As your city commissioner, I’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 city’s finances are transparent and responsibly managed, especially as we encounter rising costs in certain areas.
This report outlines our city’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 city’s operations. While the ACFR provides valuable insights, it’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 Springs’ 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.
As your City Commissioner, I’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 we’ve achieved together. This boardwalk is more than just a pathway—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 haven’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.
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 city’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.
Let’s ensure that our city is led by individuals who respect the values of integrity, professionalism, and respect. It’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.
In December 2023, Kenneth Spalthoff, a member of Winter Springs’ 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 clear—Ken’s close association with my former opponent, Kevin Cannon, who I defeated, ending his political career.
Ken’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 city’s leadership.
Winter Springs deserves leaders who are focused on serving the community, not individuals who misuse their positions to carry out personal vendettas. Ken’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.
It’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 actions—not personal attacks and baseless accusations.
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 Zero’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: Developing a multimodal master plan to enhance pedestrian, cyclist, and transit user experiences.
Safer Speeds: Installing speed feedback signs to increase driver awareness.
Safer Road Users: Partnering with motorcycle safety organizations and promoting helmet usage.
Safer Vehicles: Ensuring new fleet vehicles are equipped with advanced safety features.
Post-Crash Care: 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.
As your City Commissioner, I am pleased to share an important update on the Fiscal Year 2025 Proposed Budget. Our commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental conservation and maintaining our community’s high quality of life remains steadfast. Below, you’ll find key highlights and details from our proposed budget, reflecting our collective efforts to ensure Winter Springs remains a thriving and beautiful community.
Budget Overview
The total proposed budget for all City funds is approximately $68.3 million, representing a 6% decrease from the prior fiscal year. This reduction is achieved without compromising the quality of services we provide to our residents. Our General Fund spending, however, has increased to $26.6 million, a 10.4% rise, due to several essential capital improvement projects, insurance premium hikes, and the rising costs of goods and services.
General Fund
Capital Expenditure Overview for the 2024-2025 budget.
Enterprise Funds: Water & Sewer
AMR to AMI Meter Replacement $1,000,000.00
Auto flushers $10,000.00
Dump Truck $60,000.00
East Waste Water gravity system capacity study $100,000.00
Flow Meters at RCW Disposal Sites Installation $240,000.00
Oak Forest RCW Controls Installation $50,000.00
Pipe Relining/Replacement RECLAIMED WATER $174,000.00
Pipe Relining/Replacement SEWER LATERAL PARTS $250,000.00
Pipe Relining/Replacement WATER $50,000.00
Radio and PLC upgrades $300,000.00
Reclaimed Water Main Extensions – Construction $1,040,000.00
RIBs rehabilitation construction $510,000.00
Sheoah Blvd Water Main Replacement – Construction $500,000.00
Winter Springs Blvd Valve Addition – Construction $40,000.00
WTP 2 Ground Storage Tank Rehab. – Construction $500,000.00
WTP 2 Pumps and Meters – Construction $500,000.00
Winter Springs Village Reclaim – construction $50,000.00
Information Services-General
IT Network Infrastructure Replacement- Routers Phase 2 $70,000
Replacing end of life critical infrastructure for IT routers. Current infrastructure scheduled for replacement is more than 10 years old.
Public Communication division needs suitable storage solution to save multimedia content/graphics.
Replace Server Room Electrical Protection, UPS’s and PDU’s (IT) $15,000
Replacing end of life electrical protection infrastructure for IT server room at City Hall (battery backups and electrical). These components ensure that key IT infrastructure is protected from electrical surges and can operate during electrical outages.
Fuel Pump Control System (Public Works, Parks, Finance) $16,000
Automated fuel monitoring system for fueling of city equipment (mowers/tractors/excavators etc.) An automated system tracking will reduce staff time needed for monthly fuel reconciliation.
Police Mobile Command Trailer Tech Overhaul Phase 2 (Police) $10,000
IT infrastructure in WSPD mobile Command Trailer has reached end of life. Recommending replacement of cellular connectivity technology used for large scale operations.
Replace Police Fingerprint Equipment and Upgrade Software $7,000
PD fingerprint equipment nearing end of life, software upgrade integrates with new hardware.
Facilities Maintenance
Pressure Cleaner $7,500
Replacing end of life pressure washer that is used for maintenance of sidewalks and City facilities.
Scissor Lift $20,000
Staff recommending purchase of 26ft scissor lift for maintenance of facilities and projects that are inaccessible via bucket trucks.
Vehicle Replacement $50,000
The City’s fleet maintenance division recommends replacement of one 4WD ½ ton truck due to it being beyond the recommended service milage.
Community Development (Urban Beatification)
60” Mower Replacement $28,000
Replacement of existing 60” mower that has exceeded recommended service life
Vehicle Replacement $70,000
The City’s fleet maintenance division recommends replacement of one 4WD ¾ ton truck due to it being beyond the recommended service milage.
Workman Cart $25,000
Multipurpose utility cart for addressing maintenance issues on medians, right of ways and other areas that are difficult to access in traditional vehicles.
Executive and Legislative
City Manager SUV $38,000
Existing Ford Escape used by Interim City Manager to be transferred to Public Works for administrative staff use.
Fleet Maintenance
A/C machine 1234YF $12,000
Needed to repair automotive air conditioning systems in accordance with the EPA. Vehicles that use this A/C system are no longer in warranty and having this machine will lessen the out of service times.
Diagnostic Scanner $9,200
Is used to diagnose all check engine lights, ABS warning lights along with other computer systems in our vehicles. This scanner will diagnose most vehicle brands both off road & on.
Wheel Alignment machine $82,000
Will help fleet division deduce replacement tire costs and will lower the down time of vehicles. We will also cut down on mechanic time driving to & from third party alignment shop
Welder $9,000
Allows fleet division to repair & fabricate brackets & plates for all offroad equipment. They will be able to repair more metal work in house to have less down time.
Zamboni floor cleaner $15,000
Allows fleet shop to maintain a safe shop free and clear of oils & lubricants on the floor preventing an employee from slipping & falling.
The City’s fleet maintenance division recommends replacement of 24 vehicles due to either being beyond the recommended service milage or having excessive maintenance cost due to their age. $78,500 per vehicle is inclusive of necessary accessories for law enforcement purposes (lights, graphics, cages etc.)
Broken Sallyport Replacement Roll Door $20,000
Roll-up sallyport door at WSPD has become inoperable and needs to be replaced by a qualified commercial vendor. This repair is needed for the police department to maintain CJIS compliance facilities.
Police Building Access Control $75,000
The access control system for the police department needs to be updated to be compliant with new CJIS (Criminal Justice Information Services) regulations as mandated by the FBI. The existing access control system for the police department is original to the construction of the building from 1997.
Replace Unserviceable X2 TASERS to TASER 10 Model Year 1 of 5 $55,440
X2 TASERS originally purchased in 2015 and are no longer available to purchase, under warranty, or serviceable by the manufacturer. This less-than-lethal device has been deployed hundreds of times and has de-escalated numerous violent situations.
Parks & Recreation
Sprayer $70,500
Used for applying pesticides/herbicides in City Parks. Existing sprayer is beyond service life, OEM replacement parts no longer available.
Vehicle Replacement $50,000
The City’s fleet maintenance division recommends replacement of one 4WD ½ ton truck due to it being beyond the recommended service milage.
Gators (2) $30,000
Replacing past service life utility carts used for daily maintenance of City Parks.
Lake Jesup boardwalk project requires permitting through local/state agencies and engineered plans.
Reel Mower $88,200
Replacing end of service life reel mower used for maintenance of sports turf at Central Winds Park.
Roof Replacement CWP Office $30,000
Existing roof of 2 story building at Central Winds Park baseball complex has surpassed useful life, original to construction of Central Winds Park in 1992.
Digital Display $15,000
Digital display that is rated for outdoor use will be used to display information pertaining to daily facility reservations and programs.
Other Governmental Funds
SP Law Enforcement Trust (Fed) #103
Traffic Trailer $49,800
Existing traffic trailer has reached end of service life. Enables WSPD to conduct traffic and speed studies, and it has LPR technology for intelligence-led policing.
Transportation Improvement Fund #120
Roadway/Drainage Projects $600,000
Repair of Damage Roadways and drainage systems.
Road Improvements (Safety) $400,000
Pedestrian safety improvements
CIP Resurfacing $2,000,000
Resurfacing of City roads that have been designated to be at the end of their life cycle.
Infrastructure Surtax Fund #121 (3rd Gen)
Stormwater Rehabilitation City Wide $1,300,000
City wide surveying of the stormwater system to assess and implement a rehabilitation schedule.
Retrofit of current stormwater system that is discharging to Wetland Park to alleviate flooding issues on Michael Blake Blvd. in the Winter Springs Village subdivision.
Arbor Fund #140
Agricultural Drone $30,000
Used to survey and monitor tree canopies and disperse biological (air potato beetle/ladybug) invasive vine control.
Wheel Loader $100,000
Used for existing landscaping demolition and installations of larger landscaping materials, can also be used for emergency use to clear downed trees from roadways.
Grapple Truck $130,000
Used for picking up and haul tree debris and large landscaping debris
Transportation Impact Fee Fund #150
Integra/434 Traffic Signal (Design and Construction) $379,000
Holding funds per development agreement, will have to return if no light is necessary.
Police Impact Fee Fund #151
Body-Wear Camera (8) Year 1 of 5 $52,424
Eight additional body-worn cameras for newly hired officers/positions.
Parks Impact Fee Fund #153
LJO Boardwalk Phase 1 $400,000 (Funding Paused)
New boardwalk along lake Jesup at Central Winds Park. Phase 1 consists of approximately 600 linear feet of new boardwalk.
Ranchlands Restroom-holding style $75,000
Currently there is no restroom at this park.
Trotwood Pavilion @ Basketball Courts $120,000
New larger covered pavilion for this area of the park
Veteran Walk at Torcaso $100,000
Provide for improved connectivity between Torcaso Park and Sunshine Park, with enhanced landscaping and areas recognizing veterans.
Public Facilities Capital Project Fund #303
Fencing in CWP (Parks) $250,000
Allows for securing Central Winds Park lower practice fields when the fields after hour or during maintenance periods. Reduces risks of vandalism to fields during overnight hours.
Trotwood Playground Surfacing (Parks) $150,000
Can be used to replace existing surfacing.
Upper Athletic Fields to LED’s (8) (Parks) Budgeted: $1,000,000 (Project Funded for $100,000.00)
Staff still evaluating financial feasibility of various options for implementation of this initiative.
Convert Bay to Tire Room (Fleet) $10,000
Fleet division needs a more practical storage solution for both new & old tires to minimize risk to employees.
Rehab Lunchroom/Kitchen (Fleet) $10,000
Will be used as a combination break room, a small training room for mechanics to keep credentials current, and meeting space to meet with outside vendors/suppliers.
2 Post Lift (Fleet) $7,500
Current 2 post life in fleet shop is past useful life and cannot pass safety certification.
Shop Rehab lead Mechanic Office (Fleet) $10,000
Will allow lead mechanic to have designated workspace to complete essential administrative functions.
Shop Rehab-Paint and Gutter (Fleet) $7,500
Fleet building needs new gutters to allow the rain to drain and not pool on the roof causing internal water leaks that could damage City equipment. The building also needs to be resealed & painted and have all cracks filled in.
Excellence in Customer Service Initiative #305
Thorguard at Torcaso Park $50,000
Lightning Prediction warning system. Currently installed at Central Winds and Trotwood
Closed Captioning $60,000
Live streaming closed captioning hardware/software to maintain upcoming ADA legislative rulings that will be required for public meetings.
Senior Center HVAC $30,000
One of the existing HVAC units at Senior Center has reached recommended replacement age.
Camera for Parks $100,000
Phase 1 Central Winds amphitheater. Is a force multiplier for Law Enforcement. Allows for WSPD to have improved crowd monitoring capabilities at large vents (July 4th/Highland Games).
Other Governmental Funds
Development Services-Plans & Inspections #420
Building Services Inspection Vehicle $35,000
Recommended replacement of current vehicle used for inspections that has reached end of service life.
Counter Remodel $125,000
Permitting counter/workspace is currently not functional for needs of department, there are also safety enhancements than can be achieved by raising counter tops.
Lobby Kiosk $200,000
Self-service station where applicants for building permits can submit applications, documents, and payments.
TOTAL CAPITAL OUTLAY – ALL FUNDS $19,732,558
Key Highlights
Capital Improvement Projects: Significant investments are being made in infrastructure, including the design and construction of new wastewater treatment plants and updates to our water and sewer systems. These projects are critical for maintaining and improving our city’s essential services.
Increased Millage Rate: To support these projects and maintain service levels, we have proposed a modest increase in the millage rate by 0.21 mills. This change will help generate necessary revenue without relying on General Fund reserves for recurring operational costs.
Environmental Conservation: Our budget continues to prioritize environmental protection. Efforts include ongoing maintenance and upgrades to our water treatment facilities to ensure safe and clean drinking water for all residents.
Community Development: We are seeing steady growth in residential construction and commercial development. Projects like the Hickory Grove Townhomes and the Living Life independent living facility highlight our commitment to expanding housing options and supporting local businesses.
Public Safety and Community Services: Investments in public safety remain a top priority. We are enhancing our police services and community programs to ensure Winter Springs remains one of the safest cities in Florida.
Budget Workshop Announcement
We invite all residents to join us for a budget workshop on July 15th at 4:30 PM. This workshop will provide an opportunity for you to learn more about the FY2025 Proposed Budget and ask any questions you may have. It’s a great chance to engage with the Commission and understand how your tax dollars are being utilized to improve our community.
Message from the Interim City Manager
Our Interim City Manager has also provided an update on the budget process, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of all departments to minimize operating costs while maintaining high service standards. Here is the key message:
“Mayor and Commissioners,
In accordance with State Law and the City Charter, I am pleased to transmit the City of Winter Springs Fiscal Year 2025 Proposed Budget for your consideration and review. This document is available on the City public website under the Finance link.
As presented, Fiscal Year 2025 total budgeted spending (all funds) represents a 6% decrease over the prior fiscal year, while total General Fund spending of $26.6M is up (10.4%). These increases are attributed to numerous capital improvement projects, notable insurance premium increases, and the cost of goods and services throughout the City. Our continued adherence to our fiscal plan includes a proactive approach of working directly with each Department Director in minimizing operating costs. Thus, I am recommending a budget for Fiscal Year 2025 that includes an increased millage rate of 0.21, no utilization of General Fund reserves for recurring operating purposes, and no reduction in the level of services currently provided to our citizens.
Staff and I remain ready and committed to assist you with any information and support you need to successfully finalize the budget. Thank you for your trust and support, resulting in this FY2025 Budget!”
Conclusion
The FY2025 Proposed Budget is a testament to our commitment to responsible fiscal management and sustainable community development. We are dedicated to ensuring that Winter Springs continues to flourish, balancing growth with the preservation of our natural environment. Your feedback and support are invaluable as we move forward with these plans.
Thank you for your continued trust and involvement in our community’s future. I look forward to seeing you at the budget workshop on July 15th!
Brightening Our Ballfields: Central Winds Park’s LED Lighting Upgrade
As your City Commissioner and a parent, I spend many evenings at Central Winds Park watching our kids play softball and baseball, including my own daughter. I’ve noticed a significant issue that needed addressing—the old, buzzing lights. Not only do they make it hard to enjoy the games, but they are also inefficient and costly to maintain.
Concerned about the quality of our community’s sports facilities, I inquired about the possibility of upgrading our lighting system. The initial estimates were daunting, running into millions, which seemed like an insurmountable hurdle. However, determined to find a solution, I raised this issue during a city commission meeting.
Collaborative Solution
Our proactive city staff then approached Duke Energy, which led to a groundbreaking proposal: upgrading our park’s lighting with state-of-the-art LED technology. This partnership would allow for us to pay for the lights over the next 20 years, making this upgrade financially feasible and sustainable.
Why LED Lights?
Switching to LED lights means more than just saving on energy costs; it means providing a better, safer environment for our children to play in and our community to gather in. These new lights are brighter, more energy-efficient, and don’t make any noise—a win for everyone!
Looking Ahead
The installation of these lights marks a significant improvement in our community facilities. Not only will this enhance the experience for all players and spectators, but it will also allow us to host more evening games and potentially attract larger sports events to Winter Springs.
I’m thrilled to see this project come to fruition—a testament to what we can achieve when we work together! Thank you to everyone involved, from city staff to Duke Energy, for helping turn a community concern into a success story.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to light up our community at Central Winds Park!
±180,348 sq. ft., 4-story independent living facility; with a two-story 22,430 sq. ft. clubhouse/communal living area and bistro and with two four-story residential wings with 144 units and a total of 157,918 sq. ft.
The project site is made up of two parcels, one in Winter Springs and one in Longwood. The parcel in Winter Springs is 7.66 acres and makes up 92% of the site while the parcel in Longwood is 0.70 acres and makes up the other 8% of the site.
The proposed development will have a central clubhouse that will offer a restaurant, bistro, hair salon/spa, small movie theater, and areas for arts and crafts.
The applicant’s fiscal impact analysis, estimates that the increase in annual tax revenue for the city will be in excess of $90,000.
I’m excited to share a comprehensive update on the recent State of Seminole County presentation. As your City Commissioner, it’s crucial to keep you informed about developments that directly impact our community.
During the presentation, County Manager Darren Gray provided a detailed overview of various initiatives and accomplishments in Seminole County over the past year. Here are some key highlights that I believe are particularly relevant to Winter Springs:
1. Economic Development and Infrastructure:
Seminole County has implemented a five-year economic development plan aimed at supporting businesses of all sizes. This includes the creation of a liaison service to streamline the permitting process for new businesses.
The county is also working on significant infrastructure projects, including the assessment and maintenance of public facilities and the launch of a mobility plan to address traffic congestion and road expansions.
2. Public Safety Enhancements:
The county has opened a new fire station in Altamonte Springs and is currently constructing another in the Markham Woods area. These additions will enhance our emergency response capabilities.
Seminole County Fire Department has achieved national accreditation, a testament to their commitment to excellence and best practices in public safety.
3. Environmental and Community Initiatives:
The county successfully facilitated the purchase of the Yarborough Ranch, preserving 1,400 acres of rural land for conservation.
Efforts are underway to address flooding issues in the Midway area, providing much-needed relief to residents affected by recent hurricanes.
4. Community Engagement and Services:
A new community center will be built at the site of the historic Rosenwald School, offering career opportunities and community gathering spaces.
The county’s animal services have enhanced their adoption programs, ensuring better care for pets in our shelters.
5. Future Projects:
Plans are in motion for an indoor sports facility near the Orlando Sanford International Airport, which will serve as a hub for youth sports and community events.
Discussions about the renewal of the penny sales tax are ongoing. This tax has funded numerous improvements in Seminole County, and its renewal is essential for continued development.
I want to assure you that I am dedicated to ensuring Winter Springs remains a vibrant and thriving community. These updates are a testament to the collaborative efforts of our county and city officials. I encourage you to stay engaged and informed as we continue to work towards a brighter future for all residents.
Earlier this month, Winter Springs initiated the process to update our comprehensive plan, setting the stage for a forward-thinking vision that will guide our community’s growth and development.
After issuing a Request for Proposals, we received bids from three esteemed planning firms: Inspire Placemaking Collective, RVi Planning and Landscape Architecture, and LPG Urban & Regional Planners, Inc. Following a thorough evaluation, Inspire Placemaking was selected to collaborate with us on this important endeavor. With their wealth of experience in comprehensive plan updates across Florida, including projects in Pasco County, Palm Bay, and Cocoa, we are confident in their ability to help us shape the future of Winter Springs.
Our current comprehensive plan, adopted in 2012, is due for an update to reflect the evolving needs and aspirations of our community. Through a two-phase approach, we will address state requirements in Phase 1 and embark on the broader 2050 Comprehensive Plan update in Phase 2. This process will be characterized by robust public engagement, ensuring that your voices and priorities are heard every step of the way.
As we plan for the future, accommodating projected population growth is a key consideration. With Winter Springs experiencing steady growth, it’s essential that we plan for housing and infrastructure to support our expanding community. By adhering to state projections and addressing the medium projections set forth by the University of Florida Bureau of Economic and Business Research, we are laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and development.
While we embrace growth, we also recognize the importance of responsible development. Last year, we implemented a moratorium on new development to assess our stormwater system following Hurricane Ian. While this decision slowed down some projects, it underscored our commitment to prioritizing community safety and infrastructure resilience.
As we embark on this comprehensive plan update, I encourage all residents to stay informed and engaged in the process. Your input is invaluable as we chart the course for Winter Springs’ future. Together, we can ensure that our city remains a vibrant, inclusive, and resilient community for generations to come.
Warm regards,
Victoria K. Bruce City Commissioner, Winter Springs
Chris Dougherty of Inspire Placemaking Collective speaking during the May 13 Winter Springs City Commission workshop meeting. (City of Winter Springs)
Phase 1 of the comprehensive plan will address state requirements. Phase 2, set to kick off in Aug., will consist of the wider 2050 Comprehensive Plan update and is scheduled for adoption by June 1, 2025. (Handout from City of Winter Springs)
