The Grove Expansion: A Mental Health Treatment Facility

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

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.

A Positive Stride Towards Transparency in Winter Springs

A Positive Stride Towards Transparency in Winter Springs

Recently, there’s been a new rule implemented that mandates every elected official in our city, including City Commissioners like myself, to publicly disclose our tax returns and business dealings. As someone who has always been an advocate for transparency, I wholeheartedly support this move. Transparency, after all, is the bedrock of a strong democracy, and this initiative can only deepen the trust between elected officials and you, our valued constituents.

While the idea of sharing personal financial data might seem daunting to some, I believe that when we step into the world of public service, we have a responsibility to lead with integrity and openness. The essence of this new rule is to ensure that there’s no conflict of interest and that we, as public representatives, prioritize the welfare of our community above everything else.

In my tenure as your City Commissioner, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of transparency. It encourages greater community engagement, instills confidence, and most importantly, holds us accountable for our actions. By openly disclosing our tax returns and business interests, we’re taking a collective pledge to maintain the high standards of honesty and integrity that you, the residents of Winter Springs, expect and deserve.

The new law mandates that local elected officials no longer file the previously known Form 1 financial disclosure. Instead, they must file “Form 6—Full and Public Disclosure of Financial Interest” with the Florida Commission on Ethics by July 1 of each year.

Form 6 is considerably more comprehensive than Form 1 and it mandates officials to:

  1. Report each source of income over $1,000, its address, and the total amount received.
  2. Identify and value assets exceeding $1,000.
  3. List the creditor’s name and address for liabilities over $1,000 and specify their amounts.
  4. Present a statement indicating the value of one’s net worth as of December 31 of the preceding year, or a more recent date.

Disclosure Options:

To satisfy the first requirement, officials have two options:

  1. Provide a sworn statement detailing each income source and amount over $1,000.
  2. Share the most recent federal income tax return, including all its associated attachments and schedules.

I want to take this opportunity to share that I am currently in the process of gathering all the necessary documents and will be completing my disclosure at the earliest. I urge my fellow commissioners and elected officials to do the same promptly. It’s not just about compliance; it’s about taking a stand for transparency and ensuring that the interests of our community always come first.

I understand that change, especially one of this nature, may lead to numerous questions and perhaps a few concerns. I invite you to reach out with any queries you might have. As always, I am here to listen, clarify, and act in the best interest of our beloved Winter Springs.

In conclusion, the path to a better and more transparent governance system is paved with such initiatives. Let us all embrace this change and ensure that Winter Springs remains a beacon of trust, community spirit, and forward-thinking governance.

Winter Springs Lift Station Back-Up Generators Update

Winter Springs Lift Station Back-Up Generators Update

There are 49 lift stations currently in the City of Winter Springs; 16 currently have back-up generators. An additional five (5) additional generators have been approved to purchase with funds from the Capital Improvements budget.

When low areas of land or where pipe depth underground becomes excessive, pump stations or lift stations are installed. These stations lift the wastewater to a higher point so it can again flow by gravity, or the wastewater can be pumped under pressure directly to the treatment plant. The generators will prevent sanitary sewer overflows when the electricity goes out!

Reclaimed Water System: Low Pressure

Reclaimed Water System: Low Pressure

Recently, the RCW (reclaimed water system) has experienced service pressure issues and low pressure has been experienced by some City residents.  Florida’s weather pattern typically experiences increased temperatures in the March or April months and the consistent summer rains start between May and June.  This year, the consistent summer rains typically experienced between May and June, have not occurred.  The result is warmer, dryer conditions and increased RCW demand for landscape irrigation. 

The City’s RCW system has a finite amount of water available every day.  This is due to the water reclamation facilities treating the amount of wastewater that is received.  During these few days, if the RCW demand exceeds the amount of wastewater received, there is a water volume deficit.  To mitigate the effects, RCW water is pumped from where water is available to where it is needed during non-irrigation (daylight) hours.  During this process, some customers may experience lower than normal RCW pressures.  In some instances, it has required a longer time frame than the non-irrigation hours in order to transfer a sufficient volume of RCW water for the anticipated RCW demand.  However, RCW has typically been available during permitted (night time) irrigation hours.  The extra effort to mitigate the effects will likely continue until the more typical summer rains return and RCW irrigation demand subsides.

Until normal rains return, all customers can do their part to support the RCW system.  During this time of year, irrigation is permitted two days per week during nighttime hours as posted on the City’s website.  Customers can minimize the amount of time per irrigation zone, which reduces demand and saves money on their utility bill.  Rain sensors installed on irrigation systems detect when rain has occurred and will delay irrigation when it is not needed.  These efforts by everyone conserves precious water resources for customers and the environment.

We are continuing to work on a few improvements that may help with the pressure.

Time of the YearOdd-Numbered Addressor No AddressEven-Numbered AddressNonresidential Properties
Daylight Saving TimeWednesday/SaturdayThursday/SundayTuesday/Friday
Eastern Standard TimeSaturdaySundayTuesday
  • NO water is allowed between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on any day
  • Water only when neededWater for no more than one hour per zone
  • Restrictions apply to private wells and pumps, ground or surface water, and water from public and private utilities

These rules apply if you are using potable water or a private well for irrigation. If you have reclaimed water for irrigation, then you may water two days per week year-round.

Winter Springs Drinking Water Quality Update (2023)

Winter Springs Drinking Water Quality Update (2023)

As a valued resident of Winter Springs, it’s essential for you to be informed about the quality of the drinking water supplied to our community. We’re pleased to share the recent findings and updates about our commitment to ensuring optimal water quality.

Currently, Winter Springs meets all the EPA Standards for Federal Drinking Water. For your reference, the following contaminants were all detected at levels below the regulatory limit, also referred to as the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL):

» Barium » Nitrate (as N) » Fluoride » Sodium

» Lead » Copper » Cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene » Dalapon

» Chlorine » Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs) » Haloacetic Acids (HAA5)

These regulations, prescribed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), are in place to ensure that the tap water you consume is safe. In addition to the MCL, it’s worth noting the Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level (MRDL) – this is the highest level of a disinfectant allowed in drinking water.

Next Steps:

  1. 1,4-Dioxane testing in-progress
  2. WTP #2 and 3 process optimizations
  3. WTP #1, 2 and 3 sulfide evaluation
  4. Additional taste and odor optimizations

301 Agenda Item; Winter Springs: August 14, 2023 Commission Meeting 

This upcoming meeting will focus on a myriad of service optimizations:

  1. Permits for relocating the chlorine injection points at the Water Treatment Plants (WTP)
  2. Evaluating sulfide removal methods at the WTPs through field samples
  3. Coordinating the caustic squeeze process
  4. Flow data verification
  5. As-needed support for the distribution/collection system

Winter Springs Drinking Water Update

The City of Winter Springs is consistently looking for ways to further improve our potable water quality and aesthetics. In line with this commitment, we are collaborating with Carollo Engineers, Inc. to provide advanced technical support in several areas:

  1. Sulfide removal
  2. Ion exchange system optimization
  3. Permits acquisition
  4. Extensive water quality testing, and more.

This intensive project includes both hands-on field sampling and a thorough desktop analysis of historical data. We are investing a total of $194,244.66 into this initiative, reaffirming our dedication to delivering the highest water quality standards.

We appreciate your trust in our services and remain dedicated to ensuring Winter Springs has access to clean, safe, and high-quality drinking water. For more detailed insights, please feel free to explore the embedded presentations or contact our me for more information.

Staying Informed: 2023 Update on Winter Springs’ Solid Waste Fund

Staying Informed: 2023 Update on Winter Springs’ Solid Waste Fund

As your City Commissioner, I am committed to keeping you informed about our city’s services, and today, I have some vital updates to share about our Solid Waste Fund and a proposed rate increase for 2023.

A Brief Recap of Solid Waste Services

Since March 1, 2006, the City has maintained a Solid Waste Franchise Agreement with Waste Pro of Florida, Inc. This agreement set the monthly residential rate at $18.10, a stable rate for over 18 years. Weekly services under this agreement include two solid waste pickups, one recycling pickup, and one yard waste pickup.

While our waste collection services have helped keep Winter Springs clean and green, the cost of providing these services and managing landfill costs has increased over the years. Therefore, the existing rate of $18.10 has been under review.

The Need for Review & Proposed Increase

In line with the changing expenditures, a proposed Solid Waste Rate Increase is on the horizon for 2023. This would change the rate to approximately $21.36-$28.24 per household per month, with additional annual increases projected for the next 10 years.

Please view the detailed findings of the Solid Waste Rate Study in the slide below:

Thank you for your understanding and your commitment to our community’s cleanliness and sustainability. Stay tuned for further updates on this matter.

Remember, if you have any concerns or comments regarding our city’s services, I am always available to listen. Feel free to reach out to me at vcolangelo@winterspringsfl.org.

Commission_Presentation_Printout_081423Download
Creek Debris Removal in Winter Springs

Creek Debris Removal in Winter Springs

On August 8, 2023, the City of Winter Springs embarked on a significant environmental enhancement project: the clearing of debris from our city’s creeks! This initiative will not only bolster our environment but also ensure that stormwater flows smoothly throughout our beloved city, safeguarding against possible flooding and enhancing the natural beauty of our waterways.

Thanks to a grant from the Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS), Looks Great Services of Columbia, Mississippi, will begin the essential task of clearing debris from five separate creeks to restore functionality and improve the smooth flow of stormwater throughout the City.

For those interested in the project’s specifics:

Funding Dynamics: The NRCS grant is a significant boon, covering up to 75% of the project’s total cost. The City of Winter Springs, committed as always to the betterment of its environment and infrastructure, will fund the remaining 25%.

Project Flow and Duration: Starting with Gee Creek, the project will systematically progress to Bear, Howell, No Name, and finally, Sheoah Creeks. Given the scale and importance of the project, it’s anticipated to span several weeks, ensuring that each creek gets the dedicated attention it requires.

Visual Mapping: For residents keen to understand the areas that will be under focus, we have detailed maps available.

The project will start with work along Gee Creek, followed by Bear, Howell, No Name, and Sheoah Creeks, and is expected to take several weeks to complete.

We’re excited about this project, and its implications for Winter Springs. Restoring the natural flow and beauty of our creeks is a step towards a cleaner, greener, and safer city. We urge all residents to be patient and cooperative during this period, ensuring that the crews can carry out their tasks seamlessly.

Your feedback and observations are always invaluable. Please reach out with any comments or concerns. Together, let’s make Winter Springs a beacon of environmental responsibility and beauty.

Winter Springs Commissioner Victoria Colangelo Appointed to New Role With Florida’s League of Cities

Winter Springs Commissioner Victoria Colangelo Appointed to New Role With Florida’s League of Cities

I am proud to announce that I have been appointed to serve as a Florida League of Cities Legislative Policy Committees with the focus of Utilities, Natural Resources, and Public Works. This committee addresses policies specific to municipal concerns with coastal management, energy, environmental and wetlands permitting, hazardous and toxic wastes, recycling, solid waste collection and disposal, stormwater, wastewater treatment and reuse, water management, water quality and quantity.

Each year, dedicated municipal officials from all across Florida volunteer to serve on these Legislative Policy Committees. This responsibility is a crucial part of setting the legislative agenda for not just our city, but also for all of Florida’s 411 municipalities.

I will be attending the upcoming meetings scheduled on:

  • September 8, 2023, at the Rosen Centre Orlando.
  • October 6, 2023, at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center.
  • November 30, 2023, during the FLC Legislative Conference at the Hilton Orlando.

I am committed to bringing about positive change to our Winter Springs community, and I look forward to sharing the outcomes of these meetings with you all.

Thank you for your trust and support. Together, we can create a resilient Winter Springs.

Best,

Victoria Colangelo

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