As part of Winter Springs’ commitment to public safety and attracting top talent, we are taking significant steps to ensure our police department remains competitive in a challenging recruitment environment. Under the leadership of City Manager Kevin Sweet, we’ve implemented a new pay structure for police officers, with starting salaries now set at $63,000. This move is a vital investment in the safety and security of our community.
Why Competitive Salaries Matter
Like many municipalities across the nation, Winter Springs has faced recruitment and retention challenges in law enforcement. In 2024, our city experienced a 25% vacancy rate among sworn officers, with average retention rates of only 26 months. Exit interviews consistently cited pay and benefits as the primary reasons for leaving. Recognizing the critical need to address this issue, our city leadership undertook a comprehensive review of police officer compensation.
The results of this review revealed that Winter Springs ranked in the 18th percentile for police officer pay, far below neighboring municipalities. With data from the HR Consortium and Public Employers Personnel Information Exchange (PEPIE), we developed a plan to bring our salaries in line with regional standards.
The New Plan: Competitive Pay for a Stronger Workforce
Starting December 2, 2024, Winter Springs officers began earning a starting salary of $63,000—an adjustment that reflects a 14% increase. This new pay structure is competitive with agencies across Central Florida and includes benefits designed to attract top candidates and retain skilled officers.
Since implementing the new salary structure, we’ve already seen positive results:
Increased Applicants: A surge in qualified candidates, including those from nearby Seminole County agencies.
Improved Retention: Conditional offers extended to experienced officers demonstrate the effectiveness of this new approach.
A Shared Commitment to Excellence
I fully support this decision as a necessary step to ensure the safety and well-being of Winter Springs residents. City Manager Kevin Sweet’s careful research and strategic planning demonstrate a commitment to maintaining a well-staffed and effective police department.
This initiative is a statement about the value we place on our officers and the safety of our community. By offering competitive pay, we’re not only addressing staffing shortages but also positioning Winter Springs as a destination for top law enforcement talent.
Looking Ahead: A Brighter Future for Winter Springs Police Jobs
As we move forward, our focus remains on creating an environment where police officers feel valued, supported, and motivated to serve. Competitive pay is just one piece of the puzzle. We will continue to explore innovative strategies to enhance recruitment, retention, and overall job satisfaction within the Winter Springs Police Department.
If you’re considering a career in law enforcement, now is the perfect time to join Winter Springs. Together, we can build a safer, stronger community.
I’m pleased to introduce a new leader to our Winter Springs team who brings decades of expertise, a results-oriented approach, and a strong commitment to public service. Please join me in welcoming Clete Saunier as our new Utilities Director!
Clete’s extensive experience and leadership in civil engineering and public utilities make him the perfect fit to lead our city’s significant waterworks initiatives. With over 25 years of senior leadership experience in public works and engineering, including roles as Public Works Director and District Engineer, Clete has a proven track record of driving operational excellence and delivering large-scale infrastructure projects.
Why Clete Is the Right Leader for Winter Springs
Clete’s background speaks for itself. He is a licensed civil engineer with dual Bachelor’s degrees in Civil Engineering and Engineering Geology from Texas A&M University. His experience includes:
Managing multi-million-dollar budgets and overseeing large-scale capital improvement projects.
Optimizing operations for water and wastewater systems.
Securing state funding for critical infrastructure initiatives.
Leading teams to implement strategic goals effectively.
In his previous role as Public Works Director for the City of Santa Paula, California, Clete successfully managed divisions responsible for water, wastewater, engineering, and construction management. His leadership transformed organizational performance and enhanced public infrastructure—qualities that will greatly benefit Winter Springs.
Building a Stronger Future for Winter Springs Utilities
Clete’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for our city. As we work to address challenges in our waterworks and utilities systems, his strategic vision and hands-on experience will be critical in ensuring our infrastructure meets the needs of our growing community.
From tackling complex utility projects to planning long-term improvements, Clete’s leadership will empower us to make significant progress in improving water quality, wastewater management, and overall service delivery.
As a proud member of professional organizations such as the National Society of Professional Engineers and the American Public Works Association, and as a past president of the Florida Association of Special Districts, Clete is a seasoned leader who understands the importance of collaboration and innovation in public service.
A Community United in Support
Clete officially joins us on Monday, January 27, 2025, and will be formally introduced at the upcoming City Commission meeting. This is an exciting opportunity for Winter Springs to welcome a dedicated professional who is committed to making a lasting impact.
I’m confident that Clete’s vision, expertise, and leadership will help us achieve our goals and create a utilities system that our community can be proud of. Let’s come together to support him as he begins this new chapter with Winter Springs!
Together, we can build a brighter future for our city.
The Evolution of State Road 434, Winter Springs, Florida
State Road 434 is the heart of Winter Springs. From its origins as the Sanford-Oviedo Road, a narrow wagon trail carved through Florida’s wilderness after the Civil War, to the bustling four-lane roadway we know today, 434 has witnessed profound transformations.
But with growth comes responsibility. Recently, the speed limit on this roadway was reduced, sparking debates among residents. Some see it as an inconvenience, while others, like longtime resident Leah Weisman, recognize the necessity of prioritizing safety.
As Leah shared on Facebook:
“Sadly, some people feel the right to go fast is more important than anyone’s safety. I am happy for the change… We used to say, how many people have to die before something will be done?”
To understand why reducing the speed limit is crucial, we need to revisit the road’s storied history and its legacy of danger and resilience.
The Legacy of Wagner Curve: A Dangerous Past (Information provided by Leah Wesiman, Resident of Winter Springs)
Thirty years ago, State Road 434 bore little resemblance to the modern, well-lit highway we see today. Heading east from Longwood, it was a two-lane road surrounded by forests and orange groves. A particularly infamous section, Wagner Curve, became known as a “dead man’s curve” due to its sharp angle and treacherous conditions.
This bend, located near today’s Central Winds Park, was responsible for countless accidents. In 1988, a horrific crash involving a truck carrying concrete pipes tragically claimed the life of a father traveling with his family on New Year’s Eve. Public outcry following such tragedies finally led to significant safety improvements. By the mid-1990s, Wagner Curve was softened, and 434 was widened to four lanes, significantly reducing accidents.
Progress Fueled by Safety Concerns
The changes to Wagner Curve weren’t proactive—they were reactive, born out of necessity after lives were lost. While modern infrastructure has made State Road 434 safer, the dangers of speed persist. Winter Springs is no longer the quiet agricultural village it once was. Increased population density and traffic volumes mean that reducing speeds is not about inconvenience; it’s about protecting lives.
Today, areas like the Winding Hollow neighborhood and the busy intersections near Winter Springs High School highlight the importance of cautious driving. Leah Weisman recalls how changes such as the addition of turn lanes and traffic lights came only after years of advocacy:
“The traffic light at Winding Hollow… construction of a turn lane going into Winding Hollow started ten years after the original design… Tragically many changes were only made after deadly accidents.” Construction is pending in 2025/2026 for the much awaited Turn Lane into the Winding Hollow neighborhood, which has 389 homes.
Her words serve as a poignant reminder: we have a duty to ensure history does not repeat itself.
Why the Speed Limit Change Matters
Reducing the speed limit on State Road 434 is a step toward achieving Vision Zero: Zero fatalities on our roadways. High-speed accidents don’t only harm drivers, they also impact families, first responders, and entire communities.
As your District 2 Commissioner, I’ve heard the concerns of residents frustrated by the new limits. But I also know the pain that comes when loved ones are lost because action wasn’t taken in time. Slowing down means fewer collisions, less severe injuries, and, most importantly, lives saved.
Preserving Winter Springs’ Future
State Road 434 has come a long way since its days as a wagon trail and a dangerous two-lane highway. The reduced speed limit is just another chapter in its evolution, a change aimed at protecting the vibrant community Winter Springs has become.
As you drive along 434 today, think about its history and the lives saved by decisions made in the name of safety. Let’s honor those who pushed for change and ensure that our roadways are safe for generations to come.
Together, we can balance progress and preservation, keeping Winter Springs a beautiful, thriving community.
We Want to Hear from You
What are your thoughts on the speed limit change? Share your opinions, stories, or concerns in the comments!
Our city is at an exciting crossroads, and now is the time to shape the future of Winter Springs together. The 2050 Comprehensive Plan Workshop is the first of three opportunities for residents to engage directly in building a long-term vision for our community. It will serve as a vital roadmap that will guide Winter Springs’ growth and development for years to come. This document will establish clear goals, objectives, and policies on topics ranging from land use and transportation to housing, infrastructure, conservation, and parks.
Why Your Voice Matters
This workshop is your opportunity to actively shape the future of Winter Springs by sharing your ideas and insights. Your input will help set priorities and ensure that the Comprehensive Plan reflects the community’s values and aspirations.
Workshop Details
📅 Date: Wednesday, November 20, 2024
⏰ Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Location: Winter Springs Civic Center, 400 N. Edgemon Ave, Winter Springs, FL 32708
What to Expect at the Workshop
Interactive Discussions: Engage in collaborative conversations with fellow residents, city leaders, and planners.
Key Focus Areas: Provide feedback on land use, transportation, infrastructure, parks, housing, and more.
Opportunities to Contribute: Help shape a forward-thinking plan that meets the needs of future generations while honoring Winter Springs’ unique character.
Additional Ways to Get Involved
Can’t make it to the workshop? Visit the project website at Winter Springs Comprehensive Plan Project to access more information and take part in a citywide survey.
By working together, we can ensure Winter Springs continues to thrive as a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive community. Let’s create a future we can all be proud of!
Central Winds Park has long been the heart of outdoor recreation and community events in Winter Springs, serving residents and visitors alike with a range of activities from sports to family gatherings and nature trails. With its upcoming Master Plan, the City of Winter Springs is focusing on expanding the park’s offerings to meet the growing needs of our community. Victoria Bruce, Winter Springs City Commissioner for District 2, is dedicated to ensuring that these enhancements align with the vision and values of local residents.
The recent public workshop on October 26 provided an opportunity for the Winter Springs community to engage in the planning process for the Central Winds Park Master Plan. If you couldn’t attend, this blog provides an overview of the proposed upgrades and enhancements in each section of the park. This is a critical time to voice your opinion and help guide the future of our city’s treasured outdoor space.
1. The Event Lawn: A Hub for Community Gatherings
One of the key areas of Central Winds Park, the Event Lawn, is already known for hosting large-scale gatherings like the Hometown Harvest and Highland Games. However, current challenges, such as limited sightlines due to the lawn’s uneven slope, have prompted a closer look at how this space can be improved.
Proposed updates include adding a shade structure for the amphitheater, enhancing the festival and farmers market space, and creating a new architectural feature that would serve as a focal point for the lawn area. These improvements aim to make the Event Lawn more functional and comfortable, increasing accessibility and creating a welcoming environment for future events.
2. The Upper Fields: Supporting Competitive Sports
The Upper Fields play an essential role in the park’s sports offerings, providing a venue for Babe Ruth baseball, softball tournaments, and other competitive events. With a robust lineup of amenities, including a playground, shaded parking, and concessions, the Upper Fields support Winter Springs’ active community and draw regional sports events.
Planned improvements focus on enhancing the connection between the fields and the rest of the park. New shaded walkways, a pavilion for group gatherings, and better access to the Cross Seminole Trail are under consideration. These changes aim to create a more integrated experience while maintaining the high-quality facilities required for competitive play.
3. The Lower Fields: Expanding Multi-Use Options
Primarily dedicated to practice fields for soccer and softball, the Lower Fields also feature beautiful oak trees and a covered sculpture that adds a unique touch to the space. The primary challenges here are related to drainage issues that restrict movement between fields and create obstacles in the parking lot.
Enhancements proposed for the Lower Fields include a formal walking loop that embraces the existing tree canopy, a central pavilion for spectators, and expanded detention areas to help manage drainage. These improvements will not only enhance usability but also provide a more scenic and enjoyable experience for both athletes and spectators.
4. The Western Edge: A Diverse Recreation Zone
The Western Edge of Central Winds Park is where you’ll find the dog park, pickleball courts, and access to the water augmentation plant and fishing pier. This area is heavily used by dog owners, sports enthusiasts, and those seeking relaxation by Lake Jesup.
With limited parking and a need for pedestrian pathways, this part of the park could benefit significantly from the proposed upgrades. These include a pavilion with seating, expanded parking, and an observation deck for lake views. The goal is to create a more seamless flow, enabling residents to enjoy the different amenities without vehicle congestion.
5. The Passive Park: A Place for Leisure and Nature
For residents who prefer a relaxed park experience, the Passive Park area offers playgrounds, sand volleyball, a basketball half-court, and open spaces for unstructured play. The passive park provides a place for families to picnic, enjoy nature, and engage in outdoor activities. However, due to drainage challenges, certain amenities, such as pavilions, face restrictions in usability.
Future plans include a nature play area, formal gardens, and a cohesive walking loop that ties the area together. The upgrades aim to enhance the passive recreation experience, allowing residents to access different amenities without difficulty while preserving the area’s natural beauty.
6. The Natural Edge: Protecting and Celebrating Nature
Winter Springs’ commitment to environmental stewardship shines in the Natural Edge section of Central Winds Park. This area encompasses wetlands, lake shorelines, and a rich tree canopy, providing a sanctuary for local wildlife and a tranquil space for visitors.
The City’s vision includes creating accessible pathways, a scenic boardwalk along the lake, and shaded picnic areas that emphasize the park’s natural character. Additionally, interpretive signage will help educate visitors on the park’s diverse ecosystems, fostering a greater appreciation for the local environment. Potential new amenities such as disc golf and nature trails will allow residents to connect with nature in an engaging yet sustainable manner.
Watch the video below to learn more about the process and hear directly from the project’s team about the exciting future of Central Winds Park:
Getting Involved in Shaping the Future of Central Winds Park
As a longtime advocate for sustainable growth and community-focused development, Commissioner Victoria Bruce encourages all Winter Springs residents to get involved in the planning process. By sharing feedback on the proposed improvements, the community can help create a vision that meets the needs of future generations while preserving the charm of Winter Springs.
The City’s commitment to transparency and open communication means there are still opportunities to contribute your thoughts and preferences. Whether you’re passionate about competitive sports, local events, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of Winter Springs, your input is invaluable.
To learn more and share your ideas, stay updated by visiting Victoria For Winter Springs. Together, we can create a Central Winds Park that embodies the spirit and aspirations of our community—one that is welcoming, sustainable, and equipped to serve as a vibrant hub for Winter Springs.
Central Winds Park is on the brink of a transformative journey, and your voice matters in shaping its future. Commissioner Victoria Bruce is committed to enhancing Winter Springs through improvements that balance recreational needs with environmental sustainability. By working together, we can create a Central Winds Park that remains a cherished gathering place for years to come.
I’m thrilled to share that the 2024 Winter Springs City Commission election has brought in a new team of leaders ready to create positive change. This election marks an exciting turning point, with three newly elected City Commissioners, Sarah Baker, Mark Caruso, and Paul Diaz. Their vision aligns with our community’s goals of improved transparency, stronger infrastructure, and thoughtful growth for Winter Springs.
Meet the New Winter Springs City Commissioners
Our 2024 City Commission election was a powerful statement from Winter Springs residents. In District 1, Paul Diaz won with a commitment to strengthen the city’s financial systems. His background as an accountant equips him to address financial challenges and foster responsible budgeting.
Mark Caruso took the District 5 seat in a competitive three-way race, leveraging his experience as a former police officer to focus on public safety and infrastructure upgrades. Mark’s readiness to collaborate and learn reflects the unity that Winter Springs residents expect from our leadership.
In District 3, Sarah Baker secured a strong win, with her platform focused on improving infrastructure, specifically tackling stormwater and wastewater issues in Winter Springs. Her firsthand experience with these challenges ensures that she will advocate strongly for sustainable solutions to flooding and public safety concerns.
Winter Springs’ Call for Change in the 2024 Election
This year’s Winter Springs City Commission election highlights the community’s desire for a transparent and proactive approach to governance. As Sarah expressed, it’s time for a renewed focus on essential services, including park accessibility, infrastructure repairs, and planned growth that fits Winter Springs’ character. By electing commissioners who are committed to open dialogue and accountability, our community has set a clear direction for a stronger Winter Springs.
Looking Ahead: Improving Infrastructure, Accessibility, and Development
Our new commissioners are ready to tackle the infrastructure and growth needs of Winter Springs. From improving roads and parks to thoughtfully managing development, their work will lay the foundation for a thriving, resident-focused city. As we saw in the 2024 Winter Springs City Commission election, the community is eager for elected officials who will make development decisions that enhance the quality of life without compromising the community’s unique character.
A Future Built on Transparency and Community Involvement
The Winter Springs 2024 City Commission election results underscore the commitment of our new leaders to transparency and community engagement. With their dedication to addressing issues like stormwater management, sustainable development, and park accessibility, I’m optimistic about our city’s future.
Together, we are shaping a new era for Winter Springs—one where every resident can take pride in our progress and look forward to a brighter, more resilient community. I’m excited to continue working alongside Sarah, Mark, and Paul to make Winter Springs the best it can be. Here’s to a new day for Winter Springs and a bright future for all!
We’re proud to introduce Kevin Sweet as our newly appointed City Manager for Winter Springs. With over two decades of experience in local government, Kevin brings a wealth of expertise in strategic planning, financial management, and emergency preparedness—skills that align perfectly with our community’s growth and needs.
The appointment was unanimously approved at the Winter Springs Commission meeting on September 23, 2024. Kevin’s leadership background includes significant roles in Wrentham, Maynard, and Taunton, Massachusetts, where he served as Town Manager and the Director of Emergency Management. His credentials, including an ICMA-Credentialed Manager certification, a Master of Public Administration in Financial Management from Norwich University, and a Master of Science in Emergency Management from the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, reflect his dedication to public service.
Kevin’s professional memberships span the International City/County Management Association, the International Association of Emergency Managers, and the Massachusetts Municipal Managers Association, reinforcing his commitment to advancing best practices in local government. He will officially join us on December 16, 2024.
To help residents learn more about his vision, Kevin has developed a 90-Day Entry Plan. This plan will focus on strengthening communication, building relationships with residents and community partners, and setting strategic goals for the city’s future. We’re excited to share this plan with you here:
I believe Kevin’s forward-thinking approach and deep understanding of municipal management will help us make a real, positive impact for all residents. Together, we can look forward to a future that upholds transparency, strategic growth, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of Winter Springs.
On November 2, 2024, Commissioner Victoria Bruce partnered with the Seminole Education, Restoration & Volunteer (SERV) Program to kick off a new environmental initiative, adopting a section of Tuskawilla Road. Community members joined forces to help beautify Winter Springs and promote a cleaner, healthier environment. This event marked a crucial step in reducing pollution and fostering local pride.
The cleanup began with an educational presentation led by SERV Coordinator Elizabeth Stephens, who discussed watershed awareness and the significance of preventing pollutants from entering local waterways. Volunteers also received a hands-on demonstration on storm drain marking—a practical step to keep contaminants out of the community’s water systems.
Event Highlights
Orange trash bags and safety vests were provided to volunteers, and many wore bright colors to stay visible and safe while working along the roadside.
Attendees were encouraged to bring water and dress comfortably for working outdoors, contributing to a successful, smooth event.
As the day wrapped up, participants celebrated a job well done. One volunteer expressed their appreciation, saying, “It’s just great to be out here in the community…and this time, I got to do it with Victoria, a true community leader. We’ve got to keep our communities clean.”
In her closing remarks, Commissioner Bruce reflected, “It was a wonderful day, picking up trash with our community, friends, and family. It’s such a great way to enjoy nature while making a positive impact.” She also encouraged residents to consider adopting their own section of road through the SERV program, emphasizing that it’s free and only requires a quarterly cleanup to maintain storm drain cleanliness.
Looking Ahead
The Tuskawilla Road cleanup marks the start of a broader community initiative dedicated to preserving Winter Springs’ natural beauty. Our next cleanup event is already on the horizon, providing residents another opportunity to make a difference. Let’s continue working together to keep Winter Springs clean and beautiful, one event at a time!
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.
Commissioner Victoria Bruce provides a comprehensive update on the recent utility rate study, highlighting key findings and future steps to ensure sustainable and fair utility services for all residents of Winter Springs.
