Winter Springs City Commission 2024: Fresh Voices vs. Incumbent Frustration

Winter Springs City Commission 2024: Fresh Voices vs. Incumbent Frustration

On September 19th, the Tuscawilla Homeowners Association hosted its annual “Meet the Candidate Night” at the Tuscawilla Country Club. Residents from across Winter Springs gathered to hear from the candidates running for City Commission Seats One, Three, and Five in the upcoming November elections. This yearโ€™s event stood out not only for the variety of ideas but for the frustration and defensiveness of some incumbents in the face of growing criticism.

The city of Winter Springs is divided into five districts, but all citizens vote for every commission seat. This event revealed the stark contrast between new voices calling for change and incumbents defending their records. Hereโ€™s what we learned.

Paul Diaz (District 1)

Paul Diaz, a seasoned tax accountant, represents a refreshing alternative to the incumbent, emphasizing new leadership and financial transparency. Diaz described a city bogged down by outdated infrastructure, especially stormwater and wastewater systems, and a lack of forward-thinking leadership. He criticized the status quo, stating that Winter Springs has delayed action for too long, and fresh ideas are necessary to move the city forward.

Quote: โ€œWeโ€™ve kicked the can down the road long enough. Change is here. Itโ€™s up to you to decide if we need that change.”

Matt Benton (District 1, Incumbent)

Incumbent Matt Bentonโ€™s defensive and combative tone stood out throughout the evening. Benton, a long-time resident, and business owner, spent much of his time fending off criticism about the cityโ€™s financial health and infrastructure issues. He framed himself as someone who has been under attack both personally and politically, accusing his opponent of spreading misinformation. His frustration with the current political climate was palpable, yet he repeatedly claimed that Winter Springs is not financially broke and that the city is on the right track.

Quote: โ€œI’m sorry if this stings, but my opponent looks at the cityโ€™s most recent audit and claims we’re broke. Winter Springs is far from being brokeโ€โ€‹.

Bentonโ€™s frustration appeared to reflect a broader sentiment of incumbents feeling besieged by challengers who believe that the cityโ€™s leadership has failed to deliver on key issues like stormwater management, growth control, and infrastructure maintenance.

Sarah Baker (District 3)

Sarah Baker represents a fresh voice, advocating for transparent communication and accountability. She shared a personal story about her familyโ€™s experience with sewage overflow, which she framed as a symbol of the cityโ€™s deeper infrastructure problems. Baker believes that Winter Springs needs clear, effective leadership and a proactive approach to managing its budget and communicating with residents.

Quote: โ€œI had over 12,000 gallons of raw sewage in my backyard. That made me realize how important it is to address infrastructure head-onโ€โ€‹.

Karen Meyer (District 3)

Karen Meyer has been deeply involved in the community for over five years, regularly attending commission meetings. She offered a practical approach to fixing the cityโ€™s problems, emphasizing the need for a professional city manager and solutions for traffic, sewer systems, and flooding. Meyerโ€™s calm demeanor and experience reflect her understanding of the cityโ€™s issues, but she also pointed out how the lack of leadership in the cityโ€™s management has stalled progress.

Quote: โ€œThe City of Winter Springs is confronted with major issues. We need to attack the issues and not attack each otherโ€โ€‹.

Brandon Morrissey (District 5)

Brandon Morrissey, a firefighter and EMT, painted a troubling picture of Winter Springsโ€™ infrastructure, particularly its failing storm and wastewater systems. He was critical of the cityโ€™s allocation of resources, highlighting the wastefulness of spending on projects like pickleball courts while essential services like stormwater management remain inadequate. Morrissey represents a direct challenge to the current administrationโ€™s priorities, calling for safety and infrastructure improvements to take precedence.

Quote: โ€œOur wastewater is failing, our storm infrastructure is failing, and weโ€™re spending money on frivolous projects like pickleball. This is unacceptableโ€.

Rob Elliot (District 5, Incumbent)

Rob Elliot, the current District 5 Commissioner, focused on defending his record of leading infrastructure improvements, particularly related to potable water and wastewater issues. Elliot noted the cityโ€™s AAA bond rating and reassured residents that the cityโ€™s finances are stable. While Elliot presented himself as steady and experienced, his defense of the cityโ€™s status quo fell flat compared to the urgency voiced by challengers.

Quote: โ€œOur potable water issue has been solved, and the cityโ€™s drinking water quality meets all state guidelinesโ€.

Mark Caruso (District 5)

Mark Carusoโ€™s law enforcement background played a central role in his presentation. Caruso described himself as someone who stands up to corruption and wonโ€™t be swayed by developers and special interests. His time as a whistleblower in law enforcement, along with his strong stance against political interference, resonates with voters who feel frustrated by the current state of local politics. He framed his candidacy as a fight for transparency and honesty, opposing those who use misinformation to maintain power.

Quote: โ€œI retired as a law enforcement officer after serving the public. Iโ€™m here to fight for honesty in our cityโ€™s leadership and make sure weโ€™re not influenced by developers and outside interestsโ€โ€‹.

Why This Event Matters:

This yearโ€™s Meet the Candidate Night revealed significant tension between the incumbents, who are defending their records, and the challengers, who are pushing for urgent changes in how Winter Springs is governed. Itโ€™s clear that this election could reshape the future of the city, and every vote counts in deciding whether Winter Springs will maintain its current path or embrace new leadership.

For more information on the upcoming election and to learn about the candidates, visit https://www.voteseminole.gov/current-candidates

More Questions? Contact the City Clerkโ€™s Office at 407-327-5999 or cityclerkdepartment@winterspringsfl.org.

Restoring Lake Jesup: A Commitment to Our Environment and Community

Restoring Lake Jesup: A Commitment to Our Environment and Community

Photo Credits:ย Florida Specifier

Dear Winter Springs Residents,

I’m continually inspired by the dedication shown towards restoring our natural habitats, and today, I want to share an update on the progress at Lake Jesup. This lake is not just a scenic part of our landscape; it’s a crucial ecosystem that has faced significant environmental challenges over the years.

A Brief History of Lake Jesupโ€™s Environmental Challenges

Lake Jesup, a key feature in the St. Johns Riverโ€™s middle basin, has experienced various modifications since the 1800s, from steamboat alterations to major infrastructural changes like the train causeway. These modifications, along with urbanized development, significantly impacted the lake’s water quality, leading to issues such as chronic algal blooms and a buildup of organic muck.

Collaborative Efforts Lead the Way

In response to these challenges, a coalition of local and state organizations, including the St. Johns River Water Management District, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and local government bodies, has been instrumental in implementing restoration strategies. The passage of the Lake Jesup Act in 1994 marked the beginning of a focused effort to rejuvenate this vital water body.

Current Initiatives and Progress

Through the Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP), substantial steps have been taken to reduce nutrient inflows into the lake. Efforts include the removal of wastewater treatment discharges and ongoing projects to decrease nutrient loading. Moreover, innovative methods like the Lake Jesup Nutrient Reduction Project are set to significantly decrease the levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, which contribute to algal growth.

The restoration of Lake Jesup is a prime example of how effective partnerships can lead to environmental improvements that benefit our community. It’s about more than just cleaning up; it’s about restoring a habitat that supports wildlife, provides recreational opportunities, and enhances the quality of life for all of us here in Winter Springs and the surrounding regions.

Looking Ahead

Our journey to restore Lake Jesup continues, and itโ€™s a journey that requires commitment and collaboration. I’m proud of the strides we have made and optimistic about the future of this ecological restoration. I encourage each of you to stay informed and involved as we work towards a healthier, more vibrant Lake Jesup.

For further details on the restoration efforts, you can refer to this insightful article in the Florida Specifier which provides a comprehensive overview of the history and ongoing efforts to revitalize Lake Jesup.

Together, we can ensure that our natural treasures are preserved for generations to come.

Warm regards,

Victoria Bruce

City Commissioner, District 2, Winter Springs

Casselberryโ€™s New 40,000 Sq. Ft. Wheel Park: Construction Underway for a Skate & Bike Haven

Casselberryโ€™s New 40,000 Sq. Ft. Wheel Park: Construction Underway for a Skate & Bike Haven

Throughout my time in office, many Winter Springs residents have shared their interest in having a local skate park, and Iโ€™ve been amazed at the excitement from both young and old. While a skate park isnโ€™t currently on the immediate parks and recreation plan for Winter Springs, Iโ€™m thrilled to announce that our neighbors in Casselberry are making huge strides on a fantastic new facilityโ€”the Casselberry Wheels Park!

This innovative project broke ground in April 2024, and today, September 11, 2024, theyโ€™ve reached another major milestone: the concrete is being poured!. Weโ€™re one step closer to enjoying this incredible space, which is designed for skateboarders, bikers, and families of all ages.

What to Expect at the Casselberry Wheels Park:

The 40,000-square-foot park is set to be a state-of-the-art recreation area that caters to everyone, from young beginners to experienced skaters and bikers. Hereโ€™s what will be included:

  1. East Side โ€“ Family Zone:This family-friendly area will feature a โ€œTiny Townโ€ bike safety training area for kids ages 2-5, a pump track for children ages 5-12, ADA-compliant playgrounds, and picnic pavilions for a fun, safe space to enjoy with little ones.
  2. West Side โ€“ Thrill-Seeker Zone:For more advanced riders, this area includes a 10,000 sq. ft. snake run with bowl corners and a vert wall, an 8-foot-deep intermediate bowl, and a 15,000 sq. ft. street course filled with ledges, rails, and stair sets. A separate beginner section will also be available for those just starting out.

In addition to the skating and biking areas, the park will include a ceremonial lawn, pavilion, and restroom facilities, making it a versatile spot for events, activities, and competitions.

Opening in 2025

With Team Pain, renowned skate park designers, leading the project and Wharton-Smith, Inc. handling construction management, the Casselberry Wheels Park is on track to be completed by Spring 2025. While this cutting-edge park is located in Casselberry, it will provide Winter Springs residents with a nearby recreational facility designed for fun, exercise, and community events.

Thank you to everyone in Winter Springs who has shared their enthusiasm for skateboarding and biking with me. Although a skate park is not currently on our cityโ€™s immediate list of projects, Iโ€™m excited that such a high-quality facility is being built right next door in Casselberry. Stay tuned for more updates as the park gets closer to completion!

For more details, visit Team Painโ€™s official announcement.

Winter Springs Approves Tree Replacement Plan for Tuskawilla Crossings

Winter Springs Approves Tree Replacement Plan for Tuskawilla Crossings

Finding the Right Tree-Lined Solution for Tuskawilla Crossings

As your Commissioner for Winter Springs, itโ€™s my priority to approach every decision with a commitment to the well-being of our community. I know how important it is to preserve the charm of our neighborhoods while ensuring we protect our cityโ€™s infrastructure. Today, I want to give you an update on an important decision regarding the street trees in Tuskawilla Crossings, which the City Commission voted to approve on September 9th.

When the issue of the Live Oaks in Tuskawilla Crossings was first brought to my attention, Iโ€™ll admit I was skeptical about the need for change. After all, these trees were originally approved as part of the 2017 development plan and contribute to the beautiful canopy-lined streets that we all love. However, as I looked deeper into the situation, I began to understand the potential risks these trees pose to our infrastructureโ€”particularly to sidewalks and curbs.

The more I learned, the clearer it became that this wasnโ€™t just about aesthetics. The roots of the Live Oaks, which were planted in narrower-than-ideal green strips, have the potential to cause significant long-term damage to the infrastructure in Tuskawilla Crossings. Some homeowners have already removed trees out of concern, and I share those concerns now that I fully grasp the potential financial impact this could have on both residents and the City down the line.

City staff, led by our Arbor and Landscape Manager, developed a thoughtful, sustainable solution: replacing the Live Oaks with Little Gem Magnolia trees. These trees, classified as Understory Trees, have a much less aggressive root system, making them far less likely to damage nearby sidewalks and curbs. Not only will this protect our infrastructure, but it will also save on future maintenance costs, making it a fiscally responsible solution.

After learning more about the plan and hearing from the Tuskawilla Crossings Homeowner’s Association, who is in full support of this change, I realized this proposal offers the best long-term benefits for our community. It balances the need to preserve the tree-lined character of the neighborhood while addressing the very real concerns of infrastructure damage.

The City Commission voted to approve this plan on September 9th, and City staff will begin working to carefully remove the Live Oaks and replace them with Little Gem Magnolias. But we arenโ€™t stopping there. In the spirit of conservation, weโ€™ll be making every effort to save and replant the removed Live Oaks in City parks and other appropriate locations where they wonโ€™t pose the same infrastructure concerns.

This decision wasn’t made lightly, and I appreciate the patience and input from our residents throughout this process. Itโ€™s not always easy to change course, but after fully understanding the risks and benefits, Iโ€™m confident that this is the right step forward for Tuskawilla Crossings and the broader Winter Springs community.

As always, I am here for you. If you have any questions or want to learn more about how this plan will unfold, please donโ€™t hesitate to reach out. Letโ€™s continue working together to protect and preserve the city we all love.

With gratitude,

Victoria Bruce

Winter Springs City Commissioner โ€“ District 2

Honoring 9/11: A Day of Remembrance in Winter Springs

Honoring 9/11: A Day of Remembrance in Winter Springs

Today, we came together as a community to honor the memory of those we lost 23 years ago on September 11, 2001. Standing in front of the Winter Springs Police Department, we reflected on a moment in history that forever changed our nation. The 9/11 attacks left an indelible mark on the lives of countless families, and as we gathered today, our city paid tribute not only to the victims but to the survivors, first responders, and the enduring resilience of our nation.

At 8:30 AM, Winter Springs residents, city leaders, and officers from the Winter Springs Police Department gathered for this solemn ceremony. Together, we honored the 2,977 lives lost in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. At precisely 8:46 AM, a moment of silence was observed to mark the exact time the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center, bringing the gravity of that fateful day back into our hearts.

One of the most moving moments of todayโ€™s ceremony was the placement of a wreath that included a piece of the North Tower from the World Trade Center. This sacred relic, a 250-pound section from the 92nd floor, serves as a powerful reminder of the lives lost and the strength that has come from that tragedy. We are deeply grateful to Running 4 Heroes, a Winter Springs-based charity, for curating this significant piece of history. Their mission to support the families of fallen first responders reminds us all of the sacrifices made for our safety and freedom.

As I stood alongside Winter Springs Police Deputy Chief Kevin Presley to place the wreath, I was filled with a profound sense of duty to our community and to the memories of those who perished. This ceremony wasnโ€™t just about looking back at the events of 9/11โ€”it was about honoring the bravery, unity, and heroism that emerged in the aftermath. The men and women who risked everything to save lives that day represent the best of who we are as a nation.

I want to express my deepest gratitude to the residents of Winter Springs who joined us for this important occasion. Your presence demonstrated our collective commitment to remembering the past and ensuring that we never forget the sacrifices made by so many. To the first responders who continue to serve with courage and dedication, you are the heartbeat of our community, and we are forever grateful.

As we move forward, let us carry with us the lessons of 9/11: the importance of unity, service, and standing together in the face of adversity. Winter Springs is a community that values connection and strength, and today was a reminder of how powerful we are when we come together.

Thank you to everyone who participated in todayโ€™s ceremony, and may we continue to honor the legacy of 9/11 in everything we do.

#NeverForget

โ€” Victoria Bruce

Winter Springs Commissioner, District 2

Winter Springs 2023 Financial Report: Focus on Efficiency & Transparency

Winter Springs 2023 Financial Report: Focus on Efficiency & Transparency

As your city commissioner, Iโ€™m here to provide an update on the City of Winter Springs’ Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2023. It’s important to me that our cityโ€™s finances are transparent and responsibly managed, especially as we encounter rising costs in certain areas.

This report outlines our cityโ€™s financial health, with significant investments in infrastructure upgrades, public safety, and parks. We’ve worked hard to strengthen our financial position, keeping taxes low and reserves steady. However, as Winter Springs continues to grow, the overall size of our government and the rising costs tied to it are areas we need to monitor closely. My focus will be on ensuring that we operate efficiently, getting the best value for the resources we use, and streamlining wherever possible.

I’ve also been vocal about improving financial transparency within our cityโ€™s operations. While the ACFR provides valuable insights, itโ€™s crucial we continue to push for clear, accessible financial information for all residents.

This report shows our ongoing efforts to balance economic growth with maintaining Winter Springsโ€™ character and environmental health. I encourage everyone to review the report to understand where your tax dollars are going and how we plan to manage financial challenges ahead.

Thank you for your continued trust and engagement in making Winter Springs a thriving community.

Warm regards,

Victoria Bruce

City Commissioner, Winter Springs, District 2

Celebrating Community and Nature: The New Trotwood Park Boardwalk

Celebrating Community and Nature: The New Trotwood Park Boardwalk

Winter Springs residents,

As your City Commissioner, Iโ€™m thrilled to share with you the wonderful enhancements at Trotwood Park. Today, we celebrate not just the addition of a beautiful new boardwalk but the culmination of extensive improvements that reflect our city’s commitment to fostering community and enhancing the quality of life for all our residents.

A Testament to Community and Craftsmanship

The completion of the new boardwalk at Trotwood Park marks the final phase of a multi-year improvement project, which has included updates from new basketball courts and parking facilities to playground enhancements. These improvements are part of our broader “Perk up Parks Initiative,” aimed at revitalizing our city’s parks and play areas.

What makes the Trotwood Park boardwalk particularly special is that it was constructed entirely by our talented City of Winter Springs Parks Department staff. Through their hard work and dedication, we managed to save nearly $250,000 on this project! This cost-effective approach has allowed us to reinvest in further enhancements and ensure our parks meet the high standards our community deserves.

More Than Just a Boardwalk

As we cut the ribbon to officially open the new boardwalk, I couldn’t help but feel immense pride in what weโ€™ve achieved together. This boardwalk is more than just a pathwayโ€”it’s a gateway to nature, a place for families to gather, and a space for all of us to connect with the environment. From fishing and bird watching to simply enjoying a quiet moment away from the bustle of daily life, the boardwalk offers something for everyone.

“Our new boardwalk is such an investment into our residents’ ability to enjoy nature, to recreate, and to just be,” I shared during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Thanks to Len Hartman and his team, this boardwalk is built to last, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same beautiful, natural surroundings that we do today.

Join Us at Trotwood Park

If you havenโ€™t had a chance to visit recently, I encourage you to come and see the improvements for yourself. Trotwood Park now has a splash pad, updated playground, fitness equipment, sports facilities, and of course our stunning new boardwalk.

Thank you to everyone who has supported and contributed to this project. Your involvement is what drives our success and ensures that Winter Springs remains a wonderful place to live, work, and play.

Come visit soon and see why Trotwood Park is a jewel in the crown of Winter Springs.

Warm regards,

Victoria Bruce

City Commissioner, Winter Springs

Hold Leaders Accountable: Why It’s Time to Remove Ken Spalthoff from the Planning and Zoning Board

Hold Leaders Accountable: Why It’s Time to Remove Ken Spalthoff from the Planning and Zoning Board

In January 2024, the Winter Springs City Commission unanimously passed a resolution adopting a comprehensive Code of Conduct for city boards and committees. This policy was designed to promote ethical behavior, professionalism, and respect among all appointed officials, ensuring that they serve the community with dignity and integrity.

However, it has become increasingly clear that Ken Spalthoff, a member of the Winter Springs Planning and Zoning Board, has failed to uphold these standards.

Ken Spalthoff signed this Code of Conduct, agreeing to demonstrate civility, respect, and courtesy towards everyone he interacts with in his official capacity. He pledged to refrain from intimidation, ridicule, and unprofessional behavior. Yet, his actions since January tell a very different story.

Spalthoff’s ongoing campaign of harassment against Commissioner Victoria Bruce is a blatant violation of the principles outlined in the Code of Conduct. Despite the dismissal of his baseless ethics complaint against her, he has continued to spread misinformation and engage in defamatory attacks. His behavior not only undermines the integrity of our cityโ€™s leadership but also violates the agreement he made with the residents of Winter Springs when he signed the Code of Conduct.

Item #4 of the Code explicitly states that members will “demonstrate dignity, civility, respect, and courtesy” and “refrain from intimidation and ridicule.” Item #5 further requires that any disagreements or criticisms be framed in a professional and dignified manner. Spalthoff’s actions have repeatedly flouted these guidelines, showing a clear disregard for the ethical standards he pledged to uphold.

Winter Springs deserves better. We need leaders who prioritize the well-being of the community and adhere to the ethical standards that have been established to guide their behavior. Spalthoff’s conduct has made it clear that he is not fit to continue serving on the Planning and Zoning Board.

It is time for the community to take a stand. We must hold our leaders accountable and demand that those who fail to meet their obligations be removed from their positions. By voting to remove Ken Spalthoff from the Planning and Zoning Board, we can send a strong message that Winter Springs will not tolerate unethical behavior from its leaders.

Letโ€™s ensure that our city is led by individuals who respect the values of integrity, professionalism, and respect. Itโ€™s time to act.

For more information on how you can get involved in holding our leaders accountable, visit the official Winter Springs City Website.

Why Winter Springs Deserves Better: The Unethical Behavior of Ken Spalthoff

Why Winter Springs Deserves Better: The Unethical Behavior of Ken Spalthoff

In December 2023, Kenneth Spalthoff, a member of Winter Springsโ€™ Planning and Zoning Board, filed an ethics complaint against me, Victoria Bruce, with the Florida Commission on Ethics. This complaint was a clear attempt to tarnish my reputation, as it was completely dismissed in April 2024 for failing to meet legal standards. However, this incident is just one part of a troubling pattern of behavior from Ken Spalthoff.

Since I announced my candidacy for Winter Springs City Commission District 2, Ken has relentlessly attacked my character, spreading misinformation and making defamatory comments on social media. The reason behind these baseless attacks is clearโ€”Ken’s close association with my former opponent, Kevin Cannon, who I defeated, ending his political career.

READ MORE: Winding Hollow HOA, Plaintiff, vs. Kenneth W. Spalthoff, Defendant

Kenโ€™s personal vendetta against me stems from his loyalty to Cannon, but his actions have crossed ethical lines and raise serious questions about his suitability to represent our community. As someone who holds a position on the Planning and Zoning Board, Ken is expected to uphold the city’s code of ethics. Instead, he has consistently engaged in behavior that undermines the integrity of our cityโ€™s leadership.

Winter Springs deserves leaders who are focused on serving the community, not individuals who misuse their positions to carry out personal vendettas. Kenโ€™s conduct, from filing a frivolous complaint to his ongoing smear campaign, is not only unbecoming but also unfit for someone in a position of public trust.

I have always been committed to transparency, honesty, and working for the betterment of Winter Springs. I believe our city deserves representatives who prioritize the well-being of the community over personal grudges.

Itโ€™s time for our city leaders to take a stand against this kind of behavior. I call on the community to demand better from those who represent us. Winter Springs should be a place where integrity and ethical conduct guide our actionsโ€”not personal attacks and baseless accusations.

Vision Zero: Winter Springsโ€™ Commitment to Road Safety

Vision Zero: Winter Springsโ€™ Commitment to Road Safety

The City of Winter Springs is taking a monumental step towards enhancing road safety by adopting the Vision Zero Action Plan. Recently presented by MetroPlan Orlando, this initiative is a part of a regional effort to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries. Vision Zeroโ€™s goal is clear: to ensure that no lives are lost on our roadways.

Understanding Vision Zero

Vision Zero is a data-driven approach that focuses on creating a safe transportation system for everyone. The initiative is built on the principle that traffic deaths and serious injuries are preventable and aims to reduce them to zero. The plan involves collaboration among various stakeholders, including city planners, traffic system operators, and the community.

Key Points from the Vision Zero Presentation

1. Background and Objectives: MetroPlan Orlando, in partnership with HDR, has been working diligently on developing the Vision Zero Action Plan for Winter Springs. This plan is part of a larger regional strategy funded through the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program. The primary objective is to achieve zero traffic fatalities and serious injuries on our roadways.

2. Data-Driven Approach: From 2018 to 2022, Central Florida saw nearly 1,500 deaths due to traffic incidents. In Winter Springs, the analysis revealed a concerning number of fatalities and serious injuries, particularly involving motorcyclists and incidents occurring in poorly lit areas. The Vision Zero plan uses this data to identify high-risk areas and propose targeted safety measures.

3. Community Engagement: The development of the Vision Zero plan involved extensive community outreach. MetroPlan Orlando engaged with residents at various local events, such as the Winter Wonderland event and the Eggciting Egg Hunt, to gather input and raise awareness about the importance of road safety.

4. Actionable Strategies: The Vision Zero Action Plan outlines specific strategies to improve road safety, categorized into five key elements:

  • Safer Roads:ย Developing a multimodal master plan to enhance pedestrian, cyclist, and transit user experiences.
  • Safer Speeds:ย Installing speed feedback signs to increase driver awareness.
  • Safer Road Users:ย Partnering with motorcycle safety organizations and promoting helmet usage.
  • Safer Vehicles:ย Ensuring new fleet vehicles are equipped with advanced safety features.
  • Post-Crash Care:ย Enhancing collaboration with first responders to improve crash data collection and emergency response.

5. Long-Term Commitment: Achieving Vision Zero is a long-term goal, with milestones set for 2035 and 2050 for city and regional roads, respectively. The plan requires ongoing commitment and collaboration from city officials, residents, and regional partners.

Next Steps 

In August, the City Commission will consider adopting a resolution to follow the Vision Zero Action Plan. This resolution will direct staff to initiate the outlined actions and seek funding sources for implementation. By embracing Vision Zero, Winter Springs is committed to creating safer streets and a safer community for all.