Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Kissimmee public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in business jobs with high priority
Economic Development Partner Agreements
Kissimmee renews contracts with Prospera, the Florida SBDC, the UCF Business Incubator, and the National Entrepreneur Center — about $135,000 total for small-business consulting, training, and incubation.
Gateway Airport Landing Fee Increase
Pilots packed the chamber to oppose a 25% landing fee hike and the Vector camera contract, arguing the airport is losing money on collections and could collect fees through fixed-base operators instead. The commission approved both but promised a workshop before January.
Stalled Hyatt Hotel Project at Gateway Airport
The developer behind the promised Hyatt Studio hotel got a default notice from the city September 11. Its COO promised a full written response — including on financing — by week's end, but Commissioner Ortiz demanded proof of financing and the mayor said the city has extended enough grace.
Downtown revitalization through the CRA incentive program
The two redevelopment districts adopted their FY2026-27 budgets — $9.3 million downtown and $8.6 million on Vine Street — funding police officers, the clean team, the Kmart site, walkability studies, murals and grants.
Azure Hotel and Convention Center Incentive
The downtown hotel and convention center project got its $1.5 million performance-based CRA incentive approved, with demolition of the old Civic Center site expected in December after environmental review.
Indoor field house / sports tourism project
The city hired a consultant to study building an indoor field house — eight basketball courts, 16 volleyball courts — either at Lancaster Ranch or on seven acres near the marina. It could book out nearly every weekend with tournaments, bring hotel revenue, and finally give residents more gym access after 20 years with just one gymnasium.
Food Truck Regulations vs. Brick-and-Mortar Businesses
The commission couldn't agree on new food truck rules; a proposal to allow trucks at construction sites and parks failed 2-3. A workshop is coming, so the current moratorium and rules stay in place for now.