A Closer Look at Our City’s Financial Health

A Closer Look at Our City’s Financial Health

A Closer Look at Our City’s Financial Health: The Full Story Beyond the Audit

The recent independent audit presentation by Pervis Gray for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, was an important step in evaluating the financial operations of our city. The results show commendable progress: a clean (unmodified) audit opinion, improved fund balances, and stronger performance in many areas compared to the prior year. These are encouraging signs, and I commend city staff for their diligence in addressing previous findings and improving financial reporting processes.

View the Full Report

The Good News: Clean Audit, Growing Revenues

Here are the highlights:

  • A $1.8 million increase in General Fund Balance
  • Unassigned Fund Balance now at 47% of expenditures, indicating a strong financial cushion
  • Increased revenues across utilities, taxes, and intergovernmental support
  • A $12 million gain in Enterprise Fund net position, driven largely by non-operating revenues and internal transfers
  • Our city pension plan is now over 100% funded, a rare and notable milestone

These metrics signal that our current operations are in good shape, with improved stability and fiscal responsiveness.

The Hidden Story: What the Audit Doesn’t Show

While the audit provides a snapshot of current performance, it doesn’t tell the full story, particularly when it comes to long-term obligations. Most notably, the audit references our city’s major Wastewater Treatment System Project in Note 14, but the financial statements do not yet reflect the full cost.

Winter Springs is facing approximately $150 million in future infrastructure investments, costs that include:

  • Debt service obligations
  • Long-term infrastructure upgrades for water, wastewater, and stormwater systems
  • Planning for population growth and regulatory compliance

These are critical investments that will shape the future of our community. But unless they are proactively incorporated into our financial planning, they may create budgeting pressures or service disruptions down the line.

Infrastructure Must Be Counted in Our Financial Reality

While it’s important to recognize the improvements we’ve made in fiscal discipline, we must not lose sight of the bigger picture. Clean audits are important, but accurate financial forecasting is even more vital. If we don’t account for these looming capital costs now, we risk misrepresenting the true state of our city’s finances.

As your Commissioner, I remain committed to transparency, smart growth, and fiscal responsibility. That means celebrating our wins, while also addressing our challenges head-on.

Let’s continue to push for clear communication, forward-thinking budgets, and sustainable infrastructure planning. Together, we can build a Winter Springs that’s both financially strong and future-ready.

View the Full FY 2024 Audit Presentation

Communication with Those Charged with Governance

Clearing the Creeks: Winter Springs Debris and Sediment Removal Project Underway

Clearing the Creeks: Winter Springs Debris and Sediment Removal Project Underway

Winter Springs Creek Debris and Sediment Removal Project Moves Forward to Protect Stormwater Flow

The City of Winter Springs is moving forward with an important environmental initiative to remove debris and sediment from several creek systems across our community. This project is designed to restore the functionality of stormwater systems and reduce the risk of flooding for nearby properties.

Following the impacts of recent hurricanes, inspections of local creeks identified over 30,000 linear feet of affected waterways across six major creeks, including Howell Creek, Bear Creek, Sheoah Creek, Gee Creek, No Name Creek, and Little Howell Creek.

The scope of work includes:

  • Removing fallen trees, brush, logs, and other vegetative debris that obstruct water flow
  • Clearing non-natural materials like building debris or discarded household items
  • Ensuring that stable trees and healthy vegetation are preserved
  • Minimizing impact to stream banks, aquatic habitats, and adjacent properties through Best Management Practices

Creek sections included in the project and their estimated debris cleanup zones:

  • Sheoah Creek: ~300 LF (Sheoah Blvd area)
  • Gee Creek: ~6,250 LF (Lido Road to South Moss Road)
  • No Name Creek: ~150 LF (near Sailfish Road)
  • Howell Creek: ~9,200 LF (Cross Seminole Trail to Northern Way)
  • Bear Creek: ~9,290 LF (west of Carrington Court to Winter Springs Blvd)
  • Little Howell Creek (Oak Forest & Winding Hollow): ~4,850 LF combined

Full details and bid documents can be viewed here:

City of Winter Springs Debris & Sediment Removal RFQ

Why It Matters

Healthy creeks are essential for effective stormwater management and flood prevention. By removing obstructions and restoring natural flow paths, this project helps protect nearby neighborhoods, infrastructure, and ecosystems. especially during Florida’s storm season.

This is one more step in our ongoing effort to invest in environmental stewardship and long-term resilience.

View the full debris removal project overview below:

Winter Springs Fertilizer Regulations: Rules Every Homeowner Should Know

Winter Springs Fertilizer Regulations: Rules Every Homeowner Should Know

Caring for your lawn shouldn’t come at the expense of our lakes, rivers, and drinking water. In Winter Springs and throughout Seminole County, fertilizer regulations have been adopted to reduce nutrient runoff and protect our local environment.

As your City Commissioner, I want to help ensure every homeowner understands how to comply with these rules and why they matter.

Why Fertilizer Rules Matter

Nitrogen and phosphorus are essential plant nutrients. Nitrogen supports lush, green growth, while phosphorus helps develop strong roots and encourages flowering. However, excess nutrients—especially phosphorus—can wreak havoc on our waterways, causing algae blooms, oxygen depletion, and damage to fish and wildlife habitats.

That’s why Winter Springs has adopted targeted fertilizer regulations.

Key Fertilizer Regulations in Winter Springs

  • No Phosphorus in Turf Fertilizer: Fertilizers containing phosphorus are prohibited on turf and lawn areas.
  • Slow-Release Nitrogen Required: Fertilizers with nitrogen must contain at least 65% slow-release nitrogen to minimize runoff.
  • Seasonal Ban on Fertilizer Use: Fertilizers may not be applied between June 1 and September 30, during the rainy season when runoff risks are highest.
  • Weather-Related Restrictions: Fertilizer cannot be applied during storm watches, warnings, or when heavy rain (2 inches or more in 24 hours) is forecasted.

Applying slow-release fertilizer in early fall ensures that your landscape receives steady nutrients without contributing to pollution.

Protecting Our Future

These regulations help safeguard Lake Jesup and our stormwater systems by reducing harmful runoff. Following the Winter Springs fertilizer regulations is a small step with a big impact on the health of our environment.

To learn more, visit the official ordinance here:

Winter Springs Fertilizer Ordinance – Code of Ordinances

Thank you for doing your part to keep Winter Springs beautiful and our waters clean!

Building a Better Process: Reforming Winter Springs Building Inspections

Building a Better Process: Reforming Winter Springs Building Inspections

At the March 31, 2025, Commission Meeting, we took meaningful steps to address ongoing concerns with building inspections in Winter Springs, something many residents have asked us to take seriously. I brought forward a motion to replace our current inspection provider, Universal Engineering, with PDCS, LLC, a well-regarded firm serving communities like Oviedo, DeBary, and Orange City.

Why Change Was Necessary

For too long, residents have shared stories of unprofessional and at times intimidating experiences with our current inspector, including language that made homeowners feel threatened. That’s unacceptable. Our city deserves service that is professional, respectful, and focused on helping residents, not punishing them.

“We need change in the city. I want to get old folks out, new folks in, and see some changes.”

– Commissioner Victoria Bruce

Watch the full meeting segment here:

What’s Next?

My motion to bring in PDCS, LLC was seconded by Commissioner Diaz and approved by the Commission. This decision supports raising the standard of service our residents can expect when it comes to permitting and inspections.

Commitment to Residents

Building inspections should be fair, consistent, and aligned with our values of transparency and accountability. This reform supports my continued focus on smart growth, environmental stewardship, and a local government that puts residents first.

Additional Highlights from the March 31 Meeting:

  • I voted in favor of drafting letters to Tallahassee legislators opposing state bills that would weaken local control over zoning and rural boundaries.
  • I attended multiple environmental meetings focused on water quality and restoration around Lake Jesup. Read that update here.

Thank you for continuing to stay engaged. Together, we are shaping a stronger, smarter Winter Springs.

Winter Springs Water Update: A Fresh Start for Clean, Safe Water

Winter Springs Water Update: A Fresh Start for Clean, Safe Water

Big changes are happening in Winter Springs—and they’re happening for the better.

Veolia, the city’s current water services contractor, has submitted its formal resignation, effective September 30, 2025. While this shift may seem sudden, it’s actually a turning point—an opportunity to reset, rebuild trust, and refocus on what matters most: clean, safe water and transparent, accountable city operations.

As your City Commissioner, I want to share the facts and explain what this transition means for our community—and why it’s a good thing.

This Contract Was Inherited—Not Initiated

The Veolia agreement was signed under a previous administration. Since taking office, it’s become increasingly clear that this contract hasn’t delivered the level of oversight, reporting, or environmental compliance that Winter Springs deserves.

This is not a challenge created by your current Commission, but it is one we are actively working to resolve.

Environmental Compliance Was Falling Short

Winter Springs has been operating under multiple consent orders from environmental protection agencies. These are not routine citations—they are serious warnings about deficiencies in documentation, maintenance, and performance.

Let me be clear: We cannot afford to take shortcuts when it comes to public health and environmental stewardship. We must do better—and we will.

We’re Building a Transparent, Accountable Future

Transparency and accountability are not optional—they are essential. That’s why we are approaching this transition with clear communication, expert involvement, and a renewed focus on performance and compliance.

We’re not just switching contractors. We’re rebuilding the foundation of how our water and wastewater systems are managed—one based on long-term planning, rigorous standards, and responsible growth.

A New Chapter Begins October 1, 2025

Veolia’s resignation is effective September 30, 2025. April 11, 2025, bids are due for a new service provider, who will begin managing our water systems the very next day—October 1, 2025. This new chapter is about more than a new name on a contract—it’s about ensuring the health and future of our community.

If you’d like to get updates as they happen, follow me on Facebook.

What This Means for You

You deserve clean drinking water, trustworthy leadership, and a city government that rises to meet challenges head-on. This moment represents progress—and a chance to align our infrastructure with the values we share: sustainability, safety, and community-first decision-making.

Stay tuned—there’s more to come.

Thank you for being engaged, informed, and supportive as we work together for better outcomes for everyone in Winter Springs.

—Victoria K. Bruce

Winter Springs Commissioner, District 2

Winter Springs Video Challenge 2025 | $500 Prize for Best Community Video

Winter Springs Video Challenge 2025 | $500 Prize for Best Community Video

Winter Springs Video Challenge – Win $500 for Showcasing Our Amazing City!

We’re calling on all creative minds, community champions, and proud residents of Winter Springs! Do you love our parks, trails, and local landmarks? Do you enjoy capturing the heart of your community through a camera lens or a smartphone? Here’s your chance to win $500 while highlighting what makes Winter Springs a wonderful place to live, work, and play.

What Is It?

The Winter Springs Video Challenge invites you to create a short video (1 to 3 minutes long) that highlights at least 10 key locations across our beautiful city. This is a celebration of everything we love about Winter Springs—from scenic parks to our vibrant community spaces.

How to Enter:

  1. Create a video between 1 to 3 minutes in length.
  2. Include at least 10 of the following locations (more is encouraged!):
    • Central Winds Park
    • Baseball Fields
    • Dog Park
    • Trotwood Park
    • Tuscora Park
    • Sam Smith Park
    • Ranchlands Park
    • Former Golf Course
    • Highlands Community Center
    • Senior Center
    • City Hall
    • Town Center
    • Police Station
    • Tuscawilla Country Club
    • West Side (great for B-roll!)
    • Busy Intersections
    • Trail Bridge
    • Bike Trail
    • Creeks & Bridges
    • Water Treatment Plants

3. No logos or on-screen text please. Captions are allowed if using music or voiceover.

4. Feel free to get creative—use drone footage, interviews, time-lapses, or music to bring your video to life.

How to Submit:

The earlier you submit, the better! Videos will be posted on our Facebook page as they are received, and the sooner yours is live, the more time it has to collect likes.

Follow us at: facebook.com/victoriaforwintersprings

How to Win:

All submitted videos will be featured on our Facebook page, and the video that receives the most “likes” by August 31, 2025 will win the $500 prize!

  • Winner Announced: September 1, 2025
  • Likes = Votes, so share your video far and wide once it’s posted!

Help Us Share the Spirit of Winter Springs

This is a great way to connect with neighbors, celebrate our city’s hidden gems, and share why we love to call Winter Springs home.

Whether you’re a student, a family, a drone hobbyist, or a local filmmaker, this challenge is open to everyone. Let’s put Winter Springs on the map with your creative vision!

Have questions?

Reach out to us at: friends@victoriaforwintersprings.com

Use hashtag #MyWinterSprings when posting on social!

Clear Waters, Stronger Springs: Restoring and Protecting the Future of Lake Jesup and Winter Springs

Clear Waters, Stronger Springs: Restoring and Protecting the Future of Lake Jesup and Winter Springs

Community Update from Victoria Bruce, Winter Springs City Commissioner

Dear Winter Springs Neighbors,

I recently had the opportunity to join environmental experts, regional leaders, and engaged citizens at the latest Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP) meeting focused on the restoration of Lake Jesup and surrounding watersheds. These meetings are an essential part of our collective effort to protect water quality, support smart and sustainable growth, and preserve our natural resources for future generations.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the Division of Environmental Assessment & Restoration, and various technical experts shared progress on the Lake Jesup BMAP update, which is scheduled for completion by July 1, 2025. The goal is clear: ensure that we meet water quality standards by reducing nitrogen and phosphorus pollution in our watershed.

View the Full Presentation

Lake Jesup Basin Management Action Plan Update

Collaboration at Every Level

From municipal governments to regional water management districts and volunteer stakeholders, the BMAP process is built on partnership. Winter Springs is proud to have a seat at the table, advocating for responsible and effective environmental solutions.

Protecting Our Waterways

The updated BMAP includes projects aimed at improving wastewater treatment, reducing stormwater runoff, and managing agricultural discharge. We also explored innovative modeling tools that allow us to anticipate and manage nutrient loads more effectively.

Planning for the Future

With regional population growth projected through 2040, we must proactively align development with sustainability. The data shared at the meeting helps inform long-term planning and infrastructure decisions that prioritize water quality and community well-being.

Transparency and Accountability

The DEP reaffirmed its commitment to transparency. All meeting materials are available to the public, and residents are encouraged to subscribe to BMAP notifications through the DEP’s GovDelivery system to stay informed and engaged.

Lake Jesup Basin Management Action Plan

Opportunities for Public Input

There are several ways for residents to contribute—through public comment, email, or attending meetings. Your input plays a vital role in shaping the policies and actions that will impact the health of our lakes and the quality of life in Winter Springs.

As your City Commissioner, I remain committed to clean water, environmental stewardship, and forward-thinking governance. Together, we can preserve the natural beauty of Winter Springs while supporting thoughtful, balanced growth.

To get involved or learn more about the BMAP process, visit: Lake Jesup BMAP Meeting Page

Thank you for being a part of this effort.

Celebrating the Visionary Girl Event and Empowering Future Leaders

Celebrating the Visionary Girl Event and Empowering Future Leaders

There are few things more powerful than young women discovering their voice, recognizing their value, and stepping confidently into their future. The recent Visionary Girl Event in Winter Springs was a beautiful reminder of just that—a celebration of strength, sisterhood, and purpose.

As a commissioner, mother, and lifelong advocate for our community, it was incredibly moving to witness these remarkable young women gather in one space to connect, be inspired, and learn that their voices matter. The energy in the room was electric, and the message was clear: when we uplift one girl, we uplift all.

Being a Visionary Girl means choosing confidence, optimism, and leadership. It’s about being smart, goal-driven, and having the courage to face life’s challenges head-on—all while knowing that a powerful sisterhood stands behind you. This program gives girls the opportunity to explore their potential in a safe, inspiring, and encouraging environment.

I’m honored to have been part of this event and to support a movement that’s shaping future leaders with confidence and compassion. These young women are our next generation of professionals, educators, public servants, and change-makers, and we owe it to them to create spaces where they can thrive.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to every sponsor, volunteer, and organizer who made this event possible. Your commitment to empowering girls is truly changing lives.

This is just the beginning. Together, we can grow this program—one school, one community, and one girl at a time. If you’d like to support or get involved in the Visionary Girl movement, please reach out to visionarygirlevent@gmail.com.

Let’s continue to build a future where every girl knows she is capable, equipped, and empowered!

With gratitude,

Victoria Bruce

Winter Springs City Commissioner, District 2

Volunteer for “Living on My Own” at Indian Trails Middle School

Volunteer for “Living on My Own” at Indian Trails Middle School

Financial literacy is one of the most important life skills a student can learn, and you can be a part of that journey! Indian Trails Middle School in Winter Springs is hosting the “Living on My Own” event on April 23-24, 2025, and they are looking for community volunteers to help 8th-grade students navigate real-world financial decisions.

This interactive program, created by UF/IFAS Extension, provides students with a hands-on experience of budgeting, managing expenses, and making financial choices similar to those adults face every day.

What is “Living on My Own”?

During this real-life simulation, students take on the role of a 25-year-old with a career, income, and family responsibilities. Using checks and debit cards, they must make important decisions about housing, transportation, groceries, insurance, and more—all while staying within budget.

They will visit 10 stations representing essential life expenses:

  • Housing
  • Transportation
  • Banking Services
  • Groceries
  • Utilities
  • Entertainment
  • Insurance
  • Childcare
  • Clothing, electronics, health, and grooming
  • Charity & Retirement/Savings

To add a twist, some students will also draw “Life Happens” cards, which throw in unexpected financial challenges—like car repairs or medical bills—to teach them how to plan for the unexpected.

How You Can Help

As a volunteer, you will be assigned to a station to guide students through their decisions. Each station represents a real-life business, and having them staffed by community members makes the experience even more impactful.

No experience necessary!

All materials and instructions will be provided, along with a brief training session on the day of the event. (You must be a registered Seminole County School Board Dividend to participate.)

SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER

This is a fantastic opportunity to mentor students, share real-world financial wisdom, and make a difference in their future decision-making. We hope to see you there!

Learn more about volunteering with Seminole County Public Schools:

SCPS DIVIDEND PROGRAM

Event Details:

📍 Indian Trails Middle School, Winter Springs, FL

📆 April 23-24, 2025

⏰ Times will be shared upon volunteer registration

Let’s work together to set our students up for financial success!

📍 Stay Connected

Stay tuned for more updates as this project moves forward!

2025 Florida Economic Forecast

2025 Florida Economic Forecast

Florida’s Economy is Thriving in 2025 – What It Means for Winter Springs

Florida’s economy is evolving rapidly, and 2025 is shaping up to be another year of growth and opportunity for businesses, residents, and local communities like Winter Springs. With a steadying housing market, nation-leading business relocations, and record-breaking tourism, Florida’s strong economic foundation presents both exciting prospects and important considerations for our city and Seminole County as a whole.

Florida’s Housing Market – A Transition to Stability

One of the biggest headlines in Florida’s economy this year is the transition of the housing market. As shown in the Florida Chamber Foundation’s latest report, single-family home listings have increased by over 31% year-over-year—a strong sign that supply is catching up with demand. While housing affordability remains a key issue, this increase in inventory could help stabilize prices and create more opportunities for residents looking to purchase homes.

Winter Springs, like many areas in Seminole County, has experienced a surge in home values over the past few years. The additional inventory statewide could help slow these rapid price increases, making homeownership more attainable for families and first-time buyers in our community. At the same time, we must continue working on responsible, smart growth policies to ensure development aligns with our city’s character and infrastructure capacity.

Florida is #1 for Business Relocations – What This Means for Our Local Economy

Florida continues to be a national leader in attracting businesses. With 503 net new firms relocating to the state in 2024, Florida is outpacing the rest of the country in business migration. This is fantastic news for Seminole County, where our business-friendly climate, skilled workforce, and strategic location make us an attractive destination for companies looking to establish or expand their operations.

For Winter Springs, this means new job opportunities, economic growth, and the potential for more commercial development that aligns with our city’s long-term vision. We must continue to support policies that encourage small businesses and entrepreneurs while ensuring we maintain the quality of life that makes our city so desirable.

Florida’s Population Growth & Workforce – Opportunities and Challenges

While Florida’s population growth is expected to slow slightly in 2025, Seminole County remains a highly desirable area for new residents due to our top-rated schools, low crime rates, and high quality of life. However, as more people move in, our city must remain proactive in planning for infrastructure needs, workforce development, and environmental conservation.

With more retirees moving to Florida and a decreasing percentage of working-age residents, we need to focus on attracting and retaining young professionals in Winter Springs. This includes investing in education, workforce training programs, and high-quality job opportunities that encourage graduates to stay and build their futures here.

Tourism Boom Benefits All of Florida

Florida’s tourism industry shattered records in 2024, with 142.9 million visitors contributing to local economies across the state. While Winter Springs may not be a traditional tourist hotspot, Seminole County benefits from increased tourism dollars through restaurants, local businesses, and nearby attractions.

As we look ahead, we should explore ways to enhance our own local attractions, parks, and events to draw more visitors and encourage economic activity within our community. Expanding recreational opportunities and hosting more family-friendly events can further position Winter Springs as a vibrant place to live, work, and play.

Final Thoughts – Keeping Winter Springs Thriving

Florida’s economy is poised for continued growth in 2025, and Winter Springs has an opportunity to build upon this momentum. By focusing on smart growth, responsible budgeting, and economic development, we can ensure our city remains a thriving, prosperous place for businesses and families alike.

As your City Commissioner, I remain committed to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and advocating for policies that benefit our residents. Let’s work together to make the most of Florida’s economic success and secure a bright future for Winter Springs.

Join the Conversation! What economic changes are you seeing in Winter Springs? How can we best support our community’s growth? Share your thoughts below!

📍 Stay Connected

Stay tuned for more updates as this project moves forward!

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