Candidate Profile: Tiffany Moore Russell

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If elected, what are the three most pressing problems you want to address, and what do you suggest to solve them?

1. Housing Orange County families, seniors, teachers, first responders, and young professionals are struggling with rising housing costs. I will expand workforce and affordable housing through public-private partnerships, preserve existing affordable housing, encourage mixed-income development, and coordinate with our municipalities to increase housing options while protecting neighborhoods. Housing solutions must also be paired with transportation and infrastructure investments to keep communities connected and affordable.

2. Managing Growth and Transportation Orange County continues to grow rapidly, and our infrastructure must keep pace. I will prioritize smart, responsible growth by ensuring roads, stormwater are considered before approving new development. We must invest strategically while preserving our quality of life and protecting rural and environmentally sensitive areas.  Furthermore, we must prioritize solutions to address our transportation deficiencies.  Orange County needs a dedicated funding source to address a multi-modal transportation plan for the future.

3. Economic Prosperity Residents deserve a county government that is transparent, fiscally responsible, and focused on delivering results. I will support workforce development, access to opportunities for small businesses, and economic opportunities that create good-paying jobs while maintaining responsible budgeting. My experience managing a large constitutional office and serving on the County Commission has prepared me to lead efficiently and responsibly.

Why do you deserve to elected in this race?

I deserve to be the next Orange County Mayor because I care about the people of Orange County, not special interest.  I have dedicated my career to serving the people of Orange County. As an Orange County Commissioner for eight years and as Clerk of Courts for more than twelve years, I have managed large budgets, led complex organizations, and worked collaboratively to solve community challenges. I understand county government because I've served in it, and I have a proven record of transparency, fiscal responsibility, and delivering results. I'm running to bring experienced leadership that listens, builds consensus, and puts Orange County residents first.As a former County Commissioner, I secured funding to improve infrastructure in the Little Egypt Community.  As Clerk of Court, I raised the starting pay for Clerks from $12 to $17 while also making budget cuts.  I understand that Orange County wants a mayor committed to this County and bringing about transformative change.

According to a University of North Florida poll, Floridians say affordability is their top issue. What are your solutions for dealing with Florida’s affordability issue?*

Affordability requires a comprehensive approach. At the county level, we can increase the supply of workforce and affordable housing, reduce unnecessary barriers to responsible development, preserve existing affordable housing, and support transportation investments that lower commuting costs. We should also continue attracting high-quality jobs, invest in workforce training, and ensure county government operates efficiently to maximize taxpayer dollars. While many affordability challenges require state and federal action, Orange County can take meaningful steps to reduce costs for working families.

Will you vote Yes or No on the constitutional amendment to slash property taxes and explain your position. How would you replace lost revenue – fees and/or service reductions?

I would vote No on the constitutional amendment to reduce property taxes because I believe it will hinder local governments from providing quality services uniquely designed for that community. Any proposal affecting property taxes should be carefully evaluated based on its long-term impact on essential local services. Property taxes fund public safety, parks, transportation, libraries, and other critical county services. While I understand the financial pressures facing homeowners, any reduction in revenue must be accompanied by a sustainable funding plan that does not shift costs to residents through higher fees or reduce the quality of services they rely on. My priority is protecting taxpayers while ensuring Orange County remains financially strong.As the Orange County Clerk, I have been faced with cutting my budget three times within one fiscal year.  I was successful in modernizing the processes and services in the Clerk's Office and avoided any furloughs or layoffs.  It will always be my priority to explore opportunities for efficiencies while protecting the quality of services to citizens and county employees before presenting any tax or fee proposal.

Utility costs are rising for customers in Florida, and the proliferation of data centers is expected to exacerbate that issue. How should Florida’s utility regulators respond?

Utility regulators should ensure that infrastructure investments are planned responsibly, rates remain fair and transparent, and costs are allocated appropriately. As Florida's energy demands grow, regulators should balance reliability, affordability, and long-term sustainability while encouraging energy efficiency and thoughtful planning. Residents and small businesses should not bear an unfair share of costs resulting from significant new industrial demand.

What do you think is the biggest environmental issue your government should address in Florida?

Protecting our water resources while managing growth is one of the most important environmental challenges facing Orange County. We must protect our lakes, wetlands, springs, and drinking water through responsible land-use decisions, conservation, resilient infrastructure, and sustainable development practices. As our community grows, we have a responsibility to preserve natural resources and open spaces while ensuring future generations enjoy the same quality of life that makes Orange County such a special place.

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