Honoring a Trailblazer

If you're running for office in The City Beautiful, you seek advice, counsel, and support from those who paved the way before you. I had the honor of spending time with a true legend: former City Council Member and County Commissioner Mable Butler. At 98 years young, “Commissioner” continues to inspire with her wisdom and warmth. She was the first Black woman to serve on the Orlando City Council (1984–1990) and the first Black person elected to the Orange County Commission in 1990. Her historic leadership opened doors for so many, and I’m incredibly lucky to have her love and support. She’s simply amazing.

Protecting Our Lakes

I had a great time meeting with neighbors, activists, and volunteers involved with Friends of the Loch Haven Chain of Lakes. These passionate residents from Lake Rowena, Beverly Shores, Rose Isle, and Merritt Park are doing incredible work to protect and improve the water quality of this vital chain of lakes. I learned a great deal—from the impact of stormwater runoff to how invasive species like hydrilla affect our waterways. Their commitment to preserving our natural environment is exactly the kind of community-led stewardship that makes District 3 special.

Listening on Corrine Drive

I attended the public meeting on the Virginia-Forest-Corrine Drive corridor, and I was grateful for the opportunity to hear directly from residents and city staff. This area is a vital part of our District 3 identity—home to small businesses, gathering spaces, and a growing number of families. Walkability, safety, landscaping, bike lanes, and traffic calming are all critical tools we can use to enhance and protect these neighborhoods. I appreciated the city’s efforts to educate and engage the community in shaping the future of this important corridor.

Florida Politics: Roger Chapin enters race for Orlando City Council in District 3

Another longtime Orlando leader just jumped into an increasingly crowded Orlando City Council race.

Roger Chapin, a longtime executive at Mears Transportation, is running for City Commissioner in District 3.

“As a lifelong resident of Orlando, I’ve seen firsthand the rapid growth and economic prosperity of our city, but I also understand the real challenges and opportunities we face moving forward as a community,” Chapin said.

“As a business executive, with my involvement in civic initiatives and a deep commitment to my neighbors and community, I’m running to bring people together and create real, lasting solutions that improve quality of life for every resident.”

Five other candidates already filed for the open seat. Other candidates include Jason Albu, Samuel Chambers, Chris Durant, Kimberly Kiss and Mira Tanna.

The winner will succeed City Commissioner Robert Stuart, who announced last month he will not seek another term.

Chapin worked at Mears for more than 20 years, rising to Executive Vice President of the company.

He has also been involved in several civic groups and public boards.

He currently sits on the board for the Orlando Utilities Commission. He has previously been Chair of the Downtown Development Board; the Orlando Municipal Planning Board and the City of Orlando Redistricting Advisory Board; Vice Chairman of the Orange County Charter Review Commission; and sat on the Community Oversight Board for the funding and construction of the Dr. Phillips Center.

His campaign noted that he was appointed to various positions both by Republicans like former Orlando Mayor Glenda Hood and former Orange County Mayor Theresa Jacobs and Democrats like current Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and former Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink.

Chapin and wife Susan have lived in College Park for 27 years. Daughter Grey now attends the University of Florida.

Orlando city elections are scheduled this year for Nov. 4, with a runoff on Dec. 9 planned if necessary.