Speaker numbers apply only to this recording. Names come from transcript evidence. “Possibly” marks uncertain attribution.
The City of Kissimmee City Commission held its second budget hearing and regular meeting on September 22, 2026, at City Hall in Commission Chambers. The meeting, which began at 6:00 PM and adjourned at 7:37 PM, was highlighted by the adoption of the final millage levy and budget for Fiscal Year 2026–2027, public hearings on several ordinances, and significant debate regarding airport fees and a long-delayed hotel project.
Good evening, everyone. Thank you for being here this evening. This meeting is now called to order. As a courtesy to others, please silence all of your electronic devices during this meeting. Citizens desiring to speak, please fill out a card and please walk it over to our clerk who's to the right of me. We will now start with a moment of silence and the pledge of allegiance, led by Vice Mayor ED. Thank you. Today we have service of the lights for July, August, and September, twenty twenty-six. Thank you, Madam Mayor Commissioners. Ladies and gentlemen, I'd like to take this opportunity to recognize our employees who have reached certain milestones in their service to our community. So our first group to be recognized tonight is those that have achieved five years with the city. And starting off with the police department, Raul Vasquez. Also, with five years, you could not make it tonight, Tremaine Grant with Finance, Joe Lee Wallone from Public Works, Matt Libby from Parks and Recreation, Nate Roman from Public Works, and Keith Roberts from Finance. Our next group is Ten Years from Economic Development, Benjamin Burnett. Robert Baptist from the Fire Department, Richard Reyes Soto from the police department, and Devin Springer from the Fire Department. And then also from the police department who just retired, couldn't be here Lacey Santon. With 20 years of service, not sure if she could make it Erica Castellucci from the police department. And then we've also got Ali Brewington from Public Works, Keith Arsenal from the police department, Stacey Legal from the Police Department, Priti Toledar from Information Technology, and Takia Close from the police department. With twenty-five years of service from the city manager's office, Desiree Matthews. Several others that couldn't be here tonight with 25 years. Mark Grig from Information Technology, Brandon Weatherford from the Police Department, Scott Bowman from the police department, Gary Johnro from the police department, and then Ben O'Neill from the fire department. Now we move on to 30 years of service. Won't even look this old. But from the development of services department, Douglas Etheridge. Thirty-five years. He also doesn't look our age. Peggy Sousa from Information Track. Thank you very much. Thank you. Thank you, Madam Mayor and Commissioners. If you would join for our first proclamation, Darlene Ramirez and Jose del Artesano. And this is a proclamation for Hispanic Heritage Month. Whereas National Hispanic Heritage Month established in 1968 honors the history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans, an integral part of our nation and city. And whereas in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the City of Cassini recognizes Casa de Artesano, a local cultural and artistic organization that provides space for artisans, artists, and community members to celebrate Hispanic heritage through traditional arts, crafts, education, and cultural expression. And where is founded by Darlene Ramirez, a cultural educator, passionate advocate for traditional arts with more than 25 years experience. Casa de Artesano preserves and shares traditional art forms, including Puerto Rican, Ocaje, and Mundillo, while empowering local artisans to develop their talent and create new economic opportunities.