In Summary:
The St. Johns River Water Management District declared a Phase III Water Shortage as drought conditions worsened across Central Florida, bringing increased irrigation restrictions and conservation concerns. The Orange County School Board approved targeted rezonings affecting several Apopka-area schools beginning in the 2026-27 school year, while Wes Hodge officially launched his Orange County Commission District 2 campaign after collecting more than 1,100 petition signatures. Conservation and ecotourism efforts also remained in focus as Orange Audubon supporters continued fundraising tied to the proposed Apopka Birding Park and Nature Center project.
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