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The City of Winter Garden wishes you a 

Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous New Year!

Holiday Office Closures & 

Solid Waste Collection Services Schedules

January 1, 2, & 19

Thursday, January 1, 2026 (New Year's Day)

• All City Government Offices are closed on Thursday, January 1.
• There are NO Solid Waste Collection Services on Thursday, January 1. Services will resume on your next scheduled collection day.

Friday, January 2, 2026 (Day After New Year's)

• All City Government Offices will be closed on Friday, January 2.
• There will be Regular Solid Waste Collection Services on Friday, January 2.

Monday, January 19, 2026 (Martin Luther King Jr. Day)

• All City Government Offices will be closed on Monday, January 19.
• There will be Regular Solid Waste Collection Services on Monday, January 19.
  
  

Utility Bill Assistance Program Provides Steep Discounts 

for Low Income Seniors 
Applications Open January 5 

The 2026 City of Winter Garden Utility Bill Assistance for Low Income Seniors Program provides up to a 90% reduction of base charges on monthly City utility bills for one year. Qualified candidates will receive the cost savings in their May 2026 through April 2027 utility bills. 

To enroll in the program, candidates must meet eligibility requirements, complete an application, and provide required documentation during the application period of January 5 – May 1, 2026. Only applicants that do NOT qualify will be notified. Residents must apply annually for this program.

Program Qualifications:

• 65 years of age, or
• 62 years of age and receiving Social Security benefits, and
• CITY resident continuously for the past 12 months, PRIOR to your application date, and
• Utility bill must be in applicant’s name and billed directly to applicant, and
• Gross household income for ENTIRE HOUSEHOLD MUST NOT EXCEED 60% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines. View Income Guideline Chart *.

* These figures are based on the 2025 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Guideline published in the Federal Register on January 17, 2025.

Income Guideline Chart:

Copies of the following must be submitted with application:

• Current identification, and
• 2026 Social Security Benefit Statement, or
• 2025 Federal Income Tax Return, and
• ALL other proof of income for entire household

Only applicants that do NOT qualify will be notified.

Starting January 5, the application is available to complete and return at Winter Garden City Hall Reception Desk, 300 W. Plant Street, Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, or by contacting the Utility Billing Customer Service, 407.656.4100.

APPLICATION and PROOF OF INCOME DEADLINE is MAY 1, 2026, at 5:00 pm.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration

January 19

Join us at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration to commemorate the life and legacy of this civil rights legend. Hosted by the City of Winter Garden, the free annual celebration includes a parade through historic downtown as well as live entertainment, family friendly activities, and more.

PARADE
The remembrance kicks off with a parade at 11:00 am along West Plant Street (from Woodland Street to Central Avenue). Bring a lawn chair or blanket and head to your favorite viewing spot to enjoy the procession of community floats and participants.

To participate in the parade, complete the Parade Registration Form and submit no later than Tuesday, January 13, 2026 (space is limited). Applications will not be accepted after the deadline. All entries are eligible for the Parade Spirit Award. For assistance, please call 407.656.4155.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT & ACTIVITIES
Following the parade, the festivities continue with a live music concert featuring Kat Riggins and Go Time. There will also be fun activities for kids and families, as well as refreshments available for purchase. Join us 11:30 am – 4:00 pm at the Downtown Pavilion for the celebration.

Monday, January 19
Parade | 11:00 am, Historic Downtown
Live Entertainment & Activities | 11:30 am – 4:00 pm
Downtown Pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview Avenue | Free Admission

Register Now for Our Water Plant Tours:

February 6 & 7

Keeping Your Water Safe:
Learn more at the City's Water Plant Tour!

Ever wonder how the City keeps your water safe?  Learn more about your drinking water and water conservation by taking a tour of the City of Winter Garden Water Plant.

TOUR DATES:
Friday, February 6
Saturday, February 7

Multiple tour times will be offered each day.

To register, send email to dcorbus@cwgdn.com or call 407.877.5193.

The tours are free, but advance registration is required. Space is limited. The deadline to register is Friday, January 30, 2026. 

We can also provide special tours for school groups, scouts, and clubs if the above dates don’t work for your schedule. Please reach out to contact above to find out more information about group tours.

Drop Savers Poster Contest

Open to Winter Garden Students K - 12

Deadline: February 20

The City of Winter Garden cordially invites students to participate in our annual Drop Savers Water Conservation Poster Contest. 

Students in grades K - 12 are encouraged to create a poster depicting a water conservation idea in slogan form, drawing form, or both. This contest allows students to promote water awareness and the importance of water conservation in their daily routines.

The contest is open to Winter Garden public school, private school, and homeschool students. The deadline to enter is Friday, February 20, 2026.

Winners will be awarded prizes and recognized at a City Commission Meeting in April. 

For complete contest details and entry form, click here or call 407.877.5193.

Fire Rescue Offers Free Citizen CPR Class
January 17

Interested in learning how to take a hands-on approach towards saving lives? The City of Winter Garden Fire Rescue Department is offering a free, 90-minute Hands Only CPR Citizen Training Course 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. Pre-registration is required, and space is limited to 12 participants. To register, click here and then select “Recreation Classes.”

Saturday | January 17 | Free
9:30 – 11:00 am or 11:30 am – 1:00 pm (select one session)
Winter Garden Fire Rescue Department Headquarters, 
1 E. Cypress Street

WGPD Explorer Program for Youth

The Winter Garden Police Explorer Program provides a close-up opportunity for young men and women, ages 14 – 21, to learn about law enforcement. An outgrowth of the Boy Scouts of America, the Explorer Program is designed to educate youth about police work regardless if they want to pursue a law enforcement career.

Free to join, Explorers will be orientated to the different aspects of law enforcement training, including hands-on practice on the following topics:

In addition, Explorers can compete in regional Explorer competitions, participate in City events and parades, and earn community service credit.

Mondays | 5:30 – 7:00 pm | Free
Winter Garden Police Department, Training Room | 251 W. Plant Street
Winter Garden Police Explorer Post 901 Application
For more details about the program, contact Master Police Officer
Timothy Thatford: 407.656.3636 ext. 6372, tthatford@wgpd.com.

'Tis the Season 2025 Wrap Up

It is not too late to enjoy the festive ambiance as historic downtown Winter Garden will remain a holiday wonderland through Sunday, January 4!

Christmas Parade Winners Announcement

Thank you to the hundreds of participants representing 65 registrants that entertained spectators at the annual Winter Garden Christmas Parade on December 6. Twelve winners were selected across seven categories. Click here for list of 2025 winners. 

De-Lightful Decorations Contest Winners

Thank you to all the participants of the 2025 City of Winter Garden De-Light-Ful Decorations Contest for brightening your community with holiday cheer. Eight winners were selected across four categories - winning prizes and bragging rights. Congratulations to the 2025 winners and click here to view their displays! It’s never too soon to start planning for next year!

Creative Spirit of Winter Garden Exhibit

Premieres at City Hall

Discover the vibrant artistry flourishing within our community on display. Curated by the Winter Garden Art Association, the exhibit features work by local artists who live and create in Winter Garden, offering a unique opportunity to explore their stories, inspirations, and creative processes. 

From vivid landscapes to expressive abstracts, each piece reflects the rich cultural fabric and imaginative energy of our city. Come celebrate the artists who shape the creative spirit of Winter Garden.

Exhibit Dates | January 6 – February 27
Art in Public Places Gallery in City Hall, 300 W. Plant Street
Monday – Friday, 7:30 am – 5:30 pm | Free

WINTER 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.
Click here to register.

AMAZING ATHLETES MULTI-SPORT PROGRAM 
Amazing Athletes is a fun, active multi-sport class that empowers kids through the fundamentals of sports and physical fitness. Children will develop core skills in up to 10 different sports—including soccer, basketball, football, and volleyball—through age-appropriate lessons in a noncompetitive, educational environment. In addition to sports skills, our “Muscle Zoo” animal characters introduce kids to muscle groups and healthy foods, helping them understand how their bodies work and what fuels them to play their best. It's a great way for young athletes to explore new activities, build confidence, and discover what they love! This program is an indoor program but may move outdoors if weather permits. 

Thursdays | January 8 – February 26 
Tots | 18 months – 2.5 years old | 5:30 – 6:00 pm 
Athletes | 3 – 5 years old | 6:10 – 6:50 pm 
$128 Resident / $140 Nonresident, per 8-week session

BEGINNER ARCHERY - YOUTH & ADULTS
This is a course for youth (age 7+) and adults in barebow category archery (without sighting devices). All equipment is provided. Class welcomes beginner and advanced Archers and provides a variety of skill development training and fun archery games.

Wednesday, January 28 or/and Thursday, January 29
5:30 – 6:20 pm
Age │ 7 years & older 
$25 City Resident / $30 Nonresident, per class
$50 City Resident / $60 Nonresident, per 2-class session

KARATE ZOO -- YOUTH
In Karate Zoo, we teach the fundamentals of martial arts to children in a high-energy progression-based program. Students learn & practice the traditions and skills of the sport and receive colored belts and stripes for their achievement. Each skill introduced is designed for progression with beginner, intermediate, and advanced modifications allowing each student to progress at their own pace in a mixed ability group setting. Inspired by the traditions & practices of martial arts, Karate Zoo is designed to benefit a child’s physical, social, and emotional development while building confidence and teaching practical life lessons. Hi-yah!

Mondays | January 5 – March 2 (no programming January 19) 
5:30 – 6:20 pm
Age │ 3 – 6 years old 
$196 City Resident / $206 Nonresident, per 8-week session 
Optional purchase | $30 Karate Zoo Jersey 

SACRED SONIC ALCHEMY 
Guided by Stormy Lake, Sacred Sonic Alchemy uses the sacred language of frequency and vibration to promote healing, calm the nervous system, and restore balance. Experience the transformative resonance of Alchemy Crystal Singing Bowls, and occasionally the Endocrine Bowl method, as you connect with your energy body on a profound level.

Thursday | January 8 | 7:00 – 8:15 pm 
Age | 12 years and older
$30 Resident / $35 Nonresident

SUPER SOCCER STARS - YOUTH
Super Soccer Stars is a soccer development program for children 12 months – 4 years old. All classes teach soccer skills in a fun, noncompetitive, and educational environment. Through our age-specific curriculum, we use soccer to nurture and build self-confidence and teamwork. Each session lasts eight weeks. This activity is an outdoor activity but may move indoors in the event of inclement weather.

Saturdays | January 17 – March 28 (no programming February 21)
Tuesdays | January 20 – March 24 
Parent & Me | 12 months – 2 years old | Saturdays 9:00 – 9:40 am 
2 – 3 years old | Tuesdays 5:00 – 5:40 pm, Saturdays 9:50 – 10:30 am
3 – 4 years old | Tuesdays 5:50 – 6:30 pm, Saturdays 10:40 – 11:20 am 
$175 City Resident / $185 Nonresident, per 10-week session 
Optional purchase | $30 Super Soccer Stars Jersey 

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. 

Mondays | Rocket League Team | 5:30 – 6:30 pm | January 5 – March 2 (no programming January 19) | 8-week session
Wednesdays | Fortnite Team | 5:30 – 6:30 pm | January 7 – February 25 | 8-week session
$132 City Resident / $150 Nonresident, 6-week session
$176 City Resident / $200 Nonresident, 8-week session
Optional Purchase | $45 Esports Team Jersey

Central Florida Railroad Museum

EXHIBITION

Railroad Depots of Central Florida
Railroads arrived in Orange County in 1880, and their steel rails quickly spread throughout the region. Goods and passengers arrived and departed at dozens of Central Florida depots, allowing for convenient connections to and from points north and south. This new photo exhibition features depots long departed and some that remain in use today.

Exhibit Dates | Now – March 7 | Free Admission

Central Florida Railroad Museum
101 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

The City currently has great career opportunities available for those with EXPERIENCE and for TRAINEES. The City offers competitive wages and full-time employees are eligible for generous benefits, pension, and 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:

FINANCE:

Accounting Specialist (Full-Time): Performs routine bookkeeping involving the application of accounting principles as it relates to accounts payable. A high school diploma and five years of experience with accounts payable or other accounting systems is required. College coursework or a degree in accounting is preferred. The equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered. 

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. Performs 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.

 BUILDING INSPECTION:

Building Inspector / Plans Examiner I (Full-Time): This technical position is responsible for field inspections and re-inspections of new buildings, structures, and additions to existing buildings/structures at appropriate increments of the construction period to ensure compliance with the Florida Building Code and other adopted City Codes and Specifications. High School diploma or GED equivalent minimum. Must hold a combination of postsecondary education in the field of construction or a related field totaling four (4) years’ experience, of which a minimum of one (1) year is hands-on experience in construction, building code inspection, or plans review. Requires a Statue 468 State of Florida Standard Inspector license as a Residential Inspector, as well as one (1) of the following Commercial Licenses: Building, Electrical, Mechanical, or Plumbing or the ability to obtain provisional licenses within 120 days of hire from the Building Code Administrators and Inspectors Board. Preference will be given to those already holding Standard Residential Inspector and a Standard Commercial Inspector Certificate. An employee with a Provisional License will be required to obtain a Standard License before the expiration of the Provisional Certificate. Must have availability to provide damage assessment assistance during times of local emergencies. Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver’s License and good driving record.

FLEET MAINTENANCE:

Mechanic II (Full-Time): This is highly skilled work in the maintenance and repair of large pumps, motors, compressors, gasoline and diesel driven automotive and related heavy equipment. The employee of this class performs tasks in the mechanical repair and maintenance of automobiles, light and heavy-duty trucks, transit buses, tractors, graders, fire trucks, pumps, gas compressors, heat exchangers, sanitation hydraulic packer trucks, and other related equipment. Employees work under general supervision using independent judgment and initiative as to method of repair after receiving work order. Must be available to work night, weekend and holiday shifts. Work is reviewed while in progress and at the completion of the job. This position reports to the Fleet Manager. A.S.E. certification in heavy duty brakes required along with one other ASE certification. Must have a high school diploma with additional technical training and a minimum of three years of experience in heavy truck equipment repair or five years of automotive and light truck repair. Must have a Florida commercial driver license or the ability to obtain the license within 6 months of employment. 

 PUBLIC SAFETY:

911 Dispatcher (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.

School Crossing Guard (Part-Time): Regulates, directs, and controls pedestrians at a designated school crossing while children are going to and from school. Works with considerable independence under the general supervision of a Police Sergeant. Must be at least 18 years of age. Must not have been convicted of a felony. Must not have been convicted of a misdemeanor involving moral character, false statements, perjury, or domestic violence. High school diploma or equivalent required. Must successfully pass a medical assessment exam and complete the required training for a School Crossing Guard before starting the position. Must obtain the Florida School Crossing Guard Certification. Must pass a Police Department background screening. 

 PARKS:

Events Coordinator (Full-Time): The position is responsible for assisting with the coordination, support, and ongoing monitoring of all City events, which requires flexibility and availability to be on-site during all events, including days, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Key responsibilities include assisting with the planning, marketing, production, and execution of City-wide special events, as well as providing support, as assigned, for other City-sponsored community events and priorities. Excellent logistical planning and coordination skills; well-developed critical thinking skills; and a proven ability to exercise independent and sound judgement; and appreciate, value, and consider diverse perspectives while being able to persuade, negotiate, influence, and participate collaboratively with partners and stakeholders in this role is vital to its success. This position reports directly to the Parks and Recreation Director. Must have 3 years of progressively responsible experience in event planning, with at least 2 years in a coordination and/or supervisory role, or the equivalent combination of education, experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

City Government Serving You

MAYOR

COMMISSIONERS

Lisa L. Bennett, District 1, Mayor Pro-Tem
407.877.5131
lisa.bennett@cwgdn.com
 
Iliana R. Jones, District 2
407.877.5132
iliana.jones@cwgdn.com

Chloe Johnson, District 3
407.877.5133
chloe.johnson@cwgdn.com

Colin Sharman, District 4
407.877.5134
csharman@cwgdn.com

CITY MANAGER