If your summer plans include quality time with your pup at Central Winds Dog Park, please note that the park will be temporarily closed from June 30 through July 31, 2025, for scheduled maintenance and upgrades.
I want to share what’s happening behind the scenes to improve the dog park, and why this brief closure is important for the long-term safety, beauty, and enjoyment of the space.
What’s Included in This Year’s Maintenance
Thanks to coordination with our City staff, this year’s improvements will include:
Resodding heavily worn turf areas to restore healthy grass
Grass seeding throughout the park for better ground cover and erosion control
Pressure washing of surfaces to ensure cleanliness and safety
Tree trimming to reduce hazards and improve shade
Fence repairs where needed for safety and enclosure
Water feature and fountain maintenance to keep hydration stations functioning
These updates are part of an annual effort to ensure that the Central Winds Dog Park remains one of the most enjoyable, well-maintained dog parks in the area.
Why It Matters
While we all love seeing the dog park full of tail wags and happy romps, high usage during the spring and early summer takes a toll on the grounds. By closing the park briefly during the peak heat of July, we give the grass and infrastructure a chance to recover and reset. This helps prevent bigger repair needs down the line and ensures the safety of all two-legged and four-legged visitors.
As a dog lover myself, I know how much this space means to residents across Winter Springs. That’s why I fully support this proactive approach to maintenance. It’s part of our larger commitment to clean, functional, and accessible parks throughout the city.
Looking Ahead
The park is scheduled to reopen on August 1, assuming weather conditions allow the maintenance work to stay on track. I’ll continue to keep you updated on any changes to the schedule.
In the meantime, thank you for your patience and understanding as we take these important steps to care for a place we all value. If you have questions or suggestions related to the dog park—or any of our community spaces—feel free to reach out.
The program was created to help newly elected leaders like myself understand the full scope of municipal government. Over the course of 16 hours, we studied everything from budgeting and revenue structures to intergovernmental relationships and the roles and responsibilities of elected officials. It was an intensive and eye-opening experience, and one I believe should be required for anyone stepping into a public leadership role.
IEMO brings together elected leaders from across Florida in small class settings. That structure made it easy to ask questions, share ideas, and hear how other communities are navigating similar challenges. There was a clear focus on practical tools and real-life problem solving. From navigating council-manager dynamics to exploring how Florida cities are funded, every session helped me better understand the framework in which we serve.
“It was an awarding and educational experience to learn the ins and outs of government. Every elected official should be required to take this course.”
As someone who values transparency, accountability, and informed decision-making, this training aligned with the principles I bring to my work on the Commission. The more we understand how city government operates, the better we can represent our residents, manage limited resources, and make policy decisions that serve the long-term interests of our community.
IEMO I is also part of a broader program offered by the Florida League of Cities, which includes advanced courses and a multi-level Certificate Program for Elected Officials. I plan to continue my participation through that program so I can continue growing as a public servant.
Local government is often where the most impactful change happens. From safe drinking water to well-maintained parks to balanced growth and budget stewardship, it all starts here. I’m grateful to the Florida League of Cities for creating a thoughtful and effective training program and to the residents of Winter Springs for trusting me to represent you.
If you’d like to learn more about the IEMO program, visit flcities.com. If you have questions about what I learned or how it relates to our work in Winter Springs, I’m always happy to share.
Mayor McCann has called a Special Meeting for July 7 to revisit the Commission’s June 23 vote on the tree mitigation issue. He’s submitted a 50-page packet challenging the interpretation that the previously paid fee covered the entire project.
You can review the full documentation here:
View the Mayor’s Special Meeting Packet:
We encourage residents to stay informed and review the facts for themselves.
Setting the Record Straight: The Tree Mitigation Fee Was Paid—Not Waived
Recently, Mayor Kevin McCann claimed that the City Commission voted to “waive” a $277,400 tree mitigation fee owed by a developer. That’s not only incorrect—it misrepresents both the facts and the vote.
Let’s be clear: the mitigation fee was not waived. It was paid. And more importantly, it was paid for the entire project, not just a portion or initial phase.
The Real Issue: Was the Fee for the Whole Project or Just the First Phase?
The discrepancy at the heart of this issue lies in the legal interpretation of development agreements from 2015 and 2017. The question before the Commission was this:
Did the previously paid tree mitigation fee apply only to the “Initial Phase” of the project, or did it cover the “Project” which was for the entire development site?
That was the focus of our discussion. It was never about whether the fee had been paid—it was about which part of the project it applied to.
Also, let it be noted that the Arbor Application that was submitted February 2025 was to Protect the large 52″ oak specimen tree on the corner of Michael Blake and SR 434 which will be forever protected and will not be torn down during development, and a barrier will be erected during construction for protection.
A specimen tree is a tree that’s intentionally singled out for its beauty, rarity, or unique form to act as a focal point in a landscape.
What the Financial Records Show
The developer made two tree mitigation payments:
$16,160 in February 2017
$133,500 in July 2018
Together, those payments total $149,660, and both were documented and acknowledged by city staff.
During the meeting, I pointed out that the legal description in the mitigation documentation references 45.687 acres, clearly indicating that the fee was calculated for the entire project, not just a smaller segment.
What the Motion Actually Did
At the meeting, I made a motion to clarify that the previously paid fee covered the full project. It was not a motion to waive fees or forgive an outstanding balance.
Here’s what I said on the record:
“I would not make a motion to say that we’re going to waive a fee… I make a motion that we acknowledge that the tree mitigation has been paid with proof of payment for this project, which will take care of the entire project and not just the initial phase.”
This motion passed with a majority of the Commission, following discussion and legal input that confirmed the development agreements supported this interpretation.
Even the Mayor Corrected Himself
Despite using the word “waived” repeatedly in his public statement, Mayor McCann was corrected during the meeting:
“Not waived, Mayor.”
“Oh, I’m sorry. I’ll stop using that word…”
That correction matters, because the language we use shapes public understanding—and in this case, the public has been misinformed.
Why It Matters
This was not a giveaway. It was not a rollback of environmental protections. It was a clarification of an agreement that the City had already accepted and that the developer had already paid for—years ago.
I remain fully committed to protecting Winter Springs’ environment and upholding its identity as Tree City USA. At the same time, I believe in fairness, accuracy, and transparency in how we govern.
How to Fight Toxic Algae in Florida Lakes: Join the July 10 Webinar with SOLitude Lake Management
SOLitude Lake Management is a nationally recognized environmental firm specializing in the management and restoration of freshwater ecosystems, including lakes, ponds, and stormwater systems. In Winter Springs, SOLitude has been contracted to assist the City in improving water quality through science-based lake and stormwater management practices.
On Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 2:00 PM EDT, they are hosting a free educational webinar titled Tackling Toxic Algae. This event will provide valuable insight into the causes and solutions surrounding toxic algae in Florida lakes, a growing concern for communities throughout the state.
Florida’s climate creates ideal conditions for harmful cyanobacteria—commonly known as blue-green algae—to thrive. These blooms are fueled by warm water temperatures, excess nutrients, and low dissolved oxygen levels. Once present, they can disrupt ecosystems, pose health risks, and reduce the recreational value of lakes and ponds.
In Winter Springs and throughout Central Florida, residents have seen firsthand the environmental and aesthetic impacts of these blooms. Learning how to identify and mitigate them is essential to protecting our water bodies now and into the future.
What the Webinar Covers
Attendees will gain insight into:
How and why toxic algae blooms develop
The difference between harmless algae and cyanobacteria
Early signs of harmful blooms and how to monitor them
Proven strategies for algae control, including nutrient reduction and aeration
What residents, HOAs, and municipalities can do to manage and prevent future outbreaks
This webinar is an excellent opportunity for residents, property managers, and environmental advocates to better understand this pressing water quality issue.
Local Relevance for Winter Springs
Toxic algae in Florida lakes is more than just a seasonal inconvenience. It represents a long-term challenge to water quality, biodiversity, and public health. In Winter Springs, these risks are especially important to address as we continue investing in infrastructure improvements and environmental safeguards.
Educational events like this support informed decision-making and community participation. Staying ahead of these issues ensures that our lakes and stormwater systems remain safe, clean, and ecologically balanced.
Protecting local water quality requires both proactive leadership and informed community involvement. By understanding the science behind toxic algae and learning practical solutions, we can all contribute to healthier waterways across Florida.
For those interested in the future of our lakes, this webinar offers clear, actionable insights and a chance to be part of the solution.
On June 18, 2025, the City of Winter Springs hosted a Special Utilities Workshop to present its Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and share progress on the modernization of the City’s East and West Water Reclamation Facilities. The workshop was led by the Public Works and Utilities Department alongside key consultants and the City’s construction partners.
Capital Improvement Plan Overview
The City’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) is a multi-year roadmap used to prioritize and fund essential utility infrastructure projects. This planning tool ensures that Winter Springs can proactively manage and upgrade systems that support public health, environmental protection, and community growth.
Utilities Capital Infrastructure Plan (CIP) for:
Wastewater (Sewage) Projects
Potable Water (Drinking) Projects
Reclaimed Water (Irrigation) Projects
These categories reflect the City’s focus on critical infrastructure areas that serve homes, businesses, and recreational areas throughout Winter Springs.
Active Projects for Fiscal Year 2025
Current utility improvements are underway across several systems. These include:
Generator installation at Water Treatment Plant #3
Lift Station 7W reconstruction
Michael Blake reclaimed water main extension
Lead and copper inventory for compliance
SCADA upgrades for emergency response
Sheoah Boulevard and Vistawilla Boulevard main extension designs
5-Year Utilities Investment Plan
From 2026 to 2030, the City plans to carry out 31 infrastructure projects totaling nearly $34 million:
$17.9 million for potable water
$8.6 million for wastewater
$7.3 million for reclaimed water
These efforts address aging infrastructure, improve efficiency, expand service, and ensure compliance with evolving regulations.
Water Reclamation Facility Construction Updates
The City is replacing its outdated 1970s-era East and West Water Reclamation Facilities with modern plants that are more reliable and capable of meeting future demands. The facilities will be constructed with multiple treatment trains to maintain operations during maintenance or disruptions.
Anticipated Construction Schedule:
East Wastewater Plant (Sam Smith Park)
Commence: Summer 2026
Complete: End of 2028
West Wastewater Plant (Highlands)
Commence: End of 2027
Complete: End of 2029
The East facility’s final design is complete and permitted. A construction loan application has been submitted to the State Revolving Fund (SRF) program, with funding approval expected soon. Work on the West facility will begin once the East project is well underway.
Looking Ahead
Over the next several months, the City will continue to refine cost estimates, secure long-lead materials, and coordinate construction planning. Value engineering workshops will help ensure the final product remains within budget while delivering maximum performance.
View the Presentations:
Utilities Capital Infrastructure Program
East & West Water Reclamation Facility Update
Winter Springs remains committed to transparent governance, long-term sustainability, and strategic investment in the infrastructure that supports everyday life.
Electric Bike Laws in Florida: What Winter Springs Needs to Know as Safety Concerns Grow
I’ve recently received a wave of feedback from concerned residents regarding the increasing use of electric bikes and golf carts by children and teens on our neighborhood streets.
These vehicles may seem like harmless recreational tools, but their power and speed have outpaced the policies that govern them. What we’re seeing is not only a matter of personal preference or mobility trends, but also a growing public safety issue that demands local attention. Understanding and applying electric bike laws in Florida is a necessary step in protecting everyone who uses our roads.
Residents Are Speaking Up—and With Good Reason
One longtime Tuscawilla resident described what many of you are witnessing firsthand: kids riding electric bikes at high speeds, sometimes carrying passengers, without helmets or adult supervision. Golf carts are now being driven to school and through retail centers by unlicensed minors. In some cases, children are operating electric bikes and scooters on public roads, swerving into traffic lanes and creating serious hazards.
These behaviors are becoming more frequent since school let out for summer. The risks are real, and the consequences could be severe if we do not act proactively.
Electric Bike Laws in Florida: What They Do and Don’t Cover
According to Florida Statutes, electric bikes fall into three classifications based on speed and power. Riders under 16 are not allowed to operate the highest-speed Class 3 models. Helmets are only required for those under 16, and no license is needed to operate most electric bikes or golf carts on local roads.
Key gaps in the law include:
No required safety training for minors
Limited enforcement of helmet or equipment use
Lack of regulation on child passengers or after-dark operation
No consistent oversight of where these vehicles are permitted
While electric bike laws in Florida provide a general framework, they were not designed for widespread, unsupervised use by children on residential and arterial roads.
Florida Statute 316.20655 – Electric Bicycle Regulations
Rights and Duties: E-bike riders have the same rights and responsibilities as traditional bicycle riders under Florida law, including those in statute 316.2065.
Local Control: Local governments (cities, counties) and state agencies can regulate where e-bikes are allowed — including on sidewalks, trails, beaches, and dunes — even if state law allows their use generally.
Exemptions: E-bike operators are not required to have:
Insurance
A driver’s license
Vehicle registration or title
Labeling Requirement (since Jan 1, 2021): Manufacturers must affix a label to each e-bike showing:
The class of the e-bike (Class 1, 2, or 3)
Top assisted speed
Motor wattage
Modification Rule: You can’t alter the e-bike to increase its speed or performance unless the classification label is updated accordingly.
Safety Standards: E-bikes must comply with U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations (specifically 16 C.F.R. part 1512).
Operation Requirements: The motor must shut off when:
You stop pedaling
You apply the brakes
Where E-Bikes Can Ride: E-bikes can be used anywhere bicycles are allowed, including:
Roads and highways
Shoulders
Bike lanes
Multi-use paths
In essence, e-bikes are treated like regular bicycles under Florida law — with a few extra requirements and exceptions — but local governments can set stricter rules in certain areas.
Where Winter Springs Can Step In
Our City has the ability—and responsibility—to address safety concerns specific to our neighborhoods. Here are a few of the actions I’m working to advance:
Launch of public safety announcements through schools, social media, and HOA boards
Promotion of voluntary safety measures, including helmets, reflectors, and speed awareness
Police patrols in high-activity zones, such as Northern Way and Trotwood Boulevard
Exploration of local ordinances that limit speeds, restrict night use, and establish age minimums
Increased engagement with parents and guardians to encourage supervision and accountability
These steps are not about limiting freedom or fun. They are about creating safe conditions for responsible riding.
A Call for Prevention, Not Reaction
We do not want to wait for an accident or injury to take action. The rise of powerful electric rideables has created a safety gap that many cities, including ours, are now confronting. By strengthening community education and refining how we apply electric bike laws in Florida at the local level, we can better protect all who share our streets.
If you have feedback, ideas, or concerns, I invite you to reach out to my office. Your input helps shape our response and guide our policies.
Thank you for continuing to care deeply about the safety of our Winter Springs neighborhoods.
The Winter Springs City Commission met on Monday, June 9, 2025, to address vital local priorities, recognize outstanding community members, and continue advancing infrastructure and policy goals. As your District 2 Commissioner, I remain committed to promoting public trust, smart growth, and meaningful resident engagement. Below is a full recap of the meeting’s key developments.
Celebrating the Champions: Winter Springs High Girls’ Softball Team Honored by City Commission
The Commission proudly recognized the Winter Springs High School Girls’ Softball Team, recently crowned state champions after an incredible 24–8 season. This group of talented young athletes exemplifies perseverance, teamwork, and excellence—qualities that reflect the very best of our community.
Led by Coach Farrah Gordon, the team was honored during the meeting, with a formal city proclamation to follow. Their recognition served as a reminder of the importance of celebrating youth achievement and supporting our local schools.
Addressing Neighborhood Safety and Accessibility
Traffic Safety on West Panama Road
During public input, a resident requested permanent traffic-calming measures on West Panama Road, citing concerns for children’s safety. I fully support evaluating and implementing solutions that prioritize pedestrian and neighborhood safety.
Accessibility at Central Winds Park
Resident Leah Wiseman raised important concerns about handicap access at Central Winds Park, particularly during busy events. While some improvements have been made, additional curb cuts and ADA-compliant parking options were discussed. Ensuring equal access to our parks and public spaces remains a top priority.
Resident Advocacy for Transparency and Participation
Since launching my campaign for City Commission, I have consistently advocated for greater accessibility and transparency in how we govern. Prior to my election—and even in the early months of my term—Commission meetings frequently ran late into the evening, often past 11:00 p.m., and occasionally beyond midnight. That structure was not conducive to public participation or thoughtful decision-making.
Since then, we’ve made meaningful progress. Most meetings now conclude at a more reasonable hour, giving residents a real opportunity to follow proceedings live without staying up into the early morning. This is a shift toward accessibility that I believe strengthens trust.
Additionally, I firmly oppose any move to hold Commission meetings during the day, which would exclude many working residents and limit public accountability. Our community deserves leadership that meets them where they are—and at times they can attend.
During this meeting, several residents echoed those values by calling for even greater transparency, especially in how public dollars are managed and how decisions are communicated. I fully support their input and remain committed to continued progress on this front.
Development and Representation Updates
Sutton Crossings Project Moves Forward
The Commission approved the vacation of a public right-of-way to facilitate development of the Sutton Crossings project, which will include an ACE Hardware and Chick-fil-A. This is part of our broader goal of supporting responsible commercial growth while maintaining community character.
Redistricting Ordinance (First Reading)
A new Commission district map was introduced and advanced using Scenario 4. This version ensures near-equal population distribution across districts and complies with redistricting requirements. No current commissioners were moved out of their districts.
Strengthening Fiscal Transparency and Oversight
As part of our continued effort to manage city finances responsibly and transparently, I’ve pushed for clearer reporting and broader access to information. Specifically, I’m proud to share:
The City’s online checkbook—which previously only included expenses over $50,000—is being revised. Soon, all expenses of $2,500 and above will be visible online. This is a significant step forward in fiscal transparency, and I look forward to it going live soon.
I also strongly support City Manager Paul Diaz’s initiative to thoroughly review all expenses line by line during the upcoming budget process. I believe this kind of scrutiny is essential for ensuring prudent, prioritized spending that reflects the needs of our residents.
In addition, the Commission is working to standardize financial reporting by implementing:
Monthly trial balance updates
Quarterly fund balance statements
Pre-budget budget-to-actual reporting
These tools give both the Commission and the public a much clearer picture of how resources are being allocated and managed.
Progress on Stormwater and Water Infrastructure
Sediment Removal Work Begins
Starting the week of June 16, the City will begin sediment removal in key waterways to improve stormwater flow and reduce flood risk. This is a critical first step in our larger infrastructure strategy.
SCADA Infrastructure Upgrades Approved
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) approved the City’s proposal to apply SCADA system upgrades as “in-kind” work toward a state compliance requirement. This not only improves our water infrastructure but does so in a cost-efficient way.
Stormwater Workshop Scheduled
A dedicated Stormwater Infrastructure Workshop is planned for July. It will serve as a focused discussion on drainage, flood mitigation, and long-term capital improvements.
Board Appointments and Civic Engagement
Veterans Advisory Board Appointment
The Commission appointed Marguerite Orff to the Veterans Advisory Board. As both the mother and spouse of veterans, she brings a meaningful perspective that broadens the voice of the board to include military families.
Code Enforcement Board Continuity
I also advocated for Art Gallo to continue serving on the Code Enforcement Board, where he has made significant contributions since 2019. Art is a passionate advocate for water conservation, and I’d like to recognize his recent video feature on the St. Johns River Water Management District’s website, where he shares valuable insights on sustainable landscaping. His leadership extends beyond city service—his work is visible in his own yard and throughout the common areas of his HOA here in Winter Springs.
Improving Advisory Board Reporting
I again raised the importance of including regular summaries or meeting minutes from our advisory boards in Commission packets. This ensures we have a full view of citizen-led initiatives and maintain a two-way dialogue between appointed boards and elected leaders.
Meeting Summary: Key Takeaways
At a Glance:
Honored Winter Springs High Girls’ Softball Team for winning the state championship
Discussed resident-led requests for speed mitigation on West Panama Road
Addressed ongoing concerns about accessibility at Central Winds Park
Approved right-of-way vacation for Sutton Crossings development
Advanced new district map with minimal constituent disruption
Online expense checkbook expanded to include all expenses over $2,500
Supported detailed financial reviews in upcoming budget season
Creek sediment removal project begins June 16
SCADA water infrastructure project approved by DEP as compliance credit
Welcomed Marguerite Orff to Veterans Advisory Board
Reappointed Art Gallo to Code Enforcement Board, recognizing water advocacy
Scheduled stormwater infrastructure workshop for July
Continued push for advisory board accountability and reporting
Staying Involved
Local government works best when it remains transparent, inclusive, and grounded in the needs of our residents. I remain committed to ensuring every Winter Springs resident has a voice, and I will continue advocating for balanced growth, clean water, and public accountability.
Thank you for your continued trust and engagement.
Improving Flood Protection in Winter Springs: Gee Creek Culvert Project Underway
I’m pleased to share some good news along with video straight from the field. After approximately 18 months of requests, FDOT has begun clearing out the Gee Creek culverts beneath SR 434/419. This project is a long time coming, and I want to thank those at the Florida Department of Transportation for their responsiveness and collaboration.
The video below, provided by FDOT, highlights the work currently taking place on site.
Watch the footage from FDOT
In some areas, sediment had accumulated up to six feet deep. You can actually see the staining on the culvert walls where the buildup once sat. This accumulation was significantly impairing water flow and posed serious flooding risks for areas upstream, especially during storm events and hurricanes.
An interesting discovery during this effort revealed that when the roadway was widened about 20 years ago, FDOT didn’t remove the original arched bridge structure. Instead, large box culverts were added alongside it. As seen in the footage and photos, this mix of old and new infrastructure has created a hydraulic bottleneck, contributing to sediment buildup over time.
In the short term, removing that sediment will absolutely help improve water flow and reduce upstream flood staging at this crossing. In the longer term, I’ll continue to advocate for structural improvements to ensure the area remains resilient and flood-safe for years to come.
This is the kind of behind-the-scenes work that makes a real difference, even if it’s not always visible from the road. The total estimated project cost is around $760,000, with 75% covered by federal funding and 25% by the city.
We all benefit when infrastructure is maintained proactively and thoughtfully. Thank you for staying engaged, and I’ll continue to keep you informed as this work progresses.
At the heart of Winter Springs is our commitment to clean, safe, and sustainable water for all residents. The recently released 2024 Annual Drinking Water Quality Report offers a transparent look at the status of our local water supply—and I want to break down the highlights and share where we’re excelling and where we must do better.
✅ What’s Going Right: Commitment to Quality
Winter Springs draws its water from the Floridan Aquifer, one of the most productive groundwater sources in the United States. Our city operates three water treatment plants supplied by eight groundwater wells, delivering an average of 4.447 million gallons of water daily to over 14,000 connections across the city.
Here are some positive highlights from the report:
No MCL (Maximum Contaminant Level) violations were reported for key contaminants such as Nitrate, Barium, Fluoride, and Sodium.
All disinfection byproducts, including Chlorine, were within safe levels and comply with federal standards.
The city continues making infrastructure upgrades—recent investments include new pumps, backup power systems, and hydraulic improvements to protect water quality long-term.
⚠️ Areas of Concern: Unregulated Contaminants & Monitoring Lead
While our water meets all required federal and state standards, residents deserve full transparency about some potential concerns:
1. Unregulated Contaminants: PFAS Chemicals
Detected in the 2024 testing were:
PFOA (0.0048 ppb)
PFOS (0.0060 ppb)
PFPeA (0.0038 ppb)
These are PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances)—chemicals that can build up in the body over time and are associated with adverse health effects. Although not currently regulated at federal levels, the presence of PFAS is concerning and I am committed to advocating for stronger protections and regular public updates.
2. Lead in Tap Water
While no samples exceeded the EPA’s action level, the 90th percentile result for lead was 0.60 ppb, and some results showed lead presence up to 0.0014 ppm. Lead can enter drinking water from household plumbing systems, not the city’s infrastructure, which is why education is essential.
If you are concerned about lead in your home’s plumbing, I urge you to:
Run your tap water for 30–60 seconds before use
Use certified water filters
Contact the City of Winter Springs for a water test: 407-327-1800
🌿 Water Conservation Efforts Matter
More than 50% of residential water use comes from irrigation. Let’s work together to reduce this.
➡️ Irrigation is restricted to specific days based on your address (see chart on page 4 of the report).
➡️ Free irrigation audits are available to help you save water and money.
🗣️ Let’s Stay Informed and Involved
We are blessed with access to clean groundwater, but we must remain vigilant. The city’s ongoing upgrades, monitoring, and community engagement are vital to maintaining safe drinking water for every household.
📑 View the full 2024 Water Quality Report shared here and also available at: winterspringsfl.org
I am here to represent you.
As your Commissioner, I remain committed to transparent communication, fiscally responsible investments, and advocacy for sustainable solutions—especially when it comes to our environment and public health.
Together, let’s protect what makes Winter Springs such a special place to call home.
By Commissioner Victoria Bruce, Winter Springs District 2
At our recent Tuscawilla Lighting and Beautification District Advisory Committee meeting, the conversation focused on more than medians, fountains, and mulch. It centered around the pressing need to address an aging infrastructure, decades of deferred updates, and how we ensure our district reflects the pride we all have in calling Tuscawilla home.
It’s Time to Catch Up
During the meeting, Mayor Kevin McCann briefly addressed the committee to acknowledge the financial challenges facing the district. While his remarks acknowledged the importance of the board’s role, it’s clear that the circumstances we’re in today stem in part from years of inaction and postponed improvements. As it stands, this board is being asked to make up for lost time while still respecting the financial limitations of our residents.
The truth is, the current budget is stretched thin. The assessment cap has not increased since 2007, despite inflation and rising maintenance costs. We’re now looking at a fund balance of just $14,000, which leaves little room for emergencies or meaningful progress.
What We’re Facing Today
Our community is experiencing visible signs of neglect:
Lights are out at key entry monuments and throughout the neighborhood
Streetlight poles are mismatched or missing tops
Landscaping is declining, and irrigation has been unreliable
The North Fountain remains non-operational, despite past efforts
When maintenance becomes patchwork and not proactive, the community suffers. Residents have stepped in to hand-water plants during dry seasons, and lighting has gone dark during the holidays. These are not small inconveniences. They’re signs of a system long overdue for attention.
Proposals on the Table
A clear-eyed view of the budget and district priorities has brought forward a list of proposed projects:
Re-landscaping 23 medians in phases, prioritizing the most deteriorated
Updating irrigation systems and addressing long-overlooked fertilization needs
Repainting and repairing 123 streetlight and signage poles
Replacing equipment at both fountains and restoring them to full functionality
Exploring an extension of community walls to improve uniformity and privacy along major roads
Additionally, we are reviewing lighting infrastructure to ensure all entry monuments and signs are properly illuminated moving forward.
These needs are not new. What’s new is a sense of urgency to finally do something about them.
Funding the Future
City staff are working with consultants to complete a rate study. This study will evaluate what a responsible adjustment to the current $128 annual assessment could look like. The purpose is not to overburden homeowners. It’s to bring the district up to a standard residents have always expected and deserve. These changes will be guided by resident input and handled with full transparency.
Where We Go from Here
We’re planning:
A special meeting to review rate study findings
A public hearing this summer for community feedback
A commitment to only proceed with what is reasonable and beneficial
Our Community, Our Choice
I have always stood for transparent, fiscally responsible government. This process is about putting Tuscawilla residents first, not just keeping up appearances. If we want a community that reflects our pride and care, we must make informed decisions now and ensure this board isn’t left with the same difficult choices five or ten years from now.
We have work to do, but I believe in our ability to do it together—with clarity, fairness, and focus on what really matters.
