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Immigration Attorneys in Winter Park, FL
When you think about the American Dream, what comes to mind? For many citizens, it means the freedom to provide for one's family through hard work, dedication, and good deeds. For others, it means having a reliable career and enough financial security to buy a modest home and maybe even a white picket fence. In modern times, however, it's harder than ever to achieve the American Dream - and that's for people who are born in our great nation. For men and women coming to the U.S. from another country, it often seems impossible. These are good, hardworking people who simply want the opportunity to provide for their families and adopt the American way.
Unfortunately, getting through the United States immigration system is seldom straightforward or easy. Many immigration cases face hurdles and difficulties that require expert legal assistance to achieve favorable outcomes. It can be challenging to figure out how to properly organize application materials or discern the options available to you. Fortunately, immigration attorneys in Winter Park, FL, can help you avoid the common mistakes so many make and help you gain access to the immigration benefits you rightly deserve. It all starts with a one-on-one conference at Central Florida Immigration Attorneys.
- Immigration Attorneys in Winter Park, FL
- Helping You Pursue the American Dream One Step at a Time
- Do You Really Need Immigration Lawyers in Winter Park, FL?
- How Can You Find the Best Immigration Lawyers in Winter Park, FL?
- Top 3 Immigration Attorney Red Flags
- Changing Lives One Immigration Case at a Time
Services Areas
Helping You Pursue the American Dream One Step at a Time
Central Florida Immigration Attorneys possesses extensive knowledge and a comprehensive understanding of the U.S. immigration system, derived from decades of specialized legal expertise. We prioritize treating our clients as partners, with the foremost goal of assisting in resolving any immigration-related challenges.
Our principal attorney, Charlene Seda, has previously served as an adjudicator for immigration services at USCIS, and Attorney Alejandro Salgado has an extensive background as a criminal lawyer. This combined experience gives our law firm a distinctive viewpoint on all facets of the immigration system, allowing us to better support our clients. Collectively, our legal team has over 20 years of combined experience and remains dedicated to offering the skilled and empathetic assistance you require.
Clients recommend their friends and families to our immigration lawyers in Winter Park, FL, because we provide:
Two Decades of Professional Experience
Attorney Charlene Seda & Attorney Alejandro Seda have over 20 years of combined experience. They are both graduates from the prestigious Universidad Católica de Ponce, Puerto Rico and both received Masters Degrees from the University of Miami School of Law.
Knowledge of the System
Attorney Charlene Seda previously worked in USCIS - the United States Citizenship & Immigration Service. She knows the system from the inside and knows what she must do in order to set up your immigration case for success
Clear Communication
Our immigration lawyers strive to be accessible to our clients. We want to make sure we follow up and share the status of your case so that we are all on the same path.
Transparent Expectations
You can trust us from the moment you walk into our office. We will let you know exactly what we can and cannot do for your case. We want to set up clear expectations from day one.
The Central Florida Immigration Attorneys Difference
When you engage our firm, you gain access to decades of professional experience. We stand ready to assist as your ally and advisor at every stage of your immigration journey. Our team can support you in obtaining legal status through various application processes, explore dual intent visas, help you prepare for naturalization, and advocate for your rights if you face removal proceedings. With extensive knowledge of all aspects of the U.S. immigration system, we can guide you in identifying the most feasible paths to reside and work in the United States of America.
Unlike some immigration attorneys, our firm is truly dedicated to helping you achieve the American Dream. Together with our partners, we assist "credit invisible" men and women obtain the financing they need to hire immigration attorneys in Winter Park, FL. These loans cover both government filing fees and your immigration attorney fees. In doing so, we help clients establish credit profiles to help them access credit in the future as they take the necessary steps along the journey toward full citizenship.
At the end of the day, our goal is to use every legal route available to help you build a better life for your family. When you work with our immigration lawyers, you can rest easy knowing we'll always be straightforward about what each immigration strategy entails, as well as the risks, costs, and timeline involved. Our attorneys will also be upfront and honest about what we can and cannot do. We believe transparency is paramount to helping you make informed decisions, which is why we always keep you abreast of updates pertaining to your case.
Our immigration lawyers focus on providing expert legal representation for a range of immigration needs, including:
- Immigration Law
- Family-Based Immigration
- Employment-Based Immigration
- Citizenship & Naturalization
- Deportation Defense
- Cancellation of Removal
- 601a Provisional Waiver
- Visas
- U Visas
- Visa Extensions
Our Immigration Lawyers Understand What's at Stake
Whether you need to reunite your family in the U.S., establish permanent employment, or protect against deportation, the result of your immigration case will greatly affect your future. Our immigration attorneys recognize the significance of your situation and will make every effort to attain a positive outcome in your case. Instead of bragging and boasting, at Central Florida Immigration Attorneys, we let our track record do the talking. We encourage you to review our firm's testimonials to learn more about how we have made a direct, positive impact on our clients' lives. Our clients rely on us to help them achieve their American Dreams. We're ready to help turn your dreams into reality, too.
Do You Really Need Immigration Lawyers in Winter Park, FL?
If you're in need of U.S. immigration benefits, it's always best to work with a qualified immigration attorney. Trying to navigate the hurdles of immigration law on your own is like flying a plane without any experience. It may seem easiest to jump in without any guidance, but doing so can be more detrimental to your goals than hiring a great lawyer. If you're wondering whether or not you need an immigration lawyer, keep these common benefits in mind.
Trying to understand legal paperwork is hard enough, even when you’re born in the U.S. For non-native English speakers, figuring out immigration paperwork is even more difficult. Filling out the forms and gathering the necessary supporting documents can be quite overwhelming and bewildering. Seasoned immigration attorneys are well-versed in the correct procedures for filling out these forms. Failing to fill out these forms accurately can lead to significant delays in the approval of your immigration benefits and may result in additional filing fees.
There are multiple ways to obtain U.S. citizenship, and if you're on your own, you might not be aware of all the options. This is where an immigration lawyer can step in to help. They can present different paths, explain the advantages and disadvantages of each, and make sure you fully grasp the implications of your choice on your citizenship journey.
Immigration lawyers are equipped to assist you in obtaining the necessary authorization to work in the U.S. A skilled attorney is familiar with the precise information you must provide to secure work authorization and to ensure the smooth progress of your application. Without a legal expert, errors in the process can cause significant delays.
If you're looking to become a U.S. citizen, chances are this is your first time trying. Thankfully, when you secure counsel from a reputable firm like Central Florida Immigration Attorneys, you can sleep a little easier knowing they have years of experience helping people just like you. Your immigration lawyer should be familiar with the various scenarios and pathways to the immigration benefit you seek. This will be advantageous for you as they have the expertise to identify the necessary documentation, recommend the most suitable options, and provide you with guidance on what to anticipate throughout the process.
Remember that the government can deem you inadmissible for various reasons, such as unresolved financial issues, criminal activity, or providing false information. If you're considered inadmissible, it doesn't have to be the end of the road. There are methods to challenge this ruling. An immigration attorney can assist you in presenting a compelling case. Although there's no guarantee that the immigration court will reverse the decision, having a seasoned lawyer by your side will undoubtedly improve your chances.
How Can You Find the Best Immigration Lawyers in Winter Park, FL?
Finding the right immigration law firm can feel a little bit like searching for a needle in a haystack. That's true in every state but especially so in Florida, where immigrants make up approximately 21% of the population, according to the American Immigration Counsel. So, how do you find the top immigration attorneys in your state? Here are a few tips we've compiled together to help make your search easier.
While your immigration matters are in progress, it's important to stay informed about the status of your case, any challenges that may arise, and what actions you might need to take. That's why it's crucial to work with immigration lawyers who value proactive communication. You can ask your attorney about their communication skills and how often they communicate with you, but take that answer with a grain of salt. It's also helpful to check reviews and read what former clients have to say about their responsiveness. Don't settle for a lawyer who fails to keep you updated.
This tip piggybacks off our first point because it involves communication. If you have questions about your case or any other facet of your immigration status, your lawyer should be available to answer those questions and provide reassurance when needed. It's not always realistic to expect that a lawyer will be able to answer your call right away, but it is reasonable to anticipate that your attorney will respond to you within a few days. If a lawyer has a track record of not returning calls from previous clients (which you might find out from client reviews, for instance), then be cautious about working with that lawyer and keep looking for another one.
If a lawyer has ever been publicly criticized or had formal complaints made against them by former clients, the state bar association will keep records of these incidents. If you're thinking of hiring a lawyer for an important immigration matter, it's a good idea to see what their reputation is like with the state bar association. That way, you can verify the immigration lawyer's experience and also potentially become aware of any professional issues the lawyer may have had in the past.
Immigration law can be quite complex, and the procedures associated with such matters can be equally intricate. That's why it's so important to work with an immigration lawyer who has experience handling different types of immigration cases or - at the least - a good deal of experience working cases just like yours. You can gauge an attorney's experience with immigration cases by checking their website first. If that information is not readily available, don't hesitate to reach out to the lawyer directly to inquire about their experience in handling cases similar to yours. Don't forget to check reviews online.
When it's all said and done, you've got to have confidence in your immigration lawyer, trust them to be honest about your case, and provide upfront advice about your options when faced with obstacles. You can get a sense of an immigration lawyer's integrity and truthfulness by meeting them for an initial consultation and reading client testimonials to learn about their honesty. If you don't feel entirely at ease with an immigration lawyer after this meeting, it's best to look elsewhere.
Even if you're fluent in English, it's important to have an immigration attorney who can provide services in multiple languages. This is especially crucial if your immigration matters involve family members, colleagues, or others who have limited English proficiency. If language might be an issue for you or someone else involved in your immigration case, make sure that the lawyer you're interested in offers services in your native or preferred language. At Central Florida Immigration Attorneys, we proudly offer legal services in both English and Spanish.
If you're new to this country, trying to understand immigration law is overwhelming. But with the right guidance and preparedness, your family's immigration goals are within reach. At Central Florida Immigration Attorneys, we help clients achieve success and peace of mind through years of combined experience, honesty, communication, professional guidance, and innovative immigration law strategies. Contact our office today to learn more about how we can help when you need it most.
Top 3 Immigration Attorney Red Flags
Wondering if there are any red flags you should be aware of when choosing immigration attorneys in Winter Park, FL? The simple answer to that question is yes. If you've got a bad gut feeling or notice any of the following red flags, be wary.
Lawyers Who Wait at USCIS Offices
Attorneys who try to approach you at an office offering United States Citizenship and Immigration Services often provide lackluster legal services. Great immigration lawyers won't have the time to hang out at a USCIS office all day because they're busy serving clients.
"Experts" Who Aren't Really Lawyers
Beware of individuals who present themselves as "visa consultants," "notarios," or "petition preparers," as they are not the same as licensed attorneys. Oftentimes, they simply assist with filling out forms but lack a genuine understanding of your legal circumstances. There is a possibility that they may complete the forms incorrectly or even abscond with your money without providing any services at all.
Illegal Guidance and Advice
Be very careful of lawyers who give you unethical or even illegal advice. For example, be cautious of lawyers who advise you to lie on an immigration form, deceive a USCIS officer, or attempt to bribe an immigration authority. If you get caught, it could result in a permanent bar from U.S. immigration benefits.
Changing Lives One Immigration Case at a Time
At Central Florida Immigration Attorneys, we have years of combined experience successfully representing clients in a range of immigration cases. We're dedicated to providing reliable, transparent legal services, whether you need help with a basic immigration application or litigation for an extremely complicated federal matter.
Unlike some immigration law firms, we combine state-of-the art technology with traditional one-on-one service to give our clients robust, effective counsel. You can count on your case progressing as fast as possible while having confidence that our immigration lawyers in cityname, state, will answer your questions honestly, clearly, and efficiently. To learn more about our immigration, citizenship, and deportation defense services, schedule your initial consultation today.
Latest News in Winter Park, FL
Free sandbag locations open today in multiple counties
Spectrum News Staffhttps://mynews13.com/fl/orlando/news/2024/08/02/some-central-florida-cities-to-open-sandbag-locations
CENTRAL FLORIDA — With an eye on Tropical Storm Debby in the Gulf of Mexico, many counties and municipalities have opened sandbag locations to help residents prepare their homes for possible inclement weather.Flagler CountyPlease check with individual cities for the latest information. ...
CENTRAL FLORIDA — With an eye on Tropical Storm Debby in the Gulf of Mexico, many counties and municipalities have opened sandbag locations to help residents prepare their homes for possible inclement weather.
Flagler County
Please check with individual cities for the latest information.
Lake County
Lake County sandbag operations are open at the following locations.
The locations marked with asterisks (**) will have inmates on site to prepare sandbags for those who need help.
Marion County
Marion County sandbag operations are open at the following locations.
Please check with individual cities for the most up-to-date information.
Orange County
Orange County sandbag operations are open at the following locations.
Please check with individual cities for the latest information.
Osceola County
The county and the cities of Kissimmee and St. Cloud are working together on this operation.
SANDBAG DISPOSAL: Osceola County recommends that residents store uncontaminated sandbags for reuse during possible future storms. Residents wishing to dispose of sandbags may take them to the Bass Road Yard Waste Disposal Site at 750 S. Bass Road in Kissimmee.
Seminole County
Seminole County sandbag operations are open at the following locations.
Please check with individual cities for the most up-to-date information.
"SANDBAG DISPOSAL: Do not put filled sandbags on the curbside. They will not be picked up. If dry, consider keeping them through the end of Hurricane Season (November 30). Otherwise, empty the sand or dirt and dispose of bags in normal trash. They may also be brought to the Landfill."
Sumter County
The county's sandbag operations are open at the following location.
Volusia County
Volusia County sandbag operations are open at the following locations.
Please check with individual cities for the latest information.
LSU offers 4-star safety from Winter Park, Florida
Kyle Richardsonhttps://lsutigerswire.usatoday.com/2024/08/03/lsu-football-recruiting-ayden-pouncey-2026-four-star-safety-offer/
Brian Kelly and his recruiting staff traveled to Winter Park, Florida to extend a scholarship offer to a four-star defensive back. To land him, the Tigers will have to fend off Florida State.Ayden Pouncey is a 6-foot-2, 160-pound, defensive back from Winter Park where he plays football for Winter Park High School. The Winter Park Wildcats f...
Brian Kelly and his recruiting staff traveled to Winter Park, Florida to extend a scholarship offer to a four-star defensive back. To land him, the Tigers will have to fend off Florida State.
Ayden Pouncey is a 6-foot-2, 160-pound, defensive back from Winter Park where he plays football for Winter Park High School. The Winter Park Wildcats finished last season 9-1 with a loss to Mandarin in the first round of the 4M playoffs.
There are no crystal ball projections to land Pouncey at this time, but in-state Florida State is a 31% favorite to land the 2026 prospect according to On3’s recruiting prediction machine.
| Stars | National | Position | State | |
| 247 | 4 | 202 | 15 | 33 |
| Rivals | 4 | 156 | 11 | 25 |
| ESPN | 4 | 143 | 8 | 28 |
| On3 | 4 | 128 | 11 | 20 |
| 247 Composite | 4 | 134 | 9 | 23 |
| Hometown | Winter Park, Florida |
| Position | DB |
| Height | 6’2 |
| Weight | 160 |
| Class | 2026 |
Extremely grateful to receive an offer from The Louisiana State University!! @CoachCRaymond @WPCatsFootball @CoachHoats @ChadSimmons_ @Andrew_Ivins @adamgorney @JohnGarcia_Jr @SWiltfong_ pic.twitter.com/Yf5QUgNzqm
— Ayden Pouncey (@AydenPouncey) August 2, 2024
Contact/Follow us @LSUTigersWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Louisiana State news, notes, and opinions.
Where to get sandbags in Central Florida ahead of future Tropical Storm Debby
FOX 35 Digital Staffhttps://www.fox35orlando.com/news/florida-sandbag-locations-tropical-disturbance
Stream FOX 35 NewsAs FOX 35 forecasters continue to monitor a tropical disturbance in the Atlantic, known as Potential Cyclone Four, by the National Hurricane Center, communities in Central Florida are opening sandbag locations.Here are the latest sandbag locations in Central Florida:Alachua County sandbag locationsAlachua County will distribute sandbag bags (10 per car) beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 3, and ending at 6 p.m. at Wayside Park (11855 NW US 441). Sandbags...
Stream FOX 35 News
As FOX 35 forecasters continue to monitor a tropical disturbance in the Atlantic, known as Potential Cyclone Four, by the National Hurricane Center, communities in Central Florida are opening sandbag locations.
Here are the latest sandbag locations in Central Florida:
Alachua County sandbag locations
Alachua County will distribute sandbag bags (10 per car) beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 3, and ending at 6 p.m. at Wayside Park (11855 NW US 441). Sandbags, sand, and shovels will be available for self-service.
Residents who pick up sandbags can access the county’s pick-up site via CR 237 and Eastbound NW 126th Ave. To control traffic and expedite the pick-up process, please follow the directions below. Access to the site via westbound NW 120th Lane and northbound NW 59th Terrace will not be permitted.
From Northbound US 441 (From Gainesville)Turn Right onto CR 237 (at the Dollar General)Turn Right onto NW 126th Ave.Turn Right onto NW 59th Terrace to access Wayside Park (at the Mobile Convenient Store)
From Southbound US 441 (From Alachua)Turn Left onto CR 237 (at the Dollar General)Turn Right onto NW 126th Ave.Turn Right onto NW 59th Terrace to access Wayside Park (at the Mobile Convenient Store)The City of Gainesville will also have sandbag locations from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Citizens Field (1400 NE 8th Ave.) (self-serve) and its Public Works building (405 NW 39th Ave.) (full service and pre-filled bags). Call your local city government for other sandbag locations.
Lake County sandbag locations
Seven sandbag locations will open today (08/02) from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Starting tomorrow, the sites will be open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. or until weather conditions become unsafe. Sand and bags will be available on-site. Residents should bring their own shovels and must fill their bags.
Residents who need assistance filling bags can visit one of the three locations marked with asterisks (**). Those locations will have inmates on-site to prepare sandbags for those who need help.
Marion County sandbag locations
Ocala's sandbag locations will begin operations at 12:00 p.m. today and will remain open through Saturday until the sand is depleted. These locations are self-serve, and officials request that citizens limit their use to 10 bags per vehicle.
Marion County sandbag locations will begin operations at 12:00 p.m. today and will be open until 7:00 p.m. today. They will reopen on Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. These locations are self-serve, and officials request that citizens limit their use to 10 bags per vehicle.
Orange County sandbag locations
Ocoee will open a self-serve sandbag distribution site on Saturday, August 3 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Public Works Department, 301 Maguire Road.Ocoee residents must bring a valid ID or city utility bill for proof of residency. Each household will be provided 10 empty sandbags to be filled by the resident. Sand is available at Public Works and staff will provide tools to fill sandbags; however, residents are encouraged to bring their own shovel or trowel.
Winter Park residents can pick up sandbags on Saturday, August 3, from 8 a.m. to noon. Please bring proof of residency (driver’s license, valid ID, or utility bill statement).
Please be prepared for a Fill-It-Yourself model, with the city providing shovels, bags, and sand on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are physically unable to fill your sandbags, city staff will be available to assist those in need.
Winter Springs offers sandbag supplies ahead of tropical system
As FOX 35 forecasters continue to monitor a tropical disturbance in the Atlantic, known as Invest 97L by the National Hurricane Center, communities in Central Florida are opening sandbag locations.
Orange County Public Works will offer self-serve sandbags to residents on Saturday, August 3, and Sunday, August 4, weather permitting, ahead of potential impacts from a weather system currently in the Caribbean forecast to develop into a tropical storm within the next 48 hours.
From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, weather permitting, sandbags and sand will be available at the following Orange County Park locations:
Seminole County sandbag locations
Boombah Sports Complex, 3450 E Lake Mary Blvd, Sanford8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m., Friday, August 2Unstaffed
City of Altamonte Springs - Eastmonte Park, 830 Magnolia Dr, Altamonte Springs12:00–7:00 p.m., Open Friday, August 2 – Sunday, August 4, Self-service; Park rangers are on site for those who require assistance
City of Altamonte Springs - Westmonte Recreation Center, 624 Bills Lane, Altamonte Springs12:00–7:00 p.m., Open Friday, August 2–Sunday, August 4, Self-service; Park rangers are on site for those who require assistance
City of Sanford, FL Government - Sanford Public Works800 Fulton Street, Sanford8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m., Friday, August 2Unstaffed
City of Winter Springs - Central Winds Park1000 Central Winds Dr, Winter Springs8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m., Friday, August 2Unstaffed
Sumter County sandbag locations
Sumter County will have self-service sand and sandbags available at the Lake Panasoffkee Regional Recreation Park, 1589 CR 459, Lake Panasoffkee, FL, starting Saturday, August 3, 2024, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Sandbag operations will be available according to weather conditions. To obtain the sand and sandbags, residents must provide proof of residence within Sumter County and bring a shovel if they have one. Residents pick up sandbags, fill them, and place them in their vehicles. There is a ten sandbag limit per vehicle.
Volusia County sandbag locations
Volusia County will distribute pre-filled sandbags from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 3, at the Osteen Fire Station #36, 180 N. State Road 415. Once the pre-filled sandbags have been distributed, empty sandbags, dirt, and shovels will be provided. Each vehicle can receive up to 10 sandbags with proof of Volusia County residency. The sandbags are available to all Volusia County residents while supplies last. Additionally, multiple Volusia County municipalities offer residents within their jurisdiction free sandbags.
Field next to the REC Center at 4655 City Center Circle, Port Orange, on Aug. 3 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. The city will provide 10 free sandbags per household, sand. Residents are encouraged to bring shovels and, if possible, a helper to assist.
Sports Complex football stadium at 2335 Sunset Dr. Access to sand piles and bags will remain open 24 hours a day through the weekend. Limit 15 bags per resident; please bring a shovel.
DeLand will have sand and bags available for residents beginning at 8 a.m. Saturday ahead of expected tropical weather this weekend. The city’s sand and bag distribution site will be in the parking lot south of Melching Field, 601 South Woodland Boulevard, at the corner of East Hubbard Avenue and South Woodland Boulevard. The site will remain open until noon Saturday. Sand and bags will be on site. Please bring your shovel and ID for proof of residency. There will be a limit of 10 bags per residence.
Ormond Beach residents who show their IDs receive up to 10 complimentary bags. Remember to bring your shovel! Visit Nova Community Center (440 N Nova Rd) on Saturday: 9 am - 9 pm andSunday: 1 pm - 5:30 pm
Winter Park, FL Enhances Fiscal Operations with OpenGov
ConchoValleyHomepage.comhttps://www.conchovalleyhomepage.com/business/press-releases/ein-presswire/731970444/winter-park-fl-enhances-fiscal-operations-with-opengov
EIN Presswire | NewsmaticsNews provided byEIN Presswire The software will enable more precise budgeting, improved reporting capabilities, and better collaboration across departments. FLORIDA, UNITED STATES, August 1, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Winter Park, FL, working with an Excel-heavy, manual process that limited leadership's ability to effectively communicate metrics, realized the need for a more dynamic system. The City deci...
EIN Presswire | Newsmatics
News provided by
EIN Presswire
The software will enable more precise budgeting, improved reporting capabilities, and better collaboration across departments.
FLORIDA, UNITED STATES, August 1, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Winter Park, FL, working with an Excel-heavy, manual process that limited leadership's ability to effectively communicate metrics, realized the need for a more dynamic system. The City decided to grow its partnership with OpenGov, the leader in budgeting and planning software for our nation's local governments.
Located near Orlando, Winter Park sought to modernize its operations to better serve its residents and enhance internal efficiencies. The City required a solution that could integrate seamlessly with existing systems while providing a robust, user-friendly platform for financial planning and analysis. OpenGov Budgeting & Planning appealed for its cloud-based technology, which promised to future-proof the City's financial operations and foster greater resident engagement.
With the adoption of OpenGov Budgeting & Planning, Winter Park is poised to experience a substantial improvement in its financial processes. The software will enable more precise budgeting, improved reporting capabilities, and better collaboration across departments. Additionally, the cloud-based system is expected to enhance accessibility for both City staff and residents, ensuring transparency and supporting informed decision-making.
Winter Park, FL joins more than 1,900 public sector organizations leveraging OpenGov to revolutionize work processes with cloud-based software designed specifically for the needs of government.
About OpenGov OpenGov is the leader in modern cloud software for cities, counties, state agencies, and special districts. With a mission to power a more effective and accountable government, OpenGov serves more than 1,900 public sector leaders and their organizations. OpenGov is built exclusively for the unique budgeting and planning, accounting, permitting and licensing, procurement, asset management, and tax and revenue needs of the public sector. The OpenGov Cloud empowers organizations to operate more efficiently, adapt to change, and strengthen trust with the communities they serve. Learn more or request a demo at opengov.com.
Megan Olson OpenGov email us here
NOTE: This content is not written by or endorsed by "KLST/KSAN", its advertisers, or Nexstar Media Inc.
For inquiries or corrections to Press Releases, please reach out to EIN Presswire.
Winter Park becomes 1st Central Florida city to partially opt out of affordable housing law
Nick Papantonishttps://www.wftv.com/news/local/winter-park-becomes-first-city-central-florida-partially-opt-out-affordable-housing-law/GTQ6XWODI5FN7CV66N5GETR2BE/
WINTER PARK, Fla. — Winter Park leaders became the first in Central Florida to vote to opt out of a part of the Live Local Act Wednesday in a move expected to be quickly copied by other governments seeking to preserve their budgets.▶ WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWSThe unanimous vote will block developers of middle-income housing from getting tax breaks for their apartment complexes until at least 2027.The Live Local Act was impleme...
WINTER PARK, Fla. — Winter Park leaders became the first in Central Florida to vote to opt out of a part of the Live Local Act Wednesday in a move expected to be quickly copied by other governments seeking to preserve their budgets.
▶ WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS
The unanimous vote will block developers of middle-income housing from getting tax breaks for their apartment complexes until at least 2027.
The Live Local Act was implemented by state lawmakers in 2023 to address Florida’s affordability crisis. Among other benefits, it allowed qualifying large-scale developers to claim a 75% tax break on units housing families that made between 80% and 120% of the area median income (AMI), or $77,200 to $115,800 for a family of four in Orange County.
This year, a tweak in the law allowed municipalities to opt out of that tax break if the metro area had more units than qualifying families. However, other benefits, such as fewer hurdles for approval, would stand.
A study by the University of Florida’s Shimberg Center for Housing Studies found the Orlando area has 799 more units in the 80% to 120% range than families making that amount of money, opening the door for governments in Orange, Osceola, Lake and Seminole counties to exercise the law’s new provision.
Read: Affordable housing available to those with behavioral health diagnoses in Osceola County
Neighboring Maitland was the first to ring the alarm bell. Leaders there said two major apartment complexes built within the last five years claimed the tax break, placing a 3% hole in the city’s budget.
Winter Park leaders said apartment complexes were several of their biggest taxpayers, generating an average of $325,000 in revenue per complex this year. They said they needed to take the vote to protect their budget.
“We have to. We have to,” Mayor Sheila DeCiccio said, waving a newspaper article about Maitland’s situation next to her head.
The vote does not affect lower-income housing, or the breaks offered to those developments. The same study found the Orlando metro area is short approximately 380,000 apartment units for individuals making up to $54,050, or up to $77,200 for a family of four.
Read: ‘Our biggest need’: New affordable housing complex in the works for Orlando; see who qualifies
Those developments can receive as much as a 100% tax break for their qualifying units.
Maitland is also expected to take a vote to block more tax breaks soon, as are other municipalities.
The Shimberg Center study also found that cities in Sumter, Marion, and Brevard counties have more middle-income housing than needed, meaning those governments could also take votes to block that portion of the law.
Read: 100 affordable apartments going up in Orlando’s Parramore community
Central Florida Spotlight: Housing affordability Central Florida Spotlight: Housing affordability (WFTV)
(WFTV)
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