Mount Dora Development News
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June 16, 2026 City Council Regular Session - Media
Published: Jun 16, 2026
City Council Approves Application for Cultural Programming Grant
The City Council is considering applying for the General Program Support Grant to fund cultural programming and special events. The grant offers a 100% match up to $150,000. While the city has already approved a budget of $448,000, the grant funds would offset existing budgeted amounts. The council discussed the potential financial implications given pending legislation and uncertainties, but ultimately decided to apply for the grant, with the option to reject it if awarded based on future financial conditions. Previous grant funding supported events like the Mount Dora Scottish Highland Festival, 4th of July, and Light Up Mount Dora. The decision to apply was made with the understanding that a final decision on accepting the grant and its scope would occur after award notification.
City Pursues Landfill Litigation and Witherspoon Lodge Property Transfer
The city is preparing a draft complaint for specific performance related to the landfill development agreement. A meeting is scheduled with outside counsel and the county to discuss a potential consolidated action that may include various other claims. The city is awaiting documentation from Ackerman regarding the Witherspoon Lodge property transfer to the Most Worshipful Grand Union Lodge, which is necessary before the city can acquire the property. The Lake County Water Authority has authorized its name to be added to local litigation concerning the landfill. A hearing on attorneys' fees for the AMCO case is scheduled for tomorrow.
City Council Approves FDOT Grant Application to Expand Freebie Shuttle Service
The City Council approved the application for the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) District 5 Public Transit Service Development Program grant. This grant aims to fund the expansion of the 'freebie' parking shuttle service, increasing its service area from approximately 230 acres to 850 acres and adding a third vehicle to the fleet. The expansion would provide greater mobility options for residents and visitors, help manage downtown parking demand, and connect more neighborhoods to the Resource and Rec Center. The city applied for this grant in the previous cycle but faced higher competition. If awarded, the grant agreement would be received in September 2027, with funding in 2028, allowing time to address any potential budget changes from referendum outcomes. The council discussed amending the map to include additional westward areas and potential funding sources from CRAs.
City Council Authorizes Application for Firefighter Training Grant
The City Council authorized the application for funding from the Leary Firefighters Foundation for a 'firebox' simulator. This is a non-matching grant of $23,000 intended for community risk reduction and in-house training. The firebox is a unique simulator designed to demonstrate fire behavior and movement, offering educational value for both the community, especially children, and firefighters. The application deadline is in August, and the city will be notified of the award status later. The council discussed the logistics of transporting and operating the firebox.
Freebie Shuttle Service Reports Record Ridership and Economic Impact
Freebie, the 100% electric on-demand transportation service operating within the Mount Dora CRA district, reported record ridership and high customer satisfaction. The service, which operates Friday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. using two electric vehicles, saw a 7% increase in passengers year-over-year. Key takeaways include an extremely low cost per rider (under $8), low average wait times (around 5.5 minutes), and an outstanding rider feedback rating of 4.99 out of 5 stars. The service has generated significant economic impact by improving access to downtown businesses, saving visitors money on parking and transportation, and acting as a lifeline for local employees. Recommendations include expanding the service area and operating days/hours, which could be achieved with zero additional cost for geographic expansion alone. Advertising and sponsorships are also being considered to offset costs.
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The Mount Dora News archive
June 24, 2026 Historic Preservation Board - Media
Planning and Zoning Commission - Media
June 12, 2026 Firefighters' Pension & Retirement - Media
June 12, 2026 Police Officers' Pension & Retirement - Media
June 12, 2026 General Employees' Pension & Retirement - Media
June 8, 2026 City Council Budget Workshop: Budget Parameters and Fire Assessment - Media
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