On Thursday, the Osceola Chamber welcomed state legislators, local government leaders, and community partners for its 2025 Legislative and Economic Update, held at the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center in Kissimmee. The annual event offered insights into the extended 2025 spring legislative session and featured a detailed discussion on Osceola County’s economic outlook.
Osceola County Commission Chairwoman and District 2 Commissioner Viviana Janer emphasized the importance of regional cooperation and forward-thinking leadership.
“Collaboration is key to Osceola County’s continued success,” said Osceola County Commission Chairwoman and District 2 Commissioner Viviana Janer. “Events like this ensure we are aligning our efforts to support smart growth, economic opportunity, and a high quality of life for all residents.”
Walt Disney World Senior Government Advisory Manager Leticia Adams moderated the program, which included two key panel discussions: one focused on the legislative session and another on the local economic landscape.
The luncheon, which began with a stirring performance of the National Anthem by St. Cloud High School 10th grader Evangeline Marrero Mosa, was hosted by Osceola Chamber President and CEO John Newstreet and Chamber Vice Chair and Government Advisory Chair Rebekah Hurd.
The presenting sponsor, Walt Disney World Resort, shared a video showcasing the magic and diversity of the resort’s local parks and offerings.
Kicking off this year’s discussion was a local economic panel featuring Osceola County Manager Don Fisher, City of Kissimmee City Manager Mike Steigerwald, City of St. Cloud Deputy City Manager Scott Davidoff, and Osceola County School District Chief of Staff and Human Resources Dr. Michael Allen. The panel addressed recent achievements and ongoing challenges, including improvements in school graduation rates and district grades, and the successful allocation of state funding to help clean up Lake Tohopekaliga.
The Osceola Legislative Delegation panel included Senator Kristen Arrington (District 25), Representative Erika Booth (District 35), Representative Jose Alvarez (District 46), Representative Paula Stark (District 47), and Representative Leonard Spencer (District 45). The legislators highlighted their committee efforts, recent legislative wins—such as preserving the Tourist Development Tax—and encouraged attendees to stay involved and informed on state and local issues.
The event served as a platform to inform, engage, and strengthen collaboration between Osceola’s business community, government leaders, and legislative representatives as the county continues to experience dynamic growth and development.
