About Dr. Kelly Martinez Semrad
Dr. Kelly Martinez Semrad, the newly elected County Commissioner for Orange County, District 5, is a dynamic leader, UCF professor, and dedicated community advocate. Her life’s work has been driven by a commitment to education, environmental stewardship, and enhancing the quality of life for all Central Floridians. As a mother and neighbor, Kelly’s roots in the community run deep, and her professional and personal accomplishments reflect her unwavering dedication to serving others.
A distinguished academic, Kelly’s award-winning research has had a transformative impact on the global tourism and hospitality sectors. By advancing economic development policies and promoting environmental protections in tourism economies, including Central Florida’s own, she has fortified industries and communities alike. Her expertise has earned her recognition as a tourism ambassador for international municipalities and developing nations and as a key contributor to host committees for major events such as the World Series and the Super Bowl. Kelly has been honored with numerous accolades, including the District 5 Citizen of the Year Award, UCF teaching awards, and international research awards in tourism economics.
Beyond academia, Kelly has been a steadfast advocate for smart and sustainable growth in Orange County. As Vice Chair of Save Orange County, Inc., she has led efforts to combat irresponsible overdevelopment and protect the unique character of the region. Her leadership extends to her role as co-chair of the District 5 Neighborhood Advisory Council, where she amplifies the voices of residents and helps shape policies that reflect the needs and interests of the district. Her civic involvement spans membership in influential organizations such as the League of Women Voters, Sierra Club, Florida Rising, and UFF-UCF Labor Union.
Kelly has been at the forefront of some of the most consequential legal and policy battles in the region. She played a pivotal role in the successful lawsuit against Orange County’s approval of the Lake Pickett Text Amendments, which promoted urban sprawl in violation of the county’s land use plan. Undeterred by ongoing challenges, Kelly initiated the 2024 Rural Boundary Charter Amendment to protect East Orange County’s natural lands and rural communities. Despite facing significant opposition from developers and state-level preemption efforts, Kelly has continued to champion the rights of residents to shape their community’s future.
Her commitment to people and the environment over special interests is evident in her accomplishments. Kelly has supported adaptive reuse zoning to address homelessness, helped defeat a proposed mega puppy mill in East Orange County, and served on the County’s Redistricting Committee to ensure equitable representation for voters. Her grassroots 2024 campaign, which refused funding from special interests, mega-developers, and the tourism industry, resonated with voters across political lines, earning her a decisive 57% victory on November 5, 2024.
On December 3, 2024, Kelly Martinez Semrad was sworn in as County Commissioner. With a deep sense of honor and responsibility, she is committed to being a strong voice for the residents of District 5 and a vigilant protector of Orange County’s natural heritage. Kelly’s vision for the future is one of thoughtful growth, resilient communities, and a government that prioritizes the needs of its people over profit.
Dr. Kelly Martinez Semrad is a friendly neighborhood mom, UCF professor, and community leader. She pledges to dedicate her career to educating Central Florida’s youth, protecting our environment, and legislative to improve the quality of life for all of us.
Commissioner Kelly Martinez Semrad 