LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Former commissioner disputes Mueller’s claims

Dear Editor:

I am writing to you with a sense of urgency to correct false information about Winter Garden District 2 Commissioner Ron Mueller published in your Jan. 4. 2024, “2024 Forecast” article. As the previous commissioner for District 2 for many years, I have deep knowledge of this topic and believe some inaccuracies were presented in the coverage of Commissioner Mueller’s record.

In your coverage of Ron Mueller, the current commissioner who is being challenged by Iliana Jones for District 2, there are several questionable achievements attributed to him that were presented as facts. While your reporter, Sam Albuquerque, undoubtedly had good intentions, I believe it’s important to ensure your readers receive accurate information. 

Mueller cites three achievements in your article: 

1. Mueller saved the residents of Oakland Park $2,551,750 from liens, penalties and interests left behind from developers.

This is false. Mueller did no such thing; the HOA brought this issue to city staff, and staff brought it to the commission as a whole. The commission voted on the staff-driven initiative. No single commissioner can do anything without at least two other commissioners also voting for it to have it done.

2. Mueller approved the repaving of all the streets and repairing or replacing the aging storm drain system at Valencia Shores.

Again, Mueller and the whole commission voted on this; it was not a Mueller initiative. The way Mueller insinuates that he gave some sort of final approval is misleading. This was another staff initiative that the whole board agreed to pass.

3. Mueller was part of the effort to stop the construction of the turnpike ramp at Avalon Road. 

While it is true that Mueller was at these community meetings and ensured that he spoke loudly before many people, he had zero involvement in discussions with the Turnpike Authority. This initiative was stopped through the hard work of our city manager at the time, Mike Bollhoefer, and the residents of the surrounding areas.

These claims, likely acquired from Commissioner Mueller’s campaign website, deserve some form of clarification and scrutiny. Perhaps a note could be added acknowledging these are claims, not objective facts. The paper highlighting that Mueller faces an investigation for violation of the City Charter was important information for voters to know; it is also important for them to be told when campaign claims are being cited as opposed to indisputable facts. 

I thank you and the Orange Observer for your commitment to serving our community. As the most trusted news source in our area, your attention to this matter is deeply appreciated. 

Bob Buchanan, former Winter Garden District 2 Commissioner