Recently, Seminole County Commissioner Andria Herr delivered a comprehensive update on the county’s financial picture and strategic priorities in her first State of the County address as chair of the Seminole County Board of Commissioners. While fiscal responsibility and transparency around spending dominated much of her remarks, Herr also highlighted how smart investments in growth sectors are paying off for residents and businesses alike.

One standout point was the success of the newly-created Tourism Improvement District (TID), a hotel-generated fee that has already accumulated about $2 million since its launch last April. These funds are now earmarked to support future projects like a proposed indoor sports complex. Herr framed this as a sign of how Seminole County’s economy is benefiting from its vibrant tourism and hospitality industry, a sector that continues to be a major driver of economic activity across the region.

 

Herr underscored that the county’s healthy tourism sector isn’t just measured in visitor dollars, but in the quality-of-life enhancements it supports. With Seminole County hosting millions of visitors annually and leveraging collaborative initiatives like the Tourism Improvement District to fund amenities and events, the hospitality industry’s success reinforces local job creation and broader community development.

Beyond tourism, Herr’s address showed Seminole County’s leaders are mindful of maintaining fiscal stability while building on economic momentum, ensuring that the county’s growth remains sustainable and beneficial for all who live and work there. Thank you again to our CFHLA Partner, the Seminole County Chamber for hosting the 2026 State of Seminole County Address.

This month, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that the State of Florida set another tourism record in 2025, with preliminary estimates from VISIT FLORIDA showing 143.3 million total visitors to the Sunshine State - surpassing the previous high from 2024 and marking the busiest year in Florida’s history. The fourth quarter alone drew an estimated 33.5 million travelers, the most ever recorded in a single quarter. Domestic travelers accounted for most visits (about 91.5%), while overseas tourism also grew and Canadian visitation remained consistent with historical trends. Growth was seen across key international markets, including increases from Brazil, Argentina and several European countries, with Brazil now the second - largest international source of visitors.

 

Florida continues to be the #1 domestic travel destination in the United States and a top choice for international visitors. By making strategic investments in infrastructure, public safety and environmental stewardship, Florida continues to make our destination attractive to families and global travelers alike.

New data from the Orlando region show that its economy outpaced national growth for the fourth straight year, with the metropolitan area’s GDP reaching an estimated $233 billion in 2024. The region’s real GDP expanded by 3.5%, surpassing the U.S. growth rate of 2.8 % and placing Orlando as the eighth fastest-growing large economy in the country. Orlando also maintained its rank as the 24th largest regional economy -bigger than 18 U.S. states - and outperformed other major Florida metro areas, including Tampa and Miami. At the county level, nearly all local economies grew above the national rate, with Osceola and Lake leading large-county growth.

 

A broad range of industries contributed to the region’s strong performance, particularly construction and finance, buoyed by infrastructure investment and corporate expansions. Tourism remained a major driver, supported by a record-breaking 75 million visitors. While productivity levels (GDP per job) still trail many major metros, regional leaders are focusing on innovation and high-value sectors to boost long-term prosperity.

The Orlando region is entering 2026 amid continued growth and evolving economic pressures. But understanding how local businesses are navigating these conditions is critical to shaping programs and priorities that support a strong regional economy.

 

This is why we encourage our members to participate in the Orlando Economic Partnership’s Q1 2026 Orlando MSA Business Conditions Survey, powered by OUC. This survey is now open to businesses across Lake, Orange, Osceola, and Seminole Counties. This quarterly survey takes less than five minutes to complete and captures real-time insight into business confidence, challenges, opportunities, and outlook across the region.

 

This quarter’s special focus examines housing affordability and its impact on businesses - a key headwind identified for 2026. 

 

Your input helps ensure the region’s economic analysis reflects the real experiences of local businesses. Thank you for helping strengthen the Orlando region’s economic future!

Last week, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Jolene Sheive to serve as a new member of the Osceola County School Board. A dedicated community leader and longtime resident of Osceola County, Sheive brings more than two decades of local involvement and professional experience to the role.

 

Sheive is a Broker at Legacy Realty of Central Florida and is the Owner of Stadium Place Administration. Active in her community, she serves as a Planning Commissioner for Osceola County. Over the years, she has also served as a member of the Osceola County Association of Realtors, The Osceola Chamber, Rotary Club of Kissimmee (Community Service Chair) and the Osceola County Education Foundation. 

Her appointment reflects a continued commitment to strong leadership and community-focused decision-making in support of students, families, and educators across the county. Congratulations Jolene and we look forward to working with you to support the future of Osceola County students!

Last week, centered almost entirely on the budget, marking the Legislature’s most consequential phase of session. During week 6, the House advanced its proposal (HB 5001) at just under $113.6 billion, while the Senate’s plan (SB 2500) totals roughly $115 billion - both below the Governor’s recommended $117.4 billion. With each chamber moving its own package forward, significant negotiations lie ahead to reconcile differences through formal conference talks. Passing a balanced budget is the Legislature’s only constitutional obligation each year, so these deliberations represent the defining work of the session and will shape final policy and spending decisions. 

 

On Thursday, the House also passed CS/CS/HB 203 on the floor largely along party lines following significant debate. The bill fully eliminates homestead property taxes over a 10-year period, exempting homestead properties from most non-school property taxes. No changes from previous weeks regarding TDT, however the Senate plans to take up the tax package in committee this week, so CFHLA will be monitoring for any items of concern.

CFHLA supports the full funding of VISIT FLORIDA at the Governor’s recommended funding level of $80 Million. Funding of VISIT FLORIDA ensures that our state continues to be top of mind as the leading vacation destination in the country. Additionally, CFHLA supports eliminating or extending VISIT FLORIDA’s sunset date to facilitate strategic planning and marketing for the near and long term.

CFHLA SUPPORTS