Apopka to decide on Main Street funding amid controversy

APOPKA, Fla. – Apopka commissioners are deciding if the city should move forward with a non-profit’s funding agreement after its contract was suspended in response to a controversy involving a downtown mural.

A vote over the city’s partnership with Main Street Apopka (MSA) is expected during a city council meeting on Wednesday.

Main Street Apopka is a non-profit focused on revitalizing downtown Apopka’s business district through historic preservation, economic development, and community engagement.

Last August, the organization unveiled a mural on the side of the Domino’s near Central Avenue and Main Street, but it drew immediate backlash after an Iowa artist accused it of being nearly identical to a piece she created in 2017. Following online backlash, the mural was painted in September, and MSA’s contract was suspended two days later.

In December, the city received a letter from MSA with remedies for consideration, which included a suggested forfeiture of $4,600 from its next disbursement from the city.

The amount was the total MSA found for installation and removal of the mural.

The city was also told MSA’s former Executive Director tendered her resignation to the Board on Oct. 13.

In 2025, the city contributed $12,500 to MSA.

Tuesday’s meeting is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. at the Apopka City Hall Council Chambers.