As your Commissioner for District 2, I remain committed to transparency and community advocacy. Monday’s October 13, 2025 Commission meeting was among our most passionate and impactful to date. It included approval of a major development project and serious allegations of contractor abuse at a former 7-Eleven site.
Wawa Officially Approved at Winter Springs Marketplace
After years of discussion, public workshops, and site plan revisions, the Commission officially approved the Wawa development at the corner of SR 434 and Tuskawilla Road.
Highlights of the Approved Plan:
- Convenience store and gas canopy layout (as proposed)
- Outdoor seating added at the community’s request
- Color palette matched to Aldi for architectural cohesion
- 7-foot monument sign approved (1 sign only)
- EV charging stations (non-Tesla) added to plaza
- Roberts Family Lane retrofit included for improved traffic flow
- 10 dedicated parking spots for Wawa employees behind Aldi
Public & Commissioner Commentary
Wawa’s project team presented a strong case for economic benefits, job creation, and their long-standing community service across Central Florida. Many residents spoke in favor of the project, even while acknowledging design trade-offs.
Several commissioners debated how the layout impacted pedestrian safety and Town Center code compliance. Despite code concerns, the majority ultimately supported the project after considering community input and developer concessions.
“Let’s make this the best-looking Wawa in the region,” — Mayor McCann
“I support Wawa. I just want it done within our town center code,” — Commissioner Resnick
“This is about responsible growth. We have to balance investment with code integrity.” — Victoria Bruce
Clubhouse Deli at Former 7-Eleven Sparks Legal Concerns
During public input, we heard serious testimony from multiple contractors alleging:
- Unpaid invoices totaling thousands of dollars
- Use of fraudulent checks
- Unlicensed and unsafe gas work
- Unpermitted construction activities
- Buried 500-gallon propane tank without permits
All of this is alleged to have occurred under the leadership of Mr. Robin Neilen, who is developing the Clubhouse Deli at the former 7-Eleven in Tuscawilla on 898 Gary Hillery Dr, Winter Springs, FL 32708
Public Testimony Highlights:
“I did emergency welding work for his deli. No pay. No communication. I have kids to feed.” — Jeff Cudi, Metal Mayhem Welding
“I filed criminal charges after receiving a fraudulent check.” — Gladys Sherpa, Valor Air Group LLC
“He’s lying. The tank was buried illegally. I told the city inspectors immediately.” — James Miller, licensed contractor and project GC
Mr. Neilen Responds
Mr. Neilen took the podium in his defense:
“I’m being attacked unfairly. I’ve paid through money orders. I was hospitalized. The city took five months to approve my permit.”
He blamed vendors and city delays, while denying responsibility for the site’s violations or unpaid labor.
City’s Immediate Actions
- Code enforcement is now fully engaged on the site
- Police Chief was present and briefed directly
- Commissioners voiced concern and support for small business contractors
- The property owner also came forward and apologized to the city
“The project is a mess. I’ve received violations I can’t control. I’m embarrassed. I want to fix this.”
— Property Owner (Public Comment)
Commissioner Victoria Bruce’s Position
On Wawa:
I support responsible business development that creates value and jobs for Winter Springs. The Wawa team showed consistent community engagement and responded to our concerns, even if the layout wasn’t perfect. The result is an enhanced project that I believe will benefit our city and residents.
On Clubhouse Deli:
The testimony we heard about unpaid contractors and alleged criminal activity is deeply troubling. Winter Springs must protect its residents — including tradespeople, small businesses, and property owners. I stand with the workers who bravely shared their stories, and I expect accountability moving forward.
What’s Next?
- Wawa construction is expected to begin in early 2026.
- EV charging stations, outdoor seating, and aesthetic elements will be finalized in permitting.
- The Clubhouse Deli site remains under investigation by city staff and code enforcement.
- The Commission will likely review our permit oversight and enforcement processes for commercial tenants.
Watch the Full Meeting:
Thank you for staying informed and for continuing to advocate for a Winter Springs we can all be proud of. If you ever have questions, please reach out — I work for you.
Together in service,
Victoria K. Bruce
Commissioner, District 2
