Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-03-26 Agenda PacketFIFTY WEST OCOEE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY Ocoee Commission Chambers 1 N. Bluford Avenue Ocoee, Florida March 3, 2026 CRA REGULAR MEETING • CALL TO ORDER Roll Call and Determination of Quorum • PUBLIC COMMENTS • OLD BUSINESS • NEW BUSINESS 1. Development Services Director Introduction 2. Approval of Minutes of the December 2, 2025, Regular CRA Meeting • MISCELLANEOUS 1. Annual Report Presentation 2. Redevelopment Plan Update 3. Project Updates • BOARD COMMENTS •ADJOURNMENT 5:00 PM NOTICE: IN ACCORDANCE WITH FLORIDA STATUTE 286.0105: ANY PERSON WHO DESIRES TO APPEAL ANY DECISION AT THIS MEETING WILL NEED A RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS AND FOR THIS PURPOSE MAY NEED TO ENSURE THAT A VERBATIM RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS IS MADE WHICH INCLUDES THE TESTIMONY AND EVIDENCE UPON WHICH THE APPEAL IS BASED. IN ACCORDANCE WITH FLORIDA STATUTE 286.26: PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES NEEDING ASSISTANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN ANY OF THESE PROCEEDINGS SHOULD CONTACT THE OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK, 1 N. BLUFORD AVENUE, OCOEE, FL 34761, (407) 905 -3105, 48 HOURS IN ADVANCE OF THE MEETING. Page 1 of 13 FIFTY WEST OCOEE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY Ocoee Commission Chambers 1 N. Bluford Avenue Ocoee, Florida December 2, 2025 MINUTES 5:00 PM • CALL TO ORDER Chair Kennedy called the Community Redevelopment Agency Board to order at 5:00 PM in the Commission Chambers of City Hall. Recording Clerk Sibbitt called roll and declared a quorum present. Roll Call: Chair Kennedy, Vice -Chair Koovakada, Member Johnson, Member Wilsen, Member Firstner, Member Oliver, and Member June Absent: None Also Present: City Manager Shadrix, Assistant City Manager Rumer, CRA Administrator Vaca, City Attorney Geller, and Recording Clerk Sibbitt 311114 [SK0167 iT 1►IFi 14 1!h &9 No speaker reservation forms were received. • OLD BUSINESS - None • NEW BUSINESS Approval of Minutes of the September 16, 2025, CRA Board Meeting Member Wilsen, seconded by Member Johnson, moved to approve the CRA Regular Meeting Minutes of September 16, 2025, as presented. Motion carried unanimously. 2. Election of Officers A memorandum was provided in the CRA packet which identified the Chair and Vice -Chair for the past seven fiscal years, including the current year. Brief discussion ensued. Member Firstner, seconded by Member Johson, moved to nominate Vice -Chair Koovakada as CRA Board Chair and Member Oliver as CRA Board Vice -Chair. Motion carried unanimously. Page 2 of 13 CRA Regular Meeting December 2, 2025 • MISCELLANEOUS Increment Revenue Update CRA Administrator Vaca updated the Board on the revised increment revenue calculations provided by the Orange County Office of Management & Budget on November 5, 2025. She reported that the tax increment will be $192,647.05 higher than the original June estimate, primarily due to an increase in gross taxable value. As a result of this higher tax increment, a larger rebate will be owed back to Orange County from the CRA. She also outlined the payment timeline, including the budget transfer and initiation of the rebate payment. CRA Administrator Vaca noted that no action is required at this time. She stated that the Financial Annual Audit is expected in March 2026, and a formal budget amendment will likely be brought forward in June to update the tax increment value and the cash carry forward. 2. Project Updates CRA Administrator Vaca updated the Board with the following: 1) The Wellness Park restroom was re -inspected to address the remaining punch list items. Staff worked with the contractor to complete the necessary revisions, and the contractor has since submitted all close-out materials. City staff is now finalizing the opening and lock- up schedule. Member Wilsen expressed concerns about the park and restroom hours. CRA Administrator Vaca and City Manager Shadrix addressed her concerns. It was noted that the lighting complies with all applicable safety codes and standards necessary to ensure public safety in that area. Member Oliver asked whether any cameras are installed at Wellness Park and recommended that staff consider adding them if none are currently in place. CRA Administrator Vaca responded to his inquiry. 2) Meetings regarding the Bluford Avenue Streetscape have taken place with the property owner of 789 South Bluford Avenue and staff, to discuss acquiring the southern portion of the property for the new lift station. Staff is coordinating with CPH to obtain a legal description and sketch of the property needed for appraisal and acquisition. Additionally, staff met with Duke Energy's underground conversion design team to address questions about the project design. • BOARD COMMENTS - None -ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 5:12 PM Attest: Melanie Sibbitt, Recording Clerk Chair Page 3 of 13 MEMORANDUM TO: CRA Board FROM: Carolina Vaca, CRA Administrator DATE: March 3, 2026 RE: ANNUAL REPORT PRESENTATION The Annual Report for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 is titled Enhancing How We Live, Work, and Play. This theme reflects the CRA's continued commitment to strengthening Fifty West through investments that support economic vitality, infrastructure improvements, and quality -of -life enhancements. The report highlights our redevelopment efforts including public realm enhancements, public -private partnerships, business support initiatives, and community - focused programming. In accordance with the reporting requirements set forth in Florida Statutes 163.371, the Annual Report includes: • A summary of the status of redevelopment plan implementation • A summary of revenues and expenditures for FY 2025 • A list of key projects undertaken in FY 2025, including the cost of each project • The original assessed real property value (2006) and the current assessed real property value for FY 2025 • Other required statutory components In addition to these required elements, the report also highlights notable achievements and memorable moments from the fiscal year, including: • The number of new business licenses issued within the CRA in Fiscal Year 2025 • New businesses opened and businesses coming soon to the CRA • Awards earned in Fiscal Year 2025 • Recognition of Ginger's retirement and the lasting impact of her service In compliance with Florida Statutes 163.371, staff will file the report with Orange County and publish it to the CRA's website by March 31, 2026. Attachments: Ocoee CRA 2025 Annual Report C: Craig Shadrix, CRA Executive Director/City Manager Mike Rumer, Assistant City Manager Nick Lepp, Development Services Director City of Ocoee CRA ® I North Bluford Avenue - Ocoee, Florida 34761 phone: (407) 905-3100 ® fox: (407) 905-3167 - www.ocoeecra.com Page 4 of 13 Ocogre CRA 1 N, Bluford Ave. I Ocoee, FL 39761 407,905.3100 ext.. 9-102.7 1 1 F's4a.'is"tRi, `o MEMBERS Scott 1<ennedy, Commissioner and CRA Chair Philip Koovakada, City Appointed CRA Board Member and `Vice= Chair Rusty Johnson, Mayor and CRA Board Member Rosemary Wilsen, Commissioner and CRA Board Member Richard Firstner, Commissioner and CRA Board Member George Oliver ill, Commissioner and CRA Board Member Randy June, Orange Co. Appointed CRA Board Member ci .I.p aFF Craig Shadrix, City Manager and CRA EXeCCttive. Director Michael Ruiner, Assistant City Manager Virginia "Ginger" Gorless, Development Services Director GarolinaVaca, CRA Administrator L CIAL COUNSEL Richard S. Geller, Fishback Dominick, LLP TABLE .w OF CONTENTS ury,.nx,T.ex. OCOEE CRAAGENT FOR CHANGE ALL ROADS LEAD TO OCOEE MEASURING SUCCESS PLAN PERFORMANCE GUIDING OBJECTIVES URBAN DESIGN, OPEN SPACE, FUNDING & MANAGEMENT CREATING PLACESTCL LIVE, WORK &THRIVE 2025 KEY PRgECTS REWRTINGTHE NUMBERS COMING SOON OPEN FOR BUSINESS CREATING PLACESTO PLAY A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP OCOEE CRAAI��EM . Rsy s ! a ilita e I,. M.ivmi'r'lutiiCy Rfi'i'it l# z-itt r, Community Redevelopment Agencies CRAB are important 3 in facilitating and validating the revitalization of economically underperforming blighted areas. CRAB are created at the local level. 4 to not only provide a governing board, but also to gain access to tax increment financing (TIF). 5 TIF revenues are generated from increasing property values within a redevelopment district as public infrastructure improvements are 0 I This Anmial Report serves to meet the requirements of Section i 63.371 (2), Florida Statutes, whereas, each CRA in Florida n7ust prepare a report of its activities for the preceding fiscal year. Covering riscaltrear (FY) 2024-2025, this Report is posted at vvnroocoeecra.com and available for viewing at the City of Ocoee Clerk's Office and CRA's Office, I I1, Bluford Ave. Ocoee. FL 34761, For more information on the CRA budget visit https:ltwww.ocoeecra.com/Archive.aspx?AMID=38 ocoeecra.com FIFT'Y WEST' Taxable PropertyValue increased from $157,484,822 when the District was established in 2006t. $585,926,088 in 2025. 272 1 INCREASE f E t":pyr !(,,ist Reiiev6sop i'ler—m Disn ii' : The Ocoee Community Redevelopment District, now known as Fifty West, was established in 2006 and consists of 1,070 acres centering on State Road 50, Ocoee's primary commercial corridor. With the District currently set to sunset in 2036, redevelopment as articulated by the District's Vision Statement, Redevelopment Plan and subsequent planning initiatives, such as the Target Areas Special. Development Plan, is beginning to be realized. re - increasing creasing revenues and private Jt{Iy III GIIC U13LI ILL, nt to create Fifty West as allowing the CRA a thriving contemporary commercial to invest in public destination that provides diverse employment opportunities any infrastructure and enhances the quality of life fornotstimulate private only the businesses and residents of reinvestment. the District, but the entire region. BE IN THE KNOW The Ocoee CRA is seeming opportunities organizations, property management and hone owner West Redevelopment District's vision, opportunities, you are interested in finding out more about the Fifty contact Carolina Vaca, CRA Administrator at 407.905,3100 to meet with businesses, associations to share the Fifty and information on projects, if West Redevelopment District X 9-1027. MEASURING S'ft, . ... . .... . 2000 2010 2020 2024 Census Census Census Estimate F I F T Y W E S T TOP EMPLOYERS Orlando Health - Health Central ......................... 2,000 Erripioyees Manheim Auto Auction ..................................... 751 firglpoyees Westgate Resorts. . . . . . . .. .............. ____ ............ 976 E.YnWoyees Walmart ........................................................... 420 Ernpioyees $ 2,OM $ I.SM $ I'm $ 500K $0 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 0- FAX INCREMENT REVENUE BUSINESS FMENDUl" OCOEE CRA • Custom development incentive programs • Tap into incentives for job -creation • CA public/private partnership opportunities • C-PACE Access • Call (407) 905-3100 ext. 9-1027 for additional information AcquisitionFIFTY G U I D I N G WEST Objective I — Land i itttj, u' "Take back the ,SW corner at intersection o, f Sly 50 & aguire Ronal" Following its establishment in 2006, the CRA worked tirelessly alongside the City to purchase property within the area now known as Target Area 1. The blighted Colony Plaza Hotel that plagued the Fifty > THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE FIFTY WEST for the Fifty West Redevelopment District. In 2024, the City West Redevelopment District for decades was acquired and imploded in 2009 after a lengthy legal battle. COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT PLAN IS THE began the process of updating the Land Development Code An agreement was reached with a developer to revitalize the parcels at the SW corner of the :SR 50 and (LDC). When complete, the LDC will include language from Maguire Road intersection which later became the Ocoee Corners development. The first two phasesI,, BASIS IN WHICH WE MEASURE THE OCOEE the Target Areas Plan. of Ocoee Corners brought new businesses such as Southern Steer Butcher, UrgentUet, Tijuana Flats, mid CRA'S SUCCESS. Sonny's BBQto Fifty West. Double Os coffee soon followed, joining Ocoee Corners in 2023. The RftyVVestsion✓s{,,,.. f �;: Ir.a.,9n: i'4:.,, w $$ and §' %e(£ ! an &,. ..° In 2020, Florida State Legislature stipulated new reporting Everything the CRA has done, from land acquisition (Colony ) requirements for the CRA's Annual Report and website (see FS Plaza); to enhancing Fifty West's corridors; to preparing "Improving Connectivity rxndAccessi ility�" 163,371). One of the new requirements for the Annual Report Pia infrastructure to enhancing cin and developments standards; to preparing Hirt The Finding of Necessity identified the lack of safe roadways, including bicycle and pedestrian facilities. is to include a summary of how well the CRA has achieved the Pdesigning The condition of SR50, Maguire Road; Old Winter Garden Road, and Bluford Avenue were identified parks; to offering development incentives to property owners 1 goals and objectives as set out in the Redevelopment Plan and has been done to realize the CRNs vision. as blight factors. The Redevelopment Plan and the Target Areas Plan identified the need to improve these subsequent planning studies. Pages six (6) through eight (8) roads, as well as, to develop urban local roads within each of the Target Areas. The following projects summarize our success. Fifty will include centers of vibrant, urban, demonstrate how the CRA is implementing this objective. ' SR5(),Raa11gva, h=,p rr eun nu Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) increased the safety The Redevelopment Plan was adopted in 20476 and set the mixed -use development providing enhanced of SR 50,by expanding the facility from a .5-lane undivided to a 6-lane divided roadway, adding bike lanes, foundation of each of the programs, projects, and services pedestrian and automobile connectivity, flexible land and installing new sidewalks and medians, Improvements were completed in late Spring of 2018. The undertaken by the CRA. In 2010, the CRA adopted the uses, diverse economic base, a mix of housing types, CRA then worked with FDOT and Duke Energy to bring highway LED lighting to the SR50 corridor, award winning CRA "Target Areas Special Development Installation of the new LED lighting was completed in the fall of 2022. Plan' (Target Areas Plan). The Target Areas Plan provides the a shared responsibility of infrastructure financing, development framework for three (3) target areas, as well as public open space and parks, creating an enhanced S. r°r fin, ,4 tmue `tm �t. to Sir ref— In 2019, the CRA completed a complete streets study for Bluford Avenue. In 2021, the CRA selected CPH Consulting, LLC to provide engineering and design image and contemporary development form. services. Planned improvements include a 10' shared path, traffic calming, roundabouts, expansion of ra t sewer capacity lights, and landscaping. Estimated cost is over 13 million dollars, Construction should start in fiscal year 2025-2026. m WrT Svinrer f'ax,,°len, Ra.z,5',t, rrnaprla ° t" t x t Lxt; i,,r's sr In late 2019, the CRA completed a Z The Target Areas Plan can be found on fir: t f,;XiGilJiltlf Vl 4itl.t W SFSi.tU1 i3dtUGti i\t1dLL ditU LtAt.lititii4 l,AJlil 1. 111 LtJLJ, GiiG t.,.f t`f .i111L C..ilL1 Gif LG1G4! into a development agreement with the developer of The Regency mixed -use development as A 6 1 oco ecra.com FIFTY i (_5vv.a.&.fu,,PLACESTO LIVE, WEST WORKANDTHRIVE ___­­,­ .. .. ..... ....... .......... . .. ..... .......... . ... The CRA strives to create adestination community that provides dynamic living, as well as places Objective 3 Urban ba, Design and klfirastnxture Construction began in early 2022 and the park opened on for working, shopping, dining, recreation, and entertaimnent. This year, through coordinated <4 Changefrom Suburban to Urban" :Valentine's Day, 2023. Final construction cast was artnershi s and targeted incentive programs, the CPA made measurable progress public -private partnerships g p g P g $2,949,419.64. In 2024, the CRA awarded a contract for the toward advancing this mission. The Redevelopment Plan and the Target Areas Plan speak to construction of a restroom building at Wellness Park: The One of the most transformative projects underivay is The Regency, a r aixed-use development in enhancing the overall visual characteristic: of the Redevelopment restroom designed by CPH Consulting LLC, was completed Target Area 1 that is now nearing completion. Designed to integrate residential, ground -floor District. The framework presented in the Target Areas flan is in December of this year and elevates the user experience at commercial, and community -oriented spaces; The Regency represents a major step forward being followed as demonstrated not only in each of the three the park, in creating a dynamic; walkable enviranmentrvithin the Fifty West District. To support this Target Areas but also throughout the Redevelopment District Tn late 20T9, a "midtown" vision plan was completed for new ark is also scheduled to be constructed at The Regency. A P development, the City and CRA partnered with the developer to complete two key transportation .improvements: the extension of Old Winter Carden Road and improvements to the Old Winter the south side of SR 50 between Maguire =uire Road and Bluford The park will be open to the public and will include a fitness Garden/Maguire Road intersection. Through reimbursement of a portion of these infrastructure Avenue. The Citywill also be including the CRAB development g P trail and other site amenities: casts, the CRA is able to leverage private investment to deliver long-term public improvements, criteria in the Land Development Code update. "o iComplementing ;.., this investment, the CRA continued its focus on addressing underutilized To help facilitate infrastructure improvements, the CRA created '� , = t �t-y ..,, : iir,. y; , ,;` ..,.. °«z`, and blighted properties that detract from the district's potential. This year, the CRA awarded a line in the budget called Minor Infrastructure Improvements a grant to facilitate the demolition and replacement of the blighted former BB &T building, designated to fund water, sewer, reclaimed water, and sidewalk ' Leveraging Resources andMarketing the Ck located on Maguire Road near The Regency, with a new building designed to reflect the CRAs improvements throughout the Redevelopment District. The CRA understands the importance if leveraging cite contemporary urban design standards. CRA and City staff with the property owner to p rY g tY d p p tl' increment revenues to secure other funding through create a conceptual design that aligns the building to Maguire Road, incorporates outdoor dining 0,.a� a. y#,.ivf,., zj Open ,i<.; n Space and Recreation l y �grants, sources such as rants like the FDO1` Highway Beautification patios that activate die streetsca e, and features an enhanced facade with elevated architectural p P "Creating Urban Open Spaaces nd Dyna mie Grant for SR 50 and the $3 million grant from West Orange detailing. This project will not only remove a longstanding blighted structure, brat also advance Places To lay" Wellness Park, as well as through public/private partnerships. the CRA's goal of creating an engaging and pedestrian -friendly corridor. The Redevelopment Plan emphasizes the need for quality P P 9 To encourage private reinvestment, they CRA may award giants In addition to physical redevelopment, the CRA continues to invest in initiatives that support open. spaces and parks to be provided. In 2021, the CRA or offer a developer ;an incentive package. 'Typical incentives growth and strengthen the district's economic base. This year, the CRA employment finalized design of the Healthy West Orange Wellness Park. offered include permit fee reduction, impact fees waived, and � awarded a $62,400 job creation grant to Westgate` Resorts to support the relocation of Located on S. Bhtfard Avenue, the park is constructed around even capital charges for water and sewer connections aid p a' p high -paying jobs to its business center located on Old Winter Garden Road. In addition a stormwater pond built to serve SR 50. The park includes four (4) fitness hubs with composite and individual exercise , by future increment revenues' pledged by the CRA. to his expansion, Westgate has indicated interest in evaluating future phases and additional opportunities to grow its operational footprint within Ocoee, aligning with the CRAB objective to attract and retain quality employers that provide equipment positioned under a sunshade. --A ­- a.,,., At 1; 1 INSTALLATION. FOLLOWING PROVIDES THE 1ST INFORMATION FO. KEY PROJECTS UNDERTAKEN BY THE OCOEE CRA FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025. Planning Studies Design • Wellness Park Restroom Design Services • Bluford Ave. Complete Street Design & Final Engineering Construction/Install • Wellness Park Restroom Construction • Wellness Park Shade Sail Installation • State '... 50 Median Enhancement Blackwood• Avenue Median • Old Winter Garden Road Median Enhancemel 2025 Trust Fund Expenditures on the above Projects Total Number of Key Projects €*Z,M Z, REPORTING THE A; txrvdi, The Ocoee CRA is responsible for filing an annual report and an independent financial audit. This Annual Report will be filed consistent with Fla. Star. 163.356 (3) (c). The independent financial audit will also be included in the City's Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) once it has been finalized. A copy of the CAFR as well as the independent audit will be made public on the CRAs website, at the office of the City Clerk and distributed to the taxing authorities paying into the Redevelopment Trust Fund, including Orange County, s ss The following were the revenues contained within the CRA REVENUES °f Interest Earnings 'ity r ii I ;nisi 'tf t51G , t i _ Opening Cash Balance 10I01I24 $ 6,905,482 -144W Contributions (TIF) $ 3,314,115.13 $228,769.88 City $1,748,044.13 County $1,566,071 $42,993.38 Interest Earnings $ 127,233.77 $185,776.50 Total Income 10, . 4 . �8 .,,, 9 ITS 1 ,6 9.17 FISCALYEAR 2023-2024 EXPENDITURES $329,880.37 During FY 2024-2025,the CRA expended a total of $1,621,643.91 p $30,579 as follows. Operating $14,771 Operating $ 611,592.21 Expenses ; 1i r r`if{4 $18,755 Personnel 411,766.42 k Capital $ 598,285.28 `{ j {it ,}i) $24,703.80 Capital It Is noted that funds remaining in the Redevelopment Trust Fund as of September 30, 2025, are designated by the CRA Board for specific 1.;= CRA capital improvement projects for FY 2025-2026 pursuant to 71,77 Florida Statutes. PersPersonnel .47 Numbers are accurate at time of publication but may change when the - independent financial audit is finalized. 1Gt,4 2! r%I For more information on the CRA budget visit www.ocoeecra.com/Archive.aspx?AMID=38 NEW BUSINESSES COMING SOON101HE FIFTY WEST DISTRICT BUSINESS LICENSES WERE ISSUED IN FISCAL YEAR 2025 1 Support.�!„`#c,Aci.Evity,'#Y"wN llrit,.`'ss, and Con-ifrmAnit Ga.'#.i.herin 2025 marked continued progress in advancing recreation, wellness, and community connection within the CRA. Through capital investments and collaborative planning efforts, the CRA and city focused on enhancing existing public spaces while supporting new recreational opportunities that improve quality of life for residents of all ages and abilities. At Wellness Park, several key improvements were completed to enhance comfort and year-round usability. A newly constructed restroom building now provides added convenience for families, fitness groups, and participants attending community gatherings, including the annual Healthy Block Patty, hosted in partnership with Healthy West Orange. In addition, the park's shade sails were replaced and refreshed with vibrant colors that reflect the vibrant energy and character of Fifty West. Together, these enhancements encourage longer visits, expanded programming, and increased use of the park as a neighborhood wellness destination. The CRAB continued commitment to providing inclusive public spaces that support healthy lifestyles was recognized by the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council, which awarded the 2025 Award for Excellence in Health and s: Equity to the City of Ocoee, the CRA, and the Foundation for aHealthier West f Orange for Wellness Park. Enhancing quality of life also means expanding opportunities for recreation beyond existing amenities. This year, the city received an application for a new state-of-the- art pickleball facility within the CRA. During the review process, potential impacts related to project scale and noise were identified and carefully considered. City and CRA staff worked collaboratively with the applicant to refine the project scope, resulting in a redesigned indoor facility with a contemporary architectural aesthetic; The approved concept provides a modern venue for organized programming, 5i informal recreation, and community events. When completed, the facility will offer next -level amenities including 25 indoor courts, locker rooms, pro shop, conference space, restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, ariewing areas, banquet hall, and outdoor championship court. As one of the fastest -growing recreational activities nationwide, pickleball welcomes players of all age groups and skill levels, and this facility will be a welcomed addition to the district. 'Through collaboration, public engagement efforts, and continued investments, the CRA ensures Fifty West remains a place where residents can stay active, connect, and thrive, 14 1 ceoeecraxorr ttitty'l y# filt'r4$Ylylcilttl l}iytlt}isfr tylt �tttrla, t£fy7i 1{$�)4`s��tist`t(�t#{T {�{ai Ili tttlytlt yJ} t{1js {I y y �y tilers �±�t� i`Flit ttst�yttc' } tan{$ t y1t1�4ir z#;}try tit Itj;rr tt�{ �� t}itt�'i }ttytttljij} A Legacy of Leadership tt 1 tSr { h„ 1}yl�yt Afier xnnnv years of dedicated d service to the City `tttr$f ,tyr ; r'f{ti�gilt of Ocoee and the: CIZA, we Laid farewell to Ginger Codess, who retired at the end of the year. 40 years ago, Clinger began her professional plamung career in Central Florida and in 1998, she made Ocoee her ly t j* home, raising her sons, foster children, and exchange ;a students along the shoreline of Starke Fake. Soon after l} moving to Ocoee, Clinger became a planning and y; design consultans for the city. In that role, she helped establish the Fifty West Redevelopment District, prepared park plans, led the strectscape designs for McKcY Street and Clarke Road, and helped prepare the Dov ntown Municipal Master Plan. She later served as the Contract CRA Administrator and, in 2015, was appointed Deputy Development Services Efrector/CRAAdministrator, In 2024, she: became the Development Services Director. As a certified planner, parks and recreation professional, and redevelopment specialist, Clinger brought a wealth of knowledge, experience., and thoughtful leadership to the city. A few of her notable contributions include: • Securing over S4 million in grant funding for the City • Preparing and conducting the Parks, Recreation & Trails interactive community: survey • Drafting the Healthy West Orange Trails Initiative • Authoring winning award applications toi- the GtA Annual Report, Healthy West Orange Wellness Park, and the Healthy West Orange Trails Initiative ,p astvrR.. r�r I let contributions helped strengthen the city and v sA; left a lasting impact on both colleagues and the comrnunit,a: As she begins this next chapter, we recognize and celebrate the legacy of leadership she leaves behind.