The Orange County Board of County Commissioners convened on May 20, 2025, to discuss significant updates from the recent state legislative session and to address pressing local issues, including a proposed fireworks ordinance and the ongoing Vision 2050 planning initiative.

During the meeting, Ms. Kelly Teague, the Director of Legislative Affairs, provided an overview of the 2025 state legislative session, highlighting that 1,952 bills were filed, with only 255 passing both chambers. The budget remains unresolved, with a staggering $4 billion gap between the House and Senate proposals. Teague noted that while some problematic bills were slowed down, others, like Senate Bill 180, pose potential challenges for local governments, particularly regarding land planning and development regulations.

One of the most pressing topics discussed was the proposed fireworks ordinance aimed at addressing community concerns over unauthorized fireworks use. The ordinance seeks to enforce state regulations more effectively and would classify unauthorized fireworks use as a nuisance, allowing law enforcement to issue citations. The board expressed a strong desire for the ordinance to apply countywide, emphasizing the need for consistent enforcement across municipalities to maintain community safety and quality of life.

Additionally, the board reviewed the Vision 2050 initiative, which aims to accommodate the expected population growth of 422,000 residents in Orange County. The discussion included the implications of school capacity on land use decisions, particularly in light of concerns raised by Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) regarding overcrowding. The board is considering a density activation application process that would allow for residential development while ensuring that school capacity is adequately addressed.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further refine the proposed policies and to engage with municipalities to ensure that local needs and concerns are adequately represented in the ongoing planning efforts. The board's proactive approach aims to balance growth with community needs, ensuring that Orange County remains a vibrant and livable place for all residents.