Hotel group backs Jim Gray, Roger Chapin and Shan Rose for Orlando races

An influential Orlando hospitality association is endorsing three candidates in the upcoming Orlando City Council races.

The Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association (CFHLA) recommends incumbent Jim Gray for District 1, Roger Chapin in District 3 and incumbent Shan Rose in District 5.

“Commissioners Gray and Rose have been steadfast allies of the hospitality and tourism industry throughout their service on the Orlando City Council,” said Jay Leonard, Complex General Manager of the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista-Disney Springs Resort Area and Chair of the CFHLA PAC and PC, in a statement.

“Additionally, Roger Chapin brings decades of experience within the public and private sector, leadership in serving our community, and fostering economic development.”

Gray, who was first elected to the Orlando City Council in 2012, is up against three challengers in Manny Acosta, Sunshine Grund and former Rep. Tom Keen.

Chapin is running for the open District 3 race, where longtime incumbent Robert Stuart is not seeking a sixth term. Other candidates include Samuel Chambers, Chris Durant, Kimberly Kiss and Mira Tanna. Jason Albu dropped out of the race last week.

Meanwhile, Rose is running for re-election in District 5 after she won a Special Election last year. Gov. Ron DeSantis suspended District 5 Commissioner Regina Hill from office after she was indicted on seven felonies over elder abuse and fraud. Her criminal trial is still pending. But Hill is also trying to win her old job back and unseat Rose. The other candidate in the District 5 race is Lawanna Gelzer.

“Strong leadership that recognizes the tourism and hospitality industry as the backbone of Central Florida’s economy is essential to driving our economic success and enhancing the quality of life for all City of Orlando residents,” Robert Agrusa, President and CEO of CFHLA, said in a statement.

“These leaders have demonstrated a proven track record of service, a willingness to tackle the challenges facing the hospitality and tourism industry, and a clear focus on enhancing the well-being of our entire community.”

Rep. Anna Eskamani is still the lone candidate to file to run for Mayor in 2027 to replace Buddy Dyer, city records show.

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