Orlando Utilities Commission Convenes Today Following Major Shift in County Infrastructure Strategy

OUC Board Gathers at Reliable Plaza for March Session

The Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC) is scheduled to hold its regular board meeting today, Tuesday, March 3, 2026. The session will begin at 2:00 p.m. in the Commission Chambers on the 7th floor of OUC’s Reliable Plaza, located at 100 W. Anderson St. in downtown Orlando. As an agency that manages water and electric services for the city and surrounding areas, the OUC board includes Mayor Buddy Dyer as an ex-officio member.

Today’s agenda is expected to touch on ongoing implementation strategies for the utility's Clean Energy Roadmap. This roadmap aims for net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050, with critical interim goals of a 50% reduction by 2030 and 75% by 2040. In conjunction with the meeting, OUC is also hosting a two-part series on modern load growth and utility rate design, which focuses on balancing sustainability with regional reliability as the energy landscape shifts.

Orange County Tables Infrastructure Surtax Discussions

While the OUC meets to discuss utility infrastructure, the political landscape of the region was significantly altered by a vote from the Orange County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) late yesterday. Commissioners, led by Mayor Jerry L. Demings, voted to formally table any further discussions regarding a local government infrastructure surtax until at least 2028. The proposed sales tax increase would have funded an estimated $22 billion in unfunded transportation and infrastructure projects across the county.

Despite the long-term needs, commissioners cited concerns over timing and economic affordability for residents. Mayor Demings indicated that there was insufficient time to effectively present the necessity of the tax to the public before a potential ballot initiative. The decision marks the second time since 2024 that the county has pulled back from a sales tax hike, reflecting a cautious approach to the current economic climate.

Administrative Activities and Personnel Hearings

In addition to these major policy sessions, today features several administrative and community-focused government activities:

• STEP III Grievance Hearing: A personnel session regarding a grievance for Catherine Carvajal is scheduled from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Internal Operations Center (IOC-1) on East South Street.
• Community Career Talk: Local leaders are hosting a session at the Maxey Community Center at 2:00 p.m. to discuss career advancement opportunities for West Orange residents.
• Looking Ahead: Mayor Buddy Dyer is also preparing for the 25th annual "Bike to Work Day," which is scheduled for this coming Thursday, March 5. The Mayor is expected to lead a group ride from Festival Park to City Hall to promote eco-friendly transportation and safer street designs.