 SEPTEMBER 2025
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You are receiving E-News as a courtesy from the City. Please remember to set your spam blocker to allow listserv@civicplus.com. If you decide you do not want to continue receiving the E-News, just scroll to the bottom and click "Unsubscribe" to stop receiving this communication. |
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Labor Day Office Closure & NO Solid Waste Collection Services Monday, September 1
• All City Government Offices will be closed on Monday, September 1, in observance of Labor Day. • There will be NO Solid Waste Collection Services on Monday, September 1 (trash, yard waste, bulk items). Services will resume on your next scheduled collection day. |
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Updated Downtown Winter Garden Visitors MapFree Pocket Guide Available for Pickup
An updated City of Winter Garden, FL, Historic Downtown Visitors Map was recently published with the latest dining and shopping options, and even residents may be surprised by the selections right in their backyard. The colorful, pocketsize reference guide unfolds to a ledger-size map of the historic district displaying business locations and public parking options. It also includes a directory of downtown restaurants, retail stores, attractions, parks, and more, as well as city-wide recreation amenities.
Complimentary maps are available for pickup during operating hours at Winter Garden City Hall (300 W. Plant St.), Jessie Brock Community Center (310 N. Dillard St.), Central Florida Railroad Museum (101 S. Boyd St.), Healthy West Orange Heritage and Cultural Center (21 E. Plant St.), and SOBO Art Gallery (127 S. Boyd St.). Click here to download the new Downtown Visitors Map. |
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Annual Fire Hydrant Flow TestingSeptember 28 - December 31
The Winter Garden Fire Rescue Department will begin the annual fire hydrant flow testing and water line flushing on September 28. This process will continue through December 31. This is an important annual preventative maintenance activity that serves several purposes. This process ensures that all the City’s fire hydrants are functioning properly and identifies any needed repairs. It also helps maintain the City’s water quality by flushing all the lines and removing sediments from the system. Residents may notice a brief reduction in water pressure and some discoloration of the water. Discolored water poses no threat to the public’s health. If you notice discolored water coming from your fixtures, please allow the water to flow for 5 – 10 minutes to clear. Although residents may experience some temporary inconveniences, the flushing program is necessary to maintain a good water supply for firefighting. Thank you for your cooperation and patience. If you experience continued loss of pressure or water discoloration, please contact the Public Services Department at 407.656.2256. |
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Sign Up for Free Citizens CPR Class - Registration is Open!September 20
Interested in learning how to take a hands-on approach toward saving lives? The Winter Garden Fire Rescue Department is offering a free, 90-minute Citizens CPR Class to the community. The program will cover: - Hands Only Adult and Child CPR
- Proper AED use
- Adult and Child Choking
Upon completion, participants will earn a certificate acknowledging their successful demonstration and learned concepts detailed in the program. Space is limited to 12 participants. Preregistration is required. To register, click here and select "Recreation Classes". Saturday | September 20
9:30 – 11:00 am or 11:30 am – 1:00 pm (select one session)
Fire Department Headquarters Training Room, 1 E. Cypress Street | Free |
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City's Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Budget Hearings
Public Budget Hearings will be held during the City Commission Meetings on Thursday, September 11, and Thursday, September 25. City Commission meetings commence at 6:30 pm at Winter Garden City Hall, Commission Chambers, 300 W. Plant Street. |
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A Leaky Toilet Wastes Water and MoneyFree Leak Detection Tablets Available at City Hall
A leaky toilet can waste about 200 gallons of water per day. That equates to 6,000 gallons a month for just one leaking toilet. A leaky toilet not only wastes water, a valuable natural resource, but it is also like pouring money down the drain as the wasted water will increase your water bill. Other financial expenses can also occur as water leaks can damage flooring and walls and can potentially cause mold growth, all requiring expensive repairs. Some leaks show up as a small trickle running from the rim to the toilet bowl. However, many toilet leaks are silent and can go undetected for a long time. The good news is that a simple, at-home test using a toilet leak detection dye tablet can identify leaks. To use, place the tablet in the tank of the toilet, then wait a few minutes. If there is a leak, color will appear in the toilet bowl. To help you become a leak detective, free toilet leak detection tablets are available at Winter Garden City Hall reception desk from now through October 31, while supplies last (300 W. Plant St., M-F, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm). For more information, call 407.877.5193. |
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Mobile Citizen App Can Be Used for Hurricane-Related Requests Download the App Today
Hurricane season peaks this month, and the Mobile Citizen App can be a vital tool to help you communicate with the City for nonemergency hurricane-related requests. For example, if you see a fallen tree blocking a roadway, street flooding, traffic signal outages, street signs down, etc., you can select the “Hurricane/Storm Disaster Event” service option on the app to route your concern properly. In a few clicks, your service request can be submitted. (For all emergencies, dial 9-1-1.)
The app is also a convenient tool to use year-round to address the service needs in your neighborhood and community such as to report a missed trash pickup, cracked sidewalk, a pothole, a damaged street sign, etc. Hurricane season goes through November 30, so be prepared and download the free Mobile Citizen App from Apple Store or Google Play to your personal device today. Remember, for all emergencies, dial 9-1-1.
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Resident Newsletter is Your Guide to Upcoming Events & MoreThe Winter Garden Bulletin – Your Official City News Source Fall / Winter 2025-26 issue will be in your mailbox any day now, if it has not already been received. This colorful, biannual publication is your guide to the City’s upcoming fall, holiday, and winter events. It also serves as a handbook to the City’s classes and programs offered from September 2025 through February 2026. Extra copies of the Winter Garden Bulletin are always available at City Hall (300 W. Plant St.) and at Jessie Brock Community Center (310 N. Dillard St.). Click here to view the newsletter. |
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HALLOWEEN FLIX AT THE GARDENBuy Your Online Tix Now
Enjoy fan favorite HALLOWEEN FLIX for $5 TIX at the Garden Theatre on Plant! The ambience of the historic Garden Theatre is the perfect setting to watch classic Halloween movies. Hosted by the City of Winter Garden, the Halloween Flix at the Garden
spooky movie series is a fun, holiday outing with budget-friendly tix and concessions. There are movies for all ages including two family-friendly Halloween movies and one adult horror movie. ADMISSION: $5.00 (flat rate with NO added fees or tax) |
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Movie Schedule: Hocus Pocus (PG, 96 minutes, 1993)
Saturday, October 25 | 2:00 pm A villainous, comedic trio of witches are resurrected by a teenage boy while exploring an abandoned house.
Tix Price: $5.00 each
PURCHASE TIX A Nightmare on Elm Street (R*, 91 minutes,1984)
Saturday, October 25 | 8:00 pm Several Midwestern teenagers fall prey to Freddy Krueger.
Tix Price: $5.00 each
PURCHASE TIX *Due to "R" rating, individuals under 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at least 21 years of age. Please be prepared to show photo identification for age verification. The Nightmare Before Christmas (PG, 76 minutes,1993)
Saturday, November 1 | 10:00 am Bored with the same old scare-and-scream routine, Pumpkin King Jack Skellington longs to spread the joy of Christmas. But his merry mission puts Santa in jeopardy and creates a nightmare for good little boys and girls everywhere.
Tix Price: $5.00 each
PURCHASE TIX |
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National Night Out Community Event October 7
Mark your calendars now for the National Night Out Community Event on October 7. Gather with family, friends, and neighbors at the Downtown Pavilion to meet Winter Garden Police officers and enjoy free kids’ activities, DJ entertainment, carnival-type food, police demonstrations, community booths, raffles, and more. Fun for all ages!
National Night Out (NNO) is an annual event that brings the community together for the common purpose of preventing crime.
Tuesday, October 7 | 6:00 – 9:00 pm
Downtown Pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview Avenue | Free
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WGPAL Donut Dash 5K Run/Walk - November 8Register Early for Discounted Entry Fee
Registration is open for the WGPAL Donut Dash 5K Run/Walk that will be held on Saturday, November 8. Start strategizing how many donuts you can eat while you run/walk to take minutes off your final time. Registration fee includes a t-shirt, race medal, and free Krispy Kreme donuts. Donut Dash takes place through the historic neighborhoods of downtown Winter Garden, starting and ending at Lake Apopka. This fun, annual event also includes live music, sponsor tents, and giveaways. Prizes are awarded to the top runners, plus a prize for the best donut costume! For every adult entry, a child (5-10 years old) can participate in a mini donut half-mile fun run. Proceeds from this event support the Winter Garden Police Athletic League (WGPAL) in providing programs to underprivileged and at-risk kids in your community. Registration Fee:
Now - October 17 | $40 (Early Discount Registration)
October 18 - November 8 | $45
Click here to register. Questions, call 407.656.3636 ext. 5416. WGPAL Donut Dash 5K Run/Walk | November 8, 8:00 – 11:00 am
Newton Park, 1 Surprise Drive
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World War II and West Orange County
Exhibit Premieres at City Hall Gallery This exhibition pays tribute to the men and women of West Orange County who fought thousands of miles away from American Shores in the 1940s. Curated by the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, learn how Winter Garden and West Orange County contributed to the war effort by supplying military personnel and nutritious citrus products.
September 2 – October 31 Art in Public Places Gallery at City Hall, 300 W. Plant Street
Monday – Friday, 7:30 am – 5:30 pm | Free |
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Live Music Every FridayEnjoy live music every Friday night, 7:00-9:00 pm, in the center of Downtown at Centennial Plaza. This month's Fridays on the Plaza musical line-up: Fridays on the Plaza 7:00 - 9:00 pm Centennial Plaza Gazebo Historic Downtown | Free - September 5 - Francesca Tarantino (Classic Rock, Pop)
- September 12 - Concrete & Country (Country)
- September 19 - Honey Hounds (Rhythm & Blues)
- September 26 - Juniper Club (Americana, Folk)
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FALL into FUN with PARKS & RECREATION!Click here for a list of Parks & Recreation programs, classes, sports leagues, as well as additional details about offerings below. Questions, call 407.656.4155. Recreation classes are held at Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard Street, unless noted otherwise.
Click here to register. AMAZING ATHLETES SPORTS DISCOVERY
For ages 2 – 4 years old, this four-week mini season is designed to empower kids to discover their inner athlete and their love of the sport. Together, we will explore basketball with concentrated play & practice, followed by an end-of-season game. Your Amazing Athlete will have the opportunity to develop skills with practice, apply what they have learned with confidence, have fun with gameplay, and discover sports they love! This is an indoor program but may move outdoors if weather permits. Age | 2 – 4 years old
Basketball | September 4 – 25
Thursdays | 6:00 – 6:50 pm
$69 City Resident / $75 Nonresident, per 4-week session BALLET BASICS
A basic level traditional ballet class for teens and adults with no previous experience or those looking to rediscover ballet after a long break. Class concentrates on proper body mechanics and barre work. Age | 16 years & older
Wednesdays | 10:30 – 11:30 am
September 3 –24
$65 City Resident / $70 Nonresident CREATIVE MOVEMENT
This unique program introduces basic dance ballet technique and movement through dance, games, and song. Class focus is on gross motor skills, left/right, body awareness, ballet positions, and beginner ballet technique and language. Advance registration required. Age | 2 – 4 years old
Wednesdays | 9:30 – 10:15 am
September 3 – September 24
Saturdays | 10:15 – 11:00 am
September 6 – September 27
$60 City Resident / $65 Nonresident, per 4-week session GENEALOGY WORKSHOP
Are you curious about your family history? Bring your documents, questions, or just yourself. Join June Kelly to get help organizing and starting your family tree, learn tips with online tools, and share discoveries with fellow researchers. There be will time for hands-on work, one-on-one help, and sharing of ideas. 2nd and 4th Monday each month
September 8 – February 23
5:30 – 7:00 pm | Free INTRO TO AI (ARTIFICAL INTELLIGENCE)
Learn how to use AI to make tasks easier or more creative; for example organizing schedules, summarizing long documents, drafting emails or other writing, and doing research. Generate ideas for art, business, projects, and get personalized recommendations about your interests. This course will introduce the basics of AI applications such as Chat GPT, Microsoft CoPilot, and Google Gemini. You will also learn how to write effective prompts for work, education, or general inquiries. Tuesday | September 30
5:30 – 6:30 pm
$25 City Resident / $30 Nonresident RUNNING AND CONDITIONING PROGRAMS - YOUTH
Course builds the following skills: proper breathing, gait analysis, injury prevention strategies, running mechanics, and development of speed and endurance. Runners will become faster and feel more comfortable and efficient with running. This course has shown to have 2-16% rate of improvement from Day 1 thru Day 4 in running speed and efficiency. Age | 5 – 14 years old
Tuesdays | 6:00 – 6:50 pm
September 2 –23
$100 City Resident / $120 Nonresident, per 4-week session SUPER SOCCER STARS
This soccer development program teaches soccer skills in a fun, non-competitive, and educational environment. Through our age-specific curriculum, we use soccer to nurture and build self-confidence and teamwork. This is an outdoor activity but may move indoors in the event of inclement weather. Saturdays | September 13 – November 22 (no programming November 8)
Tuesdays | September 16 – November 18
Parent & Me | 12 months – 2 years old | Weekends 9:00 – 9:35 am
Age │ 2 – 3 years old | Weekdays 5:00 – 5:40 pm, Weekends 9:50 – 10:30 am
Age │ 3 – 4 years old | Weekdays 5:50 – 6:30 pm, Weekends 10:40 - 11:20 am
$175 City Resident / $185 Nonresident, per 10-week session
Optional purchase at start of program | $30 Super Soccer Stars Jersey TENNIS LESSONS
Highly skilled instructor brings years of experience and knowledge to participants. Class space is limited, advance registration required. Age | 5 years and older
Session 1 | September 15 – October 24
Lesson time and fees vary, visit cwgdn.com/Parks & Recreation/Athletics
Chapin Station Park, 501 Crown Point Cross Road VIDEO GAME CLUB
Gamers will meet and practice each week to train for a team tournament that will be held on the last class of each session. Upon joining the club, children 6 - 14 years old will build friendships while also learning and developing leadership, sportsmanship, and teamwork when engaged in video game play. Age | 6 - 14 years old
Mondays | Rocket League Team | 5:30 – 6:30 pm | September 8 – October 27
Wednesdays | Fortnite Team | 5:30 – 6:30 pm | September 10 – October 29
$176 City Resident / $200 Nonresident, per 8-week session
Optional Purchase | $45 Esports Team Jersey ACTIVE 50+ I WANT TO KNOW
Informative presentation provides new insights and/or deepens knowledge. Click here to register. Bring a brown bag lunch if you wish. “Social Services Offered through the Orange County Public Library System” by Ethan Watford, Orange County Library System Tuesday, September 30 | 1:30 – 2:30 pm | Free LUKAS NURSERY BUTTERFLY ENCOUNTER – OVIEDO, FL
Step into a year-round butterfly and bird conservatory for a truly unique experience! Stroll among vibrant “flying flowers,” listen to the cheerful songs of exotic finches, and spot charming Chinese button quail. You even can feed butterflies right from your fingertips! Lunch is Dutch treat. Tuesday, September 16 | 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
$24 City Resident / $28 Nonresident
(includes transportation and admission)
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Winter Garden Heritage Foundation1 N. Main Street | wghf.org | 407.656.3244
Tuesday - Saturday | 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Free Admission
EXHIBIT
Trailblazers: A Journey through West Orange County’s Camping and Scouting This unique exhibit highlights the enduring legacy of outdoor exploration and community engagement, showcasing how these activities have shaped our local culture and fostered family connections for generations. Thank you to our sponsors: Giant Recreation World and Stage Stop Campground. Now – September 30 | Free Admission
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PRESENTATIONWheels of Innovation: The Agricultural Impact of Hoyle Pounds and the Pounds Motor Company in the Citrus Industry Join us for a compelling guest speaker event featuring museum curator and historian, Will McCoy, as he explores the groundbreaking contributions of Hoyle Pounds and the Pounds Motor Company to Florida’s citrus industry. Friday, September 19 | 5:30 – 7:00 pm
Heller Hall, 21 E. Plant Street | Free Admission
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Central Florida Railroad Museum101 S. Boyd Street | cfrhs.org | 407.656.0559
Tuesday - Friday | 11:00 am - 3:00 pm / Saturday | 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Free Admission EXHIBITMagic on the Rails: The Trains of Walt Disney World Journey through time as we look at the history of the trains at the Magic Kingdom. These century-old locomotives pull millions of guests annually on their grand circle tour at Walt Disney World. Now – October 4 | Free Admission
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SATURDAY HISTORY SERIES PRESENTATION"The Greatest Railroad Story Ever Told: Henry Flagler and the Florida East Coast Railway's Key West Extension," presented by Seth H. Bramson, renowned railroad author and historian. Saturday, September 20 | 1:30 – 3:00 pm
Free Admission, but must RSVP in advance due to limited capacity and anticipated high turnout. Click here to RSVP.
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Winter Garden Art Association
SOBO Art Gallery
127 S. Boyd Street
407.347.7996
wgart.org
Tuesday – Friday, 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Saturday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Free Admission
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CURRENT EXHIBITLandscapes, Real or Imagined
Explore breathtaking vistas and imaginative realms as artists showcase landscapes that inspire and captivate. Now – September 28 | Free Admission CALL TO ARTISTS Visit the “Call to Artists” website page regularly for themes of upcoming exhibitions and submit online the FIRST through the EIGHTH of the month prior to an exhibition. WORKSHOPS & CLASSES
Details and Registration Yin Yoga with Olga
Relax, restore, and unwind in a peaceful candlelight setting. Candlelight Yin Yoga combines the beauty of art with the healing power of yoga. Mondays | 10:30 am
$15 per class | Paid in Person Technique Tuesday @ Two: Sponsored by Duke Energy
A different instructor and technique are featured every week. Pick up new tips and techniques while enjoying the Open Artist Studio Space. Free for members, first-time visitors, and guests of members. Tuesdays | 2:00 – 4:00 pm | Studio Room Artist Night Studio: Life Drawing
Model is available to draw every session. Wednesdays | 6:30 – 9:00 pm
18 years and older only
$10 member / $15 nonmember (collected at sign in) ART FOR KIDS
Details and Registration Wednesday Art Clubs
Explore the world of arts and crafts with a Certified Art Educator! 4:00 – 5:00 pm
$15 each session, includes all materials Attention Home Schoolers
SOBO is excited to offer Standards Based Art classes for small groups of Home School students led by Lenore Eastham, Certified Art Educator. $15 per child, per 55-minute session (minimum 8 children)
Subject to room and staff availability Small Group Custom Classes at SOBO
We are excited to offer custom classes (including weekends) for groups of any age artists. $15 per child, per 55-minute session (minimum 8 students)
Limited availability
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Residents & Business Owners May Join a NO SOLICITATION LISTForm Available to Register Address
Residents & commercial property owners within city limits may join a NO SOLICITATIONS LIST by completing and submitting a NOTICE OF NO SOLICITATION form. The list is maintained by the Winter Garden Police Department and prohibits the sale of goods, wares, and merchandise or requests for charitable contributions to the addresses on the list. NOTICE OF NO SOLICITATION FORM - Those wanting to join the NO SOLICITATIONS LIST to opt out of being solicited should complete and submit this form. The list will prohibit solicitation to the addresses on the list in accordance to Ordinance 25-22. Passed by the Winter Garden City Commission on July 24, 2025, view Ordinance 25-22 for more details.
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REDEEM SNAP BENEFITS AT WINTER GARDEN FARMERS MARKET The Winter Garden Farmers Market is a great option to redeem EBT/SNAP benefits to supplement the food budgets of those in need. A variety of market vendors offer fresh produce, breads, dairy, meats, fish, and more that can be purchased using EBT/SNAP benefits. To redeem, first visit the EBT/SNAP Tent located at the Pavilion entrance to exchange a benefit amount for tokens to spend on qualifying purchases at the market. Winter Garden Farmers Market
Every Saturday | 8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Downtown Pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview Avenue
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City is Hiring:Collection Field Technician II - Wastewater Collection System Operator, Lift Station Operator, 911 Dispatchers
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The City currently has great career opportunities available! The City offers competitive wages and full-time employees are eligible for generous benefits, pension, & tuition reimbursement plan. Click here to review all available positions and for additional information on position responsibilities and minimum qualifications. Several examples of our career opportunities include: PUBLIC SERVICES:
Collection Field Technician II - Wastewater Collection System Operator (Full-Time): Minimum of two (2) years of experience with wastewater collection systems to include pipeline cleaning and maintenance, pipeline repair and rehabilitation; and an understanding of inflow, infiltration, and basic system inspection and testing. Must have knowledge and experience with pump installation and repair and lift station equipment and maintenance. Possession of a valid Florida Water & Pollution Control Operations Association Wastewater Collection System Operator C Certificate is preferred. Possession of a valid Florida CDL Driver’s License Class B with air brake and tanker endorsements within 90 days. High school diploma or GED certification preferred. Must be available and willing to answer emergency or service calls after normal working hours. Lift Station Operator (Full-Time): Perform responsible skilled labor including the repair, maintenance, adjustment, inspection and have a knowledge of the mechanical and electrical equipment involving lift stations. Perform a variety of maintenance, construction, repair or location tasks involving lift station, force mains, etc. Minimum of three (3) years’ experience as a Field Technician I or related experience. Possession of a valid FWPCOA Class “C” Wastewater Collection Certification. Florida CDL Driver License Class “B” with air brakes and tanker endorsements. Based on FMCSA regulations, applicants for employment and existing employees in positions requiring a CDL are subject to pre-employment, post-employment, and ongoing testing for controlled substances and alcohol as a condition of employment. High school diploma or GED equivalent preferred. Must be available and willing to answer emergency or service calls after normal working hours. PUBLIC SAFETY:
911 Dispatchers (Full-time) Experienced or Trainees: Coordinate incoming calls for service with Police resources, assess/prioritize calls, dispatch Officers, maintain/monitor Officer responses, conduct/enter inquiries, relay information, and help with lifesaving instructions. Must have the ability to type proficiently at a minimum speed of thirty (30) words per minute. An online assessment is required. SIGN-ON BONUS for 911 Dispatchers!
There is a $2,000 sign-on bonus for entry level candidates and up to $5,000 for experienced Dispatchers.
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Participate in Your CityThere are many different ways you can participate in your City government. Here are some options for you to consider: VOLUNTEER - The City of Winter Garden has a number of advisory boards and committees that welcome your participation. Most have monthly meetings and require only a few hours of volunteer time per month. For those interested in serving, please complete the Board Interest Form. To find out more, contact the City Clerk's office at 407.656.4111, ext. 2297, or stop by City Hall at 300 W. Plant Street. JOIN A CLASS OR LEAGUE - Sign up for one of the many classes or leagues offered by the City of Winter Garden Parks and Recreation Department. ATTEND A MEETING - Open to the public, attend a City meeting to find out firsthand what is happening in your community. SEPTEMBER MEETING SCHEDULE - Please see this month's meeting schedule below, subject to change. All meetings are held in the Commission Chambers at City Hall, 300 W. Plant Street. Architecture Review and Historic Preservation Board Meeting
Tuesday, September 16, 6:30 pm City Commission Meeting*
Thursday, September 11, 6:30 pm
Thursday, September 25, 6:30 pm Code Enforcement Board Meeting
Tuesday, September 2, 6:15 pm Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Board
Tuesday, September 9, 6:00 pm Development Review Committee Meeting
Wednesday, September 10 , 9:30 am
Wednesday, September 24, 9:30 am Planning & Zoning Board Meeting
Monday, September 8, 6:30 pm Visit the City of Winter Garden calendar for meeting updates, as well as to find out about additional meetings and events. *City Commission Meeting recordings are available the next business day following the meeting, Click here to listen.
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