
• Watch your distance— stay six feet apart, avoid close contact and large crowds

TESTING
The State’s regional temporary drive-through testing site at the Orange County Convention Center tests more people than anywhere else in the state.

Orange County Health Services will offer free testing at Barnett Park beginning mid next week. Online appointments will open early next week at www.ocfl.net/covid19.

EVICTION MORATORIUM EXTENDED
Governor DeSantis has extended the moratorium of evictions and foreclosures until August 1, 2020.

The Executive Order does state that an individual is still obligated to make mortgage or rent payments.

Orange County’s webpage has frequently asked questions regarding housing and tenant rights. Visit www.ocfl.net/housingFAQs.

ORANGE CARES
The next application opening for the Orange CARES for Residents Program will be the week of July 13, 2020. Visit www.ocfl.net/OrangeCARES for more information. Orange CARES for Small Business Program’s application is still open.

TOURIST DEVELOPMENT TAX COLLECTIONS
Orange County Comptroller Phil Diamond announced today that tourist development tax (TDT) collections (resort tax) received by Orange County for the May 2020 TDT collection month were $1,144,300. That is a 95% decrease from May 2019. June collection numbers will be released in early August.

June 30, 2020 7:49 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 6/29/20

COVID-19 NUMBERS

Orange County has broken the 10,000 mark where it comes to coronavirus cases.  The Florida Department of Health reported today that Orange County has 10,014 COVID-19 cases, which is an increase of 343 cases over yesterday.  While this is a decrease in cases over the last few days, we must remain vigilant fighting this pandemic.

Orange County has had 6,208 new COVID-19 cases in the past 14 days with a positivity rate of 15.3%. So far, 56 Orange County residents have died in the pandemic.

Orange County Government continues to have a mask/facial covering order in place and encourages all individuals to follow the CDC guidelines for social distancing and handwashing.

MAYOR DEMINGS’ GOALS FOR THE WEEK

• Stop the spread of the virus.
• Continue to work with Dr. Pino and the Department of Health to increase contact tracing.
• Increase the number of people wearing masks/facial covering.
• Continue providing CARES Act/ Crisis Assistance to Orange County individuals and families.

HOUSING EDUCATION SERIES

Community of Legal Services, Mid-Florida is hosting a Landlord and Tenant education series. The event will take place on Tuesday, June 30, 2020 | 2:00 P.M.  This virtual meeting series is available by following this link, https://event.webinarjam.com/channel/FairHousingCOVID19. 

The event is in partnership with Orange County Government, and the U.S. Fair Housing and Urban Development.

Information on the webinar has been shared on Orange County’s social media channels and is on our web page with more information at ocfl.net/HousingFAQs

SAFER. STRONGER. TOGETHER. CAMPAIGN

At the annual State of the County address, Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings launched a new regional communications campaign to further encourage business and resident participation in COVID-19 safety guidelines, and inviting consumers to positively support businesses that adhere to strong, visible safe measures. For more information, visit https://www.doyourpartorl.com/

June 25, 2020 7:47 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 6/24/20

CONFIRMED COVID-19 CASES CONTINUE TO CLIMB

As testing continues, Orange County has seen another increase in positive COVID-19 cases, with 561 confirmed positive cases reported yesterday. In total, the County has tested more than 114,000 individuals, with a positivity rate is 5.3 percent. On June 1, 2020, the positivity rate was 2.8 percent. Additional COVID-19 data related to Orange County include:

• Median age in last two weeks for positivity: age 29
• Deaths: 56
• Hospitalizations today: 168 (Non-ICU:133/ICU:35)

According to Dr. Pino, Health Officer for the Department of Health in Orange County, 58 percent of all cases in Orange County have been diagnosed since June 11, 2020 -- approximately 3,764 cases. There is a correlation to the increase in cases with social activity since Memorial Day weekend.

TESTING
Testing continues to be in high demand. The regional state-run free testing site at the Orange County Convention Center had a record-day in testing yesterday, with 1,426 tests administered.

Next week, Orange County Health Services will provide free testing at Downey Park from Monday, June 29, 2020 through Thursday, July 3, 2020, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. More details and additional testing sites will be available at ocfl.net/COVID19.

ECONOMIC RECOVERY AND FACE COVERINGS
The Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force met earlier today, June 24, 2020 to discuss the rising number of COVID-19 cases, as well as the continued education for businesses and residents to voluntarily comply with wearing face coverings. The Task Force will meet again on a future date, yet to be announced.

Orange County has made additional clarifications to the existing Executive Order-2020-23 “Requiring Face Coverings.” Edits include more exceptions and directions to this Order. The updated Order can be viewed by visiting the “Executive Orders” Tab on ocfl.net/COVID19.

It is imperative that residents wear a mask when unable to properly social distance to decrease the possibility of spreading the virus. Residents and business owners are urged to think of the safety of others. 

CARES ACT FUNDING FOR RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES
On June 23, 2020, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners approved changes to the Orange CARES Small Business Grant Program in order to allow more local businesses to qualify for funding. A small business is now eligible for the program under the following criteria:

• Received $50,000 or less in Federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loans, with proof of funding, and/or
• 100 employees or less

 The County has approved more than 1,000 Small Business Grant applications, which translates into approximately $10 million for small business owners.

The Individual and Family Assistance Program continues to process applications for eligibility. There are more than 30,000 applications to be reviewed, with 11,200 submitted on Monday, June 22, 2020 alone. The program anticipates processing 5,000 applications every week. As of Friday, June 19, 2020, 3,500 applications have been processed and submitted to the Comptroller for direct payment to residents. Orange County will announce the next opening date for applications soon.

For more information about both programs, including eligibility criteria, required documents, and frequently asked questions, visit ocfl.net/OrangeCARES.

June 19, 2020 11:30 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 6/18/20

COVID-19 NUMBERS CLIMBING
Over the past 14 days, Orange County has had 1,586 confirmed positive COVID-19 cases. In addition, 316 new confirmed COVID-19 cases were reported yesterday, June 17, 2020. Since March 2020, Orange County has had 383 hospitalizations, accounting for 10% of all cases. In total, there have been 48 resident deaths.

More than 100,000 individuals have been tested and the County’s positivity rate continues to climb – it is now at 3.8 percent.

The Florida Department of Health in Orange County (DOH-Orange) reported that they had a 10 percent positivity rate for yesterday. The day prior to that, it was 11.8 percent. For recent positive cases in the last two weeks, the median age is now 29. DOH-Orange is tracking various businesses, including bars and restaurants as well as areas near UCF that have a high number of COVID-19 cases.

An updated heat map can be viewed at www.ocfl.net/COVID19HeatMap.

FACE COVERING MANDATE 
After 10 days of triple digit increases of COVID-19 cases, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings signed an Executive Order requiring every person working, living, visiting or doing business in Orange County to wear a facial covering consistent with CDC guidelines while in any public place. Mayor Demings consulted with other local municipal leaders as well as health care experts before making this decision.

Orange County is requesting voluntary compliance to help keep all of the community safe.

The Executive Order takes effect on Saturday, June 20, 2020 at midnight and will stay in effect indefinitely. Visit Orange County’s web page to read the full Order.

PPE FOR SMALL BIZ CONTINUES
Next Wednesday, June 24; Thursday, June 25; and Friday, June 26; Orange County Government will again offer small businesses the chance to pick up a packet of free personal protective equipment (PPE).

This PPE kit will include 200 disposable facemasks, 15 cloth masks and 20 bottles of hand sanitizers. The County expects to serve 10,000 small businesses by supplying two million facemasks and 200,000 bottles of hand sanitizers. Online appointments are required. Visit www.ocfl.net/PPE to register. You can choose from three locations throughout Orange County, including South Orange Youth Complex, West Orange Park and Downey Park.

TESTING
Orange County Health Services will continue to offer free COVID-19 testing in the Apopka and Zellwood areas during the week of June 22. In addition. Legacy Middle School in the 32825 zip code will be a test site from June 22 through June 25. Receive a free packet of facemasks and hand sanitizer after you complete an appointment.

June 22 

Farmworker Association of Florida
Book an appointment at www.ocfl.net/FarmworkerAssociation

June 23
John Bridges Community Center
Book an appointment at www.ocfl.net/JohnBridges

June 24 & 25
Neighborhood Center for Families/Zellwood
Book an appointment at www.ocfl.net/Zellwood

For more information on these and other testing sites in Orange County, visit www.ocfl.net/covid19.

ORANGE CARES
Orange County’s team has streamlined the Orange CARES for Residents Program application process to require fewer documents. In addition, residents who have approved applications will receive direct payment.

The next application opening will open Monday, June 22 at 8 a.m. and it will accept 20,000 applications. Residents who applied for the grant on June 8 & 9, 2020 will receive email updates by Friday, June 19 regarding their status. Visit www.ocfl.net/OrangeCARES for more information.

June 16, 2020 2:08 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 6/15/20

COVID-19 NUMBERS CLIMBING

Orange County has a total of 3,282 positive cases and there have been 47 resident deaths. In just the past two weeks, the County has had 1,197 positive cases.

Some alarming statistics:

• Yesterday, 186 confirmed positive cases were reported. That is the highest one-day increase of cases since the pandemic began in March.
• The Florida Department of Health in Orange County received 2,951 test results yesterday and that positive rate equated to 5.9%. Two weeks ago, the positive rate was 2.8%.
• The average age of COVID positive cases in Orange County is now 35 to 38 years old. So, while the case numbers are increasing, the age demographic is dropping.
• In the past five days, Orange County has seen triple digits in positive COVID-19 cases each day.

Responding to this upward trend in COVID cases, Orange County Mayor Demings spoke with health care leaders today to discuss a possible plan of action. The County will continue to stress the importance of face masks and social distancing to residents. The County may explore the possibility of mandating masks for all people at certain types of businesses.

ORANGE CARES

Orange County’s team has streamlined the Orange CARES for Residents Program application process to require fewer documents. In addition, residents who have approved applications will receive direct payment.

More than 15,000 applications were submitted this morning.

The next application will open Monday, June 22 at 8 a.m. and there will be a 10,000 user capacity. Visit www.ocfl.net/OrangeCARES for more information.

TESTING

COVID-19 testing continues to be critical. Orange County Health Services is offering free testing this week at Barnett Park. Appointments can be made directly at www.ocfl.net/BarnettPark. Residents will receive free face masks and hand sanitizers after an appointment. For a list of various testing options, visit www.ocfl.net/covid19.

June 11, 2020 11:41 PM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 6/11/20

Orange County has a total 730 positive COVID-19 cases in the past 14 days. Yesterday, June 10, the Florida Department of Health in Orange County reported 123 new confirmed cases. Testing has been increasing and the County positivity rate is slightly up at 3%. Statewide, the positivity rate is 5.3%. For an updated COVID-19 heat map, visit www.ocfl.net/covid19HeatMap.

TESTING

Orange County Health Services will expand to offer free COVID-19 testing June 15 through June 18 at Barnett Park, located at 4801 W. Colonial Drive. Residents who participate will receive free facemasks and hand sanitizer at the time of their appointment. To schedule an appointment, visit, www.ocfl.net/BarnettPark. For more information on this site and other testing sites in Orange County, visit www.ocfl.net/covid19.

SMALL BUSINESS GRANT PROGRAM

Orange CARES for Small Businesses Program helps eligible businesses in Orange County a $10,000 grant. Applications are still open for business grants. www.ocfl.net/OrangeCares. There are currently 3,177 submitted applications and a little more than $2 million in payments have already been processed. However, there have been many denials because of incomplete and/or lack of necessary documents. Please ensure that all forms are submitted in order to process applications efficiently.

RESIDENT GRANT PROGRAM

For the Orange CARES Program for Individuals and Families, 3,501 applications have been submitted. The County is in the process of approvals and streamlining the process to better serve residents. The next opportunity for applications will be Monday, June 15, at 8 AM. Visit www.ocfl.net/OrangeCares for more information.

SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK

Orange County has also been providing facemasks, gloves and hand sanitizers to Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida and its many food partners.

To serve the growing demand, Second Harvest has doubled daily distribution from 150,000 to 300,000 meals per day since the end of March. However, demand continues to outpace long-term capacity, and needs the community’s help. Lockheed Martin recently provided a $425,000 grant to Second Harvest that will be used to provide critical help to struggling Central Floridians.

To donate, visit www.FeedHopeNow.org.

PULSE REMEMBERANCE

The OnePULSEFoundation will host its annual Pulse Remembrance Ceremony on June 12, 2020, virtually on its Facebook Page or YouTube, beginning at 7 p.m. Visit www.OnePulseFoundation.org for more information.

June 11, 2020 8:56 AM

Parks & Recreation Department Update

Starting on June 11, the following City of Ocoee park amenities will reopen to the public:

• Playgrounds
• Basketball courts
• Pavilions
• Restrooms

Park visitors are still required to follow the CDC’s guidelines for COVID-19. For more information, please call the Ocoee Parks and Recreation Department at 407-877-5803.

June 4, 2020 8:41 AM

Governor's Phase 2 of Reopening Florida

On June 5, Governor DeSantis’ Phase 2 of reopening Florida begins.

• Bars and pubs may operate at 50% capacity.
• Retail may operate at full capacity.
• Gyms may operate at full capacity.
• Entertainment businesses may operate at 50 percent capacity.
• Personal services businesses may operate.
• All are encouraged with social distancing and sanitizing measures.
• All people in Florida are encouraged to avoid congregating in groups larger than 50.

Governor’s Executive Order 20-139 https://bit.ly/3dqWHfP
PowerPoint Phase 2 https://bit.ly/3gKIcpj

June 3, 2020 3:50 PM

Orange CARES Small Business Assistance

As a result of the Orange County Board of County Commissioners philosophy to work with local governments to reach and assist as many residents as possible, funding is open to all residents and small businesses located within the boundaries of Orange County, not just unincorporated Orange County.

The breakdown of funding is as follows:

• Small Business Financial Assistance: $72.9 million
• Social Services and Community Needs: $72.9 million
• OC Public Safety and Health Expenditures: $48.6 million
• Municipality and Constitutional Officer Expenditures: $24.3 million
• Replenishment Account: $24.5 million

The application for the Small Business Grant Program and the Individual and Family Assistance Program will open June 8, 2020. For more information on eligibility criteria and required documents, visit ocfl.net/OrangeCares. If you are unable to access the Internet or have a language barrier, please call Orange County’s 3-1-1 call system for assistance.

June 1, 2020 3:07 PM

Summer Meal Service

Beginning on June 1, OCPS Food and Nutrition Services “Summer Meal Service” (formerly “Grab and Go”) will distribute meals Monday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to noon. Ocoee Middle School is still the closest place to pick up the food. Students and/or a parent or guardian can pick up breakfast and lunch. On Thursday, they can pick up two days of breakfast and lunch. For more information, visit www.ocps.net.

June 1, 2020 8:12 AM

Orange County Curfew Tonight from 10pm to 5am

A Word From Mayor Johnson:

Here in Ocoee, we will be complying with Mayor Demings’ curfew for Orange County tonight from 10pm to 5am. I trust this community will remain wise and caring in the midst of pain and calls for justice. Your willingness to stay inside throughout the evening allows our city’s emergency service professionals to respond to the things they need to. There was an incident at the West Oaks Mall which resulted in two arrests. But, this community is full of empathy and respect, and I appreciate your understanding and care for one another.

Reminder: The curfew will take effect from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., for all of Orange County, unless a city has instituted its own curfew. The purpose is to keep residents safe and decrease the potential spread of COVID-19 due to large gatherings. Exec. Order: bit.ly/2XgWHcy

May 29, 2020 6:41 PM

Ocoee City Hall Reopens to Public on a Limited Basis

City Hall will be open to the public during normal business hours on Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. and on Fridays from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.  The city is committed to continuing its efforts to flatten the curve. Anyone entering City Hall must wear a protective face covering that conforms to the CDC’s recommendations. Visitors will be required to strictly observe social distancing. Access to City Hall will be limited to those services that require extensive personal interaction with staff, such as to establish a utility account or discuss a planned construction project.

We encourage the public to continue using the City Hall utility payment drop boxes, mail payments or pay online. These payment options reduce the need for in-person contact. For a complete list of methods of payment, visit https://www.ocoee.org/353/Methods-of-Payment. For building permits, development plans and inspections, citizens should continue to use the city’s electronic system at permits.ocoee.org. For all local businesses tax applications and inquiries, contact inspections@ocoee.org. All forms and documents can be found at https://www.ocoee.org/177/Building-Applications-Forms.

The public is encouraged to make appointments to discuss specific needs.

• Planning & Zoning              407-905-3157
• Building Permits                 407-905-3104 inspections@ocoee.org
• Utility Accounts                  407-905-3191 ucd2@ocoee.org
• City Clerk & Cemetery       407-905-3105 ccdl@ocoee.org
• Code Enforcement            407-905-3106
• Accounting & Purchasing  407-905-3190
• Human Resources            407-905-3154

The City of Ocoee appreciates your understanding of the new safety precautions that are in place at City Hall. These measures have been implemented for public safety and the safety of city employees. For more information, call 407-905-3100 or visit www.ocoee.org.

May 29, 2020 10:41 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 5/28/2020

Orange County currently has a 2.8% COVID-19 positivity rate and the County’s coronavirus recovery rate remains around 87%. Please continue to protect yourself and pay special attention to those 65 and older to ensure their safety and health.

CARES ACT
Orange County small businesses can visit ocfl.net/OrangeCares on June 1, 2020 for a list of eligibility criteria and required documents necessary to apply and qualify for the upcoming Orange CARES Small Business Grant Program. The applications for the program will open on June 8, 2020. Information about the resident assistance program will be available soon.

CONSUMER CONFIDENCE SURVEY RESULTS
The results of Orange County’s Consumer Confidence Survey are in and results can be found at ocfl.net/EconomicRecovery. More than 15,000 people responded to the survey.

Among the key findings:

• 64% of consumers are concerned or very concerned about businesses enforcing social distancing guidelines and other COVID health protocols


• 69% of consumers say they are more likely to patronize a business that requires its employees to wear facemasks.

TAX-FREE DATES FOR HURRICANE PREP
Hurricane Season begins on June 1. The 2020 Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday begins May 29 through June 4. It is a good time to stock up on items you may need to fill out your preparedness kits. For information, visit ocfl.net/storm.

May 21, 2020 8:50 AM

Orange County News Conference Key Takeaways

According to the Florida Department of Health in Orange County:
· There have been 58,101 tested for COVID-19 tested. Of those tested, 56,336 individuals came back with negative test results, which equals a 2.9% positive rate for Orange County.
· Since April 22, 2020, there have been 294 hospitalizations of residents. Orange County has an 88% recovery rate.
· The County now has a total 1,708 COVID-19 cases. The number of residents who lost their lives in Orange County to COVID-19 remains at 38.

An updated heat map that only shows COVID-19 cases in Orange County over the past two weeks can be accessed at www.ocfl.net/covid19HeatMap.

CARES ACT FUNDING BREAKDOWN

The Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously on May 19, 2020 to make the $243 million dollar CARES Act funding available to financially vulnerable segments of our community. The funding breakdown is as follows:

May 18, 2020 8:10 AM

Governor Updates & Moratorium on Evictions Extended

Florida Governor DeSantis announced that “full Phase One” will begin on Monday, May 18.  Restaurants, retail shops, museums and libraries will be allowed to operate at 50 percent capacity. Gyms and fitness centers will also be allowed to reopen.
In addition, the Governor extended the moratorium on evictions until June 2, 2020. It was previously set to end on May 17, 2020. The moratorium temporarily suspends all evictions and foreclosures for non-payment related to COVID-19.

May 15, 2020 6:16 PM

Revised - DOH-Orange announces Four COVID19 testing sites for next week

May 15, 2020 3:55 PM

Orange County Extends “Last Chance” Opportunity for Small Businesses to Receive Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

www.ocfl.net/PPE for Small Biz in Orange County, an Orange County Government COVID-19 initiative through the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force (http://www.ocfl.net/economicrecovery), is offering an extension for small businesses in Orange County to pick up personal protective equipment (PPE) – and once again, all at no cost.

May 12, 2020 3:35 PM

Free Mobile Testing Appointments Available

The Florida Department of Health in Orange County has appointments available for the next three days of free, mobile COVID-19 testing. Residents of Orange County, Florida can secure an appointment for testing by calling the Florida Department of Health in Orange County’s COVID-19 Call Center at 407-723-5004. The Call Center is open Monday through Friday and closes each day at 5 p.m. Residents can leave a message and staff will contact them.

May 12, 2020 7:54 AM

Ocoee Boat Ramps and Parks Reopening

The City of Ocoee will reopen its boat ramps and parks on Tuesday, May 12, 2020 after being closed for over a month due to the coronavirus and Gov. Ron DeSantis’ Safer at Home Executive Order.

• Parks will be open from dawn to dusk for passive use. Activities like walking, bicycling and jogging are permitted.
• City boat ramps will be open to the public. The city’s boat ramps are located at Municipal Lakefront Park, 150 North Lakeshore Drive and Prairie Lake Park, 2075 Hackney Prairie Road, a non-motorized boat launch.
• All public restrooms, playgrounds, basketball courts, pavilions and tennis courts will remain closed until further notice.
• Parks users will still need to comply with current social distancing guidelines by not congregating in groups of more than 10 people, and maintaining six feet of separation from others.
• Park rangers and police officers will patrol these areas to ensure the public is following guidelines from the governor and the CDC.
• All parks and recreation programs are canceled until further notice. At this time, summer camp and youth sports are TBD and will evolve with each phase of the reopening plan.
• These cancellations include all sporting events held at city parks, and the city pool.
• All other parks and recreation facilities will be closed to the public until further notice, including the Jim Beech Recreation Center, Tom Ison Senior and Veterans Center, Vignetti Building, Ocoee Lakeshore Center and the Withers Maguire House.

For more information, please call the Ocoee Parks and Recreation Department at 407-877-5803 or visit www.ocoee.org.

May 11, 2020 9:56 AM

PPE for Small Biz in Orange County

On Monday, May 11, Orange County will begin distributing free personal protective equipment (PPE), including masks and hand sanitizer, to small businesses with 40 or less employees. Businesses must register by completing an Interest Form at www.ocfl.net/PPE to schedule a pick-up appointment. Kits of face coverings and 2-oz. hand sanitizer bottles will be distributed to up to 20,000 small businesses at drive-through pick-up sites located throughout the County, until supplies run out. The drive-through site for Ocoee businesses is located at 955 E Story Rd #3733, Winter Garden, FL 34787. For more information about the PPE for Small Biz in Orange County initiative, please email EconomicRecovery@ocfl.net, or visit www.ocfl.net/EconomicRecovery.

May 11, 2020 7:47 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference

PERSONAL CARE SERVICES, (hair salons, barbershops, nail salons)
Effective Monday, May 11, 2020, hair salons, barbershops, and nail salons can reopen by the action taken today by Governor DeSantis. There are specific recommendations, including limiting the number of guests and have sanitary practices.

CURFEW
Effective May 11, 2020 at 5:01 a.m.the curfew for Orange County will expire. Law enforcement will continue to monitor overnight activities. The curfew could be put back into place should a need arise. The curfew has been in effect since March 20, 2020. For more information, http://www.ocfl.net/EmergencySafety/Coronavirus.aspx

May 7, 2020 9:03 AM

Orange County Health Services

Orange County will open new, free COVID-19 testing sites starting this week and next week. Based on zip code data from Orange County’s heat map (www.ocfl.net/COVID19HeatMap), these new sites are opening in areas where there have been a higher number of positive COVID-19 cases. For more information, www.ocfl.net/covid19.

May 6, 2020 12:54 PM

Ocoee Outdoor Dining Program

We want to assist our restaurants in reopening. As part of Governor Ron DeSantis’ Executive Order 20-112, Phase 1 Business Reopening Plan, the City of Ocoee has relaxed regulations to encourage outdoor seating. Whereas a permit is required to ensure safety requirements are being met, the City will not be charging for the permit. Outside seating will be allowed for a period of 30 days or until full seating is allowed by the State of Florida. The following outlines the Ocoee Restaurant Outdoor Dining program.

• Restaurants may use outdoor space, owned or leased by the Restaurant Operator such as parking areas, to provide for outdoor seating.
• For restaurants operating at 25% indoor capacity, that also wish to offer outdoor seating in a commercial strip center, the City shall not require additional parking.
• If additional outdoor dining space is located within a parking area, a temporary physical barrier must be placed separating the dining from the remaining parking.
• Must comply with all applicable Fire Department regulations.
• Must comply with all Florida Health Department regulations.
• Must not negatively impact ingress/egress to the building or property.
• A permit shall be required for all outdoor seating and Restaurant Operators shall apply for a permit from the City to erect a tent to provide customers with outdoor seating options; however, the City will waive the cost of the permit for outdoor seating and/or erecting such tent.
• All regulations or criteria established by City staff for erecting and maintaining such outdoor tents shall at all times be complied with by the Restaurant and Restaurant Operator.
• Social distancing and all other COVID-19 safety requirements imposed by federal, state, or local authorities apply with regard to indoor and outdoor seating capability of Restaurants.
• If a restaurant is not the property owner, then it must obtain written permission from the landlord prior to installation.
• Regulations pertaining to outdoor entertainment are not affected by this Order.
• All temporary outdoor dining areas must be maintained, free of litter.
• Upon acceptance of such a permit, Restaurant Operator acknowledges and agrees that said permit may be revoked by the City at any time.

If you have any questions, please email them to inspections@ocoee.org or if you would like assistance in reviewing your outdoor dining needs, call 407-905-3104 to set an appointment. All forms and documents can be found at https://www.ocoee.org/177/Building-Applications-Forms. If you require assistance, please contact us at 407-905-3104. Visit us at www.ocoee.org.

May 5, 2020 7:33 AM

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 5/4/2020

The latest numbers from the Florida Department of Health in Orange County show 1,438 COVID-19 cases and 35 deaths in the County.

·Orange County has conducted 29,402 tests and the percentage of positive cases from testing in the County over this past weekend has been 0.9% and 1.1%. Currently, the average rate for positive cases in testing is 4.9%.

In addition, 10% of all positive cases reported in Orange County are from asymptomatic individuals. The Florida Department of Health in Orange County now reports a 93% recovery rate in Orange County from COVID-19. For more information, visit https://newsroom.ocfl.net/media-advisories/press-releases/2020/03/coronavirus-updates/.

May 4, 2020 12:39 PM

Governor Ron DeSantis’ Plan to Reopen Florida

Today is the start of Governor Ron DeSantis’ plan to reopen Florida: “Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step”. With this in mind, the City of Ocoee has launched a new set of digital billboard messages encouraging residents to continue to be vigilant and stay safe. The billboard, located just past Exit 265 and about .5 miles east of SR 50, is provided by the city’s partner Clear Channel at no cost.

May 3, 2020 2:07 PM

Key Takeaways From Orange County Newsroom

The latest numbers from the Florida Department of Health in Orange County show 1,413 cases and 34 deaths in the County.

77% of all COVID-19 cases in Orange County have fully recovered.

Orange County has conducted nearly 27,000 tests and the percentage of positive cases in the County is 5.4% – which has decreased from 5.6% earlier this week.

In an effort to help small businesses obtain the Personal Protective Equipment needed, Orange County has ordered one million masks and 200,000 hand sanitizers through the federal CARES Act funds to distribute locally. For more information on Orange County’s plan to reopen businesses, https://newsroom.ocfl.net/media-advisories/press-releases/2020/03/coronavirus-update/.

April 30, 2020 8:18 AM

Gov. Ron DeSantis - Reopen Florida Plan

On May 4, the Governor’s Phase One plan to reopen Florida begins and will include the following:

Elective surgeries can resume.
Restaurants can offer indoor seating — limited to 25% capacity — and outdoor seating with six feet of space between tables.
Retail stores can operate at 25% capacity.

Bars, gyms, movie theaters and places offering personal services, such as hair salons, will remain closed. In addition, schools will continue to operate on a distance learning model, and visits to nursing homes and other senior-living facilities remain prohibited. To view the Governor’s full plan visit https://www.flgov.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/EO-20-112.pdf.

April 25, 2020 9:53 PM

Free COVID-19 Testing Sites Near You

April 17, 2020 4:03 PM

OCPS Grab-and-Go Meals New Schedule

On Monday, April 20, the OCPS Grab-and-Go Meal program will start a new distribution schedule at all 52 sites. Ocoee Middle School is a Grab-and-Go site. The new schedule will be Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Weekend meals will continue to be distributed on Fridays. The OCPS Grab-and-Go Meal distribution program has served more than 1 million meals since its inception. For more information, visit https://www.ocps.net.

April 15, 2020 3:50 PM

Orange County Mobile Testing

Starting on Monday, April 20, there will be free, mobile COVID-19 testing sites for Orange County residents. The tests are by appointment only.

April 13, 2020 8:24 AM

Orange County Convention Testing Site

The drive-through COVID-19 regional testing site at the Orange County Convention Center has expanded its criteria and will have more testing. There are now 400 free tests available per day, up from the previous 250 tests per day. The state is now running the testing site. For more information, visit www.ocfl.net/coronavirus.

April 6, 2020 11:35 AM

Stay Safe, Stay Healthy, Stay Home

The City of Ocoee has posted a billboard urging residents to “Stay Safe, Stay Healthy, Stay Home.” The electronic billboard is located on the turnpike just past Exit 265 and about .5 miles east of SR 50. We’d like to thank our partner Clear Channel for providing the free billboard space throughout the year.

April 2, 2020 5:10 PM

Florida Stay-at-Home Executive Order

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued a statewide “Stay-at-Home” order (Executive Order Number 20-91) that will take effect at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, April 3, 2020. See the full Executive Order



Orange County’s Stay-at-Home Executive Order went into effect on March 26, 2020. For more information, visit orangecountyfl.net.

April 1, 2020 10:28 AM

COVID-19 Drive-Thru Testing Update

There's no longer an age requirement to get tested for the Coronavirus. If you have symptoms or a pre-existing medical condition, you may meet the updated criteria. The drive-thru test center is located at the Orange County Convention Center. For the latest information, visit www.ocfl.net/coronavirus.

April 1, 2020 9:54 AM

Ocoee Middle School is a Grab-and-Go Site

Grab-and-Go meals are now available at Ocoee Middle School. Parents may go to OMS for pick-up between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., Monday through Friday, in the car loop. Students must be present to receive the meals, EXCEPT ESE students. For the latest information and a complete list of pick-up locations, visit the OCPS website:
https://www.ocps.net/departments/food_and_nutrition_services/grab-and-_go_meals

March 26, 2020 10:17 AM

Florida's COVID-19 Data and Surveillance Dashboard

To see the latest number of cases of COVID-19 in the state of Florida, click here: fdoh.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/8d0de33f260d444c852a615dc7837c86


March 25, 2020 5:05 PM

Resolution No. 2020-001, Declaration of a Local Emergency, which was approved at the March 25, 2020 Special Session, Agenda Item II.

The cancellation of the April 7, 2020 Regular City Commission Meeting was approved by the City Commission at the Special Session, Agenda Item III.

Resolution No. 2020-001 - Declaration of a Local Emergency (PDF)

March 25, 2020 7:46 AM

Stay at Home to Flatten The Curve: Orange County Issues ‘Stay At Home,’ Order Effective March 26, 2020: FAQs

Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings has ordered all non-essential retail and commercial businesses to close and all residents to stay home from non-essential travel. This order will take effect at 11 p.m. on Thursday, March 26 and will continue for two weeks until April 9 at 11 p.m. The order means that the entirety of Orange County is ordered to stay at home as much as possible, with exceptions for businesses and travel deemed “essential.” For the complete Executive Order visit this webpage.
https://newsroom.ocfl.net/2020/03/stay-at-home-to-flatten-the-curve-orange-county-issues-stay-at-home-order-effective-march-26-2020-faqs

March 24, 2020 2:12 PM

City of Ocoee Declares State of Emergency

OCOEE, Fla. Due to COVID-19 the City of Ocoee has declared a local State of Emergency. Ocoee City Hall and all city administrative facilities are temporarily closed to the public. Residents should call 407-905-3100 or visit Ocoee.org to request city services and interact with city government. Read the City of Ocoee Proclamation---Local-State-of-Emergency-COVID-19(PDF)

Utility/Water Billing

The City of Ocoee’s Utility Billing and Customer Service team looks forward to welcoming residents into the City Hall lobby when the COVID-19 virus has passed. In the meantime, please use one of several payment methods by visiting https://www.ocoee.org/353/Methods-of-Payment. The cut-off date for the month of March has been postponed to give citizens ample time to pay their water bill. To establish new service, please email
UCD2@ocoee.org. For more information, please call 407-905-3191.

Parks and Recreation Facilities

The city’s Jim Beech Recreation Center and the boat ramp at Bill Breeze Park will be closed to the public. Select parks and all playgrounds and pavilions will be closed to the public. When visiting the city’s open greenspaces, citizens should follow the Center for Disease Control’s guidelines of social distancing with six feet of space between others. For more information, call 407-877-5803.

Building Division

The City of Ocoee Building Division continues to serve citizens with normal response times. Please utilize the city’s online process for permit submissions at permits.ocoee.org. For all local business tax applications and inquiries, please email inspections@ocoee.org. All forms and documents can be found at https://www.ocoee.org/177/Building-Applications-Forms. For more information, call 407-905-3104.

City Clerk

The Office of the City Clerk continues to serve citizens with normal response times. Citizen inquires including cemetery and public records requests, please email ccdl@ocoee.org. For more information, call 407-905- 3105.

Code Enforcement

Code Enforcement continues to serve citizens with normal response times. To file a code enforcement concern, please fill out a form online at https://www.ocoee.org/737/Citizen-Support-Center. For more information call 407-905-3106.

Fire Department

The City of Ocoee Fire Department continues to serve citizens and visitors with normal responses to 911 emergencies to all fire, medical, and specialized calls for service. As a precaution during an emergency, please know that personnel may be wearing added personal protective equipment, such as masks, gloves, gowns and eye protection. This will assist in reducing the possible spread of virus from patients or family members who could have signs and symptoms of/or who may have been exposed to someone with the COVID-19 virus.

All city fire stations are now closed to visitors, except for emergencies. Should you have an emergency or feel ill, you are strongly urged to please call 911 and not drive to a fire station.

Certain public services such as blood pressure checks, sharps container drop-off and smoke detector installations are temporarily suspended.

All public relations/educational events that the fire department had scheduled or would normally participate in have been cancelled until further notice.

Fire inspections, permitting and plans review will continue online until further notice. For more information, call the non-emergency number 407-905-3140. If you have an emergency, please call 911.

Police Department

The City of Ocoee Police Department is committed to flattening the curve. Until further notice, the police headquarters lobby will be closed to walk-in customers. As first responders, officers remain dedicated to providing services as we all deal with the evolving Coronavirus pandemic. Citizens can reach the police department by calling 407-905-3160. For copies of police reports and other records, please call 407-905-3162 or email opd.records@ci.ocoee.fl.us

Public Works Department

Trash and recycling collection will continue normal operations.

Utilities Department

Water, sewer and reclaimed water services will continue normal operations.

March 23, 2020 5:16 PM

Florida Disaster Bridge Loan

Loans to small business owners in the amount of $50,000

Interest Free for 1 year and must be repaid in 1 year.

Small Businesses with 2-100 employees

Owners are not considered employees

Tax Returns, W-2, and W-3 will be used to determine the number of eligible employees

Applicant must own at least 51% of the company

https://floridadisasterloan.org/eligibility-and-loan-process

Small Business Administration Economic Injury Disaster Loan

Up to $2 Million in working capital loans

30 year term/3.75% Interest Rate

Must have collateral to pledge (Real Estate or Equipment/Inventory)

Florida SBDC Business Disaster Relief (PDF) >>

March 23, 2020 2:25 PM

OCPS families,

Orange County Public Schools continues its commitment to
provide children with nutritious meals during this unplanned school closure.
Beginning Monday, March 23, the district will distribute meals for FREE at 50
schools across the district during the extended closure. Any child aged 18 and
under will receive FREE breakfast, lunch and a breakfast for the next day.

The meals will be available for pick-up between 10 a.m. and
2 p.m. at each of the 50 locations Monday through Friday. Students must be
present to receive the meals; no identification is needed.

District staff will distribute the meals directly to those
in their vehicle in a drive-thru style pick-up. Also, students walking or
riding their bike can pick up the meals as well.

The following school sites have been identified:

Aloma Elementary School - 2949 Scarlet Road, Winter Park, FL
32792

Apopka Middle School - 425 N. Park Ave., Apopka, FL 32712

Azalea Park Elementary School - 1 Carol Avenue, Orlando, FL 32807

Bonneville Elementary School - 14700 Sussex Dr., Orlando, FL
32826-3899

Carver Middle School - 4500 W. Columbia St., Orlando, FL 32811

Castle Creek Elementary Schools - 1245 N. Avalon Park Blvd.,
Orlando, FL 32828

Catalina Elementary School - 2448 W.29th Street, Orlando, FL
32805

Colonial High School - 6100 Oleander Dr., Orlando, FL 32807

Conway Middle School - 4600 Anderson Rd., Orlando, FL 32812

Dover Shores Elementary School - 1200 Gaston Foster Rd., Orlando,
FL 32812

Dr. Phillips High School - 6500 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando, FL
32819

East River High School - 650 East River Falcons Way, Orlando, FL
32833

Eccleston Elementary School - 1500 Aaron Ave., Orlando, FL 32811

Edgewater High School - 3100 Edgewater Dr., Orlando, FL 32804

Evans High School - 4949 Silver Star Rd., Orlando, FL 32808

Forsyth Woods Elementary School - 6651 Curtis Street, Orlando, FL
32807

Frangus Elementary School - 380 Killington Way, Orlando, FL 32835

Gotha Middle School - 9155 Gotha Road, Windermere, FL 34786

Hungerford Elementary School - 230 College Ave., Maitland, FL
32751

Ivey Lane Elementary School - 209 N. Silverton St., Orlando, FL
32811

Jones High School - 801 S. Rio Grande Ave., Orlando, FL 32805

Lake Gem Elementary School - 4801 Bloodhound St., Orlando, FL
32818

Lake Weston Elementary School - 5500 Milan Dr., Orlando, FL 32810

Lancaster Elementary School - 6700 Sheryl Ann Dr., Orlando, FL
32809

Maxey Elementary School - 602 E. Story Rd., Winter Garden, FL
34787

McCoy Elementary School - 5225 S. Semoran Blvd., Orlando, FL
32809

Meadow Woods Elementary School - 500 Rhode Island Wood Cir.,
Orlando FL 32824

Meadow Woods Middle School - 1800 Rhode Island Woods Cir.,
Orlando, FL 32824

Memorial Middle School - 2220 W. 29th St., Orlando, FL 32805

Mollie Ray Elementary School - 2000 Beecher St., Orlando, Florida
32808

Oak Ridge High School - 700 West Oak Ridge Rd., Orlando, FL 32809

OCPS ACE K-8 School - 701 W Livingston St., Orlando, FL 32801

Orlo Vista Elementary School - 3 N. Hastings St., Orlando FL
32835

Pinar Elementary School - 3701 Anthony Lane, Orlando, FL 32822

Pine Hills Elementary School - 1006 Ferndell Rd., Orlando, FL
32808

Pineloch Elementary School - 3101 Woods Ave., Orlando, FL 32805

Rock Lake Elementary School - 408 N. Tampa Ave., Orlando, FL
32805

Rolling Hills Elementary School - 3607 Damon Rd., Apopka FL 32703

Rosemont Elementary School - 4650 Point Lookout Rd., Orlando, FL
32808

Sally Ride Elementary School - 9601 11th Ave., Orlando, FL 32824

Shingle Creek Elementary School - 5620 Harcourt Ave., Orlando, FL
32839

Tangelo Park Elementary School - 5115 Anzio St., Orlando, FL
32819

Union Park Middle School - 1844 Westfall Dr., Orlando, FL 32817

University High School – 2450 Cougar Way, Orlando, FL 32817

Washington Shores Elementary School - 944 W. Lake Mann Dr.,
Orlando, FL 32806

Wedgefield K-8 School - 3835 Bancroft Blvd., Orlando, FL 32833

Wekiva High School - 2501 N. Hiawassee Rd., Apopka, FL 32703

Wheatley Elementary School - 1475 Marvin C Zanders Ave., Apopka,
FL 32703

Wolf Lake Elementary School - 1771 W. Ponkan Rd., Apopka, FL
32712

Zellwood Elementary School - 3551 N. Washington St., Zellwood FL
32798

Adjustments may be made based on daily participation.

www.ocps.net

Orange County Public Schools would like to continue
connecting with you via email. If you prefer to be removed from our list,
please contact Orange County Public Schools directly. To stop receiving all
email messages distributed through our SchoolMessenger service, follow this
link and confirm: Unsubscribe

SchoolMessenger is a notification service used by the
nation's leading school systems to connect with parents, students and staff
through voice, SMS text, email, and social media.

1. Ensure your preferred mobile device number is on file
with your school(s).

2. Simply scan the QR code with your smartphone then hit
send. (Text YES from the device to 68453.)

Please see the Utility Billing Page for additional information.

With an abundance of caution toward preventing the spread of the Coronavirus, the City of Ocoee requests your cooperation in limiting the number of payments made at the utility billing counter.  We understand this may cause a delay in receiving your payment.  Therefore, we are postponing the cut-off date for the month of March, so that you have ample time to use one of our many other payment methods.

For your convenience, there are several ways you can pay your utility bill. Please click on the Methods of Payment listed below.

Please call the Utilities Counter for customer billing services at 407-905-3191. 

Reference the Rates, Fees & Regulations Flyer (PDF) for more information.

Apply for Service

Learn how to apply for new water service, garbage collection, sewer service, and irrigation services at your home.

Disconnect Service

Who to contact if you are moving and need to disconnect your water utilities.

Methods of Payment

Find out about the various forms of utility payment available to citizens of Ocoee.

Online Bill Pay

Pay bills online.

Rates, Fees & Regulations

Use this form to review current water fees.

Please see the Utility Billing Page for additional information.

DOH-Orange opens an Appointment Only COVID-19 Testing Site

The Florida Department of Health in Orange County (DOH-Orange) will open a Coronavirus (COVID-19) testing site in Orange County on Monday, March 23, 2020.

The testing is by appointment only and it is geared for those high-risk individuals who meet the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19 testing criteria.

In order to get screened for the criteria, Orange County, Florida residents can contact the DOH-Orange’s Call Center Monday through Friday; 8am - 5pm at 407-723-5004.

To better gauge the spread of the virus in the community, DOH-Orange plans to implement a random testing effort of selected volunteers. This method of information gathering will further the planning process and will enhance the approaches utilized to combat the virus.