There are few things more powerful than young women discovering their voice, recognizing their value, and stepping confidently into their future. The recent Visionary Girl Event in Winter Springs was a beautiful reminder of just that—a celebration of strength, sisterhood, and purpose.
As a commissioner, mother, and lifelong advocate for our community, it was incredibly moving to witness these remarkable young women gather in one space to connect, be inspired, and learn that their voices matter. The energy in the room was electric, and the message was clear: when we uplift one girl, we uplift all.
Being a Visionary Girl means choosing confidence, optimism, and leadership. It’s about being smart, goal-driven, and having the courage to face life’s challenges head-on—all while knowing that a powerful sisterhood stands behind you. This program gives girls the opportunity to explore their potential in a safe, inspiring, and encouraging environment.
I’m honored to have been part of this event and to support a movement that’s shaping future leaders with confidence and compassion. These young women are our next generation of professionals, educators, public servants, and change-makers, and we owe it to them to create spaces where they can thrive.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to every sponsor, volunteer, and organizer who made this event possible. Your commitment to empowering girls is truly changing lives.
This is just the beginning. Together, we can grow this program—one school, one community, and one girl at a time. If you’d like to support or get involved in the Visionary Girl movement, please reach out to visionarygirlevent@gmail.com.
Let’s continue to build a future where every girl knows she is capable, equipped, and empowered!
Financial literacy is one of the most important life skills a student can learn, and you can be a part of that journey! Indian Trails Middle School in Winter Springs is hosting the “Living on My Own” event on April 23-24, 2025, and they are looking for community volunteers to help 8th-grade students navigate real-world financial decisions.
This interactive program, created by UF/IFAS Extension, provides students with a hands-on experience of budgeting, managing expenses, and making financial choices similar to those adults face every day.
What is “Living on My Own”?
During this real-life simulation, students take on the role of a 25-year-old with a career, income, and family responsibilities. Using checks and debit cards, they must make important decisions about housing, transportation, groceries, insurance, and more—all while staying within budget.
They will visit 10 stations representing essential life expenses:
Housing
Transportation
Banking Services
Groceries
Utilities
Entertainment
Insurance
Childcare
Clothing, electronics, health, and grooming
Charity & Retirement/Savings
To add a twist, some students will also draw “Life Happens” cards, which throw in unexpected financial challenges—like car repairs or medical bills—to teach them how to plan for the unexpected.
How You Can Help
As a volunteer, you will be assigned to a station to guide students through their decisions. Each station represents a real-life business, and having them staffed by community members makes the experience even more impactful.
No experience necessary!
All materials and instructions will be provided, along with a brief training session on the day of the event. (You must be a registered Seminole County School Board Dividend to participate.)
This is a fantastic opportunity to mentor students, share real-world financial wisdom, and make a difference in their future decision-making. We hope to see you there!
Learn more about volunteering with Seminole County Public Schools:
Florida’s communities thrive when growth is balanced with thoughtful planning, environmental protection, and local input. But a newly proposed bill—Senate Bill 1118 (SB 1118), known as the Rural Boundary Bill—could significantly shift that balance.
This legislation introduces sweeping changes to how land use and development are regulated across the state, especially in rural and agricultural areas. If passed, SB 1118 would limit local control, accelerate suburban sprawl, and place additional strain on infrastructure that’s already stretched thin.
Here’s why this matters and what residents of Winter Springs should know:
1. More Development in Rural and Agricultural Areas
SB 1118 allows certain agricultural lands to be classified as “agricultural enclaves,” enabling developers to bypass traditional zoning and land use controls. This could lead to more high-density residential development in areas once designated for conservation or low-impact use, increasing pressure on sensitive lands and disrupting the character of neighboring communities.
2. Weakened Local Authority on Growth Decisions
The bill would require a supermajority vote to adopt restrictive land-use changes, making it more difficult for local governments to limit overdevelopment. Additionally, some projects could receive administrative approval, skipping the public process altogether and reducing opportunities for community feedback.
3. Greater Demand on Roads, Schools, and Utilities
Residential projects could move forward without requiring amendments to local comprehensive plans—raising concerns about population density increasing without infrastructure readiness. This includes added strain on roads, water systems, wastewater facilities, and school capacity. As many Winter Springs residents know, we’re already focused on improving critical infrastructure, and these changes could present new challenges if not properly managed.
4. Impact on HOAs and Recreational Fees
SB 1118 also proposes that HOAs can no longer be required to collect fees for private recreational amenities. This could affect how gated communities and other private developments fund and maintain shared spaces. Homeowners should closely review any recreational covenants tied to their properties.
5. Environmental Areas Exempt—for Now
While areas like the Wekiva Study Area and Everglades Protection Area are currently exempt from this bill, the broader implications are clear: SB 1118 opens the door to fast-tracked development, with less oversight and fewer checks and balances to protect sensitive lands.
What It Means for Winter Springs
This bill is not just a technical land-use issue—it’s a community issue. It has the potential to affect everything from green space preservation to traffic congestion to the long-term sustainability of our infrastructure.
As a strong advocate for smart growth and community-focused planning, I believe we must keep a close eye on how legislation like this could impact our city. I’ll continue to push for transparency, responsible development, and policies that serve both our residents and our environment.
If you have questions or concerns about SB 1118, now is the time to get involved. Reach out to your state legislators, stay informed, and let your voice be heard. Let’s work together to ensure Winter Springs remains a community that grows with intention—not just expansion.
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Stay tuned for more updates as this project moves forward!
Seminole County: A Year of Progress & Preservation
Chairman Jay Zembower took the stage at the 2025 State of the County Address, emphasizing the county’s continued focus on environmental preservation, public safety, economic growth, and infrastructure improvements. Here are the key takeaways from this year’s address:
1️⃣ Landmark Environmental Achievements
Seminole Forever Program launched to acquire and protect critical natural lands.
Yarborough Ranch became the first Seminole County property acquired under the Florida Forever Program.
The Penny Sales Tax renewal (73% approval) will continue funding infrastructure and environmental projects without raising taxes.
2️⃣ Major Infrastructure & Water Quality Improvements
Penny Sales Tax will help fund road projects, sidewalk improvements, and water restoration efforts.
Continued focus on flood mitigation and water preservation, ensuring Seminole County’s resources remain sustainable for future generations.
3️⃣ Public Safety & Emergency Management
Sheriff Dennis Lima announced a 29% decrease in overdoses and a 42% drop in overdose fatalities—the largest reduction Florida has ever seen.
Seminole County’s crime rate dropped 19% in the last year, reinforcing the county as one of Florida’s safest places to live.
The Seminole County Fire Department celebrated 50 years of service and achieved national accreditation, joining an elite group of emergency response agencies.
4️⃣ Economic Growth & Community Development
Sports tourism continues to thrive, generating $58.8 million in economic impact.
Plans for an indoor sports complex and a Tourism Improvement District to boost the local economy.
Five Points Master Plan: A long-term strategy to centralize Seminole County government operations into one efficient campus.
5️⃣ Elections & Government Services
Newly elected Supervisor of Elections Amy Pennock introduced a voter communication text update system to increase transparency.
The Clerk of Court’s office launched online tools for marriage licenses, passport appointments, and fraud protection alerts.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Seminole County
Chairman Zembower closed his speech by emphasizing collaboration, sustainability, and progress. With a commitment to protecting natural resources, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and enhancing public services, Seminole County is poised for another year of growth and success.
💬 What do you think about these updates? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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As residents of Winter Springs, we take pride in our beautiful lakes, rivers, and green spaces. But did you know that stormwater pollution is one of the biggest threats to our environment? Every time it rains, stormwater runoff carries pollutants like oil, fertilizers, pesticides, and yard waste into our waterways—harming wildlife and contaminating our drinking water sources.
That’s why I’m excited to share an important initiative from Seminole County’s Watershed Management Division to protect our community. The county has placed over 5,000 stormwater markers throughout the area with a clear message: “NO DUMPING, DRAINS TO LAKE OR RIVER.” These markers remind us that everything that enters our storm drains flows directly into our water systems—without being treated.
Why This Matters
Stormwater inlets play a crucial role in preventing flooding, while retention ponds help store and filter water. But when pollutants enter these drains, they cause serious problems, including:
✅ Water Contamination – Chemicals and waste can harm fish, plants, and drinking water sources.
✅ Flooding – Clogged drains increase the risk of localized flooding.
✅ Environmental Damage – Debris and pollutants destroy natural habitats.
How You Can Help Protect Our Water
Protecting Winter Springs starts with small changes in our daily habits. Here’s what we can all do to help:
🌱 Keep yard waste and grass clippings out of storm drains – Compost or bag them instead.
🚗 Properly dispose of motor oil and chemicals – Never pour them down drains or onto the ground.
🐶 Pick up pet waste – It contains bacteria that can contaminate our waterways.
🌿 Limit fertilizer and pesticide use – Choose environmentally friendly options and apply them responsibly.
♻️ Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – Did you know that glass bottles can take over 500 years to decompose? Recycling helps keep plastics and metals out of landfills and waterways.
Learn More & Take Action
Want to learn more about our local waterways and how you can make a difference? Visit the Seminole County Watershed Atlas at www.seminole.wateratlas.org for in-depth information on our lakes, rivers, and streams.
If you see illegal dumping in storm drains, please report it by calling (407) 665-2424.
Together, we can keep Winter Springs beautiful and environmentally safe for generations to come. Thank you for doing your part!
Winter Springs has always taken pride in its strong ties to the veteran community, with over 2,700 male and 110 female veterans residing in the city. The Veterans and Veteran Family Advisory Committee was established to support these residents and provide a platform for addressing their unique needs. However, recent discussions have highlighted challenges with the committee’s organization, attendance, and alignment with its purpose.
While I understand the City’s concerns about investing resources in a committee that isn’t meeting its full potential, I firmly believe the Veteran and Veteran Family Advisory Committee can be revitalized to become a vital and impactful part of our community once again.
Winter Springs Mayor Kevin McCann, center, speaks during Commission meeting. (Photo by Kathryn Brudzinski)
The Case for Revitalization
As a city, we owe it to our veterans to provide opportunities for their voices to be heard. The Veteran and Veteran Family Advisory Committee has the potential to play a key role in advocating for veterans, but it requires restructuring and renewed commitment to thrive. Here’s how we can move forward:
Refocusing Goals: By clearly defining the committee’s mission and aligning its objectives with the needs of veterans, we can ensure its purpose is meaningful and impactful.
Improving Organization: Establishing clear guidelines, meeting schedules, and accountability measures will help create a structure that encourages active participation and results-driven discussions.
Encouraging Veteran Leadership: Our veteran community must take greater responsibility in driving the success of this committee. Increased engagement and leadership from veterans will be crucial in leveraging the VVFAC to its maximum potential.
Community Voices of Support
As Laurel Ross, a US Army veteran and Winter Springs resident, expressed:
“Winter Springs has always been known as a veteran-friendly community. The Veteran and Veteran Family Advisory Committee is a vital part of that reputation. Disbanding the committee sends a message that the City no longer wants or values input from its veteran residents on these matters.”
Her sentiment is echoed by BG (Ret) David C. Godwin, US Army:
“The City of Winter Springs has always been known as a veteran-friendly community, and I believe that the Committee is a vital part of that reputation. I would highly encourage you to keep the Veteran and Veteran Family Advisory Committee active and support it as they continue to recognize and assist veterans in our city and beyond.”
These voices highlight the importance of preserving the committee and ensuring it continues to serve as a valuable resource for our veteran community.
A Balanced Approach
As a commissioner, I support regrouping and reorganizing the Veteran and Veteran Family Advisory Committee, but I also call on the veteran community to step up and take ownership of its success. By working together, we can ensure the committee becomes an effective resource that justifies the time and resources invested.
A Call to Action
Now is the time for the City and its veterans to come together and breathe new life into the Veteran and Veteran Family Advisory Committee With renewed focus and leadership, the committee can fulfill its mission to serve our veteran community and uphold Winter Springs’ reputation as a veteran-friendly city.
If you’re a veteran or community member passionate about this issue, I encourage you to get involved and share your ideas for how we can make the Veteran and Veteran Family Advisory Committee a cornerstone of support for veterans in Winter Springs. Together, we can create a brighter future for our city’s veterans.
As part of Winter Springs’ commitment to public safety and attracting top talent, we are taking significant steps to ensure our police department remains competitive in a challenging recruitment environment. Under the leadership of City Manager Kevin Sweet, we’ve implemented a new pay structure for police officers, with starting salaries now set at $63,000. This move is a vital investment in the safety and security of our community.
Why Competitive Salaries Matter
Like many municipalities across the nation, Winter Springs has faced recruitment and retention challenges in law enforcement. In 2024, our city experienced a 25% vacancy rate among sworn officers, with average retention rates of only 26 months. Exit interviews consistently cited pay and benefits as the primary reasons for leaving. Recognizing the critical need to address this issue, our city leadership undertook a comprehensive review of police officer compensation.
The results of this review revealed that Winter Springs ranked in the 18th percentile for police officer pay, far below neighboring municipalities. With data from the HR Consortium and Public Employers Personnel Information Exchange (PEPIE), we developed a plan to bring our salaries in line with regional standards.
The New Plan: Competitive Pay for a Stronger Workforce
Starting December 2, 2024, Winter Springs officers began earning a starting salary of $63,000—an adjustment that reflects a 14% increase. This new pay structure is competitive with agencies across Central Florida and includes benefits designed to attract top candidates and retain skilled officers.
Since implementing the new salary structure, we’ve already seen positive results:
Increased Applicants: A surge in qualified candidates, including those from nearby Seminole County agencies.
Improved Retention: Conditional offers extended to experienced officers demonstrate the effectiveness of this new approach.
A Shared Commitment to Excellence
I fully support this decision as a necessary step to ensure the safety and well-being of Winter Springs residents. City Manager Kevin Sweet’s careful research and strategic planning demonstrate a commitment to maintaining a well-staffed and effective police department.
This initiative is a statement about the value we place on our officers and the safety of our community. By offering competitive pay, we’re not only addressing staffing shortages but also positioning Winter Springs as a destination for top law enforcement talent.
Looking Ahead: A Brighter Future for Winter Springs Police Jobs
As we move forward, our focus remains on creating an environment where police officers feel valued, supported, and motivated to serve. Competitive pay is just one piece of the puzzle. We will continue to explore innovative strategies to enhance recruitment, retention, and overall job satisfaction within the Winter Springs Police Department.
If you’re considering a career in law enforcement, now is the perfect time to join Winter Springs. Together, we can build a safer, stronger community.
I’m pleased to introduce a new leader to our Winter Springs team who brings decades of expertise, a results-oriented approach, and a strong commitment to public service. Please join me in welcoming Clete Saunier as our new Utilities Director!
Clete’s extensive experience and leadership in civil engineering and public utilities make him the perfect fit to lead our city’s significant waterworks initiatives. With over 25 years of senior leadership experience in public works and engineering, including roles as Public Works Director and District Engineer, Clete has a proven track record of driving operational excellence and delivering large-scale infrastructure projects.
Why Clete Is the Right Leader for Winter Springs
Clete’s background speaks for itself. He is a licensed civil engineer with dual Bachelor’s degrees in Civil Engineering and Engineering Geology from Texas A&M University. His experience includes:
Managing multi-million-dollar budgets and overseeing large-scale capital improvement projects.
Optimizing operations for water and wastewater systems.
Securing state funding for critical infrastructure initiatives.
Leading teams to implement strategic goals effectively.
In his previous role as Public Works Director for the City of Santa Paula, California, Clete successfully managed divisions responsible for water, wastewater, engineering, and construction management. His leadership transformed organizational performance and enhanced public infrastructure—qualities that will greatly benefit Winter Springs.
Building a Stronger Future for Winter Springs Utilities
Clete’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for our city. As we work to address challenges in our waterworks and utilities systems, his strategic vision and hands-on experience will be critical in ensuring our infrastructure meets the needs of our growing community.
From tackling complex utility projects to planning long-term improvements, Clete’s leadership will empower us to make significant progress in improving water quality, wastewater management, and overall service delivery.
As a proud member of professional organizations such as the National Society of Professional Engineers and the American Public Works Association, and as a past president of the Florida Association of Special Districts, Clete is a seasoned leader who understands the importance of collaboration and innovation in public service.
A Community United in Support
Clete officially joins us on Monday, January 27, 2025, and will be formally introduced at the upcoming City Commission meeting. This is an exciting opportunity for Winter Springs to welcome a dedicated professional who is committed to making a lasting impact.
I’m confident that Clete’s vision, expertise, and leadership will help us achieve our goals and create a utilities system that our community can be proud of. Let’s come together to support him as he begins this new chapter with Winter Springs!
Together, we can build a brighter future for our city.
The Evolution of State Road 434, Winter Springs, Florida
State Road 434 is the heart of Winter Springs. From its origins as the Sanford-Oviedo Road, a narrow wagon trail carved through Florida’s wilderness after the Civil War, to the bustling four-lane roadway we know today, 434 has witnessed profound transformations.
But with growth comes responsibility. Recently, the speed limit on this roadway was reduced, sparking debates among residents. Some see it as an inconvenience, while others, like longtime resident Leah Weisman, recognize the necessity of prioritizing safety.
As Leah shared on Facebook:
“Sadly, some people feel the right to go fast is more important than anyone’s safety. I am happy for the change… We used to say, how many people have to die before something will be done?”
To understand why reducing the speed limit is crucial, we need to revisit the road’s storied history and its legacy of danger and resilience.
The Legacy of Wagner Curve: A Dangerous Past (Information provided by Leah Wesiman, Resident of Winter Springs)
Thirty years ago, State Road 434 bore little resemblance to the modern, well-lit highway we see today. Heading east from Longwood, it was a two-lane road surrounded by forests and orange groves. A particularly infamous section, Wagner Curve, became known as a “dead man’s curve” due to its sharp angle and treacherous conditions.
This bend, located near today’s Central Winds Park, was responsible for countless accidents. In 1988, a horrific crash involving a truck carrying concrete pipes tragically claimed the life of a father traveling with his family on New Year’s Eve. Public outcry following such tragedies finally led to significant safety improvements. By the mid-1990s, Wagner Curve was softened, and 434 was widened to four lanes, significantly reducing accidents.
Progress Fueled by Safety Concerns
The changes to Wagner Curve weren’t proactive—they were reactive, born out of necessity after lives were lost. While modern infrastructure has made State Road 434 safer, the dangers of speed persist. Winter Springs is no longer the quiet agricultural village it once was. Increased population density and traffic volumes mean that reducing speeds is not about inconvenience; it’s about protecting lives.
Today, areas like the Winding Hollow neighborhood and the busy intersections near Winter Springs High School highlight the importance of cautious driving. Leah Weisman recalls how changes such as the addition of turn lanes and traffic lights came only after years of advocacy:
“The traffic light at Winding Hollow… construction of a turn lane going into Winding Hollow started ten years after the original design… Tragically many changes were only made after deadly accidents.” Construction is pending in 2025/2026 for the much awaited Turn Lane into the Winding Hollow neighborhood, which has 389 homes.
Her words serve as a poignant reminder: we have a duty to ensure history does not repeat itself.
Why the Speed Limit Change Matters
Reducing the speed limit on State Road 434 is a step toward achieving Vision Zero: Zero fatalities on our roadways. High-speed accidents don’t only harm drivers, they also impact families, first responders, and entire communities.
As your District 2 Commissioner, I’ve heard the concerns of residents frustrated by the new limits. But I also know the pain that comes when loved ones are lost because action wasn’t taken in time. Slowing down means fewer collisions, less severe injuries, and, most importantly, lives saved.
Preserving Winter Springs’ Future
State Road 434 has come a long way since its days as a wagon trail and a dangerous two-lane highway. The reduced speed limit is just another chapter in its evolution, a change aimed at protecting the vibrant community Winter Springs has become.
As you drive along 434 today, think about its history and the lives saved by decisions made in the name of safety. Let’s honor those who pushed for change and ensure that our roadways are safe for generations to come.
Together, we can balance progress and preservation, keeping Winter Springs a beautiful, thriving community.
We Want to Hear from You
What are your thoughts on the speed limit change? Share your opinions, stories, or concerns in the comments!
Our city is at an exciting crossroads, and now is the time to shape the future of Winter Springs together. The 2050 Comprehensive Plan Workshop is the first of three opportunities for residents to engage directly in building a long-term vision for our community. It will serve as a vital roadmap that will guide Winter Springs’ growth and development for years to come. This document will establish clear goals, objectives, and policies on topics ranging from land use and transportation to housing, infrastructure, conservation, and parks.
Why Your Voice Matters
This workshop is your opportunity to actively shape the future of Winter Springs by sharing your ideas and insights. Your input will help set priorities and ensure that the Comprehensive Plan reflects the community’s values and aspirations.
Workshop Details
📅 Date: Wednesday, November 20, 2024
⏰ Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Location: Winter Springs Civic Center, 400 N. Edgemon Ave, Winter Springs, FL 32708
What to Expect at the Workshop
Interactive Discussions: Engage in collaborative conversations with fellow residents, city leaders, and planners.
Key Focus Areas: Provide feedback on land use, transportation, infrastructure, parks, housing, and more.
Opportunities to Contribute: Help shape a forward-thinking plan that meets the needs of future generations while honoring Winter Springs’ unique character.
Additional Ways to Get Involved
Can’t make it to the workshop? Visit the project website at Winter Springs Comprehensive Plan Project to access more information and take part in a citywide survey.
By working together, we can ensure Winter Springs continues to thrive as a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive community. Let’s create a future we can all be proud of!
