ORLANDO, Florida. – Less than two weeks after taking the oath of office, Orlando Interim City Councilman Shan Rose has begun his duties as representative of the 5th District, which includes part of the 32801 ZIP code.

“I love it here. I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world,” Rose said. “I enjoy spending time in this community.”

Last month, Rose won a runoff election for the seat of Regina Hill, who was suspended from office in April after being arrested on criminal charges related to elder exploitation and mortgage fraud.

“We're building our unity here,” Rose said. “We're about to open the SED, the Sports Entertainment District, which means new jobs. So I think we have an opportunity now to really come together, love this community even more and take things to the next level.”

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Rose said she hopes to improve communication about opportunities available in the community, especially for job-seeking youth and seniors struggling to pay their bills.

“There are people who are willing to go without air conditioning when it's 38 degrees Celsius because they can't pay their electricity bills. They live on a fixed income,” Rose said.

Rose, who previously worked for Orlando's Downtown Development Board and Community Redevelopment Agency, said she is also focused on bringing more small businesses to the area around the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

“I want to revitalize Magnolia Avenue. That was always my dream when I was in town and it's still my dream to be able to make it happen,” Rose said.

The newly elected commissioner said she would seek the opinions of people who live and work in the community.

“I want everyone to realize that we are starting afresh here and that we can work together to achieve what we want for 32801 and the entire district,” Rose said. “I will be holding a series of visioning and hearing sessions where I will meet with residents and businesses to hear, 'What are you all missing? How can I make things better?'”

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