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Orlando honors Commissioners Jim Gray and Robert F. Stewart as they leave council
Summary
At its Dec. 8 meeting, the Orlando City Council presented proclamations and keys to the city to Commissioners Jim Gray and Robert F. Stewart, who reflected on district accomplishments and decades of service. Colleagues praised neighborhood revitalization, parks and affordable-housing efforts.
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and fellow council members on Dec. 8 recognized two longtime members of the City Council with proclamations and keys to the city as Commissioner Jim Gray and Commissioner Robert F. Stewart prepare to leave the dais.
Dyer read an official proclamation honoring Gray’s 13 years on the council and credited him with steady advocacy for “thoughtful growth, responsible development, and economic opportunity” in District 1. The mayor noted District 1’s rapid growth and highlighted investments in Lake Nona and other neighborhoods.
Gray thanked staff, family and constituents and recounted measurable changes during his tenure, including a cited total of 10,010 housing units built across price points (65% single-family, 35% multifamily), new parks and trails, and new medical and research facilities in Lake Nona. “Thank you very much,” Gray said after receiving the key to the city.
The council also honored Commissioner Robert F. Stewart for nearly two decades of service, praising his leadership on neighborhood initiatives and Main Street revitalizations. Stewart recounted projects in District 3—SunRail, renovated parks, and the launch of the Orlando History Makers podcast—and thanked colleagues and staff for their partnership.
Throughout the tributes, members from across the council reflected on the pair’s contributions to downtown and neighborhood projects, public safety support and partnerships with private entities. The meeting moved promptly from the ceremonial tributes to the regular agenda, where council business continued with multiple consent items and CRA actions.
