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 May 31, 2025 will win the $500 prize!

  • Winner Announced: June 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!

Understanding SB 1118: Rural Boundary Bill Could Accelerate Development and Weaken Local Growth Management

Understanding SB 1118: Rural Boundary Bill Could Accelerate Development and Weaken Local Growth Management

Florida’s communities thrive when growth is balanced with thoughtful planning, environmental protection, and local input. But a newly proposed bill—Senate Bill 1118 (SB 1118), known as the Rural Boundary Bill—could significantly shift that balance.

This legislation introduces sweeping changes to how land use and development are regulated across the state, especially in rural and agricultural areas. If passed, SB 1118 would limit local control, accelerate suburban sprawl, and place additional strain on infrastructure that’s already stretched thin.

Here’s why this matters and what residents of Winter Springs should know:

1. More Development in Rural and Agricultural Areas

SB 1118 allows certain agricultural lands to be classified as “agricultural enclaves,” enabling developers to bypass traditional zoning and land use controls. This could lead to more high-density residential development in areas once designated for conservation or low-impact use, increasing pressure on sensitive lands and disrupting the character of neighboring communities.

2. Weakened Local Authority on Growth Decisions

The bill would require a supermajority vote to adopt restrictive land-use changes, making it more difficult for local governments to limit overdevelopment. Additionally, some projects could receive administrative approval, skipping the public process altogether and reducing opportunities for community feedback.

3. Greater Demand on Roads, Schools, and Utilities

Residential projects could move forward without requiring amendments to local comprehensive plans—raising concerns about population density increasing without infrastructure readiness. This includes added strain on roads, water systems, wastewater facilities, and school capacity. As many Winter Springs residents know, we’re already focused on improving critical infrastructure, and these changes could present new challenges if not properly managed.

4. Impact on HOAs and Recreational Fees

SB 1118 also proposes that HOAs can no longer be required to collect fees for private recreational amenities. This could affect how gated communities and other private developments fund and maintain shared spaces. Homeowners should closely review any recreational covenants tied to their properties.

5. Environmental Areas Exempt—for Now

While areas like the Wekiva Study Area and Everglades Protection Area are currently exempt from this bill, the broader implications are clear: SB 1118 opens the door to fast-tracked development, with less oversight and fewer checks and balances to protect sensitive lands.

What It Means for Winter Springs

This bill is not just a technical land-use issue—it’s a community issue. It has the potential to affect everything from green space preservation to traffic congestion to the long-term sustainability of our infrastructure.

As a strong advocate for smart growth and community-focused planning, I believe we must keep a close eye on how legislation like this could impact our city. I’ll continue to push for transparency, responsible development, and policies that serve both our residents and our environment.

If you have questions or concerns about SB 1118, now is the time to get involved. Reach out to your state legislators, stay informed, and let your voice be heard. Let’s work together to ensure Winter Springs remains a community that grows with intention—not just expansion.

📍 Stay Connected

Stay tuned for more updates as this project moves forward!

Addressing Critical Water Quality Issues in Winter Springs

Addressing Critical Water Quality Issues in Winter Springs

Why Residents Should Be Concerned About Wastewater Violations

As your Commissioner, I believe transparency is key when it comes to issues that directly impact public health and environmental safety. Recently, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) issued a warning letter to the City of Winter Springs, highlighting serious violations at our wastewater treatment facility.

The facility, which is currently managed by Veolia, a private utility company contracted by the City, has been found in noncompliance with state regulations on multiple counts. These violations include excessive levels of suspended solids, fecal coliform, and nitrate—posing potential risks to our waterways, reclaimed water systems, and overall water quality.

This is an issue that affects all of us. Residents deserve to know what’s happening, why it matters, and what steps need to be taken to ensure our water is safe.

What’s in the FDEP Warning Letter?

The letter, dated January 24, 2025, outlines major compliance issues discovered during an inspection and file review:

  • Total Suspended Solids (TSS) Exceedances
    • Reported above the allowable limits in multiple months across 2023 and 2024
    • Reached a peak of 95 mg/L in March 2024, nearly 20 times the limit
  • Fecal Coliform Contamination
    • Exceeded safe levels in November 2023 and multiple months throughout 2024
    • In March 2024, reached 20,000 fcc/100 mL, a level that poses serious public health risks
    • Continued violations in April, May, and October 2024
  • Nitrate Violations
    • Exceeded limits from October 2023 to February 2024
    • Some months recorded levels over 45 percent above the maximum allowable threshold
  • Equipment Maintenance Failures
    • The facility’s flow meter has not been calibrated since 2022, despite annual calibration being required
    • This is a repeat violation that was flagged as a compliance issue in 2021

Why This Matters to Residents

Health and Environmental Risks

When a wastewater facility fails to meet safety standards, the risks extend beyond the plant itself. High fecal coliform levels can contaminate reclaimed water used for irrigation, while excessive nitrates can seep into groundwater and impact drinking water quality.

Regulatory and Financial Consequences

The FDEP’s warning letter signals potential enforcement actions, including fines, mandated facility upgrades, and increased oversight. These costs would ultimately be shouldered by the city and its residents.

Operational Concerns

The continued failure to calibrate essential monitoring equipment raises concerns about management oversight. The facility has had repeated violations, which suggests a need for improved processes and accountability.

How Residents Can Stay Informed

  • Attend City Commission meetings and voice concerns about water quality and environmental stewardship.
  • Stay updated through official reports and updates from city leadership.
  • Hold city officials accountable to ensure that Winter Springs remains a safe and responsible community.

This is an issue that affects all of us. We must take action now to protect our water resources and ensure that Winter Springs remains a place where clean water and responsible governance are top priorities.

For further details, read the full warning letter and updates here:

📍 Stay Connected

Stay tuned for more updates as this project moves forward!

Enhancing SR 434: Roundabout Project to Improve Safety & Traffic Flow

Enhancing SR 434: Roundabout Project to Improve Safety & Traffic Flow

Transforming SR 434: A Safer, More Efficient Roadway for Winter Springs

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), in partnership with Seminole County, is advancing the design of major improvements along State Road 434 from Jetta Point, just west of SR 417 in Winter Springs, to Artesia Street in Oviedo. This project will enhance traffic operations, improve safety, and provide better access for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists along this critical corridor.

What’s Changing?

The project will introduce three new roundabouts at key intersections—McTavandash Drive, Hammock Lane, and Artesia Street—to ease congestion and improve traffic efficiency. It also includes:

  • Safer pedestrian and bicycle pathways with continuous shared-use paths on both sides of SR 434, linking to the Cross Seminole Trail.
  • A raised median to manage traffic flow and reduce high-risk movements.
  • Improved stormwater drainage to mitigate flooding in key areas.
  • Speed management adjustments, lowering the target speed to 40 mph for enhanced roadway safety.

Why Roundabouts?

Many residents have questions about the shift to roundabouts, but the data speaks for itself. Studies show roundabouts:

  • Reduce serious crashes by up to 78% compared to traditional intersections.
  • Keep traffic moving, cutting down on congestion and delays.
  • Enhance pedestrian safety by reducing crossing distances and vehicle speeds.
  • Require less maintenance and signalization costs over time.

Project Timeline & Next Steps

  • Current Phase: The project is currently in the 60% design phase, with modifications requested by FDOT to reduce right-of-way impacts. Adjustments are expected to be finalized in 2024.
  • Final Design Completion: September 2026, including all permitting and property acquisition.
  • Construction Start Date: Early 2027.

Community Input Matters

Winter Springs residents have played a key role in shaping this project, with input gathered from the 2019 Corridor Planning Study and ongoing collaboration between Seminole County, FDOT, MetroPlan Orlando, and local officials. As the project advances, public engagement remains critical to ensuring these improvements align with community needs.

How to Stay Involved:

💬 Submit your feedback via Seminole County’s project portal.

📍 View updated design plans and track progress online.

📆 Attend future public meetings to voice your thoughts on the final design.

A Safer, More Connected Future for SR 434

As we continue improving Winter Springs’ infrastructure, I remain committed to enhancing mobility, safety, and accessibility for all residents. These upgrades to SR 434 will help create a smarter, safer, and more efficient corridor that supports our city’s growth and enhances quality of life.

Stay tuned for more updates as this project moves forward!

📍 Stay Connected

Stay tuned for more updates as this project moves forward!

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