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Oakland issues proclamations, hears public forum and community notices
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Summary
At its Jan. 27 meeting the Town of Oakland issued proclamations (Celebrate Literacy Week; Black History Month), approved routine consent items and heard public forum comments about lake access and a kiosk in Johns Landing; community groups announced a late‑February virtual candidates forum and staff reminded residents about Heritage Day.
Mayor Shane Taylor opened the Jan. 27 Town Commission meeting with two proclamations: he proclaimed Jan. 26–Jan. 30, 2026, as Celebrate Literacy Week in Oakland, citing the Florida Department of Education designation and a statewide theme; and he proclaimed February 2026 as Black History Month and urged citizens to observe the month.
The commission approved a two‑item consent agenda — approval of the Jan. 13, 2026 meeting minutes and authorization to serve wine at the Black History Tribute artist reception at the West Orange Arts & Heritage Building — by voice vote.
During the public forum resident Louie Smith asked the commission to consider public lake access at the Bridal/Briley property (he said a pond and canal suitable for canoe and kayak access exist) and reported concerns from Johns Landing residents about a vending kiosk and associated behavior; commissioners said staff would investigate.
Noreen Dworkin, editor in chief of Vox Populi, announced that organizers had arranged a virtual candidates forum for the two Seat 4 candidates (Joseph McMullen and Anne Fulton) to be moderated by Steve Mort and said details and a Zoom link will be posted for an event in late February (two dates were mentioned during remarks; organizers will publish the confirmed date).
Town Manager Elise said she will be out of the office Jan. 29–Feb. 6 and that Chief Eason will serve as acting town manager in her absence. She also reminded the public that Heritage Day will be held on Saturday, Jan. 31, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and that the Black History Tribute exhibit opens Jan. 31 and runs through March 27 with an artist reception Feb. 19.
Commissioner Ramos reported that MetroPlan Orlando and FDOT have approved Turnpike signage recognizing Oakland at the town’s exit, correcting prior signage directing traffic to neighboring municipalities. Commissioners also reminded residents about the Feb. 9 voter registration deadline for the March 10 election and upcoming ethics training dates.
The meeting adjourned at 8:13 p.m.
