Learn how low impact living strategies can strengthen Winter Springs, improve water quality, reduce flooding, and create more resilient neighborhoods. Recap of Dr. Laura Wilson’s community discussion hosted by Commissioner Victoria Bruce.
SJRWMD 2025–2026 Water Conservation Rebate Program: What Winter Springs Needs to Know
Save Water and Money: New SJRWMD Rebate Program Opens for 2025–2026
The St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) is once again offering rebates of up to $10,000 for water-saving improvements, and Winter Springs homeowners’ associations, multifamily property owners, and small utilities are encouraged to apply.
This rebate program is designed to help non-agricultural properties cut back on water use through smart upgrades to indoor and outdoor systems.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible participants include:
- Local governments
- Small utilities
- Homeowner and property owner associations (HOAs & POAs)
- Private and publicly owned multi-family properties
These projects are designed to restore each pond’s depth, ecological health, and functionality as part of the City’s broader stormwater management strategy.
What’s Covered?
Rebates are available for a variety of indoor and outdoor water conservation improvements, including:
- Florida Water Star℠ certification for new homes
- EPA WaterSense® smart irrigation controllers
- Irrigation system upgrades (switching to high-efficiency or micro-irrigation)
- Irrigation evaluations and timer modifications
- Soil amendments for new landscaping
- Retrofits for toilets, sinks, and showers
- H2OSAV data subscriptions for advanced water tracking
Rebates are awarded first-come, first-served until the program’s $50,000 fund is depleted.
Join the Info Webinar
To learn more and ask questions directly, join the SJRWMD Water Conservation Team for a one-hour online information session:
📅 Thursday, November 6, 2025
🕐 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM EST
💻 RSVP here: Register for the Webinar
🔗 Learn more: SJRWMD Water Conservation Rebate Program
Registration Deadline: November 4, 2025
Why This Matters for Winter Springs
As Central Florida continues to grow, water conservation is more important than ever. Using less water helps reduce strain on our utility systems and saves money for local families and property owners.
If you’re part of an HOA or manage a multi-family property, this is a great opportunity to make smart, cost-effective upgrades that benefit your residents and the community.
Winter Springs deserves sustainable solutions that work, and this program is one more tool to help us get there.
—
Victoria K. Bruce
City Commissioner, District 2
Winter Springs, Florida
Winter Springs Files Lawsuit Over Tuskawilla Crossings Pond Failure – Victoria Bruce Responds
City of Winter Springs Takes Legal Action After Tuskawilla Crossings Pond Collapse
On September 5, 2025, the City of Winter Springs filed a lawsuit in Seminole County Circuit Court over the collapse of a stormwater pond berm in the Tuskawilla Crossings subdivision. As your City Commissioner, I want to be fully transparent about what happened, what the City is doing, and why this matters for every resident.
Who Is the City Suing?
The lawsuit names several entities involved in the design, construction, and maintenance of the failed stormwater system:
- Standard Pacific of Florida, LLC and Standard Pacific of Florida GP, LLC – the developers
- Boykin Construction, Inc. – the builder
- Appian Engineering (formerly B&S Engineering Consultants, LLC) – the engineering firm of record
- UES Professional Solutions, LLC – the geotechnical consultant
- Tuskawilla Crossings Homeowners Association, Inc. – the HOA tasked with maintenance
What Went Wrong?
In September 2023, one of the berms that forms a stormwater pond within the subdivision failed suddenly and completely. This wasn’t just a minor breach; it was an “instantaneous collapse,” indicating serious design or construction flaws. This pond was built in 2021 and was intended to manage stormwater runoff and protect surrounding infrastructure.
When infrastructure like this fails, it puts homes, roads, and our environment at risk. Early assessments estimate repair costs between $1.5 to $2 million.
Why the City Is Suing
This legal action seeks to hold the responsible parties accountable for:
- Defective construction
- Negligent engineering
- Improper or insufficient maintenance
- Violations of applicable codes and environmental permits
As a city, we cannot—and will not—ask our residents to foot the bill for problems they didn’t create.
While the damage occurred in Tuskawilla Crossings, the broader issue is one of responsibility and transparency. If development is not properly planned, engineered, and maintained, the consequences fall on taxpayers. This lawsuit is about more than just one pond. It’s about sending a clear message: In Winter Springs, developers must meet their obligations, or they will be held accountable.
I’ve long been an advocate for smart growth, environmental protection, and strong infrastructure oversight. This situation underscores exactly why those principles matter.
Want to Learn More?
- Read the full lawsuit:View PDF on Flipsnack
- Read the news coverage:Oviedo Community News – Sept. 24, 2025
- My original blog post on the pond failure:Critical Evaluation Needed: Tuskawilla Crossings Pond Failure
Closing Thoughts
As always, I believe residents deserve clear answers and responsible leadership. I will continue to push for stronger accountability in development practices and to protect both our natural environment and your tax dollars.
If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out or attend an upcoming City Commission meeting. This is your city too, and your voice is part of the solution.
East Seminole County Basin Studies Aim to Reduce Flood Risk and Improve Water Management
What You Should Know About the East Seminole County Basin Studies
I often hear concerns from residents about drainage, flooding, and the lasting impact of heavy storms. That’s why I want to share important information about a proactive effort currently underway through Seminole County Public Works: the East Seminole County Basin Studies.
These studies are a critical step toward improving our regional stormwater infrastructure and reducing the risk of flooding in areas like Soldiers Creek, Gee Creek, Little Lake Howell, Howell Creek, and Lake Jesup.
The goal of these basin studies is clear: to create a cost-effective, data-driven plan to minimize flooding and the damaging impacts of uncontrolled stormwater runoff. In a time of rising storm intensity and aging infrastructure, this kind of planning is essential for the long-term safety of our neighborhoods and the protection of our natural resources.
What Areas Are Included?
The East Seminole County Basin Studies are divided into three key groups:
- Group A: Soldiers Creek, Gee Creek, and Little Lake Howell
- Group B: Howell Creek
- Group C: Lake Jesup
Each group represents a unique watershed with specific characteristics, challenges, and infrastructure needs.
What the Study Involves
To build a meaningful strategy for each basin, the County is undertaking a comprehensive watershed management planning process that includes:
- Watershed Data Collection: Gathering information on hydrology, hydraulics, and existing infrastructure
- Level of Service (LOS) Evaluation: Measuring how well the current drainage systems perform
- Floodplain Mapping: Updating maps using modern modeling technology
- Alternatives Analysis: Identifying and evaluating potential improvements based on cost, feasibility, and effectiveness
How This Connects to the Bigger Picture
These local studies are part of a much larger initiative: the Seminole County Stormwater Master Plan, which is currently in development. Together, these efforts will shape how we plan, invest, and respond to stormwater challenges over the coming decades.
The Master Plan will ultimately help determine where infrastructure dollars should go, which neighborhoods are most vulnerable, and how we can be smarter and more sustainable in our approach to water management.
Staying Engaged
If you live near one of the affected creeks or drainage basins—or if you’ve ever dealt with flooding in your area—I encourage you to learn more about this project and engage with the County’s public input opportunities.
I’ll continue tracking this work closely and will share updates as the County begins implementing recommendations. As always, my priority is protecting the people and places that make Winter Springs special.
Let’s keep working together to build a more flood-resilient, sustainable future.
Victoria K. Bruce
Winter Springs City Commissioner, District 2
Strengthening Our Storm Resilience: FDOT’s Gee Creek Culvert Project Underway
Improving Flood Protection in Winter Springs: Gee Creek Culvert Project Underway
I’m pleased to share some good news along with video straight from the field. After approximately 18 months of requests, FDOT has begun clearing out the Gee Creek culverts beneath SR 434/419. This project is a long time coming, and I want to thank those at the Florida Department of Transportation for their responsiveness and collaboration.
The video below, provided by FDOT, highlights the work currently taking place on site.
Watch the footage from FDOT
In some areas, sediment had accumulated up to six feet deep. You can actually see the staining on the culvert walls where the buildup once sat. This accumulation was significantly impairing water flow and posed serious flooding risks for areas upstream, especially during storm events and hurricanes.
An interesting discovery during this effort revealed that when the roadway was widened about 20 years ago, FDOT didn’t remove the original arched bridge structure. Instead, large box culverts were added alongside it. As seen in the footage and photos, this mix of old and new infrastructure has created a hydraulic bottleneck, contributing to sediment buildup over time.
In the short term, removing that sediment will absolutely help improve water flow and reduce upstream flood staging at this crossing. In the longer term, I’ll continue to advocate for structural improvements to ensure the area remains resilient and flood-safe for years to come.
This is the kind of behind-the-scenes work that makes a real difference, even if it’s not always visible from the road. The total estimated project cost is around $760,000, with 75% covered by federal funding and 25% by the city.
We all benefit when infrastructure is maintained proactively and thoughtfully. Thank you for staying engaged, and I’ll continue to keep you informed as this work progresses.
Victoria Bruce
Winter Springs City Commissioner, District 2
Winter Springs Water Update: A Fresh Start for Clean, Safe Water
Big changes are happening in Winter Springs—and they’re happening for the better.
Veolia, the city’s current water services contractor, has submitted its formal resignation, effective September 30, 2025. While this shift may seem sudden, it’s actually a turning point—an opportunity to reset, rebuild trust, and refocus on what matters most: clean, safe water and transparent, accountable city operations.
As your City Commissioner, I want to share the facts and explain what this transition means for our community—and why it’s a good thing.
This Contract Was Inherited—Not Initiated
The Veolia agreement was signed under a previous administration. Since taking office, it’s become increasingly clear that this contract hasn’t delivered the level of oversight, reporting, or environmental compliance that Winter Springs deserves.
This is not a challenge created by your current Commission, but it is one we are actively working to resolve.
Environmental Compliance Was Falling Short
Winter Springs has been operating under multiple consent orders from environmental protection agencies. These are not routine citations—they are serious warnings about deficiencies in documentation, maintenance, and performance.
Let me be clear: We cannot afford to take shortcuts when it comes to public health and environmental stewardship. We must do better—and we will.
We’re Building a Transparent, Accountable Future
Transparency and accountability are not optional—they are essential. That’s why we are approaching this transition with clear communication, expert involvement, and a renewed focus on performance and compliance.
We’re not just switching contractors. We’re rebuilding the foundation of how our water and wastewater systems are managed—one based on long-term planning, rigorous standards, and responsible growth.
A New Chapter Begins October 1, 2025
Veolia’s resignation is effective September 30, 2025. April 11, 2025, bids are due for a new service provider, who will begin managing our water systems the very next day—October 1, 2025. This new chapter is about more than a new name on a contract—it’s about ensuring the health and future of our community.
If you’d like to get updates as they happen, follow me on Facebook.
What This Means for You
You deserve clean drinking water, trustworthy leadership, and a city government that rises to meet challenges head-on. This moment represents progress—and a chance to align our infrastructure with the values we share: sustainability, safety, and community-first decision-making.
Stay tuned—there’s more to come.
Thank you for being engaged, informed, and supportive as we work together for better outcomes for everyone in Winter Springs.
—Victoria K. Bruce
Winter Springs Commissioner, District 2
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.
Addressing Critical Water Quality Issues in Winter Springs
Why Residents Should Be Concerned About Wastewater Violations
As your Commissioner, I believe transparency is key when it comes to issues that directly impact public health and environmental safety. Recently, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) issued a warning letter to the City of Winter Springs, highlighting serious violations at our wastewater treatment facility.
The facility, which is currently managed by Veolia, a private utility company contracted by the City, has been found in noncompliance with state regulations on multiple counts. These violations include excessive levels of suspended solids, fecal coliform, and nitrate—posing potential risks to our waterways, reclaimed water systems, and overall water quality.
This is an issue that affects all of us. Residents deserve to know what’s happening, why it matters, and what steps need to be taken to ensure our water is safe.
What’s in the FDEP Warning Letter?
The letter, dated January 24, 2025, outlines major compliance issues discovered during an inspection and file review:
- Total Suspended Solids (TSS) Exceedances
- Reported above the allowable limits in multiple months across 2023 and 2024
- Reached a peak of 95 mg/L in March 2024, nearly 20 times the limit
- Fecal Coliform Contamination
- Exceeded safe levels in November 2023 and multiple months throughout 2024
- In March 2024, reached 20,000 fcc/100 mL, a level that poses serious public health risks
- Continued violations in April, May, and October 2024
- Nitrate Violations
- Exceeded limits from October 2023 to February 2024
- Some months recorded levels over 45 percent above the maximum allowable threshold
- Equipment Maintenance Failures
- The facility’s flow meter has not been calibrated since 2022, despite annual calibration being required
- This is a repeat violation that was flagged as a compliance issue in 2021
Why This Matters to Residents
Health and Environmental Risks
When a wastewater facility fails to meet safety standards, the risks extend beyond the plant itself. High fecal coliform levels can contaminate reclaimed water used for irrigation, while excessive nitrates can seep into groundwater and impact drinking water quality.
Regulatory and Financial Consequences
The FDEP’s warning letter signals potential enforcement actions, including fines, mandated facility upgrades, and increased oversight. These costs would ultimately be shouldered by the city and its residents.
Operational Concerns
The continued failure to calibrate essential monitoring equipment raises concerns about management oversight. The facility has had repeated violations, which suggests a need for improved processes and accountability.
How Residents Can Stay Informed
- Attend City Commission meetings and voice concerns about water quality and environmental stewardship.
- Stay updated through official reports and updates from city leadership.
- Hold city officials accountable to ensure that Winter Springs remains a safe and responsible community.
This is an issue that affects all of us. We must take action now to protect our water resources and ensure that Winter Springs remains a place where clean water and responsible governance are top priorities.
For further details, read the full warning letter and updates here:
📍 Stay Connected
Stay tuned for more updates as this project moves forward!
Protecting Winter Springs: How You Can Help Prevent Stormwater Pollution
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!
Victoria Bruce
Winter Springs Commissioner, District 2
2024 Winter Springs Stormwater Enhancements: Ensuring a Safer and Cleaner Future
Dear Winter Springs Residents,
As part of our ongoing commitment to maintaining and enhancing our city’s infrastructure, I want to share important updates on our stormwater management efforts. These initiatives are crucial for ensuring the safety, functionality, and sustainability of our water systems, especially in light of recent weather events and ongoing environmental challenges.
Sediment Management at Gee Creek
We are proactive in addressing the sediment build-up at Gee Creek, particularly at the SR 434 bridge. Scheduled for December 2024, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will conduct maintenance to ensure normal water flows are restored. This is vital for preventing water backup and potential flooding.
Collaborative Efforts for Larger Capacity
Following the Seminole County Basin Study for Gee Creek, we plan to engage with FDOT’s District Drainage Engineer to discuss increasing the conveyance capacity through the SR 434 right-of-way. This step is crucial to accommodate potential high water flows and protect our community from future flood risks.
To provide a deeper insight into our current efforts and future plans, please view the embedded presentation from the latest City Commission stormwater briefing:
Hurricane Recovery and Resilience Projects
Thanks to funding from the Hurricane Ian Grant and other initiatives, we’ve made significant progress:
- Debris and Sediment Removal: We’ve successfully cleared creek debris and sediment, crucial for maintaining water flow and quality.
- Erosion Control: Bid documents are underway for erosion control measures at Gee Creek at Moss Park, ensuring the longevity and stability of our creek banks.
- Infrastructure Repairs: The Tuskawilla Crossings Subdivision Pond and Wetland Park Outfall have seen crucial improvements to handle stormwater effectively.
Ongoing Evaluations and Improvements
Our team is continuously working on evaluating and improving the stormwater systems across Winter Springs. This includes computer modeling to address water quality and the impacts on existing upstream stormwater systems. Each project is part of a larger strategy to manage our water resources responsibly and sustainably.
Your Role in Our Community’s Health
Your awareness and involvement are key to our success. Understanding the scope and impact of these projects helps us all appreciate the intricate work going into protecting our city. As we move forward, I remain dedicated to ensuring that Winter Springs not only recovers from past storms but also becomes more resilient against future challenges.
Together, we are making Winter Springs a safer, cleaner, and more resilient community. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our collective well-being.
Warm regards,
Victoria Bruce
City Commissioner, District 2, Winter Springs
