As your committed city commissioner, I want to address an issue close to my heart and crucial for our community: the need to revamp Winter Spring’s social media policy to embrace the full potential of digital engagement. Since its last revision in 2015, both our community and the digital world have evolved significantly. It’s time our policies reflect these changes to fully capitalize on the benefits of social media.
The Current Policy’s Limitations
The existing Winter Springs social media policy was established at a time when the digital landscape was vastly different. Crafted to manage content in a one-way format, it restricts any form of public interaction on our posts. This outdated approach does not suit the fast-paced, interactive nature of today’s social media environment where dialogue fosters community.
Interactive social media use is not just about staying current; it’s about effective governance. By opening up our platforms to comments and interactions, we can increase transparency and allow for real-time communication. This will enable us to reach more residents quickly, especially during critical times like post-emergency updates, where speed and dissemination are key.
The Cost-Effectiveness of Engagement
Utilizing social media for interactive communication is not only effective but also cost-efficient. It allows us to share critical updates quickly and at minimal cost. For instance, after the recent hurricane, a video update from the mayor garnered only 140 views in a week—a clear indication that our one-way communication strategy isn’t meeting its potential to quickly distribute key information.
A Call to Modernize
It’s time to shift from monologue to dialogue. Let’s align our Winter Springs social media policy with the practices of today’s digital age, fostering a space where community feedback is not just expected but encouraged. Opening up our social media comments will not only increase the reach of our communications but will also invite community involvement in municipal processes, enhancing our service effectiveness.
Your Role and the Path Forward
Your engagement is crucial. By supporting this shift, you help us transform how our city communicates and interacts with you, the residents of Winter Springs. Let’s work together to ensure that our social media platforms are more than just bulletin boards—they should be forums for vibrant, constructive community exchanges.
Join me in advocating for a policy that meets the needs of our residents and reflects the dynamic nature of our city. Together, we can make Winter Springs a more connected, informed, and engaged community.
Thank you for your attention and support. I look forward to making these necessary changes together.
The recent Winter Springs West Side Candidate Debate brought critical issues to the forefront, giving voters a clearer picture of how each candidate plans to shape the future of our community. With topics ranging from political unity and infrastructure to land development and the use of city funds, the debate shed light on the diverse approaches each candidate has to offer.
As a Winter Springs City Commissioner, I’ve always believed that transparency, honesty, and informed decision-making are essential to moving our city forward. With that in mind, I wanted to share a recap of the debate to help residents make informed choices about the future leadership of our city.
Political Unity & Future Challenges
Political unity was a central theme, especially given the divisions that have emerged over the past few years. Several candidates agreed that fostering collaboration and leadership across party lines is essential to tackling the key challenges Winter Springs faces—particularly the urgent need for infrastructure improvements and thoughtful long-term city planning.
Paul Diaz stood out with his practical, action-oriented approach. He focused heavily on the need to unify the city by resolving critical infrastructure failures, particularly with the wastewater treatment plants. His argument was clear: unity comes from results, and the city cannot afford further delays on issues as urgent as wastewater management.
Matt Benton reiterated the need to complete ongoing projects, though his response lacked clarity, leaving some voters unsure about his specific plans.
Sarah Baker emphasized the importance of open communication and involving the community in decision-making to foster unity.
Rob Elliot and Mark Caruso both agreed on the need to address immediate infrastructure concerns, though Elliot pointed out the restrictions posed by Sunshine Laws, which make it difficult for commissioners to collaborate outside public meetings.
Land Development & Conservation
Land development was another key issue, particularly the future of the old golf course property near the Highlands. There is broad agreement that any development must align with the character of the community while addressing concerns like traffic, flooding, and environmental impact.
Most candidates favored maintaining the conservation easement on the golf course, with Paul Diazpointing out that 10 to 22 acres might be needed for wastewater plant development. Diaz urged a realistic, balanced approach to development that prioritizes the needs of residents and avoids unnecessary political maneuvering.
Rob Elliot noted that alternative plans are being explored in case the city cannot acquire this land.
Both Karen Meyer and Matt Benton supported a supermajority vote requirement to lift any conservation easements, ensuring that such decisions would only be made if absolutely necessary.
Sarah Baker expressed her concerns about the environmental impact of development, stressing the importance of careful planning to prevent future flooding—an issue that many residents are all too familiar with.
As a sitting commissioner, I’ve been very vocal in my opposition to lifting conservation easements, and I was the first public official to take a stand against any effort to remove them. Our city’s natural spaces are invaluable, and any development decisions must be made with the long-term preservation of our environment in mind.
Stormwater & Water Infrastructure
The debate also tackled one of the most pressing issues: the city’s stormwater and water infrastructure. With aging systems and frequent flooding, candidates agreed that this is an issue that needs immediate attention.
Paul Diaz passionately spoke about the need to modernize the city’s infrastructure, citing his personal experiences from past hurricanes as a driving force behind his commitment to resolving these issues. His clear, decisive approach to cutting through bureaucracy resonated with many in attendance.
Rob Elliot and Mark Caruso also highlighted the urgency of addressing failing wastewater plants, noting that there is limited time to resolve these issues before the city faces potential consequences from state authorities. Elliot mentioned an ongoing stormwater study, but the slow pace of progress remains a concern for many residents.
Penny Tax & Resource Allocation
Finally, the debate addressed the question of how to fund these necessary improvements, particularly through the renewal of the penny sales tax. While most candidates supported renewing the tax to fund infrastructure projects, there was debate over how the funds have been managed in the past.
Paul Diaz was critical of the mismanagement of penny tax funds, calling for greater transparency and accountability to ensure that taxpayer money is used for its intended purpose: infrastructure upgrades. He emphasized that the city needs a leadership reset to restore trust in how funds are handled.
Matt Benton defended the city’s use of the penny tax, arguing that protocols had been followed. However, given the slow pace of progress on vital infrastructure, some voters remain skeptical.
Sarah Baker echoed the need for better transparency, pointing out that residents are rightfully concerned when infrastructure funds are diverted to other projects, leaving critical issues unaddressed.
Looking Forward
The Winter Springs West Side Candidate Debate offered residents a chance to hear directly from those who seek to represent us, and it highlighted the urgent need for decisive leadership on infrastructure and conservation. While all the candidates brought valuable perspectives, Paul Diaz stood out for his practical, results-driven approach, emphasizing that unity and progress come from action. On the other hand, Matt Benton’s lack of clarity and Rob Elliot’s defense of past delays left some voters questioning their ability to address the city’s most pressing needs.
As a commissioner, my top priority has always been to balance economic growth with environmental preservation, ensuring that Winter Springs remains a thriving, beautiful community for years to come. This debate reaffirmed the importance of staying informed and engaged as we continue working together to address the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Together, we can ensure that Winter Springs’ future remains as bright as its past.
As part of our ongoing commitment to maintaining and enhancing our city’s infrastructure, I want to share important updates on our stormwater management efforts. These initiatives are crucial for ensuring the safety, functionality, and sustainability of our water systems, especially in light of recent weather events and ongoing environmental challenges.
Sediment Management at Gee Creek
We are proactive in addressing the sediment build-up at Gee Creek, particularly at the SR 434 bridge. Scheduled for December 2024, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will conduct maintenance to ensure normal water flows are restored. This is vital for preventing water backup and potential flooding.
Collaborative Efforts for Larger Capacity
Following the Seminole County Basin Study for Gee Creek, we plan to engage with FDOT’s District Drainage Engineer to discuss increasing the conveyance capacity through the SR 434 right-of-way. This step is crucial to accommodate potential high water flows and protect our community from future flood risks.
To provide a deeper insight into our current efforts and future plans, please view the embedded presentation from the latest City Commission stormwater briefing:
Hurricane Recovery and Resilience Projects
Thanks to funding from the Hurricane Ian Grant and other initiatives, we’ve made significant progress:
Debris and Sediment Removal: We’ve successfully cleared creek debris and sediment, crucial for maintaining water flow and quality.
Erosion Control: Bid documents are underway for erosion control measures at Gee Creek at Moss Park, ensuring the longevity and stability of our creek banks.
Infrastructure Repairs: The Tuskawilla Crossings Subdivision Pond and Wetland Park Outfall have seen crucial improvements to handle stormwater effectively.
Ongoing Evaluations and Improvements
Our team is continuously working on evaluating and improving the stormwater systems across Winter Springs. This includes computer modeling to address water quality and the impacts on existing upstream stormwater systems. Each project is part of a larger strategy to manage our water resources responsibly and sustainably.
Your Role in Our Community’s Health
Your awareness and involvement are key to our success. Understanding the scope and impact of these projects helps us all appreciate the intricate work going into protecting our city. As we move forward, I remain dedicated to ensuring that Winter Springs not only recovers from past storms but also becomes more resilient against future challenges.
Together, we are making Winter Springs a safer, cleaner, and more resilient community. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our collective well-being.
As your City Commissioner for Winter Springs, I am committed to ensuring our community continues to thrive. One of the key ways we can achieve that is by renewing the One Cent Infrastructure Sales Tax, also known as the Penny Sales Tax, this November.
What is the Penny Sales Tax?
For over 30 years, this tax has been a cornerstone of growth and development in Seminole County. It’s not a new tax, but a continuation of a highly successful initiative that generates funding for essential infrastructure projects. From improving roads and sidewalks to enhancing water quality and supporting school construction, the Penny Sales Tax has already brought in over $2 billion to strengthen our communities.
Why Does This Matter?
The revenue generated from the Penny Sales Tax is crucial for maintaining and upgrading our infrastructure. Here in Winter Springs and throughout Seminole County, we’ve seen the positive effects of this funding, such as:
Road Improvements: Safer, more efficient roads with added turn lanes, repaved surfaces, and upgraded traffic signals.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Infrastructure: More trails, sidewalks, and bike lanes that connect our community and encourage a healthy, active lifestyle.
Environmental Conservation: Support for stormwater management and environmental restoration projects that protect our natural resources.
Public Safety Enhancements: Investments in new safety vehicles, emergency services, and equipment to keep our neighborhoods safe.
These projects improve our quality of life, help keep property taxes low, and ensure that Seminole County remains a place where people want to live, work, and raise their families.
The Power of the Penny
One of the most compelling reasons to support the Penny Sales Tax is that a significant portion—up to 30%—of the revenue comes from non-residents. That means visitors and out-of-county shoppers contribute to the cost of improving our local infrastructure, easing the burden on our residents. This is a smart and efficient way to fund the improvements we all rely on without increasing taxes for Seminole County homeowners.
Why Renewal is Important
Without this funding, many essential projects would be delayed or potentially canceled. We would have to rely on state and federal funding, which can take years to secure. By renewing the Penny Sales Tax, we maintain control over how we fund and prioritize local projects that directly impact our daily lives.
I’ve always believed in finding balanced solutions that promote both economic growth and environmental preservation. The Penny Sales Tax does exactly that. It allows us to grow responsibly while protecting the natural beauty and resources that make Winter Springs and Seminole County such special places.
Join Me in Supporting the Renewal
This November, I urge you to join me in voting YES for the renewal of the Penny Sales Tax. Let’s continue investing in our community’s future by ensuring we have the resources to build and maintain the infrastructure that keeps Winter Springs and all of Seminole County thriving.
To learn more about the Penny Sales Tax and how it benefits our community, I invite you to watch this informative video from former County Commissioner John Horan:
Together, we can make sure Winter Springs remains a beautiful, safe, and vibrant community for generations to come.
The City of Winter Springs is now soliciting Construction Management at Risk (CMAR) services for the design and construction of two wastewater treatment facilities.
Project Overview:
East (Phase I) WWTF – Existing facility with a 2.012 MGD (annual average daily flow).
West (Phase II) WWTF – Existing facility with a 2.07 MGD (annual average daily flow).
Both facilities are dual-train contact stabilization domestic wastewater treatment plants, which include influent screening, aeration, secondary clarification, filtration, chlorination, and biosolid treatment. Effluent is currently disposed of through public access reuse.
The project aims to replace the existing treatment facilities and upgrade their treatment quality to meet current disposal standards, with future expansions in mind.
Key Considerations:
The construction will take place while both facilities are operational 24/7, meeting all permit requirements.
Ancillary facilities may also be added, including office space, labs, and storage.
Major Project Elements:
The Conceptual Design Report (CDR) for both the East and West WWTFs outlines the following major project elements:
Influent lift station
New headworks
New secondary treatment system (biological nutrient removal, clarifiers, pumping systems)
Waste activated sludge pumping and integration with existing systems
Process aeration blowers and building
New tertiary filtration system
Chlorine disinfection system (including contact chamber, sodium hypochlorite storage)
Effluent transfer and reclaimed water pumping systems
Plant utility water pumping system
Electrical feed and standby generation system
Operations and administration buildings (East and West respectively)
Site work, HVAC, plumbing, SCADA/I&C systems
Some existing facilities and infrastructure will be demolished as part of this project.
The East and West WWTFs will be designed with a unified, one-plant, two-site concept, standardizing elements to improve efficiency in construction, operation, and maintenance. A single set of specifications and one Computer-Aided Design Drafting (CADD) model will be developed and adapted for each site.
Current Status:
The project is in the Preliminary Design Phase, managed by Carollo Engineers, Inc.
On September 19th, the Tuscawilla Homeowners Association hosted its annual “Meet the Candidate Night” at the Tuscawilla Country Club. Residents from across Winter Springs gathered to hear from the candidates running for City Commission Seats One, Three, and Five in the upcoming November elections. This year’s event stood out not only for the variety of ideas but for the frustration and defensiveness of some incumbents in the face of growing criticism.
The city of Winter Springs is divided into five districts, but all citizens vote for every commission seat. This event revealed the stark contrast between new voices calling for change and incumbents defending their records. Here’s what we learned.
Paul Diaz (District 1)
Paul Diaz, a seasoned tax accountant, represents a refreshing alternative to the incumbent, emphasizing new leadership and financial transparency. Diaz described a city bogged down by outdated infrastructure, especially stormwater and wastewater systems, and a lack of forward-thinking leadership. He criticized the status quo, stating that Winter Springs has delayed action for too long, and fresh ideas are necessary to move the city forward.
Quote: “We’ve kicked the can down the road long enough. Change is here. It’s up to you to decide if we need that change.”
Matt Benton (District 1, Incumbent)
Incumbent Matt Benton’s defensive and combative tone stood out throughout the evening. Benton, a long-time resident, and business owner, spent much of his time fending off criticism about the city’s financial health and infrastructure issues. He framed himself as someone who has been under attack both personally and politically, accusing his opponent of spreading misinformation. His frustration with the current political climate was palpable, yet he repeatedly claimed that Winter Springs is not financially broke and that the city is on the right track.
Quote: “I’m sorry if this stings, but my opponent looks at the city’s most recent audit and claims we’re broke. Winter Springs is far from being broke”.
Benton’s frustration appeared to reflect a broader sentiment of incumbents feeling besieged by challengers who believe that the city’s leadership has failed to deliver on key issues like stormwater management, growth control, and infrastructure maintenance.
Sarah Baker (District 3)
Sarah Baker represents a fresh voice, advocating for transparent communication and accountability. She shared a personal story about her family’s experience with sewage overflow, which she framed as a symbol of the city’s deeper infrastructure problems. Baker believes that Winter Springs needs clear, effective leadership and a proactive approach to managing its budget and communicating with residents.
Quote: “I had over 12,000 gallons of raw sewage in my backyard. That made me realize how important it is to address infrastructure head-on”.
Karen Meyer (District 3)
Karen Meyer has been deeply involved in the community for over five years, regularly attending commission meetings. She offered a practical approach to fixing the city’s problems, emphasizing the need for a professional city manager and solutions for traffic, sewer systems, and flooding. Meyer’s calm demeanor and experience reflect her understanding of the city’s issues, but she also pointed out how the lack of leadership in the city’s management has stalled progress.
Quote: “The City of Winter Springs is confronted with major issues. We need to attack the issues and not attack each other”.
Brandon Morrissey (District 5)
Brandon Morrissey, a firefighter and EMT, painted a troubling picture of Winter Springs’ infrastructure, particularly its failing storm and wastewater systems. He was critical of the city’s allocation of resources, highlighting the wastefulness of spending on projects like pickleball courts while essential services like stormwater management remain inadequate. Morrissey represents a direct challenge to the current administration’s priorities, calling for safety and infrastructure improvements to take precedence.
Quote: “Our wastewater is failing, our storm infrastructure is failing, and we’re spending money on frivolous projects like pickleball. This is unacceptable”.
Rob Elliot (District 5, Incumbent)
Rob Elliot, the current District 5 Commissioner, focused on defending his record of leading infrastructure improvements, particularly related to potable water and wastewater issues. Elliot noted the city’s AAA bond rating and reassured residents that the city’s finances are stable. While Elliot presented himself as steady and experienced, his defense of the city’s status quo fell flat compared to the urgency voiced by challengers.
Quote: “Our potable water issue has been solved, and the city’s drinking water quality meets all state guidelines”.
Mark Caruso (District 5)
Mark Caruso’s law enforcement background played a central role in his presentation. Caruso described himself as someone who stands up to corruption and won’t be swayed by developers and special interests. His time as a whistleblower in law enforcement, along with his strong stance against political interference, resonates with voters who feel frustrated by the current state of local politics. He framed his candidacy as a fight for transparency and honesty, opposing those who use misinformation to maintain power.
Quote: “I retired as a law enforcement officer after serving the public. I’m here to fight for honesty in our city’s leadership and make sure we’re not influenced by developers and outside interests”.
Why This Event Matters:
This year’s Meet the Candidate Night revealed significant tension between the incumbents, who are defending their records, and the challengers, who are pushing for urgent changes in how Winter Springs is governed. It’s clear that this election could reshape the future of the city, and every vote counts in deciding whether Winter Springs will maintain its current path or embrace new leadership.
I’m continually inspired by the dedication shown towards restoring our natural habitats, and today, I want to share an update on the progress at Lake Jesup. This lake is not just a scenic part of our landscape; it’s a crucial ecosystem that has faced significant environmental challenges over the years.
A Brief History of Lake Jesup’s Environmental Challenges
Lake Jesup, a key feature in the St. Johns River’s middle basin, has experienced various modifications since the 1800s, from steamboat alterations to major infrastructural changes like the train causeway. These modifications, along with urbanized development, significantly impacted the lake’s water quality, leading to issues such as chronic algal blooms and a buildup of organic muck.
Collaborative Efforts Lead the Way
In response to these challenges, a coalition of local and state organizations, including the St. Johns River Water Management District, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and local government bodies, has been instrumental in implementing restoration strategies. The passage of the Lake Jesup Act in 1994 marked the beginning of a focused effort to rejuvenate this vital water body.
Current Initiatives and Progress
Through the Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP), substantial steps have been taken to reduce nutrient inflows into the lake. Efforts include the removal of wastewater treatment discharges and ongoing projects to decrease nutrient loading. Moreover, innovative methods like the Lake Jesup Nutrient Reduction Project are set to significantly decrease the levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, which contribute to algal growth.
The restoration of Lake Jesup is a prime example of how effective partnerships can lead to environmental improvements that benefit our community. It’s about more than just cleaning up; it’s about restoring a habitat that supports wildlife, provides recreational opportunities, and enhances the quality of life for all of us here in Winter Springs and the surrounding regions.
Looking Ahead
Our journey to restore Lake Jesup continues, and it’s a journey that requires commitment and collaboration. I’m proud of the strides we have made and optimistic about the future of this ecological restoration. I encourage each of you to stay informed and involved as we work towards a healthier, more vibrant Lake Jesup.
For further details on the restoration efforts, you can refer to this insightful article in the Florida Specifier which provides a comprehensive overview of the history and ongoing efforts to revitalize Lake Jesup.
Together, we can ensure that our natural treasures are preserved for generations to come.
Throughout my time in office, many Winter Springs residents have shared their interest in having a local skate park, and I’ve been amazed at the excitement from both young and old. While a skate park isn’t currently on the immediate parks and recreation plan for Winter Springs, I’m thrilled to announce that our neighbors in Casselberry are making huge strides on a fantastic new facility—the Casselberry Wheels Park!
This innovative project broke ground in April 2024, and today, September 11, 2024, they’ve reached another major milestone: the concrete is being poured!. We’re one step closer to enjoying this incredible space, which is designed for skateboarders, bikers, and families of all ages.
What to Expect at the Casselberry Wheels Park:
The 40,000-square-foot park is set to be a state-of-the-art recreation area that caters to everyone, from young beginners to experienced skaters and bikers. Here’s what will be included:
East Side – Family Zone:This family-friendly area will feature a “Tiny Town” bike safety training area for kids ages 2-5, a pump track for children ages 5-12, ADA-compliant playgrounds, and picnic pavilions for a fun, safe space to enjoy with little ones.
West Side – Thrill-Seeker Zone:For more advanced riders, this area includes a 10,000 sq. ft. snake run with bowl corners and a vert wall, an 8-foot-deep intermediate bowl, and a 15,000 sq. ft. street course filled with ledges, rails, and stair sets. A separate beginner section will also be available for those just starting out.
In addition to the skating and biking areas, the park will include a ceremonial lawn, pavilion, and restroom facilities, making it a versatile spot for events, activities, and competitions.
Opening in 2025
With Team Pain, renowned skate park designers, leading the project and Wharton-Smith, Inc. handling construction management, the Casselberry Wheels Park is on track to be completed by Spring 2025. While this cutting-edge park is located in Casselberry, it will provide Winter Springs residents with a nearby recreational facility designed for fun, exercise, and community events.
Thank you to everyone in Winter Springs who has shared their enthusiasm for skateboarding and biking with me. Although a skate park is not currently on our city’s immediate list of projects, I’m excited that such a high-quality facility is being built right next door in Casselberry. Stay tuned for more updates as the park gets closer to completion!
Finding the Right Tree-Lined Solution for Tuskawilla Crossings
As your Commissioner for Winter Springs, it’s my priority to approach every decision with a commitment to the well-being of our community. I know how important it is to preserve the charm of our neighborhoods while ensuring we protect our city’s infrastructure. Today, I want to give you an update on an important decision regarding the street trees in Tuskawilla Crossings, which the City Commission voted to approve on September 9th.
When the issue of the Live Oaks in Tuskawilla Crossings was first brought to my attention, I’ll admit I was skeptical about the need for change. After all, these trees were originally approved as part of the 2017 development plan and contribute to the beautiful canopy-lined streets that we all love. However, as I looked deeper into the situation, I began to understand the potential risks these trees pose to our infrastructure—particularly to sidewalks and curbs.
The more I learned, the clearer it became that this wasn’t just about aesthetics. The roots of the Live Oaks, which were planted in narrower-than-ideal green strips, have the potential to cause significant long-term damage to the infrastructure in Tuskawilla Crossings. Some homeowners have already removed trees out of concern, and I share those concerns now that I fully grasp the potential financial impact this could have on both residents and the City down the line.
City staff, led by our Arbor and Landscape Manager, developed a thoughtful, sustainable solution: replacing the Live Oaks with Little Gem Magnolia trees. These trees, classified as Understory Trees, have a much less aggressive root system, making them far less likely to damage nearby sidewalks and curbs. Not only will this protect our infrastructure, but it will also save on future maintenance costs, making it a fiscally responsible solution.
After learning more about the plan and hearing from the Tuskawilla Crossings Homeowner’s Association, who is in full support of this change, I realized this proposal offers the best long-term benefits for our community. It balances the need to preserve the tree-lined character of the neighborhood while addressing the very real concerns of infrastructure damage.
The City Commission voted to approve this plan on September 9th, and City staff will begin working to carefully remove the Live Oaks and replace them with Little Gem Magnolias. But we aren’t stopping there. In the spirit of conservation, we’ll be making every effort to save and replant the removed Live Oaks in City parks and other appropriate locations where they won’t pose the same infrastructure concerns.
This decision wasn’t made lightly, and I appreciate the patience and input from our residents throughout this process. It’s not always easy to change course, but after fully understanding the risks and benefits, I’m confident that this is the right step forward for Tuskawilla Crossings and the broader Winter Springs community.
As always, I am here for you. If you have any questions or want to learn more about how this plan will unfold, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s continue working together to protect and preserve the city we all love.
Today, we came together as a community to honor the memory of those we lost 23 years ago on September 11, 2001. Standing in front of the Winter Springs Police Department, we reflected on a moment in history that forever changed our nation. The 9/11 attacks left an indelible mark on the lives of countless families, and as we gathered today, our city paid tribute not only to the victims but to the survivors, first responders, and the enduring resilience of our nation.
At 8:30 AM, Winter Springs residents, city leaders, and officers from the Winter Springs Police Department gathered for this solemn ceremony. Together, we honored the 2,977 lives lost in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. At precisely 8:46 AM, a moment of silence was observed to mark the exact time the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center, bringing the gravity of that fateful day back into our hearts.
One of the most moving moments of today’s ceremony was the placement of a wreath that included a piece of the North Tower from the World Trade Center. This sacred relic, a 250-pound section from the 92nd floor, serves as a powerful reminder of the lives lost and the strength that has come from that tragedy. We are deeply grateful to Running 4 Heroes, a Winter Springs-based charity, for curating this significant piece of history. Their mission to support the families of fallen first responders reminds us all of the sacrifices made for our safety and freedom.
As I stood alongside Winter Springs Police Deputy Chief Kevin Presley to place the wreath, I was filled with a profound sense of duty to our community and to the memories of those who perished. This ceremony wasn’t just about looking back at the events of 9/11—it was about honoring the bravery, unity, and heroism that emerged in the aftermath. The men and women who risked everything to save lives that day represent the best of who we are as a nation.
I want to express my deepest gratitude to the residents of Winter Springs who joined us for this important occasion. Your presence demonstrated our collective commitment to remembering the past and ensuring that we never forget the sacrifices made by so many. To the first responders who continue to serve with courage and dedication, you are the heartbeat of our community, and we are forever grateful.
As we move forward, let us carry with us the lessons of 9/11: the importance of unity, service, and standing together in the face of adversity. Winter Springs is a community that values connection and strength, and today was a reminder of how powerful we are when we come together.
Thank you to everyone who participated in today’s ceremony, and may we continue to honor the legacy of 9/11 in everything we do.
