Clear Waters, Stronger Springs: Restoring and Protecting the Future of Lake Jesup and Winter Springs

Clear Waters, Stronger Springs: Restoring and Protecting the Future of Lake Jesup and Winter Springs

Community Update from Victoria Bruce, Winter Springs City Commissioner

Dear Winter Springs Neighbors,

I recently had the opportunity to join environmental experts, regional leaders, and engaged citizens at the latest Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP) meeting focused on the restoration of Lake Jesup and surrounding watersheds. These meetings are an essential part of our collective effort to protect water quality, support smart and sustainable growth, and preserve our natural resources for future generations.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the Division of Environmental Assessment & Restoration, and various technical experts shared progress on the Lake Jesup BMAP update, which is scheduled for completion by July 1, 2025. The goal is clear: ensure that we meet water quality standards by reducing nitrogen and phosphorus pollution in our watershed.

View the Full Presentation

Lake Jesup Basin Management Action Plan Update

Collaboration at Every Level

From municipal governments to regional water management districts and volunteer stakeholders, the BMAP process is built on partnership. Winter Springs is proud to have a seat at the table, advocating for responsible and effective environmental solutions.

Protecting Our Waterways

The updated BMAP includes projects aimed at improving wastewater treatment, reducing stormwater runoff, and managing agricultural discharge. We also explored innovative modeling tools that allow us to anticipate and manage nutrient loads more effectively.

Planning for the Future

With regional population growth projected through 2040, we must proactively align development with sustainability. The data shared at the meeting helps inform long-term planning and infrastructure decisions that prioritize water quality and community well-being.

Transparency and Accountability

The DEP reaffirmed its commitment to transparency. All meeting materials are available to the public, and residents are encouraged to subscribe to BMAP notifications through the DEP’s GovDelivery system to stay informed and engaged.

Opportunities for Public Input

There are several ways for residents to contribute—through public comment, email, or attending meetings. Your input plays a vital role in shaping the policies and actions that will impact the health of our lakes and the quality of life in Winter Springs.

As your City Commissioner, I remain committed to clean water, environmental stewardship, and forward-thinking governance. Together, we can preserve the natural beauty of Winter Springs while supporting thoughtful, balanced growth.

To get involved or learn more about the BMAP process, visit: Lake Jesup BMAP Meeting Page

Thank you for being a part of this effort.

Celebrating the Visionary Girl Event and Empowering Future Leaders

Celebrating the Visionary Girl Event and Empowering Future Leaders

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!

With gratitude,

Victoria Bruce

Winter Springs City Commissioner, District 2

Volunteer for “Living on My Own” at Indian Trails Middle School

Volunteer for “Living on My Own” at Indian Trails Middle School

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.)

SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER

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:

SCPS DIVIDEND PROGRAM

Event Details:

📍 Indian Trails Middle School, Winter Springs, FL

📆 April 23-24, 2025

⏰ Times will be shared upon volunteer registration

Let’s work together to set our students up for financial success!

📍 Stay Connected

Stay tuned for more updates as this project moves forward!