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.
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.
Standing Up for Fiscal Responsibility in Winter Springs
On Monday, September 22, our City Commission held the final vote on the 2025–2026 budget. What is normally a routine process turned into a long night of questions, debate, and some frustration. I want to explain why I raised concerns at this stage, what those concerns were, and why I believe asking tough questions — even late in the process — is part of my responsibility to you, the residents of Winter Springs.
The Budget Process: Two Votes, One Final Decision
By Florida law, every city must hold two public hearings before adopting its budget. The first is a tentative approval. The second — the one we had Monday — is the final vote. While most of the line items are usually debated earlier, the fact that there are two required readings shows that the process is designed for transparency and accountability.
I believed it was important to use that opportunity to make sure we were not simply rubber-stamping everything in the budget without one last look.
Areas of Financial Spending Concern
During the meeting, I laid out a full list of budget items that I believe deserved closer scrutiny:
These items alone represent hundreds of thousands of dollars in discretionary spending. When combined with the steep rise in Arbor Fund and R&M Grounds spending, they signal a trend toward wants rather than needs at a time when residents are paying more everywhere else.
A Closer Look: Tuskawilla Crossings Tree Replacement
Another major concern I raised was the cost of replacing trees in the Tuskawilla Crossings community. When this project was first discussed, the estimate was around $100,000. Now, the budget includes $500,000 spread over two years — $250,000 in 2026 and another $250,000 in 2027.
I understand the reasoning: the Live Oak trees planted in that community have aggressive root systems that will eventually damage sidewalks, roads, and utilities. Replacing them now with smaller, more suitable trees is a way to avoid higher costs later.
But here’s the issue: residents were not clearly told the price tag would grow fivefold. When a project more than quadruples in cost, it deserves a fresh, transparent discussion before it’s tucked into a budget line item. That’s why I pushed for more detail and accountability at the final vote.
Why Timing Still Matters
Some of my colleagues argued that these concerns should have been raised earlier, during budget workshops. And yes, ideally, questions like mine are raised and resolved before the final hearing. But the second vote is still a binding, legal decision. Once we pass it, those dollars are committed. If I believe there are items that don’t serve residents or don’t rise to the level of “need,” I cannot in good conscience stay silent just because it’s late in the process.
Fiscal Stewardship in Tough Times
Winter Springs residents are already dealing with higher costs from many directions — rising property tax bills (even though the millage rate stayed flat), county-level increases, and higher utility rates. Families are budgeting carefully, cutting back on wants and focusing on needs. I believe our city should do the same.
It’s not about being against parks, facilities, or equipment. It’s about prioritizing maintenance of what we have over building new features, and making sure every tax dollar is spent wisely before asking residents to shoulder more.
Looking Forward
I’m committed to working with staff and my fellow commissioners to revisit specific items through amendments, as the law allows. But I also want residents to know this: when you see me raise questions, it’s because I believe someone must speak up for financial discipline and accountability, even when it’s uncomfortable.
I don’t take that role lightly. I was elected to represent you, not to make the process easier for City Hall. And I will continue to ask hard questions to make sure Winter Springs stays fiscally responsible and focused on serving its residents first.
Fighting for Smarter Environmental Policy at the State Level
This Friday, September 26th, I’ll be representing Winter Springs at the upcoming Florida League of Cities (FLC) Utilities, Natural Resources, and Public Works Policy Committee meeting in Orlando, and I’ll be advancing two legislative priorities I believe are vital not only to our city but to communities across Florida.
These reforms are grounded in my experience as an environmental professional and Commissioner, and they aim to bring greater accountability, transparency, and environmental impact to the way our state manages tree mitigation funds and stormwater monitoring.
What I’m Fighting For Statewide Tree Mitigation Fund Reform
Florida needs a clear, consistent standard for how Tree Mitigation Funds are collected and spent. That’s why I’ve proposed that the Florida League of Cities support:
“The creation of statewide rules for Tree Mitigation Funds to ensure transparency, consistency, and accountability. A standardized framework would guide the purchase of Tree Mitigation Credits to offset project impacts and require a centralized database to track the receipt and expenditure of funds.”
Today, some cities collect mitigation fees with no measurable restoration or canopy replacement to show for it. Inconsistent local policies make it difficult to track outcomes, and that’s not fair to residents or to the environment. This policy would fix that.
Statewide Standards for Stormwater Monitoring
Just like we need consistency in how tree mitigation is managed, we also need better stormwater data. Without a coordinated framework for monitoring water quality and runoff patterns across jurisdictions, local governments are left guessing, and taxpayers foot the bill when those guesses are wrong.
My proposal will call for the League to support:
“A statewide framework for stormwater monitoring that includes best practices for data collection, sharing, and application in local watershed management.”
By standardizing how we monitor stormwater, we can reduce flood risk, improve water quality, and support smarter infrastructure planning — not just in Winter Springs, but across Florida.
Why This Matters to Winter Springs
These aren’t abstract policy ideas. They’re rooted in real experiences here at home.
We’ve seen firsthand how confusing arbor fund management can become and how much public trust we lose when residents don’t know how their fees are being used. We’ve also dealt with stormwater infrastructure challenges that could have been mitigated with better data earlier on.
By bringing these issues to the state level, I’m doing what I promised when I ran for office: using my professional experience to advocate for policies that make our communities stronger, safer, and more sustainable.
What’s Next?
The first committee meeting is scheduled for Friday, September 26, 2025, at the Hilton Orlando. I’ll present these proposals and work with other elected officials and city leaders from across Florida to shape the League’s legislative agenda for the upcoming session.
This is just the beginning, but it’s an important step toward statewide reforms that bring measurable benefit to cities like ours.
If you’d like to learn more or weigh in on these proposals, I invite you to reach out anytime. Your voice matters, and I’m proud to bring it with me to Tallahassee and beyond.
Why I Voted to Limit the TLBD Assessment and What Comes Next
Earlier this month, I wrote a post asking an important question:
Is now the right time for a 99% increase in the TLBD assessment?
I voted in favor of a reduced TLBD assessment fee that was recommended by the City of Winter Springs staff on Tuesday, September 9, after hours of public input and detailed review. I voted to raise the cap on the Tuscawilla Lighting and Beautification District (TLBD) from $128 to $220 per household—but limited this year’s actual increase to $160, or just 25%; as opposed to the $255.20 per household recommendation.
Not a penny more.
This wasn’t about landscaping or aesthetics. It was about trust, transparency, and taxpayer protection.
What Was Originally Proposed: A $1.1 Million Annual Budget
The original proposal—supported by the Mayor, the TLBD advisory board, and the Tuscawilla HOA (THOA)—called for the largest assessment increase in memory, totaling over $1.1 million per year. Here’s how that broke down:
Landscape maintenance: $512,378.33
Fountain repairs: $71,793.60
New streetlight fixtures: $250,771.14
Signage upgrades: $125,500
Admin, legal, and insurance costs: $71,407.11
Total Budget Requested: $1,116,716.38
What I Did Instead
I made sure we took a more responsible path forward:
Raised the cap to $220 to avoid a costly $18,000 rate study in the future
Limited this year’s rate increase to just 25% ($160 per household)
Blocked the full $255.20 increase from going into effect
Required performance accountability before any future increase
Called for transparency on spending for privately owned assets
Voted with residents—not with insider groups
Questions That Needed to Be Asked
Commissioner Mark Caruso, a former landscaper, questioned the massive $512,000 landscape line item. He raised a key point:
“Are we spending for aesthetics—or actual deliverables?”
While he doesn’t live within the TLBD boundaries, his experience and perspective underscored the importance of detailed oversight. Too often, budgets pass without scrutiny. That’s not how I operate.
Why This Matters
A half-million dollars for landscaping.
City funds directed to fountains on private HOA property.
Nearly 100 percent rate hikes proposed in one year.
And all of this while residents face higher utility bills, inflation, and housing costs.
We can—and must—do better.
We Can Invest Responsibly Without Breaking Trust
I believe in maintaining the character and beauty of Winter Springs. But I will not rubber-stamp a million-dollar wish list without oversight.
This is a community, not a blank check.
We need measurable results, clear deliverables, and a commitment to fairness before asking residents to pay more.
What Happens Next
TLBD residents will pay $160 this year—not $255
The City must now deliver visible improvements and value
I will oppose any future increase without clear accountability
I will continue standing with residents to protect your interests
Let’s stay engaged, informed, and committed to protecting Winter Springs. Together, we can ensure every dollar is spent with purpose—and with the community in mind.
Subscribe for updates, follow along on social media, or speak up at upcoming Commission meetings. Your voice makes a difference and I’m here to listen!
As your District 2 Commissioner, I want you to be fully informed about the decisions being made at City Hall — whether I voted on them, supported them, or simply helped guide the conversation. On Monday, September 8, 2025, the City Commission held a regular meeting that covered major issues ranging from water and wastewater to budget and taxes.
Here’s my complete, transparent recap of what was discussed and decided — and how I’m representing your voice in every vote.
Wastewater Reform and Environmental Oversight
One of the most critical decisions we made was approving a new wastewater operations contract with Woodard & Curran, replacing a vendor that has faced multiple DEP violations and fines. I supported this contract because it includes:
Transparent pricing: actual cost plus a fixed 8% fee
City ownership of all new vehicles and equipment
Clear reporting responsibilities and communication channels
Higher standards for training, safety, and compliance
I asked direct questions during the meeting to clarify accountability measures — including who will report spills, negotiate DEP fines, and ensure properly licensed operators are on staff.
We’re not just fixing what’s broken — we’re setting a higher standard.
Budget and Millage Rate Decisions
The Commission also adopted the tentative FY 2025-26 budget and millage rate (2.6200), which I voted to support. This rate is slightly above the rollback rate due to rising property values, but it helps fund critical infrastructure and service needs.
I remain committed to fiscal responsibility and ensuring your tax dollars are invested where they matter most — water quality, road maintenance, public safety, and environmental protection.
Reclaimed Water Expansion
We approved design funding to connect the east and west reclaimed water systems in Winter Springs. This is an important step toward smarter water reuse and long-term sustainability.
Updates to the Senior Center Agreement
The Commission approved an updated agreement with the Winter Springs Senior Center to provide:
Flexibility in programming
Improved access to technology
Continued support for senior-led events
I voiced concerns to ensure this agreement won’t limit future innovation and that the city can assist with equipment upgrades through surplus donations.
Tree Preservation and Green Planning
During the meeting, I clarified a note about a preserved oak tree at the Catalyst site. While it may not qualify for official Liberty Tree designation, it’s already protected — and I remain focused on tree preservation and maintaining green space in all development.
I also submitted a legislative priority proposal to the Florida League of Cities advocating for statewide transparency in tree mitigation funds, so we can ensure those dollars support real conservation work.
Parks and Youth Sports Safety
Several residents contacted me about a missing ball net at the Babe Ruth field. I’ve followed up directly with staff, and this safety issue is being prioritized. If you see something that needs attention, please continue to reach out.
Transparency, public trust, and data-driven planning must come first.
Looking Ahead
The city is actively moving forward on several key initiatives:
Sediment removal in Tuscawilla and Howell Creek
Ion exchange media replacement in our water system
Upcoming fire hydrant testing and mapping
RFP process for Tuscawilla berm repairs
These infrastructure improvements are long overdue, and I will continue advocating for solutions that protect residents, preserve our environment, and keep Winter Springs moving forward.
Staying Accessible
I’m here to serve. If you have questions, ideas, or concerns, please reach out directly.
In response to public questions and ongoing discussions surrounding the tree mitigation fee tied to the Seahawk Cove Extension project, City Commissioner Victoria Bruce has released a detailed update to clarify the facts, address misinformation, and outline a proposed path forward for environmental planning in Winter Springs.
“This is not about politics,” said Bruce. “It’s about ensuring the City honors its own agreements, follows its legal procedures, and lives up to its commitment to transparency and sustainability.”
Background: Tree Mitigation and the 2017 Agreement
In 2017, the City of Winter Springs entered into a recorded development agreement and First Modification with the developer of the Town Center area, which includes the property now referred to as the Seahawk Cove Extension. That agreement identified the full project site as 45.687 acres and established a tree mitigation fee totaling $149,660, which was subsequently paid in full. The payment included:
$133,500 in mitigation credits
$5,000 for specimen tree removal
$11,160 in arbor permitting fees
This arbor fee was labeled in the agreement as the “final adjusted City arbor fee” for the Project, with “Project” defined as the entire development area—not a single phase.
June 23, 2025 Commission Vote
At the June 23 City Commission meeting, staff presented a proposed tree mitigation fee of $227,400 for the Seahawk Cove Extension. However, no reference was made to the 2017 agreement or the previous payment already made by the developer.
After reviewing the legal documents, Commissioner Bruce made a motion to clarify that the previously paid arbor fee applied to the entire project, including the area west of Michael Blake Boulevard. That motion passed in a 3–2 vote.
“I disclosed my meeting with the developer publicly on the record, and I brought forward a motion based solely on the documentation that had already been accepted by the City,” said Bruce. “Nothing was waived. The fee had already been paid.”
July 14 Meeting: Reconsideration Attempt
On July 14, a motion was brought forward to reconsider the June 23 vote. According to Robert’s Rules of Order, which the City of Winter Springs uses to guide parliamentary procedure, a motion to reconsider may only be made by a member who voted on the prevailing side—in this case, one of the three commissioners who voted “yes” on June 23.
The July 14 motion was made and seconded by commissioners who had voted “no,” rendering it procedurally invalid. The City Attorney paused the motion, advising that a motion to rescind would be required instead, and that it would carry a different legal standard.
During the discussion, Commissioner Mark Caruso disclosed that Mayor Kevin McCann had privately told him that it was City legal staff who “dropped the ball” in failing to bring the 2017 agreement into the initial June 23 discussion—contradicting public implications that the Commission acted improperly.
Clarifying the Project Location and Scope
The Seahawk Cove Extension project is located just west of Michael Blake Boulevard and north of State Road 434, within the City’s Town Center Development District. This area was always part of the broader 45.687-acre parcel defined in the development agreement.
“This is not an isolated site,” said Bruce. “It is part of a multi-phase, master-planned development, and the legal and financial obligations associated with that plan were intended to apply across the entire property—not just one section.”
Looking Ahead: Policy and Stewardship
Commissioner Bruce stated that beyond this specific vote, she sees an opportunity for the City to strengthen its environmental stewardship policies. At the July 14 meeting, she outlined two next steps:
Engaging a certified arborist to advise the City on tree health, removal, and planting strategies.
Using the arbor fund to purchase and conserve land, and to plant native tree species that support a “no net loss” tree policy for the City of Winter Springs.
“If we are going to maintain our designation as a Tree City USA, we need to lead with substance,” said Bruce. “That means not only protecting what we have, but building a future that’s environmentally and fiscally sustainable.”
The program was created to help newly elected leaders like myself understand the full scope of municipal government. Over the course of 16 hours, we studied everything from budgeting and revenue structures to intergovernmental relationships and the roles and responsibilities of elected officials. It was an intensive and eye-opening experience, and one I believe should be required for anyone stepping into a public leadership role.
IEMO brings together elected leaders from across Florida in small class settings. That structure made it easy to ask questions, share ideas, and hear how other communities are navigating similar challenges. There was a clear focus on practical tools and real-life problem solving. From navigating council-manager dynamics to exploring how Florida cities are funded, every session helped me better understand the framework in which we serve.
“It was an awarding and educational experience to learn the ins and outs of government. Every elected official should be required to take this course.”
As someone who values transparency, accountability, and informed decision-making, this training aligned with the principles I bring to my work on the Commission. The more we understand how city government operates, the better we can represent our residents, manage limited resources, and make policy decisions that serve the long-term interests of our community.
IEMO I is also part of a broader program offered by the Florida League of Cities, which includes advanced courses and a multi-level Certificate Program for Elected Officials. I plan to continue my participation through that program so I can continue growing as a public servant.
Local government is often where the most impactful change happens. From safe drinking water to well-maintained parks to balanced growth and budget stewardship, it all starts here. I’m grateful to the Florida League of Cities for creating a thoughtful and effective training program and to the residents of Winter Springs for trusting me to represent you.
If you’d like to learn more about the IEMO program, visit flcities.com. If you have questions about what I learned or how it relates to our work in Winter Springs, I’m always happy to share.
Electric Bike Laws in Florida: What Winter Springs Needs to Know as Safety Concerns Grow
I’ve recently received a wave of feedback from concerned residents regarding the increasing use of electric bikes and golf carts by children and teens on our neighborhood streets.
These vehicles may seem like harmless recreational tools, but their power and speed have outpaced the policies that govern them. What we’re seeing is not only a matter of personal preference or mobility trends, but also a growing public safety issue that demands local attention. Understanding and applying electric bike laws in Florida is a necessary step in protecting everyone who uses our roads.
Residents Are Speaking Up—and With Good Reason
One longtime Tuscawilla resident described what many of you are witnessing firsthand: kids riding electric bikes at high speeds, sometimes carrying passengers, without helmets or adult supervision. Golf carts are now being driven to school and through retail centers by unlicensed minors. In some cases, children are operating electric bikes and scooters on public roads, swerving into traffic lanes and creating serious hazards.
These behaviors are becoming more frequent since school let out for summer. The risks are real, and the consequences could be severe if we do not act proactively.
Electric Bike Laws in Florida: What They Do and Don’t Cover
According to Florida Statutes, electric bikes fall into three classifications based on speed and power. Riders under 16 are not allowed to operate the highest-speed Class 3 models. Helmets are only required for those under 16, and no license is needed to operate most electric bikes or golf carts on local roads.
Key gaps in the law include:
No required safety training for minors
Limited enforcement of helmet or equipment use
Lack of regulation on child passengers or after-dark operation
No consistent oversight of where these vehicles are permitted
While electric bike laws in Florida provide a general framework, they were not designed for widespread, unsupervised use by children on residential and arterial roads.
Florida Statute 316.20655 – Electric Bicycle Regulations
Rights and Duties: E-bike riders have the same rights and responsibilities as traditional bicycle riders under Florida law, including those in statute 316.2065.
Local Control: Local governments (cities, counties) and state agencies can regulate where e-bikes are allowed — including on sidewalks, trails, beaches, and dunes — even if state law allows their use generally.
Exemptions: E-bike operators are not required to have:
Insurance
A driver’s license
Vehicle registration or title
Labeling Requirement (since Jan 1, 2021): Manufacturers must affix a label to each e-bike showing:
The class of the e-bike (Class 1, 2, or 3)
Top assisted speed
Motor wattage
Modification Rule: You can’t alter the e-bike to increase its speed or performance unless the classification label is updated accordingly.
Safety Standards: E-bikes must comply with U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations (specifically 16 C.F.R. part 1512).
Operation Requirements: The motor must shut off when:
You stop pedaling
You apply the brakes
Where E-Bikes Can Ride: E-bikes can be used anywhere bicycles are allowed, including:
Roads and highways
Shoulders
Bike lanes
Multi-use paths
In essence, e-bikes are treated like regular bicycles under Florida law — with a few extra requirements and exceptions — but local governments can set stricter rules in certain areas.
Where Winter Springs Can Step In
Our City has the ability—and responsibility—to address safety concerns specific to our neighborhoods. Here are a few of the actions I’m working to advance:
Launch of public safety announcements through schools, social media, and HOA boards
Promotion of voluntary safety measures, including helmets, reflectors, and speed awareness
Police patrols in high-activity zones, such as Northern Way and Trotwood Boulevard
Exploration of local ordinances that limit speeds, restrict night use, and establish age minimums
Increased engagement with parents and guardians to encourage supervision and accountability
These steps are not about limiting freedom or fun. They are about creating safe conditions for responsible riding.
A Call for Prevention, Not Reaction
We do not want to wait for an accident or injury to take action. The rise of powerful electric rideables has created a safety gap that many cities, including ours, are now confronting. By strengthening community education and refining how we apply electric bike laws in Florida at the local level, we can better protect all who share our streets.
If you have feedback, ideas, or concerns, I invite you to reach out to my office. Your input helps shape our response and guide our policies.
Thank you for continuing to care deeply about the safety of our Winter Springs neighborhoods.
The Winter Springs City Commission met on Monday, June 9, 2025, to address vital local priorities, recognize outstanding community members, and continue advancing infrastructure and policy goals. As your District 2 Commissioner, I remain committed to promoting public trust, smart growth, and meaningful resident engagement. Below is a full recap of the meeting’s key developments.
Celebrating the Champions: Winter Springs High Girls’ Softball Team Honored by City Commission
The Commission proudly recognized the Winter Springs High School Girls’ Softball Team, recently crowned state champions after an incredible 24–8 season. This group of talented young athletes exemplifies perseverance, teamwork, and excellence—qualities that reflect the very best of our community.
Led by Coach Farrah Gordon, the team was honored during the meeting, with a formal city proclamation to follow. Their recognition served as a reminder of the importance of celebrating youth achievement and supporting our local schools.
Addressing Neighborhood Safety and Accessibility
Traffic Safety on West Panama Road
During public input, a resident requested permanent traffic-calming measures on West Panama Road, citing concerns for children’s safety. I fully support evaluating and implementing solutions that prioritize pedestrian and neighborhood safety.
Accessibility at Central Winds Park
Resident Leah Wiseman raised important concerns about handicap access at Central Winds Park, particularly during busy events. While some improvements have been made, additional curb cuts and ADA-compliant parking options were discussed. Ensuring equal access to our parks and public spaces remains a top priority.
Resident Advocacy for Transparency and Participation
Since launching my campaign for City Commission, I have consistently advocated for greater accessibility and transparency in how we govern. Prior to my election—and even in the early months of my term—Commission meetings frequently ran late into the evening, often past 11:00 p.m., and occasionally beyond midnight. That structure was not conducive to public participation or thoughtful decision-making.
Since then, we’ve made meaningful progress. Most meetings now conclude at a more reasonable hour, giving residents a real opportunity to follow proceedings live without staying up into the early morning. This is a shift toward accessibility that I believe strengthens trust.
Additionally, I firmly oppose any move to hold Commission meetings during the day, which would exclude many working residents and limit public accountability. Our community deserves leadership that meets them where they are—and at times they can attend.
During this meeting, several residents echoed those values by calling for even greater transparency, especially in how public dollars are managed and how decisions are communicated. I fully support their input and remain committed to continued progress on this front.
Development and Representation Updates
Sutton Crossings Project Moves Forward
The Commission approved the vacation of a public right-of-way to facilitate development of the Sutton Crossings project, which will include an ACE Hardware and Chick-fil-A. This is part of our broader goal of supporting responsible commercial growth while maintaining community character.
Redistricting Ordinance (First Reading)
A new Commission district map was introduced and advanced using Scenario 4. This version ensures near-equal population distribution across districts and complies with redistricting requirements. No current commissioners were moved out of their districts.
Strengthening Fiscal Transparency and Oversight
As part of our continued effort to manage city finances responsibly and transparently, I’ve pushed for clearer reporting and broader access to information. Specifically, I’m proud to share:
The City’s online checkbook—which previously only included expenses over $50,000—is being revised. Soon, all expenses of $2,500 and above will be visible online. This is a significant step forward in fiscal transparency, and I look forward to it going live soon.
I also strongly support City Manager Paul Diaz’s initiative to thoroughly review all expenses line by line during the upcoming budget process. I believe this kind of scrutiny is essential for ensuring prudent, prioritized spending that reflects the needs of our residents.
In addition, the Commission is working to standardize financial reporting by implementing:
Monthly trial balance updates
Quarterly fund balance statements
Pre-budget budget-to-actual reporting
These tools give both the Commission and the public a much clearer picture of how resources are being allocated and managed.
Progress on Stormwater and Water Infrastructure
Sediment Removal Work Begins
Starting the week of June 16, the City will begin sediment removal in key waterways to improve stormwater flow and reduce flood risk. This is a critical first step in our larger infrastructure strategy.
SCADA Infrastructure Upgrades Approved
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) approved the City’s proposal to apply SCADA system upgrades as “in-kind” work toward a state compliance requirement. This not only improves our water infrastructure but does so in a cost-efficient way.
Stormwater Workshop Scheduled
A dedicated Stormwater Infrastructure Workshop is planned for July. It will serve as a focused discussion on drainage, flood mitigation, and long-term capital improvements.
Board Appointments and Civic Engagement
Veterans Advisory Board Appointment
The Commission appointed Marguerite Orff to the Veterans Advisory Board. As both the mother and spouse of veterans, she brings a meaningful perspective that broadens the voice of the board to include military families.
Code Enforcement Board Continuity
I also advocated for Art Gallo to continue serving on the Code Enforcement Board, where he has made significant contributions since 2019. Art is a passionate advocate for water conservation, and I’d like to recognize his recent video feature on the St. Johns River Water Management District’s website, where he shares valuable insights on sustainable landscaping. His leadership extends beyond city service—his work is visible in his own yard and throughout the common areas of his HOA here in Winter Springs.
Improving Advisory Board Reporting
I again raised the importance of including regular summaries or meeting minutes from our advisory boards in Commission packets. This ensures we have a full view of citizen-led initiatives and maintain a two-way dialogue between appointed boards and elected leaders.
Meeting Summary: Key Takeaways
At a Glance:
Honored Winter Springs High Girls’ Softball Team for winning the state championship
Discussed resident-led requests for speed mitigation on West Panama Road
Addressed ongoing concerns about accessibility at Central Winds Park
Approved right-of-way vacation for Sutton Crossings development
Advanced new district map with minimal constituent disruption
Online expense checkbook expanded to include all expenses over $2,500
Supported detailed financial reviews in upcoming budget season
Creek sediment removal project begins June 16
SCADA water infrastructure project approved by DEP as compliance credit
Welcomed Marguerite Orff to Veterans Advisory Board
Reappointed Art Gallo to Code Enforcement Board, recognizing water advocacy
Scheduled stormwater infrastructure workshop for July
Continued push for advisory board accountability and reporting
Staying Involved
Local government works best when it remains transparent, inclusive, and grounded in the needs of our residents. I remain committed to ensuring every Winter Springs resident has a voice, and I will continue advocating for balanced growth, clean water, and public accountability.
Thank you for your continued trust and engagement.
