The Kissimmee City Commission voted Tuesday to place a proposed extension of commissioner term limits on the August ballot; approved a smoking and vaping ban in city parks; continued discussions on food truck regulations; and decided the path forward to selecting a new city attorney.
In a 4–1 vote with Commissioner Janette Martinez opposing, commissioners approved an ordinance that would amend the city charter to allow commissioners to serve three consecutive four-year terms instead of two, extending the maximum continuous service from eight to 12 years. The proposal will not take effect unless approved by voters in the August general election. The motion was made by Mayor Espinosa, and seconded by Commissioner Alvarez.
Residents like Alex Alemi questioned the need for longer consecutive service and whether it would reduce accountability. “Term limits exist for a reason,” Alemi said. “They ensure turnover; they bring fresh perspectives; and keep elected officials accountable to the public rather than comfortable in their seats.” Supporters of the change argued that extending limits could provide continuity for long-term projects. Commissioners emphasized that the final decision rests with voters.
Following testimony from high school students advocating for tobacco-free public spaces, the commission also approved an ordinance Tuesday prohibiting smoking and vaping in all city parks, making enforceable a policy previously addressed through signage. “We have had a policy as well as signage at all of our facilities, proclaiming a prohibition on smoking within the parks,” City Manager Mike Steigerwald said. “However, this ordinance, which was promoted by Osceola High School students, would make this a city ordinance and make it enforceable.”
Commissioners thanked the students for their civic engagement before voting unanimously in favor of the ban. “I want to commend all of these students who have come out and spoken and expressed their voices,” Mayor Jackie Espinosa said. “Thank you all for coming out being part of this movement and part of the community. We certainly honor you and your courage.”
While no vote was taken Tuesday on food truck regulations, commissioners spent significant time discussing how to balance support for mobile food vendors with fairness to brick-and-mortar restaurants. “When we adopted the $263 million budget back in July, our slogan was ‘Kissimmee is open for business,’” Vice Mayor Angela Eady said.
“What were we open the business for? Is it just brick and mortar? Because I believe that we also stated that we want everybody to thrive. We want all our small businesses to thrive.”
“I am not against small business like a food truck,” Commissioner Noel Ortiz said. “But it’s my responsibility to protect the small business owners, the people who own restaurants, who pay mortgages, who pay rent, who pay insurance, who pay employees. I believe food trucks bring unfair competition for them.” After discussion, commissioners reached consensus to hold a workshop to further examine the issues before staff returns with a recommendation.
Later in the meeting, commissioners unanimously approved the appointment of Kalanit Oded, the city’s deputy city attorney, as interim city attorney. Oded has served in the role for six years and has more than 22 years of legal experience. Commissioners also directed staff to move forward with an external search firm to assist in recruiting a permanent city attorney.
Commissioners also unanimously approved an ordinance requiring candidates for city office to consent to a criminal background check to verify qualifications. That measure will also go before voters for approval in August.
Meeting as the Community Redevelopment Agency, commissioners discussed the future of the 50 Lakeview redevelopment site, a 7.62-acre potential catalyst site. Ideas included 55+ townhomes, mixed-use development, recreational amenities, and public gathering spaces. City staff will incorporate the commission’s feedback into a Future Request for Proposals (RFP) and return to the commission for review before it is released.
