Commissioner Victoria Bruce answers a common resident question: Why is there so much development in Winter Springs — and what can the City actually control?
SJRWMD 2025–2026 Water Conservation Rebate Program: What Winter Springs Needs to Know
Save Water and Money: New SJRWMD Rebate Program Opens for 2025–2026
The St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) is once again offering rebates of up to $10,000 for water-saving improvements, and Winter Springs homeowners’ associations, multifamily property owners, and small utilities are encouraged to apply.
This rebate program is designed to help non-agricultural properties cut back on water use through smart upgrades to indoor and outdoor systems.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible participants include:
- Local governments
- Small utilities
- Homeowner and property owner associations (HOAs & POAs)
- Private and publicly owned multi-family properties
These projects are designed to restore each pond’s depth, ecological health, and functionality as part of the City’s broader stormwater management strategy.
What’s Covered?
Rebates are available for a variety of indoor and outdoor water conservation improvements, including:
- Florida Water Star℠ certification for new homes
- EPA WaterSense® smart irrigation controllers
- Irrigation system upgrades (switching to high-efficiency or micro-irrigation)
- Irrigation evaluations and timer modifications
- Soil amendments for new landscaping
- Retrofits for toilets, sinks, and showers
- H2OSAV data subscriptions for advanced water tracking
Rebates are awarded first-come, first-served until the program’s $50,000 fund is depleted.
Join the Info Webinar
To learn more and ask questions directly, join the SJRWMD Water Conservation Team for a one-hour online information session:
📅 Thursday, November 6, 2025
🕐 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM EST
💻 RSVP here: Register for the Webinar
🔗 Learn more: SJRWMD Water Conservation Rebate Program
Registration Deadline: November 4, 2025
Why This Matters for Winter Springs
As Central Florida continues to grow, water conservation is more important than ever. Using less water helps reduce strain on our utility systems and saves money for local families and property owners.
If you’re part of an HOA or manage a multi-family property, this is a great opportunity to make smart, cost-effective upgrades that benefit your residents and the community.
Winter Springs deserves sustainable solutions that work, and this program is one more tool to help us get there.
—
Victoria K. Bruce
City Commissioner, District 2
Winter Springs, Florida
Pond Sediment Removal in Winter Springs (Round II): Restoring Healthy Waterways
Restoring Winter Springs Ponds Through Sediment Removal and Ecological Renewal
Protecting our waterways is essential to maintaining the health, safety, and beauty of Winter Springs. The City is moving forward with Round II of pond sediment removal, a critical step toward restoring local stormwater ponds and improving long-term water quality.
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has provided grant funding to assist in this important work. Three ponds have been identified as part of this next phase:
- Deer Run Pond
- Tioga Court Pond
- Solary Canal Pond
These projects are designed to restore each pond’s depth, ecological health, and functionality as part of the City’s broader stormwater management strategy.
Why Pond Sediment Removal Matters
Over time, sedimentation—the buildup of sand, silt, and organic debris—naturally accumulates at the bottom of stormwater ponds. Without intervention, these materials reduce pond depth and disrupt water quality, leading to a range of environmental and structural issues.
When too much sediment builds up, it can:
- Diminish water storage capacity, increasing flood risk
- Fuel algae blooms and aquatic weed growth
- Deplete oxygen levels, harming fish and aquatic life
- Accelerate shoreline erosion
- Deteriorate water clarity and produce unpleasant odors
Sediment enters ponds primarily through stormwater runoff, carrying nutrients, soil, and debris from surrounding areas. Over time, these nutrients cause an imbalance in the ecosystem, threatening fish, waterfowl, and vegetation that rely on clean, oxygen-rich water.
How Dredging Helps
The most effective way to restore an aging or sediment-filled pond is through dredging—a process that removes excess material from the bottom of the pond and returns it to a healthy depth.
The benefits of dredging include:
- Restoring aquatic ecosystems for fish, plants, and wildlife
- Removing nutrient-rich sediment that causes algae blooms
- Improving overall water clarity and quality
- Reducing foul odors
- Preventing harmful algal blooms that threaten pets and people
- Extending the pond’s lifespan and functionality
By removing accumulated debris and nutrient-heavy sediment, dredging revitalizes the pond’s natural balance and helps ensure its long-term health.
A Sustainable Approach to Stormwater Management
While dredging is essential for ponds that have reached the end of their functional life, proactive maintenance can help slow the aging process. The City also supports practices such as:
- Aeration and fountains to improve oxygen levels
- Nutrient remediation to reduce pollutant buildup
- Shoreline management to prevent erosion
- Routine inspections to identify early signs of sedimentation
These complementary strategies help ensure that Winter Springs’ ponds continue to serve their intended purpose—reducing flooding, filtering runoff, and providing ecological and aesthetic value to the community.
As sediment removal begins at Deer Run, Tioga Court, and Solary Canal ponds, the City is reinforcing its commitment to sustainable infrastructure and environmental stewardship.
This project is another step toward protecting our shared waterways and ensuring that Winter Springs continues to thrive as a community that values both progress and preservation.
For reference and additional information on pond dredging and its benefits, visit Solitude Lake Management’s guide on pond dredging.
—
Victoria K. Bruce
City Commissioner, District 2
Winter Springs, Florida
Protecting Our Drinking Water: Winter Springs Cross-Connection Control Program
Clean, safe drinking water is one of the most important public services a city can provide. To help ensure that standard is upheld, the City of Winter Springs is implementing a new Cross-Connection Control Program to protect the city’s potable water system from contamination and maintain full compliance with Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) regulations.
This program is a proactive step to prevent the risk of pollutants entering the drinking water supply through improper plumbing connections or system failures.
Understanding Cross-Connections and Backflow
A cross-connection is any physical link between a public or private drinking water system and a source of non-potable water, such as irrigation lines, industrial systems, or cooling systems.
When pressure changes occur in the system, water from these non-potable sources can sometimes reverse direction and flow back into the public supply. This phenomenon is known as backflow.
There are two main types of backflow:
- Backpressure backflow occurs when water pressure from a non-potable source exceeds the pressure of the potable system.
- Backsiphonage happens when negative pressure (a vacuum effect) pulls contaminants into the potable water line.
Both situations can introduce hazardous substances—such as chemicals, fertilizers, or bacteria—into the public water supply if not properly managed.
Goals of the Cross-Connection Control Program
The new cross-connection control program aims to proactively identify and manage potential hazards throughout the city’s water system. Its core objectives include:
- Identifying and Documenting HazardsLocating potential cross-connection and backflow risks at commercial, industrial, institutional, and select residential properties.
- Monitoring and Tracking Backflow TestingEnsuring all Backflow Preventer Assemblies are regularly tested, documented, and in compliance with city and state requirements.
- Establishing a Centralized DatabaseCreating a cloud-based system to store and manage inspection results, testing schedules, and compliance records. All data will remain the property of the City of Winter Springs.
- GIS Integration for Better AnalysisEnsuring the program’s data is compatible with ESRI ArcGIS/ArcMap for enhanced mapping and system-wide analysis of water infrastructure.
- Training and EducationProviding on-site training for city staff on cross-connection prevention fundamentals and proper program management.
- Program Review and OptimizationConducting a full evaluation of the City’s existing program and implementing improvements where necessary.
How the Program Works
The implementation process includes:
- Cross-Connection Surveys and Inspections: Field inspections will identify and document potential hazards throughout Winter Springs’ service area.
- Compliance Tracking: Each device will be logged into a Backflow Prevention Assembly Inventory with updated testing schedules.
- Property Owner Notifications: Building owners will receive reminders and compliance deadlines for upcoming inspections or corrective actions.
- Coordination with Certified Testers: Only qualified professionals will perform testing and repairs to ensure the highest safety standards.
These measures ensure that all backflow prevention devices are properly maintained, helping to protect the integrity of Winter Springs’ drinking water system.
Why It Matters
Cross-connection control may not be something residents think about every day, but it’s one of the most important safeguards in maintaining a clean, safe, and reliable water system.
By proactively managing backflow risks and maintaining strong oversight, Winter Springs is taking responsible action to protect public health and preserve water quality for generations to come.
“Our goal is to stay ahead of potential risks, protect our water infrastructure, and maintain full transparency with our residents.”
— Victoria K. Bruce, City Commissioner, District 2
Audit Update: What’s Really Going On at City Hall?
What’s Really Going On at City Hall?
I believe in full transparency, especially when it comes to how your city government operates. The latest report from the Florida Auditor General, delivered to the Mayor on October 22, 2025, outlines eight key findings about how Winter Springs is functioning behind the scenes.
You deserve to know the facts. Here’s the good, the bad, and the ugly from this latest review.
✅ The Good
There are a few steps in the right direction worth noting:
- Procurement is working. The City has corrected past issues with how contracts and vendors are selected. Purchases are now being made fairly, transparently, and according to policy.
- Anti-fraud measures are in place. A formal anti-fraud policy is now adopted, improving protections for your tax dollars.
- Public records are mostly on track. 29 of 30 sampled requests were completed on time with no fees.
⚠️ The Bad
Progress has been made, but much remains unfinished:
- Oversight is weak. Although an engineering firm is reviewing water utility operations, the City hasn’t fully implemented policies to enforce performance or cost controls.
- Sales tax money was misused. $103,000 of infrastructure surtax funds were spent on hurricane-related work—outside legal use and not properly recorded as loans.
- Internal controls need work. Pre-approvals for city purchase card (P-card) use aren’t documented as required. Public records fees lack backup documentation.
- Turnover at the top. The City cycled through three different City Managers since 2023, and Commissioners are still violating charter rules by bypassing the City Manager and giving direction to staff.
❌ The Ugly
This one is serious—and still unresolved:
- Wastewater violations continue. Despite prior warnings, the City is still out of compliance with environmental laws. This has resulted in:
- A $51,310 fine
- A $695,850 consent-order mitigation project
- Repeated failures at both wastewater treatment facilities
- Harmful overflows into Howell Creek
- Ongoing FDEP violations
This is unacceptable. Clean water is not optional—it’s a basic right. While the City has blamed its contractor, it remains our responsibility to enforce accountability. A new operator began on October 1, 2025. I will be watching this transition very closely on your behalf.
My Commitment to You
As your elected representative, I take this audit seriously. We can’t fix what we don’t face, and this report makes it clear we still have major issues to correct.
You can read the full preliminary audit findings for yourself here:
I will continue to push for transparency, water quality improvements, and better management of your tax dollars. If we want a city that’s fiscally strong, environmentally safe, and governed with integrity, we have to demand better.
Let’s fix this—together.
—
Victoria K. Bruce
City Commissioner, District 2
Irrigation in Winter Springs: Why Using Potable Water Is a Growing Concern
Why Winter Springs Is Shifting Away from Potable Water for Irrigation
In Winter Springs, protecting our drinking water supply is a growing priority, and one of the most effective ways to do that is by reducing how much potable water is used for irrigation.
According to the City’s latest water system data, there are:
- 441 non-residential water service connections
- 110 non-residential consumers using potable water for irrigation
- 458 residential properties using potable water for irrigation
That means hundreds of homes and businesses are currently watering lawns and landscapes with treated drinking water—water that has already gone through the costly process of purification.
Why This Matters
Using potable water for irrigation is one of the largest and most preventable sources of water waste in our community. Every gallon used to water lawns is a gallon of clean, drinkable water diverted from households and essential needs.
This practice puts unnecessary strain on our city’s infrastructure and water supply, especially as Florida continues to experience population growth and periods of drought.
What’s the Difference Between Potable and Non-Potable Water?
Potable water is safe to drink and meets all state and federal standards for human consumption. It’s been filtered and treated to remove contaminants and bacteria.
Non-potable water, on the other hand, is not safe to drink but can safely be used for purposes such as:
- Lawn and landscape irrigation
- Toilet flushing
- Industrial and commercial processes
The difference comes down to treatment level and intended use. By using non-potable water for irrigation, communities can conserve millions of gallons of drinking water each year.
Winter Springs’ Plan for Conservation
The City of Winter Springs is actively working to expand its non-potable irrigation network, known as the “purple pipe” system. This system delivers reclaimed water that is safe for irrigation but not intended for consumption.
As part of the City’s Water Works and Stormwater Master Plans, Winter Springs is evaluating opportunities to connect more neighborhoods and commercial areas to this system—reducing reliance on potable water for irrigation and promoting long-term water sustainability.
Why It’s Important for Residents
Conservation is about protecting our aquifer, reducing operating costs, and ensuring that future generations have access to a reliable, clean water supply.
As more neighborhoods gain access to reclaimed (non-potable) irrigation water, residents will benefit from lower demand on drinking water systems and a more resilient water infrastructure overall.
Every drop counts. By using the right type of water for the right purpose, Winter Springs can continue leading the way in sustainability and responsible water management.
—
Victoria K. Bruce
City Commissioner, District 2
Winter Springs, Florida
A New Chapter for Winter Springs? Let’s Put It to the Voters
Understanding the Proposed Winter Springs Governance Modernization Act
Last week, I became aware of a proposed bill known as the Winter Springs Governance Modernization Act (2026)— a significant update to how our city government could be structured in the coming years. This legislation has the potential to reshape how we serve our residents, how decisions are made, and how accountability is maintained.
As your City Commissioner, I want to share what this proposal means, why it’s being considered, and where I stand on the matter.
What Is the Governance Modernization Act?
This local bill, introduced at the state level, would revise the City Charter for Winter Springs. It proposes a five-member City Commission that includes a voting mayor, who would preside over meetings and participate in all decisions — just like any other commissioner.
It also proposes:
- Eliminating the mayor’s current veto power
- Keeping district residency for each commissioner, but requiring that all commissioners be elected at-large by the city’s voters
- Phasing in the changes from 2026 to 2028, with no disruption to current elected terms
Below you can review the full 2026 proposed Florida House bill to amend the Winter Springs City Charter. Changes include a voting mayor, revised commission structure, and phased implementation through 2028:
Winter Springs Charter Amendment – Governance Reform 2026
Why Now?
Winter Springs is the only city in Seminole County where the mayor does not vote, yet holds the power to veto decisions made by the elected City Commission. Some feel this outdated structure has created unnecessary conflict and hindered progress for years.
In contrast, neighboring cities like Longwood, Oviedo, and Lake Mary have mayors who vote as part of the governing body. The proposed bill seeks to bring Winter Springs in line with these modern models of governance.
My Position: Let’s Put It to the Voters
I believe this is an important and timely conversation. But I also believe it’s a decision that should ultimately belong to you, the residents of Winter Springs. That’s why I support placing this question on the ballot for voter approval through a referendum.
Structural changes to our city’s Charter should never happen behind closed doors or without thorough public engagement. A referendum ensures transparency, protects local voices, and gives every resident the opportunity to weigh in on how their city is governed.
That’s democracy. That’s accountability. And that’s what I stand for.
What Comes Next?
This bill presents an opportunity for Winter Springs to grow stronger, but only if we move forward with input, understanding, and public support.
As always, I remain committed to open communication, fiscal responsibility, environmental protection, and the safety and well-being of every resident. I welcome your thoughts, your feedback, and your questions as this conversation continues.
Let’s shape the future of Winter Springs — together.
With gratitude,
Victoria K. Bruce
Commissioner, District 2
Major Projects Advance in Winter Springs: October 13, 2025 Commission Meeting Recap
As your Commissioner for District 2, I remain committed to transparency and community advocacy. Monday’s October 13, 2025 Commission meeting was among our most passionate and impactful to date. It included approval of a major development project and serious allegations of contractor abuse at a former 7-Eleven site.
Wawa Officially Approved at Winter Springs Marketplace
After years of discussion, public workshops, and site plan revisions, the Commission officially approved the Wawa development at the corner of SR 434 and Tuskawilla Road.
Highlights of the Approved Plan:
- Convenience store and gas canopy layout (as proposed)
- Outdoor seating added at the community’s request
- Color palette matched to Aldi for architectural cohesion
- 7-foot monument sign approved (1 sign only)
- EV charging stations (non-Tesla) added to plaza
- Roberts Family Lane retrofit included for improved traffic flow
- 10 dedicated parking spots for Wawa employees behind Aldi
Public & Commissioner Commentary
Wawa’s project team presented a strong case for economic benefits, job creation, and their long-standing community service across Central Florida. Many residents spoke in favor of the project, even while acknowledging design trade-offs.
Several commissioners debated how the layout impacted pedestrian safety and Town Center code compliance. Despite code concerns, the majority ultimately supported the project after considering community input and developer concessions.
“Let’s make this the best-looking Wawa in the region,” — Mayor McCann
“I support Wawa. I just want it done within our town center code,” — Commissioner Resnick
“This is about responsible growth. We have to balance investment with code integrity.” — Victoria Bruce
Clubhouse Deli at Former 7-Eleven Sparks Legal Concerns
During public input, we heard serious testimony from multiple contractors alleging:
- Unpaid invoices totaling thousands of dollars
- Use of fraudulent checks
- Unlicensed and unsafe gas work
- Unpermitted construction activities
- Buried 500-gallon propane tank without permits
All of this is alleged to have occurred under the leadership of Mr. Robin Neilen, who is developing the Clubhouse Deli at the former 7-Eleven in Tuscawilla on 898 Gary Hillery Dr, Winter Springs, FL 32708
Public Testimony Highlights:
“I did emergency welding work for his deli. No pay. No communication. I have kids to feed.” — Jeff Cudi, Metal Mayhem Welding
“I filed criminal charges after receiving a fraudulent check.” — Gladys Sherpa, Valor Air Group LLC
“He’s lying. The tank was buried illegally. I told the city inspectors immediately.” — James Miller, licensed contractor and project GC
Mr. Neilen Responds
Mr. Neilen took the podium in his defense:
“I’m being attacked unfairly. I’ve paid through money orders. I was hospitalized. The city took five months to approve my permit.”
He blamed vendors and city delays, while denying responsibility for the site’s violations or unpaid labor.
City’s Immediate Actions
- Code enforcement is now fully engaged on the site
- Police Chief was present and briefed directly
- Commissioners voiced concern and support for small business contractors
- The property owner also came forward and apologized to the city
“The project is a mess. I’ve received violations I can’t control. I’m embarrassed. I want to fix this.”
— Property Owner (Public Comment)
Commissioner Victoria Bruce’s Position
On Wawa:
I support responsible business development that creates value and jobs for Winter Springs. The Wawa team showed consistent community engagement and responded to our concerns, even if the layout wasn’t perfect. The result is an enhanced project that I believe will benefit our city and residents.
On Clubhouse Deli:
The testimony we heard about unpaid contractors and alleged criminal activity is deeply troubling. Winter Springs must protect its residents — including tradespeople, small businesses, and property owners. I stand with the workers who bravely shared their stories, and I expect accountability moving forward.
What’s Next?
- Wawa construction is expected to begin in early 2026.
- EV charging stations, outdoor seating, and aesthetic elements will be finalized in permitting.
- The Clubhouse Deli site remains under investigation by city staff and code enforcement.
- The Commission will likely review our permit oversight and enforcement processes for commercial tenants.
Watch the Full Meeting:
Thank you for staying informed and for continuing to advocate for a Winter Springs we can all be proud of. If you ever have questions, please reach out — I work for you.
Together in service,
Victoria K. Bruce
Commissioner, District 2
Winter Springs Files Lawsuit Over Tuskawilla Crossings Pond Failure – Victoria Bruce Responds
City of Winter Springs Takes Legal Action After Tuskawilla Crossings Pond Collapse
On September 5, 2025, the City of Winter Springs filed a lawsuit in Seminole County Circuit Court over the collapse of a stormwater pond berm in the Tuskawilla Crossings subdivision. As your City Commissioner, I want to be fully transparent about what happened, what the City is doing, and why this matters for every resident.
Who Is the City Suing?
The lawsuit names several entities involved in the design, construction, and maintenance of the failed stormwater system:
- Standard Pacific of Florida, LLC and Standard Pacific of Florida GP, LLC – the developers
- Boykin Construction, Inc. – the builder
- Appian Engineering (formerly B&S Engineering Consultants, LLC) – the engineering firm of record
- UES Professional Solutions, LLC – the geotechnical consultant
- Tuskawilla Crossings Homeowners Association, Inc. – the HOA tasked with maintenance
What Went Wrong?
In September 2023, one of the berms that forms a stormwater pond within the subdivision failed suddenly and completely. This wasn’t just a minor breach; it was an “instantaneous collapse,” indicating serious design or construction flaws. This pond was built in 2021 and was intended to manage stormwater runoff and protect surrounding infrastructure.
When infrastructure like this fails, it puts homes, roads, and our environment at risk. Early assessments estimate repair costs between $1.5 to $2 million.
Why the City Is Suing
This legal action seeks to hold the responsible parties accountable for:
- Defective construction
- Negligent engineering
- Improper or insufficient maintenance
- Violations of applicable codes and environmental permits
As a city, we cannot—and will not—ask our residents to foot the bill for problems they didn’t create.
While the damage occurred in Tuskawilla Crossings, the broader issue is one of responsibility and transparency. If development is not properly planned, engineered, and maintained, the consequences fall on taxpayers. This lawsuit is about more than just one pond. It’s about sending a clear message: In Winter Springs, developers must meet their obligations, or they will be held accountable.
I’ve long been an advocate for smart growth, environmental protection, and strong infrastructure oversight. This situation underscores exactly why those principles matter.
Want to Learn More?
- Read the full lawsuit:View PDF on Flipsnack
- Read the news coverage:Oviedo Community News – Sept. 24, 2025
- My original blog post on the pond failure:Critical Evaluation Needed: Tuskawilla Crossings Pond Failure
Closing Thoughts
As always, I believe residents deserve clear answers and responsible leadership. I will continue to push for stronger accountability in development practices and to protect both our natural environment and your tax dollars.
If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out or attend an upcoming City Commission meeting. This is your city too, and your voice is part of the solution.
East Seminole County Basin Studies Aim to Reduce Flood Risk and Improve Water Management
What You Should Know About the East Seminole County Basin Studies
I often hear concerns from residents about drainage, flooding, and the lasting impact of heavy storms. That’s why I want to share important information about a proactive effort currently underway through Seminole County Public Works: the East Seminole County Basin Studies.
These studies are a critical step toward improving our regional stormwater infrastructure and reducing the risk of flooding in areas like Soldiers Creek, Gee Creek, Little Lake Howell, Howell Creek, and Lake Jesup.
The goal of these basin studies is clear: to create a cost-effective, data-driven plan to minimize flooding and the damaging impacts of uncontrolled stormwater runoff. In a time of rising storm intensity and aging infrastructure, this kind of planning is essential for the long-term safety of our neighborhoods and the protection of our natural resources.
What Areas Are Included?
The East Seminole County Basin Studies are divided into three key groups:
- Group A: Soldiers Creek, Gee Creek, and Little Lake Howell
- Group B: Howell Creek
- Group C: Lake Jesup
Each group represents a unique watershed with specific characteristics, challenges, and infrastructure needs.
What the Study Involves
To build a meaningful strategy for each basin, the County is undertaking a comprehensive watershed management planning process that includes:
- Watershed Data Collection: Gathering information on hydrology, hydraulics, and existing infrastructure
- Level of Service (LOS) Evaluation: Measuring how well the current drainage systems perform
- Floodplain Mapping: Updating maps using modern modeling technology
- Alternatives Analysis: Identifying and evaluating potential improvements based on cost, feasibility, and effectiveness
How This Connects to the Bigger Picture
These local studies are part of a much larger initiative: the Seminole County Stormwater Master Plan, which is currently in development. Together, these efforts will shape how we plan, invest, and respond to stormwater challenges over the coming decades.
The Master Plan will ultimately help determine where infrastructure dollars should go, which neighborhoods are most vulnerable, and how we can be smarter and more sustainable in our approach to water management.
Staying Engaged
If you live near one of the affected creeks or drainage basins—or if you’ve ever dealt with flooding in your area—I encourage you to learn more about this project and engage with the County’s public input opportunities.
I’ll continue tracking this work closely and will share updates as the County begins implementing recommendations. As always, my priority is protecting the people and places that make Winter Springs special.
Let’s keep working together to build a more flood-resilient, sustainable future.
Victoria K. Bruce
Winter Springs City Commissioner, District 2
