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.
As your city commissioner, I’m here to provide an update on the City of Winter Springs’ Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2023. It’s important to me that our city’s finances are transparent and responsibly managed, especially as we encounter rising costs in certain areas.
This report outlines our city’s financial health, with significant investments in infrastructure upgrades, public safety, and parks. We’ve worked hard to strengthen our financial position, keeping taxes low and reserves steady. However, as Winter Springs continues to grow, the overall size of our government and the rising costs tied to it are areas we need to monitor closely. My focus will be on ensuring that we operate efficiently, getting the best value for the resources we use, and streamlining wherever possible.
I’ve also been vocal about improving financial transparency within our city’s operations. While the ACFR provides valuable insights, it’s crucial we continue to push for clear, accessible financial information for all residents.
This report shows our ongoing efforts to balance economic growth with maintaining Winter Springs’ character and environmental health. I encourage everyone to review the report to understand where your tax dollars are going and how we plan to manage financial challenges ahead.
Thank you for your continued trust and engagement in making Winter Springs a thriving community.
Addressing the Future of the Lake Jesup Reclaimed Water Augmentation Plant: A Message from Victoria Bruce
Dear Winter Springs Residents,
As your City Commissioner, I want to address an important issue that directly affects our community’s water resources and our commitment to sustainable living. The Lake Jesup Reclaimed Water Augmentation Plant is a vital project that has the potential to significantly improve our water management, but it has faced several challenges over the years. I want to provide you with an overview of its history, the issues we’ve encountered, and the path forward.
Why the Lake Jesup Plant Matters
The Lake Jesup Reclaimed Water Augmentation Plant was envisioned as a solution to our growing water needs, particularly for irrigation. By treating and repurposing water from Lake Jesup, this plant aims to reduce our reliance on potable water for irrigation purposes. This is crucial for several reasons:
Conservation of Potable Water: By using reclaimed water for irrigation, we can reserve more potable water for essential uses such as drinking and bathing.
Environmental Sustainability: Utilizing reclaimed water helps protect our natural water sources and supports sustainable water management practices.
Economic Benefits: Reducing the demand for potable water can help lower utility costs and prevent the need for expensive infrastructure expansions.
History of the Plant
The plant was commissioned in 2013 with the goal of augmenting our reclaimed water system, especially during peak demand periods. It was designed to treat water from Lake Jesup to meet public access standards. However, from the beginning, the plant faced significant operational challenges.
Challenges and Issues
Water Quality and Filtration: The plant struggled to consistently meet the required water quality standards. Total suspended solids (TSS) levels in the treated water frequently exceeded permissible limits, reducing the plant’s effectiveness.
Mechanical and Design Flaws: There were several design and mechanical issues, such as improperly sized flush water pumps and structural problems with the storage tank.
Flooding and Damage: The plant’s infrastructure was affected by flooding during Hurricane Irma, causing significant damage to the intake pump station.
Operational Gaps: Lack of comprehensive operational data and adequate instrumentation hindered proper analysis and optimization of the plant’s performance.
Path Forward
Despite these challenges, there is a clear path to making the Lake Jesup Plant operational again and maximizing its benefits for our community:
Immediate Repairs: Repair the intake pump control panel and address known issues with the flush water system.
Upgrades to Filtration System: Implement chemical cleaning regimes, relocate the sodium hypochlorite injection point, and install finer screens to improve water quality.
Long-term Solutions: Conduct a pilot test for alternative filtration processes and evaluate the feasibility of upgrading or replacing the existing system.
Benefits of a Functional Plant
Reviving the Lake Jesup Plant will have numerous benefits for Winter Springs:
Increased Use of Reclaimed Water: More residents will be able to use reclaimed water for irrigation, reducing the strain on our potable water supply.
Conservation of Drinking Water: By diverting irrigation needs to reclaimed water, we ensure more potable water is available for essential uses.
Compliance with Regulatory Limits: Reducing our potable water consumption helps us stay within our allotted Consumptive Use Permit (CUP) from the St. Johns River Water Management District.
Your support and understanding are crucial as we work to overcome these challenges and make the Lake Jesup Reclaimed Water Augmentation Plant a success. Together, we can ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for Winter Springs.
Please see the below link for items that have come before the City Commission related to the Lake Jesup Reclaimed Water Augmentation Plant. This includes multiple feasibility analyses, engineering reports, etc.
Below is a map and a document from a CPH study commissioned by Winter Springs, which cost thousands of dollars to produce. The study outlines how a six-inch pipe from Parkstone could transport artesian water to the nearby reclaimed water facility at Central Winds Park.
Thank you for your continued trust and commitment to our community.
As your City Commissioner, I’m thrilled to share with you the wonderful enhancements at Trotwood Park. Today, we celebrate not just the addition of a beautiful new boardwalk but the culmination of extensive improvements that reflect our city’s commitment to fostering community and enhancing the quality of life for all our residents.
A Testament to Community and Craftsmanship
The completion of the new boardwalk at Trotwood Park marks the final phase of a multi-year improvement project, which has included updates from new basketball courts and parking facilities to playground enhancements. These improvements are part of our broader “Perk up Parks Initiative,” aimed at revitalizing our city’s parks and play areas.
What makes the Trotwood Park boardwalk particularly special is that it was constructed entirely by our talented City of Winter Springs Parks Department staff. Through their hard work and dedication, we managed to save nearly $250,000 on this project! This cost-effective approach has allowed us to reinvest in further enhancements and ensure our parks meet the high standards our community deserves.
More Than Just a Boardwalk
As we cut the ribbon to officially open the new boardwalk, I couldn’t help but feel immense pride in what we’ve achieved together. This boardwalk is more than just a pathway—it’s a gateway to nature, a place for families to gather, and a space for all of us to connect with the environment. From fishing and bird watching to simply enjoying a quiet moment away from the bustle of daily life, the boardwalk offers something for everyone.
“Our new boardwalk is such an investment into our residents’ ability to enjoy nature, to recreate, and to just be,” I shared during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Thanks to Len Hartman and his team, this boardwalk is built to last, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same beautiful, natural surroundings that we do today.
Join Us at Trotwood Park
If you haven’t had a chance to visit recently, I encourage you to come and see the improvements for yourself. Trotwood Park now has a splash pad, updated playground, fitness equipment, sports facilities, and of course our stunning new boardwalk.
Thank you to everyone who has supported and contributed to this project. Your involvement is what drives our success and ensures that Winter Springs remains a wonderful place to live, work, and play.
Come visit soon and see why Trotwood Park is a jewel in the crown of Winter Springs.
In January 2024, the Winter Springs City Commission unanimously passed a resolution adopting a comprehensive Code of Conduct for city boards and committees. This policy was designed to promote ethical behavior, professionalism, and respect among all appointed officials, ensuring that they serve the community with dignity and integrity.
However, it has become increasingly clear that Ken Spalthoff, a member of the Winter Springs Planning and Zoning Board, has failed to uphold these standards.
Ken Spalthoff signed this Code of Conduct, agreeing to demonstrate civility, respect, and courtesy towards everyone he interacts with in his official capacity. He pledged to refrain from intimidation, ridicule, and unprofessional behavior. Yet, his actions since January tell a very different story.
Spalthoff’s ongoing campaign of harassment against Commissioner Victoria Bruce is a blatant violation of the principles outlined in the Code of Conduct. Despite the dismissal of his baseless ethics complaint against her, he has continued to spread misinformation and engage in defamatory attacks. His behavior not only undermines the integrity of our city’s leadership but also violates the agreement he made with the residents of Winter Springs when he signed the Code of Conduct.
Item #4 of the Code explicitly states that members will “demonstrate dignity, civility, respect, and courtesy” and “refrain from intimidation and ridicule.” Item #5 further requires that any disagreements or criticisms be framed in a professional and dignified manner. Spalthoff’s actions have repeatedly flouted these guidelines, showing a clear disregard for the ethical standards he pledged to uphold.
Winter Springs deserves better. We need leaders who prioritize the well-being of the community and adhere to the ethical standards that have been established to guide their behavior. Spalthoff’s conduct has made it clear that he is not fit to continue serving on the Planning and Zoning Board.
It is time for the community to take a stand. We must hold our leaders accountable and demand that those who fail to meet their obligations be removed from their positions. By voting to remove Ken Spalthoff from the Planning and Zoning Board, we can send a strong message that Winter Springs will not tolerate unethical behavior from its leaders.
Let’s ensure that our city is led by individuals who respect the values of integrity, professionalism, and respect. It’s time to act.
For more information on how you can get involved in holding our leaders accountable, visit the official Winter Springs City Website.
