You are receiving E-News as a courtesy from the City. 
Please remember to set your spam blocker to allow mail from listserv@civicplus.com.

If you decide you do not want to continue receiving the E-News, just scroll to the bottom and click on unsubscribe to stop receiving this communication.

Holiday Office Closure
& Solid Waste Collection Services Schedule 
for Good Friday, April 7

• All City Government Offices will be closed on Friday, April 7.
• There will be Regular Solid Waste Collection Services on Friday, April 7.

Click here for a yearly Solid Waste Holiday Collection Schedule.

If you have any questions, please call 407.656.2256.

Spring Fever in the Garden

April 1 & 2

The 21st annual Spring Fever in the Garden festival on April 1 & 2 is fun for all ages with an abundance of gardening vendor booths and a variety of activities and entertainment. The Bloom & Grow Garden Society of West Orange County, in conjunction with the City of Winter Garden, hosts the FREE event. For up-to-date festival information, please follow “Bloom and Grow Garden Society” on Facebook and Instagram.

Festival Highlights:

• Chalkin’ It Up Sidewalk Art Contest
• Live Entertainment
• Kid Zone Area
• Nature-Related Arts and Crafts
• Ask the Experts Booth
• Avian Reconditioning Center Birds of Prey
• Vendor booths selling thousands of a wide array of flowers and foliage
• And more!

Saturday, April 1 | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sunday, April 2 | 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Arts in April

Month-long Community Events

Arts in April provides an opportunity to explore and create art through a variety of free month-long community events in historic downtown. In addition, there is a ticketed Art Night VIP immersive experience fundraiser. The Winter Garden Art Association, in conjunction with the City of Winter Garden, hosts Arts in April annually in celebration of World Art Day.

Highlights:

• Kids Art Sessions at Winter Garden Farmers Market | April 8, 15, 22
• Urban Sketchers Competition | April 15
• Arts in April Light Show | April 29
• Featured Live Artists | April 29
• Art Night VIP (purchase tickets at wgart.org/vip) | April 29
• Top Choice Annual Awards Show at SOBO Art Gallery | April 1 – May 27
• High School Top Choice Annual Awards Show at City Hall | April 3 – May 31
• And more!

Click here for more information and Event Schedule.

Celebrate Earth Day at Winter Garden Events

Saturday, April 22

Since 1970, Earth Day is celebrated annually to show support and raise awareness for the protection of our environment. The City of Winter Garden is commemorating Earth Day 2023 with the following community activities.

Heritage Trees Guided Walking Tour

Celebrate Earth Day 2023 in downtown Winter Garden by enjoying the wonder of nature with a guided Winter Garden Heritage Trees Walking Tour through historic downtown. The Bloom and Grow Garden Society and the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation will lead the 2-mile tour of trees, many of which are 100 years old with trunks over 30” in diameter. Free and no preregistration is required.

Saturday, April 22 | Tour Departs, 8:30 am
Meeting Location | City Hall (parking lot entrance), 300 W. Plant Street

Plastic Bag Exchange for a Reusable Tote Bag at the Farmers Market

Celebrate Earth Day with a visit to your local Farmers Market. Buy local and buy fresh! The City’s Sustainability folks will be on hand that day with their Plastic Bag Exchange Program. If you often use a plastic bag for your shopping, this is a good time to exchange it for a reusable bag. Look for the staff at the market’s Information Booth at the Pavilion entrance to receive a complimentary City’s commemorative 120th anniversary reusable tote bag.

Saturday, April 22 | 8:00 am -1:00 pm (Tote bag distribution limited to while supplies last.) Winter Garden Farmers Market, 104 S. Lakeview Avenue.

Recycled Art Kids Session at the Farmers Market

Make a custom, recycled art masterpiece to celebrate Earth Day at the Winter Garden Farmers Market! Certified Art Educator Lenore Eastham will guide the children, ages 4 – 12, to make flowers using everyday materials recycled from home.

The complimentary Kids Art Session is part of the Winter Garden Art Association Arts in April community initiative.

Saturday, April 22 | Kids Art Session, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm (Market: 8:00 am – 1:00 pm) 
Parking Garage Plaza / Kids Art Tent, 160 S. Boyd Street | Free

National Prescription Drug
TAKE BACK DAY
April 22

Your local police department is participating in the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on April 22, a collaborative effort to remove potentially dangerous controlled substances from the nation’s homes. 

Please bring unused, expired, or unwanted pharmaceutical controlled substances and other medications to the Winter Garden Police Department, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm, for safe disposal on National Prescription Take Back Day.

Bringing drugs for proper disposal not only reduces likelihood of inappropriate access in the home, but is also a good way to observe Earth Day since it helps protect the environment. Many resort to disposing of medication by flushing down toilets or pouring down drains, which contaminates oceans and lakes. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, drug take back programs are one of the most effective and sustainable ways to dispose of unused medications to help protect our planet.

Saturday, April 22 | 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Collection Site: Winter Garden Police Department,
251 W. Plant Street 

SUMMER DAY CAMP 2023

Registration Opens April 5

Mark your calendar because registration for Summer Day Camp opens on Wednesday, April 5. Hosted by well-trained Winter Garden Parks & Recreation staff members, space is extremely limited for this camp so act fast. The Summer Camp will be held May 30 – August 4, and it is an extremely popular and fun way for youth to spend their summer. Campers will enjoy a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, as well as field trips on select dates.

REGISTRATION:

City Resident | April 5 – April 28
Nonresident | April 12 – April 28
$120 Resident / $150 Nonresident, per week
$10 weekly discount for each additional child enrolled per week
(First two weeks payment due at time of registration.)

Registration will be available online starting April 5, as well as at Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard Street. Payment for the first two weeks will be due at the time of registration. Minimum payment not made will result in cancellation of weeks registered. Questions, call 407.656.4155.

Summer Camp Dates | May 30 – August 4 (no camp on July 4)
 Monday – Friday | 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
 Age | Entering 1st through 8th grade

SPRING 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.

Programs are held at the Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard Street, unless noted otherwise. Click here to register.

BOOT CAMP WITH BRAD

Looking for cardio and strength training exercises that utilize both weights and body weight? Join this bi-weekly boot camp to learn how to develop a more physically healthy body and the mental well-being that comes with exercise.

Mondays & Thursdays | 5:30 – 6:20 pm
16 years and older
$16 City Resident / $18 Nonresident, per class
$55 City Resident / $65 Nonresident, per month (8 classes)

CREATIVE MOVEMENT

This unique program introduces basic dance ballet techniques 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.

Wednesdays | March 22 – April 19 or April 26 – May 24 | 9:30 – 10:15 am
Saturdays | March 25 – April 29 (no class April 8) | 10:15 – 11:00 am
2 – 4 years
$70 City Resident / $75 Nonresident, per 5-week session

POWER YOGA FLOW

Utilizing flexibility as a means to focus on linking poses together with continuous movement, Power Yoga Flow will bring awareness to one's body and breath, all while increasing cardiovascular health and muscular strength.

Thursdays | 6:30 – 7:20 pm
$30 City Resident / $34 Nonresident, per month
$12 City Resident / $14 Nonresident, per class

Railroad Museum Hosts Spring Open House

April 1

In conjunction with Spring Fever in the Garden, the Central Florida Railroad Museum will host an Open House with a variety of activities for all ages to enjoy. Pop inside to see amazing artifacts, G-Scale model railroad, kid’s coloring table, and a pop-up gift shop. A special presentation will be held at 1:00 pm with historian Rick Cronin talking about the Tavares & Gulf Railroad, which served Winter Garden, Clermont, and the area from 1881 to 1969. 

Saturday, April 1
Open House Activities & Displays, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm / Presentation, 1:00 pm

Central Florida Railroad Museum
101 S. Boyd Street | cfrhs.org | 407.656.0559
Regular Operating Hours: Tuesday – Saturday | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm | Free Admission

Mark Your Calendar 

for City-Hosted Spring Events

• Spring Fever in the Garden | April 1 & 2 
• Arts in April Community Events & Art Night VIP | April 1-30
• Winter Garden Earth Day Events | April 22
• Downtown Boutique Spring Stroll | May 11
• Miniature Golf Day at the Winter Garden Farmers Market | May 20
• Memorial Day Community Celebration | May 29
  
  

City Hiring for Summer Water-Related Jobs

The City’s Parks & Recreation Dept. is now hiring for summer water-related jobs such as Lifeguards, Pool Managers, Water Aerobics Instructors, and Water Safety Instructors.

Lifeguard applicants must be at least 15 years old, and must be able to complete a Lifeguard course pre-test prior to receiving training. American Red Cross training is provided at no cost for all eligible participants.

A great way to have fun while earning money and learning important life skills!

Job Flyer
 

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, & 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:

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT:

Custodial Worker  (Full-Time and Part-Time, Temporary and Regular): This position performs routine and specialized housekeeping and cleaning of city-owned facilities including but not limited to: offices, conference rooms, kitchens, restrooms, common areas, entryways, and other areas and facilities as assigned. A minimum of two years of experience performing custodial/housekeeping tasks required. Must be able to works nights, weekends, and holiday shifts as needed. This position requires the ability to pass a FDLE background screening. 

PARKS:

Landscaper – Public Services Worker (Full-Time): Needed to perform grounds keeping and landscape maintenance of City parks, grounds, and facilities.  Responsibilities include use of equipment to install, care for, and maintain turf, shrubs, trees, ground cover, plant containers, and seasonal plantings. Performs irrigation maintenance as needed. Assists with preparation, set-up and removal of decorations for special events, including holiday events. Performs custodial services at parks and other City owned facilities and buildings. Must have experience with the use of landscape equipment and performing manual labor.

PUBLIC SERVICES:

Solid Waste Drivers  (Full-time): Requires Florida CDL Class B to pick up and haul garbage and refuse, experienced in using some/all of the following: Commercial Front End Loader, Rear End Loader, ASL, Boom Truck, Container Delivery Truck, & Roll off Truck. Scheduling flexibility is essential, as routes may require varying schedules including early morning, weekend, etc.

Utilities Collection Field Technicians & Distribution Field Technicians  (Full-time): Experienced or Trainees to perform physically demanding work (have/obtain a Florida CDL Class B) while using light and/or heavy equipment. Locates water mains and valves and installs, relocates, replaces, repairs & maintains gravity sewer lines, force mains, manholes, service connections, water mains, fire hydrants, gate valves, etc. related to water and wastewater systems. Must be available and able to answer emergency or service calls after normal working hours.

PUBLIC SAFETY:

911 Dispatchers  (Full-time): Experienced or Trainees to 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!
There is a $2,000 sign-on bonus for entry level candidates and up to $5,000 for experienced Dispatchers. 

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT:

Urban Designer  (Full-time):  Develops and implements the overall urban design strategy for the City, as well as conducting planning and zoning work in the Community Development Department. Requires Bachelor’s degree in architecture, urban planning, public administration or related field and a minimum of four years of experience in planning and design. The ideal candidate will be a team player, takes initiative, and excels at giving presentations and communicating with internal and external customers. Must be able to work evenings as needed for meetings.

Utility Bill Assistance Available
for Low Income Seniors

Application Deadline is May 1

The City of Winter Garden offers a Utility Bill Assistance Program for Low Income Seniors. Qualified candidates can receive a reduction of up to $35 on their monthly utility bill.

Program Qualifications:

• must be 65 years of age, or 62 years of age and receiving Social Security benefits
• a CITY resident continuously for past 5 years
• monthly household income not to exceed $1,566.80 (Single) or $2,190.43 (Married)

Documents needed with application:

• copies of current identification
• 2023 Social Security Benefit Statement OR 2022 Federal Income Tax Return
• ALL other proof of income for entire household

Applications are available at Winter Garden City Hall Reception Desk, 300 W. Plant Street, or by contacting the City Clerk’s office, 407.656.4111 ext. 6327.
 
APPLICATION and PROOF OF INCOME DEADLINE is MAY 1, 2023.

Winter Garden PAL Youth Summer Camp 

Registration Deadline is May 19

The Winter Garden Police Athletic League (WGPAL) will host an eight-week summer camp for qualifying youth. The camp is available AT NO COST to children ages 5-15 residing within the City limits and receiving government assistance. Deadline to register is May 19, 2023. Space is limited so do not delay.

The camp’s mission is to create and build relationships among camp staff, Winter Garden police officers, area youth and their parents. The camp provides a safe, welcoming, and fun place to interact through sports, communication, and the introduction of experiences that encourage community ownership, leadership, education, and personal growth.

Camp Dates | June 5 – July 28 
Monday – Friday | 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Location | TBD
Cost | Free

Visit the following locations on dates specified to complete an application and bring the required documents:

Maxey Center:                              May 8 | 3:00-5:00 pm

                                                      May 9 | 3:00-5:00 pm

Westside Townhomes:                May 10 | 2:00-5:00 pm

Country Gardens:                        May 11 | 2:00-5:00 pm

Promenade:                                  May 12 | 2:00-5:00 pm

Garden City Apts:                        May 15 | 2:00-5:00 pm

West Pointe Villas:                       May 16 | 2:00-5:00 pm

Winter Garden Police Dept.:       May 18 | 2:00-5:00 pm

(Back Parking Lot-Office Door       May 19 | 3:00-5:00 pm
is on Henderson St.)

When registering for the WGPAL Youth Summer Camp, the following documents are required:

• child’s birth certificate or court/custody paperwork -- only parent or legal guardian can register a child (Children must be ages 5-15 and have completed Kindergarten.)
• child’s medical insurance card
• current water or utility bill for the Winter Garden address residence
• proof of government assistance (WIC, food stamps, etc.)
• form of identification (driver’s license, ID card, passport, etc.)
• camp application

Camp Flyer. For more information, visit wgpal.org or call 407.656.5416.

City Government Serving You

MAYOR/COMMISSIONER

COMMISSIONERS

CITY MANAGER

Visit us at our websites:

www.cwgdn.com
www.downtownwg.com

Official Social Media Platforms:

www.facebook.com/officialdowntownwintergarden
www.instagram.com/officialdowntownwintergarden