Diane Velazquez Apopka City Commissioner Seat 2

Last month, January 2026, while perusing social media, I came upon a post on ‘The Apopka, Rants Raves & Reviews..’ reporting raised & broken sidewalks by the Apopka Middle Schools. I did screen shot the post along with the photos posted. On the FB social media, I responded to the parents who posted their concern letting them know I would on their behalf send the photos and their request to repair the sidewalks.
Early this week, Monday, February 16, 2026, On behalf of the Apopka Public Services Department, I would like to inform the parents & Administrator of the FB social post. The sidewalks at the Apopka Middle School have been Repaired. Thank you for sharing your concern regarding the safety re: sidewalks for students.


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Sharing an updated professional photo to show the maturity & wisdom & confidence gained serving our City as your Commissioner. Thank you to everyone for supporting & trusting my leadership in our fast growing City of Apopka. It has been my platform from day one to present: You matter in the process of governing our City. Thank you for your continued support & showing up when it is important to address a concern / issue in your neighborhood. Your Voice is important to be heard. Please stay involved. Share your ideas & solutions. It is welcomed.

It was unfortunate the ‘Live’ Feed was lost after a few minutes into the debate. The audio was ok inside the auditorium. A good turnout of community residents attending the debate. Attached is a Apopka Chief News article following last night’s debate.

Mayoral candidates clash over growth, utility hikes, legal matters 500 people attend first debate of election cycle.

Earlier this morning, 1/30/2026, attended the monthly Kiwanis TERRIC KIDS ceremony @ local Elementary School, to celebrate & recognize the students who were chosen by their teachers for their outstanding character ‘Responsible Decision-making’ 🏆 I adopted this school 8 years ago, they were the first school to welcome this program. My commitment to them was to keep it going. I reward each student with a gift bag & at the end of the ceremony. The students & parents get to enjoy Cupcakes & drink. Congratulations to each of students & their parents for instilling in your child, they are a Terrific Kid 👏🏼👏🏼🥳🏆♥️💙

Following the last Public Council meeting, Wednesday, January 21, 2026, I would like to address & share the feedback received via social media, conversations with friends & supporters & constituents who trust my leadership Regarding the last Agenda Item: Resolution 2026-26 ‘Establishing a policy authorizing the advancement of City Funds to the Mayor or City Commissioners for legal expenses….’ In retrospect, I realize I focused on the policy not the outcome as interpreted by the public. I did generate an email to the City Attorney & Interim
Chief Administrator expressing my intent to bring the Agenda Item back before the Board st the next oublic council meeting. For now, I cannot discuss this on social media venue since it must be presented & discussed at the formal Public Council meeting. To the constituents who shared their voices regarding the Vote, I heard you. I am taking your words & sentiments under consideration. Thank you for your continued support & Trust 🇺🇸

What supposed to be a cold day at the Annual Legend of the Geezers, this Saturday, 1/17/2026,
it turned to be a beautiful spring-like temps at Camp Wewa. I spent a few hours watching the competitions. This year the competition was set up was at the back of Camp Wewa by the Lake. It’s their 5th year. I have supported this annual competition. The best tree climbers & rescuers compete to sharpen their skills & spend festive weekend with fellow climbers, their families & their Paw 🐾 sweeties. Their presence in our City also invigorates our economy at the local restaurants.

Orange County officials will host two community meetings later this month as part of the Northwest Orange County Areawide Transportation Study (NOWOCATS), a long-range planning effort focused on future transportation needs in the region.

Story link is in the comments.

Sharing with Apopka City Residents who drive & utilize Downtown US 441 / Main Street @ Park Avenue.
Traffic Advisory:
From Sunday, January 18 thru January 22, 2026
Lane Closures with detours each night from 10pm to 6am the following morning. For upgrades of signalization at the intersection. (See below)
You can also go on the City Website & peruse the Public Notices.

For Apopka Residents who express concerns about the exponential growth impacting the local streets & roads. This is an opportunity for Apopka citizens to have a voice & represent our city / community.

Are you looking for an opportunity to serve on a government board and help plan transportation for Central Florida? Then this is the opportunity for you. We are now accepting applications for our Community Advisory Committee. Learn more here: https://bit.ly/4q9cjd3

https://orangeaudubonfl.org/new-oas-nature-center/?donation_amount=Orange%20Audubon%20Nature%20Center

🚶‍♀️ New Year, New Habits 🚔

Pedestrian Safety Reminder - With the start of the New Year, more people are out walking, running, and exercising to kick off their New Year’s resolutions. This makes pedestrian safety more important than ever.

Pedestrians:
• Use sidewalks and crosswalks
• Follow traffic signals and crossing signs
• Stay alert and avoid distractions such as phones or headphones
• Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially in low light

Drivers:
• Slow down and stay alert for increased foot traffic
• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks
• Watch carefully when turning or backing up

APD wants you to make safety a part of every resolution. Looking out for one another helps keep our Apopka community safe.

When Winter 🥶 makes it way into Florida, we break out our Coats. We drove to Apopka’s Downtown 5th Street New Year’s Eve Party. We stopped in to Hall’s Food Court, yes, that’s where the large crowd was hsnging out enjoying friendship & the warmth. Great Live music 🎶 meeting old friends & local business owners, sharing hugs wishing each a Happy New Year 💥