Orange County

Central Florida saw huge increases in syphilis cases between 2018 and 2022. Experts aren't sure why. Meanwhile, doctors think cases are likely to continue increasing.

Republican organizations and lawmakers have been pouring campaign money into a special election next week for a state House representative in a central Florida district considered competitive for both parties.

It would repeal a law passed last year that gave Gov. DeSantis authority to appoint the district’s board.

In 2022, Orange County had a record-high number of eviction cases, almost 16,000, the most in the last decade. So far, 2023 numbers are not much different.

County officials claim the nonprofit entered into three unauthorized lease agreements with the Nassal Company using tourist development tax dollars, collected on local rentals.

The commission plans to discuss that request at a meeting Tuesday. A public hearing to create the district could come at a later date.

The decision to invest $10 million to expand services came after the county received a report detailing the status of mental health in the region last year.

The Orange County School Board has adopted a new policy that puts a procedure in place for challenging books beginning next school year.

Florida’s wetlands have historically served as natural sponges but are now filled with explosive growth and development. Throw in climate change concerns, and many wonder whether 2022’s flooding represents a new norm.

In 2019, President Trump announced a challenge to lower HIV case rates by 75% by 2025 and 90% by 2030. It was and is an ambitious goal, but a local team has a plan that focuses on diminishing stigma and increased testing.

The Orange County Sheriff's Office has 1,500 free scent preservation kits - including thumb drives for photos and other information.

Unite Here Local 737 says an adult worker with no dependents would need to earn $18.19 an hour to make a living wage, while a family with two children would need both parents earning $23.91 an hour.