Victoria Bruce, Author at Victoria for Winter Springs

Addressing Water Supply Concerns in Winter Springs: Recent Update From the Director of Utilities

Residents of Winter Springs,

Here is an update from Bilal Iftikhar, the Director of Utilities regarding the concerns of the Water Distribution System in Winter Springs:

We understand that recent boil water alerts and concerns related to our water distribution system have caused inconvenience and frustration for many of our valued residents. We want to assure you that we are fully committed to addressing these issues to ensure the safety and reliability of our water supply.We empathize with the hardships this has caused for you and your families.

1. What does the City currently have in reserve for the express use of equipment replacement at the end of it’s expected useful life?

The City currently has reserves of approximately $16 million. This was recently presented as part of the proposed budget/rate study for water/wastewater utilities in the coming years with a budget of $166 million. Along with the proposed rate increase, the City anticipates taking SRF (state revolving fund loans) and utilizing much of the existing reserves in order to push forward with necessary projects, with the most significant being development of two new wastewater treatment facilities (as the current wastewater treatment facilities are well beyond there useful life). Note we are also seeking grants where possible, but these are often project specific and limited in nature. The City also currently has $18 million in ARPA funds which are anticipated in this budget.

2. When did the City most recently engage with a third party firm that is capable of performing a full engineering study on the City’s water supply infrastructure?

The most recent engineering contract was established in 2021, which was a reselection of the City’s on-call engineering consultants. Specific to water/wastewater, the initial focus of this contract was the treatment facilities. At that time, the primary needs surrounded potable water quality with improvements at water plant #1. On the wastewater side, urgent repairs and replacement of the two aging/failing wastewater treatment plants were the major focus. Additional items also included lift station rehabilitation, reclaimed system expansion, and reliability projects such as backup generators. The City also engaged engineering consultants to develop a wastewater/reclaimed master plan to identify system need, which helped to create much of the currently established Capital Improvement Program (CIP).

Since I joined the City, which was only about 5 months ago, I have established a plan for our wastewater treatment facilities, the next step will be to focus on the collection and distribution system piping. Primarily, given the continuing failures in the potable system, we plan to focus on the potable distribution system in 2024. Our goal is to begin a City-wide look at the potable water system assets, including a valve assessment program and pipeline prioritization for future repair/replacement. With more than 150 miles of water main, this will take time to accomplish, and improvements will require funding. We have already established needs for some pipeline replacement, but we expect more recommendations will come out of these analyses. For this reason, our proposed budget carries an annual pipeline replacement line item. Even with the increase, funds are limited and repairs and replacements will have to be planned strategically.

3. What are the current approved and funded plans for replacement of aged, defective and inoperable equipment including water treatment plants, potable water supply lines, sewer return lines, lift stations, pumping station, etc.?

The City has recently established an updated Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for utilities. This identified numerous projects including two new wastewater treatment plants, lift station replacements, and other collection system improvements. On the potable side, this includes further optimization of the treatment processes, reliability improvements, water main assessment, valve and water main replacements. A copy of the current CIP is attached for your reference. Please note this CIP list is not final, and we will continue to update information as we determine necessary projects (such as water main replacements). Related to the CIP, please note that we recently conducted and presented a rate study based on our proposed CIP to the commission. The rate study proposes significant rate increases in the coming years in order to fund the proposed CIP. However, the rate increases are not yet approved.

Since joining the City, my goal is to remain very open to our community with our goals and plans to improve upon the City’s water/wastewater infrastructure. However, the expected projects are not a simple undertaking. Completion of these projects to improve the City will take many years and require the funding to pay for them. This will require the support from our City leadership and citizens.

Additional comments on recent main breaks:

I noted some concerns about the recent water main breaks. Remaining open in our communication, I’m providing you with some information below:

First, I’m sorry that our residents have to deal with the breaks and the inconvenience that goes along with these breaks, such as low pressure and boil water alerts. I can assure you we are also concerned with the recent continued water main breaks which have occurred. Please note there are a variety of reasons for the system breaks, and each of the recent breaks have occurred for different reasons, varying from nearby structures inducing a failure to fiber contractors drilling through the pipe. A few of the many factors which can lead to breaks include:

Aging infrastructure – This is a challenge in every municipality. Certain materials/era’s of construction are more vulnerable than others. We are aware of areas of the system which have pipe material which is more prone to breaks and we are focusing on these areas.
Loading – External loading/forces and soil conditions can often lead to failure when the pipe cannot handle loading from the nearby forces (vehicle, structures, etc). In particular when soils “soften” in wet/flooded conditions, the pipe becomes more vulnerable.
Nearby Construction – Often, area construction work such as installation of other utilities by 3rd party contractors can lead to a failure. A few of the recent failures are related to directional drilling of fiber which hit our utilities. We have also recently met with fiber contractors to address recent issues.
Crossings – Special crossings or conflicts with other utilities (mostly underground) are often more vulnerable (these are difficult to find, such as when a pipe was improperly installed against another structure, which ultimately leads to a failure)
Storm Events – Note that Hurricane Ian caused a record amount of flooding and impacts to the City, which washed out structures, uprooted trees, etc (impacting pipelines with it). This accounted for many of the water main breaks last year.

We believe some more recent failures may still be related to flooding impacts from last year, in particular with settlement/movement which could add to pipeline stress/loading.

We as a City are not alone, and unfortunately, every utility will experience main breaks. With that said, the City recognizes that there are areas of the City which were originally developed with pipeline which is more likely to break than other materials. We will remain focused on these items, but again, please understand that this will take time and will require funding to accomplish.

Thank you for your patience, understanding and support as we plan and then work though this crucial endeavor. We are committed to making the necessary improvements, and we are confident that, with your support, our water distribution system will be better than ever.

Sincerely,

Bilal Iftikhar

Winter Springs Golf Course: Understanding the Proposed Development

Winter Springs Golf Course sits in The Highlands community, which already has around 1,400 homes. It’s a 133-acre area that’s been under a public conservation agreement since 1984.

Key Points of the Proposal

Here are some main things Pulte Group is suggesting:

Keep some old fairways and lakes as open spaces or areas where people can hang out quietly.

Set aside 10 acres for expanding the sewer plant, working with Carollo Engineering.

The idea is to build different kinds of units:

272 townhomes
41 bungalows
179 cottage homes
492 units altogether

What About Green Spaces?

Though Winter Springs usually requires 5% of a project to be open space, this plan offers 44% for public use and recreation.

Is There Room for Shops?

Yep, the development is proposing around 12 acres for commercial space along State Road 434.

Living in the Community

The proposal includes walking paths and quiet areas for residents, which would be taken care of by a homeowners association.

So What Happens Now?

There are a bunch of official steps, like changing some city plans and zoning rules, before any of this can happen. The biggest road block? Asking the city commission to lift more than 100 acres of conservation easement on the property.

Disclaimer: All information is based on the current proposal and is subject to change. Please visit the official Winter Springs website for the most up-to-date information.

What You Need to Know About the New Adel at Lake Jesup Subdivision in Winter Springs

Adel at Lake Jesup is a potential development near Lake Jesup. The folks behind it are Westgate Terrace LLC, and it’s going to be part of a bigger area called Tuskawilla Shores.

This lakefront development sits on Lake Jesup, falling under the jurisdiction of Winter Springs and Seminole County. All in all, they’re planning to build 14 houses. Four of them will have a lake view.

What About Trees and Wetlands?

They’ve promised to check out the local trees and wetlands, making sure they don’t harm the environment while building.

Lot Specifics

Total lot count: 14
Lakefront lots: 4

The size and type of each lot have been meticulously planned to offer diverse options to prospective homeowners.

In accordance with environmental guidelines, a wetlands and tree survey has been integrated into the site plan, ensuring the preservation of natural habitats.

For ongoing updates, please keep an eye on our City’s official website.

Community Update: New Residential Projects Moving Forward in Winter Springs

I’m excited to share with you updates on two major residential projects that have recently received approval from the Winter Springs City Commission, demonstrating the city’s commitment to responsible growth and community development.

Hickory Grove Townhomes

First, Mattamy Homes is in the process of constructing a 132-unit townhome community near the intersection of S.R. 434 and Tuskawilla Road, in close proximity to Winter Springs High School and a Publix-anchored shopping center. The community will feature four different two-story townhome floorplans ranging from 1,476 to 1,709 square feet. The project will include 4.3 acres of open space that will consist of amenities such as a pool, cabana, playground, and dog park, enhancing the quality of life for future residents.

Senior Living Facility

Secondly, Amco Development is preparing to begin work on an amenity-rich, 140-unit independent living facility for residents 65 and older. Located at the intersection of S.R. 434 and Fountaintree Drive, this facility will offer modern living spaces and upscale amenities designed to foster social connections and promote well-being for our senior residents. Amenities will include a restaurant, bistro, hair salon/spa, small movie theater, and areas for arts and crafts, enriching the lives of residents and their guests.

Collaborative Decision-Making

I would like to acknowledge the Planning and Zoning Board’s diligent work in reviewing these projects. After extensive deliberation and collaboration with developers to align the projects more closely with city codes, the board has ensured that these new additions will not only meet but exceed our community’s standards.

Commitment to Sustainable Growth

It’s worth noting that the City Commission lifted its growth moratorium in late July, which had been imposed earlier in the year to focus on improvements to our stormwater infrastructure. These two projects symbolize the forward momentum that Winter Springs is taking in its development, always with an eye toward sustainability and the well-being of its residents.

Your Feedback Matters

We understand that new developments can raise questions and concerns. As always, my door is open for discussions regarding these and future projects. Together, we can ensure that Winter Springs remains a community we’re proud to call home.

Thank you for your continued trust and support.

Warm regards,

Victoria Colangelo

City Commissioner, Winter Springs

1,4-Dioxane in Seminole County Water

1,4-Dioxane Update:

Recently it was discovered that a toxic industrial chemical, 1,4-dioxane, had been found to have infiltrated the Floridan Aquifer, our region’s source of drinking water.

On July 31, 2023, Winter Springs sampled its potable water systems within the City for traces of 1,4-dioxane.

Water samples were taken from all three Winter Springs Water Treatment Plants at the wells and from the points of entry(POE) and sent to a lab for analysis.

On August 11, 2023, the City received the results from the lab and was informed that the levels were found to be non-detectable (ND).

https://www.winterspringsfl.org/publicworks/page/14-dioxane

The presence of the contaminating chemical, 1,4-dioxane, has been found in water across Seminole County, Lake Mary and Sanford for years. It has been widely used in laboratory and manufacturing processes and has been a byproduct of chemicals used in personal care products, laundry detergents and food.

Health advisory levels for 1,4-dioxane are set at 0.35 parts per billion in groundwater, surface water and soil and are regulated by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

Levels of 1,4-dioxane at Seminole County’s Markham Regional Water Treatment Plant have averaged 0.18 parts per billion, roughly half of the EPA’s health advisory, officials said.

Currently, 1,4-dioxane is not federally regulated by the EPA’s Office of Groundwater and Drinking Water. Though, it has been included in the list of proposed chemicals to be federally regulated by the EPA in the future.

The current EPA Health Advisory Level (HAL) for 1,4-dioxane is 0.35 micrograms per liter (µg/L) considering an acceptable cancer risk of 1 in a million. 0.35 µg/L is the equivalent of approximately 5 filled shot glasses (7.5 oz) added to approximately 150 million gallons of water.

Drinking water at or below the HAL for a lifetime is not expected to cause any increased harmful health effects.

The EPA Health Advisory Level of 0.35 ug/l is not a promulgated Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) that is enforceable. The EPA is “continuing to evaluate for MCL” with no indication of timing.

As for Florida, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) enforces state regulated levels for 1,4-dioxane in groundwater. The Florida Administrative Code identifies a Groundwater Cleanup Target Level (GTCL) of 3.2 ug/L in groundwater that is enforceable.

1,4-dioxane and PFAS’s regulation continues to evolve from a regulatory standpoint and is much closer to having associated Federal enforceable Maximum Containment Level (MCL).

https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/07/26/what-is-14-dioxane-seminole-leaders-discuss-chemical-in-drinking-water-causing-concern/

Download PDF: https://victoriaforwintersprings.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/final-faq-14dx.pdf

Streaming Towards a Transparent Winter Springs: Live City Meetings are Here!

“Commissioner Victoria Colangelo shares her journey in bringing live video streaming of city meetings to Winter Springs, emphasizing the significance of transparency in governance.”

It is with immense pride and gratitude that I share a recent accomplishment in our journey towards enhanced transparency: the inception of live video streaming for city meetings. This has been a passion project of mine, and seeing it come to fruition is truly heartwarming.

When I took office as your City Commissioner, one of my core commitments was to foster an environment of transparency, trust, and accessibility. I believe that every resident has a right to be privy to the decisions being made on their behalf, in real-time. With today’s technology, there’s no reason to hold back from providing this access.

Thankfully, the City of Winter Springs has heeded our collective call. With a proposed timeline of around 90 days to set up the necessary equipment, we’re on track to offer an insider’s view into the workings of our city’s governance. In the interim, I’m pleased to share that you can continue to listen to the audio of meetings at winterspringsfl.org, and many of our meetings are also being generously video streamed by private citizens on the ‘Live Now 32708‘ Facebook page.

However, I acknowledge that transparency isn’t just about making information accessible; it’s also about clarity and understanding. That’s why I’m here for you, to answer questions, address concerns, and clarify any points of confusion.

It’s always been my mission to ensure that you, the heart and soul of Winter Springs, are always in the know and that your voice resonates in every decision we make. The live streaming of city meetings is just one more step in that direction.

In conclusion, our beloved Winter Springs is evolving, adapting, and setting higher standards in governance, all while putting its community first. I’m honored to be part of this journey and look forward to sharing many more updates with you all.

Warm regards,

Victoria Colangelo

City Commissioner, Winter Springs District 2

Winter Springs High School’s Tradition of Painted Parking Spaces: A Legacy of Community, Creativity, and Continuity

By Victoria Colangelo, Winter Springs City Commissioner District 2, Mother, Entrepreneur, and Proud Supporter of WSHS

Nestled in the heart of Winter Springs, the Winter Springs High School (WSHS) stands as a beacon of learning, community, and pride. With its official colors of purple, black, and gold, and the mighty Bear as its mascot, WSHS has been serving over 2,000 Seminole County students since it opened its doors in 1997. From its humble beginnings with 9th and 10th graders, to celebrating its first graduating senior class in 2000, this institution has witnessed two decades of excellence in academics, arts, and athletics.

One of the school’s most cherished traditions is the senior-painted parking spaces. This annual event sees seniors transform the school’s parking lot into a colorful canvas, allowing them to weave a piece of their journey into the very fabric of the school. Beyond its visual appeal and the fundraiser aspect, this tradition embodies the school’s mission, ensuring students graduate with the values, skills, knowledge, and attitudes to be active contributors to society.

As seasons change and the year concludes, another beautiful ritual takes shape: painting over the artwork in anticipation of the next batch of stories to be told. A fresh start for the next generation.

Having been an active member of the Winter Springs community, I’ve seen firsthand the power of such traditions in shaping our students. As a mother, an entrepreneur with a deep-rooted love for the environment, and a City Commissioner, I’ve always believed in creating and supporting initiatives that blend economic growth with cultural and environmental conservation.

The painting tradition at WSHS does just that. It’s an initiative that raises funds, fosters creativity, and instills a sense of belonging. It reminds us of the importance of cherishing memories while also looking forward to what the future holds.

As we celebrate the past and anticipate the future, I am reminded of the values that Winter Springs High School has always stood for. It’s more than just a school; it’s a community that binds us, an institution that reminds us of where we come from, and a beacon that lights up the path to where we’re headed.

To the young artists of WSHS, thank you for sharing your stories, dreams, and creativity with us. Here’s to many more years of painted memories!

Thank you for being a part of the “I Love Oviedo Winter Springs” journey. Let’s continue to grow, cherish our traditions, and work towards an even brighter future.

Senior Parking Space Painting 2023

WSHS History

APPROVAL OF ASSESSMENT ROLLS

Pursuant to Section 197.3632, Florida Statutes, each of the following assessment rolls shall be certified to the Seminole County

Tax Collector prior to September 15, 2023, along with any necessary changes subsequent to the date hereof permitted under Sections 3.12 and 4.12 of the Ordinance and the Uniform Assessment Collection Act.

A. Tuscawilla Improvement Area. The non-ad valorem assessment roll on file with the City Clerk for the Tuscawilla Improvement Area is hereby approved, such roll setting the annual rate of $36.00 per Equivalent Residential Unit (reflecting no change compared to the prior year amount and $7.00 less than the maximum rate of $43.00 previously authorized by the City.

B. Tuscawilla Maintenance Assessment Area. The non-ad valorem assessment roll on file with the City Clerk for the Tuscawilla Maintenance Assessment Area is hereby approved, such roll setting the annual rate of $128.00 per Equivalent Residential Unit (reflecting an increase of $8.00 compared to the prior year amount and being equal to the maximum rate of $128.00 previously authorized by the City).

C. Oak Forest Assessment Area (Maintenance). The non-ad valorem assessment roll on file with the City Clerk for the Oak Forest Assessment Area (Maintenance) is hereby approved, such roll setting the annual rate of $60.00 per Benefit Unit (reflecting no change from the prior year amount and $3.00 less than the maximum rate of $63.00 previously authorized by the City).

D. Tuscawilla Phase III Assessment Area (Capital). The non-ad valorem assessment roll on file with the City Clerk for the Tuscawilla (Phase III) Assessment Area (Capital) is hereby approved, such roll setting the annual rate of $88.00 per Beneficial Unit (reflecting an increase of $3.00 compared to the prior year amount and being equal to the maximum rate of $88.00 previously authorized by the City).

E. Tuscawilla Phase III Assessment Area (Maintenance). The non-ad valorem assessment roll on file with the City Clerk for the Tuscawilla (Phase III) Assessment Area (Maintenance) is hereby approved, such roll setting the annual rate of $87.00 per Benefit Unit (reflecting no change compared to the prior year amount and compared to the maximum rate of $87.00 previously authorized by the City).

The Grove Expansion: A Mental Health Treatment Facility

The Grove (IMPOWER Florida), is seeking a Conditional Use approval to expand their existing building. The Grove is an existing mental health treatment facility located on the north side of Old Sanford Oviedo Road in Winter Springs.

The subject site is approximately 14.5 acres of land and houses six (6) individual buildings. GCC_IMPOWER is currently licensed by the State of Florida Department of Children and Family (DCF) for 32 beds. This Conditional Use application is seeking to renovate an unused and unfurnished building and repurpose it to house female patients to allow them to apply to DCF to increase the number of permitted beds from 32 to 48 total.

The Grove Counseling Center was established in 1971 in Winter Springs and has been serving the surrounding community for more than 50 years. In 2007, Grove Counseling Center submitted a Conditional Use Application to add a 24’ by 36’ classroom building,

which was approved. The Grove Counseling Center and IMPOWER merged in 2018 to form a new organization (now IMPOWER) with more than 75+ years of combined experience in treating mental health and substance use disorders.

The Grove supports adolescents suffering from alcohol or substance abuse and in need of a more intensive individual support plan. Our voluntary residential program is available for youth 13-17 years old and the recommended stay ranges from three to six months depending on the individual’s progress.

The applicant is seeking a new conditional use approval to allow modification and 2,500 sq. ft. addition to one of the existing buildings near the southeast corner of the site.

A conditional use is required pursuant to Sec. 20-261(3) for Halfway houses, group homes and similar uses.

New Proposed Independent Living Facility; a 55+ community

1164 E. State Road 434 Winter Springs, FL 32708

±180,348 sq. ft., 4-story independent living facility; with a two-story 22,430 sq. ft. clubhouse/communal living area and bistro and with two four-story residential wings with 144 units and a total of 157,918 sq. ft.

The project site is made up of two parcels, one in Winter Springs and one in Longwood. The parcel in Winter Springs is 7.66 acres and makes up 92% of the site while the parcel in Longwood is 0.70 acres and makes up the other 8% of the site.

The proposed development will have a central clubhouse that will offer a restaurant, bistro, hair salon/spa, small movie theater, and areas for arts and crafts.

The applicant’s fiscal impact analysis, estimates that the increase in annual tax revenue for the city will be in excess of $90,000.