Orange County mayor proposes $800 million tourist tax plan for 13 projects

Orange County commissioners are set to consider a proposed $800 million spending plan that would use tourist tax dollars to fund 13 projects, including major investments in the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Eatonville and the University of Central Florida.The largest recommended investment would go to the Dr. Phillips Center in downtown Orlando. The center originally asked for $750 million, but Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings is recommending $400 million. That amount would still make up nearly half of the proposed funding package.One supporter said the arts are an important part of the community.“I’m really hoping it goes through,” the supporter said. “Theater and arts is such a huge part of Orlando’s culture and everybody’s culture. So expanding upon that, it looks like they have the space and land and opportunities. So why not dive into something positive for our community?”The money would come from Orange County’s tourist development tax, a 6% tax collected on hotel