Jacobs sends memo to Osceola Expressway Authority over extension plans in Orange County

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs has sent out a memo hoping to fix the controversial Osceola Parkway extension project, which could affect homeowners in Orange County.

The Osceola County Expressway Authority said it has the power to knock down Orange County homes to extend its toll road, and it reached out to Orange County commissioners for help.

Jacobs said she wants those residents to be informed every step of the way, writing a letter that says everyone impacted should be included in a "transparent process."

But Jacobs still has not said anything about a public meeting.

In the memo, Jacobs says, "I question the standing of the Osceola County Expressway to attempt to condemn land and construct a roadway within Orange County's (borders) without the permission of the Orange County Board of County Commissioners."

"If we don't talk with them now, if we don't be aggressive or make our position clear, they can work off the presumption that we don't care," Commissioner Fred Brummer said earlier this week.

Earlier this month, Brummer and Commissioner Jennifer Thompson, who first brought up the issue, suggested public meetings.

Jacobs' letter asks for a transparent process, but she is asking for a meeting with Osceola County and its Expressway Authority first, before decisions are made.

A community meeting is still scheduled for July.

The Expressway Authority will make its decision about the toll road through the Orange County neighborhoods next year.

WFTV