Mayor Demings giving a high-five to a little girl while her mother stands beside them. They are in the Mayor's office.

Welcome to Your House: Mayor Demings Opens County Government to Residents

Community & Services

It was recently a “full house” at the County Administration Building. Approximately 250 people attended Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings’ inaugural Open House on Sat., Oct. 19, 2019 at the Orange County Administration Center in downtown Orlando. The family-friendly event included an opportunity to engage with the Mayor, take a tour of the office, meet County Commissioners and learn more about County services and initiatives.

Ninety-six guests took advantage of the tours, and 32 representatives from various County departments were on hand to provide demonstrations and interact with community members. Among the departments represented included: Fire Rescue, Animal Services, Environmental Protection, Orange TV, the Orange County Library System, Neighborhood Services and the Office of Emergency Management.

“It was an excellent opportunity to connect and converse with community members and hear their comments and concerns,” said Mayor Demings. “And the fact so many County employees were there representing their departments gave guests a chance to learn about the inner workings of County government.”

The Mayor has made it a priority to connect with residents since taking office in December 2018. In addition to the Open House, he has been hosting a series of Town Halls on local transportation issues and has established dedicated liaisons to select segments of the population, including the Asian, African-American, Hispanic and LGBTQ communities.

“I’ve lived in Central Florida for more than 20 years, and I’ve learned more about Orange County in the last two hours than in the last two decades,”  said Mike Spencer, who attended the Open House. “I’m impressed with the inclusive spirit of this administration and how it has engaged residents to make informed decisions.”

Giveaways, free wellness screenings and kid-friendly activities such as face painting (courtesy of Parks and Recreation) rounded out the event. In celebration of the upcoming Halloween holiday, candy was passed out, and Fire Rescue gifted child-sized firefighter helmets to young guests.

As a result of the event’s success, the Mayor’s Office is planning on hosting future Open Houses later next year.

Photo Caption: Mayor Demings meeting residents and their families during his first Open House.

|
Back To Top