 JULY 2023
|
|
|
|
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
& NO Solid Waste Collection Services Schedule
for Independence Day, July 4
|
|
|
|
|
|
- All City Government Offices will be closed on Tuesday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day.
- There will be NO Solid Waste Collection Services for trash, recycling, yard waste, or bulk items on Tuesday, July 4. Services will resume on your next scheduled collection day.
Click here for a yearly Solid Waste Holiday Collection Schedule.
If you have any questions, please call 407.656.2256.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Winter Garden is Red, White and Blue AmericanaDowntown is decorated red, white and blue so come out to stroll, shop, and dine with the backdrop of American nostalgia. Perfect for summer holiday photos! Mark your calendars for the City’s FREE Community 4th of July Festivities: Farmers Market Independence Day Celebration
Saturday, July 1: 8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Downtown Pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview Avenue All American Kids Parade & Pancake Breakfast
Tuesday, July 4
Pancake Breakfast, 8:00 – 9:30 am (Kids eat free, nominal donation for adults)
Parade Kickoff: 10:00 am (Line up at 9:45 am)
Winter Garden Masonic Lodge no. 165, 230 W. Bay Street Party in the Park Fireworks Display
Tuesday, July 4
Festivities (live music, games, crafts, vendors) start at 6:00 pm
Fireworks Display, 9:15 pm
Newton Park, 29 W. Garden Avenue |
|
|
|
Fireworks Usage & Tips
Fourth of July is one of three days a year that the recreational use of fireworks is legal in the City of Winter Garden (per Florida Statue 791.08).
|
|
|
|
|
|
Winter Garden Fire Rescue offers the following tips to prevent firework-related injuries: - Only adults should handle fireworks.
- Never attempt to re-light or pick-up a malfunctioning firework.
- Set up fireworks in a clear, open space.
- Light fireworks one at a time, never placing any body part directly over the device, and move away quickly once lit.
- Keep a bucket of water handy and douse used and malfunctioning fireworks in water before discarding.
However, the safest way to enjoy the holiday is by watching a professional fireworks show, such as the Party in the Park fireworks display at 9:15 pm on July 4 at Newton Park. No personal fireworks are permitted at the event. |
|
|
|
|
|
Reminder to abide by the speed limit when driving on City streets. Speeding is being closely monitored and citations will be issued. |
|
|
|
|
|
Children’s Art Exhibit Premieres at City HallTake the kids to City Hall for a summer outing to see an art exhibit created by children. This cheerful exhibit, composed by child artists and curated by the Winter Garden Art Association, displays what summertime really means through the eyes of children. The exhibit may evoke a few happy summer memories of your own. Summertime in Winter Garden – Children’s Art Exhibit
Now – August 31
Monday – Friday, 7:30 am – 5:30 pm | Free
Art in Public Places Gallery at City Hall, 300 W. Plant Street |
|
|
|
Free Women’s Self-DefenseClass for Residents
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Winter Garden Police Department is hosting a free basic women’s self defense class on Thursday, August 24, 6:00 – 8:30 pm. A police officer certified in using S.A.F.E. self defense techniques will instruct the class. Make it a “ladies night” and learn some self defense! Thursday, August 24 | 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm | Free
Winter Garden Police Department, Training Room
Women only, ages 13 and up To register, contact Officer Gail Michaud: 407-656-3636 ext. 4405, gmichaud@wgpd.com. The class fills quickly so act now. |
|
|
|
|
|
Citizens Police AcademyApplication Deadline is July 21Ever wonder what goes on inside your police department? Get your questions answered at the next Citizens Police Academy! This is a free nine-week course conducted from August 2 to September 27 on Wednesday evenings, 6:00 – 9:00 pm, at the Winter Garden Police Department training room. The classes are instructed by Winter Garden police officers and staff who will discuss such topics as crime prevention, defensive tactics, and investigations. Class participants will also be eligible to go on a ride along with an officer! Anyone 18 years or older interested in participating can download an application at wgpd.com or pick one up at the Winter Garden Police Department, 251 W. Plant Street. You must be a resident or work in the City of Winter Garden in order to attend. Additional eligibility requirements are listed on the website. Seats fill fast so submit your application quickly! For questions, contact Officer Gail Michaud or Officer Timothy Thatford at 407.656.3636 ext. 5416. |
|
|
|
New Annual Water Quality Report is AvailableThe 2022 Annual Water Quality Report was recently mailed to all City utility customers from the City of Winter Garden Water Division. The report (January 1 – December 31, 2022) is designed to inform you about the quality of water and services we deliver to you every day.
The City of Winter Garden Water Treatment & Pumping Division had no monitoring or reporting violations in 2022. For questions about the report or your water utility, please contact David Jones, Chief Water Plant Operator: 407.656.4111 ext. 2017, djones@cwgdn.com.
Click here to view the report. |
|
|
|
City’s FY2023/24
Budget Process CommencesStarting every July, the City formulates its next fiscal year budget. The budget serves as the primary tool in allocating resources to programs and services.
The City’s annual budget indicates community priorities, projected revenues and costs, as well as long-range planning. Development of the annual budget reflects a strategic plan and considers the needs and priorities of the citizens, business leaders, and employees, while keeping today’s inflationary environment in mind.
The three steps of the budget process are development, review/approval, and implementation: Development
The first step of the budget preparation process is identifying budget objectives and operating budget requests. The Finance Director and City Manager meet with department directors in the month of July to go over budget requests. The department requests are compiled into a proposed budget. Following these meetings, a proposed budget is drafted. Review & Approval
The proposed budget is presented to the City Commission for review. Each member of the Commission will review the budget in detail and hosts a public budget workshop and information session for public input at the end of August. The Commission workshop provides a forum for finalizing spending plans, the proposed millage rate, and policy issues before the final budget hearings in September. After community input and review, the City Commission will adopt the budget. Approving of the annual budget is conducted at the annual public budget hearings held in September. Implementation
Following Commission approval of the final spending plan, the Finance Department staff will prepare the adopted budget for distribution and post an electronic copy on the City’s website. The budget for the upcoming year becomes effective October 1st and the spending plan, as authorized by the Commission, is implemented throughout the fiscal year, ending September 30th. For a copy of the current year FY2022/23 budget, please click here. |
|
|
|
|
|
Live Music Every Friday
Catch 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: - July 7 - Porchdogs (Cajun, Zydeco)
- July 14 - Cam Gordon (Acoustic, Covers)
- July 21 - Retro Ramblers (Oldies, Pop)
- July 28 - Larry Poulton Band (Jazz, Blues)
|
|
|
|
SUMMER 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. Aquatics Programs are held at Farnsworth Pool, 1 Surprise Drive. Click here to register. THE INK AND QUILL WRITING GROUP
Enjoy writing? Regardless of your ambitions or goals, you will find stimulating fellowship and writing encouragement. Learn different styles of writing and share ideas to develop plots, characters, and scenes to bring stories to life. 1st & 3rd Monday of each month
2:00 – 4:00 pm | Free KICKBALL – ADULT FALL LEAGUE
The playground game we all remember from grade school has evolved into today's hottest get-together sport for adults. Anyone can play from the less experienced to the diehard. This is a great way to stay in shape, meet new people, and have fun! Come out and KICK IT with our Thursday night co-ed league. Registration may close early due to limited availability in each league. Thursday Games | 6:45 pm, 7:45 pm, & 8:45 pm
$300 per team for season
Braddock Park, 13460 Lake Butler Boulevard FALL LEAGUE begins August 17
Registration | July 3 – July 28 USSSA SOFTBALL - ADULT FALL LEAGUE
Our adult softball Leagues are available for all skill levels. Church, Men’s and Co-ed leagues offered Monday - Thursday. Play, be active, and most importantly, have fun! Registration may close early due to limited availability in each league. Games at 6:45 pm, 7:45 pm, & 8:45 pm
$460 per team for season
Braddock Park, 13460 Lake Butler Boulevard
Veterans Memorial Park, 420 South Park Avenue FALL LEAGUE begins the week of August 14
Registration: Returning Teams* | July 3 – July 28
New Teams | July 17 – July 28 *A returning team is classified as a team that has participated in any of our softball leagues within one of the past three consecutive seasons. 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 health body and the mental well-being that comes with exercise. Mondays and 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) GENTLE YOGA
Great for beginners or anyone that wants to learn the basics of yoga. Yoga involves stretching and strengthening exercises, breathing techniques, and relaxing meditation. Tuesdays | 7:15 – 8:15 pm
16 years and older
$9 City Resident / $10 Nonresident, per class
$32 City Resident / $36 Nonresident, per month XTREME HIP HOP WITH TARCIA
This is a revamp of traditional step aerobics and includes routines set to hip-hop and R&B that will give you a great caloric burn. Please note, steps are not provided. Tuesdays and Thursdays | 6:00 – 7:00 pm
$10 Resident / $12 Nonresident, per class AQUA BOOT CAMP
Based on speed, power, and strength rather than rhythm and choreography, Aqua Fitness Boot Camp incorporates pyramid training, kickboxing drills, interval training, power drills, speed bursts, and strength exercises. While this class requires no coordination, it does demand a lot of stamina and is great for participants who need a new challenge and prefer intense, athletic workouts. This class will push you to your limits! Monday – Thursday | Now - August 3
12:00 – 12:45 pm
16 years & older | $3 per visit AQUA ZUMBA
Activate your urge for variety! Aqua Zumba offers fun, shallow-water movement to improve agility and flexibility while addressing cardiovascular, strength, and endurance conditioning. This 60-minute class combines some of the traditional elements of aqua fitness with the upbeat, Latin-infused dance moves. You don’t want to miss this pool party! Mondays | Now – July 31
6:30 - 7:30 pm
16 years & older | $3 per visit AQUA FITNESS
A stress-free exercise that works the cardiovascular system, respiratory system, and major muscle groups in one workout. Water surrounds the body resisting every move, and muscle workouts are balanced at your own level. Aqua fitness provides a great workout while putting minimal stress on the body. Tuesdays & Thursdays | Now – August 3
6:30 - 7:30 pm
Saturdays | Now - August 5
8:00 – 9:00 am
16 years & older | $3 per visit LAP SWIMMING
The outdoor lap swim program gives adults the chance to take to the water for health and fitness without interruption from other swimmers. Participants who swim 25 miles or more over the summer will receive a free Aqua Exercise Flex Pass for the following summer. Monday – Thursday | Now - August 3
5:00 – 7:00 pm
Monday – Thursday | Now – July 27
8:00 – 9:00 am
Saturdays | Now – August 5
8:00 am – 10:00 am
16 years & older | $3 per visit |
|
|
|
Voice Your Opinion through City SurveyPlease Complete if Received
|
|
|
|
|
|
The City is mailing surveys to random-selected residents to effectively gauge residents’ opinions regarding the quality of community characteristics, services, and governance. Should you receive this survey, please be sure to complete it quickly and offer your voice to make Winter Garden an even better place to live, work, and play. Surveys may be submitted by mail or online option. The National Community Survey™ (The NCS) survey is conducted every two years in partnership with an independent consultant. The survey is scientific in methodology and results are used to shape City services, your quality of life, and City’s overall direction. In fact, over the last 12+ years, resident feedback has affected improvements in nearly every aspect of City operations. |
|
|
|
City is Hiring:
Custodial Workers, Mechanic, 911 Dispatchers, Landscapers - Parks Workers, CDL Drivers, & Utilities Positions - TRAINEES & EXPERIENCED
|
|
|
|
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:
FLEET MAINTENANCE:
Mechanic III – Heavy Equipment (Full-Time): This is highly skilled work in the maintenance and repair of gasoline and diesel driven trucks and related heavy equipment. Work is performed on heavy duty trucks, transit buses, tractors, graders, fire trucks, gas compressors, heat exchangers, sanitation hydraulic packer trucks and other related equipment. A.S.E. certified with heavy duty brakes and one other A.S.E. “T” certification required. High School Diploma or G.E.D. and 5 years of experience in automotive and light truck repair or 3 years of experience in heavy truck equipment repair required for position. Must be able to obtain CDL Class B license within 90 days of employment. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY:
Senior IT Analyst (Full-Time): Under the direction of the Information Technology Director, this position is responsible for managing technologies including the City’s desktop computer environment, as well as varying responsibilities within the City’s server environment. Provides advanced level of technical support and problem-solving assistance, consulting with all users within the City, performing in-depth research, analysis, and problem diagnosis, and consulting with internal and external technical staff/vendors related to hardware, software, and system functionality specifications. Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems or appropriate discipline required with a minimum of 4 years of progressive experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Must be able to secure and maintain a Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Security Clearance to include approval for controlled access to protected information. 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 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. 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 & Utilities - 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. |
|
|
|
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
|
|
|
|
|
EXHIBITIONFlorida Water Ways & Wild Life
Artwork (2D & 3D) featuring Florida’s wildlife from animals, flora, and fauna to the people and places that make this such a fun place to live. Now — July 31
CALL TO ARTISTSVisit 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 FOR ADULTSClick here for more information or to register. Technique Tuesday at 2PM
A weekly “CREATE” event and learning opportunity at SOBO Gallery that allows people of ALL SKILL LEVELS in our community to learn, grow, and be inspired through the talents of other artists. Click here for theme schedule. Tuesdays | 2:00 – 4:00 pm | Studio Room
Open to all | Free to members & first time visitors Artist Night Studio: Life Drawing
A model is available to draw every Wednesday night.
Wednesdays | 6:30 – 9:00 pm
18 years and older only
$10 member; $15 nonmember (collected at sign in) VOLUNTEERCurrently accepting applications for volunteer opportunities at SOBO for Saturdays. JOINIndividual membership is $35 and a family membership is $50. Click here to become a member, purchase an engraved brick, or donate to the arts.
|
|
|
|
Heritage Museum Exhibit:Public Safety: The West Orange Police and Fire Departments
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Winter Garden Fire Department building, constructed in 1938 and shown here c.1965, serves today as the home of the Winter Garden Art Association (SOBO Art Gallery) located at 127 S. Boyd St. The exhibit features the men and women that served in public safety capacities in Winter Garden and the surrounding communities whose devotion to the rule of law has left its mark on the region — often at the expense of their own lives. Now – August 31
Winter Garden Heritage Museum
1 N. Main Street | wghf.org | 407.656.3244
Tuesday - Saturday | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm | Free Admission
|
|
|
|
Garden Theatre160 W. Plant Street
407.877.4736
gardentheatre.org The historic Garden Theatre provides entertainment and educational offerings for all ages.
Visit gardentheatre.org for a current list of upcoming live theatre shows, movies, and performances. LIVE THEATRE
|
|
|
|
Presented by Victory Productions and Garden Theatre July 7 - August 6 | Matinee and Evening Performances
Tickets $35 – $75 | Discounts are available for groups or 10 or more, military, first responders, teachers, seniors, and students. Book and Lyrics by Tom Eyen | Music by Henry Krieger Purchase Tickets Meet the Dreams: Effie, Lorrell, and Deena, three young and talented singers of color in the revolutionary 1960s. Dreamgirls will take you on a journey as the three friends embark on a musical roller coaster through the ruthless world of show business. Their relationships will be put to the test by fame, fortune, and romance as the young women discover that their dreams come at a cost. Featuring iconic songs including “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going,” “Family,” and “I Am Changing,” Dreamgirls explores themes of ambition, hope, and betrayal to a soundtrack of gospel, R&B, pop, disco, and more. SUMMER CAMPS
Now – August 4
gardentheatre.org/education The Garden Theatre is excited to welcome students for our fun and creative Summer Camps! Each engaging camp is taught by local, experienced theatre professionals, and is tailored to fit the needs of each grade and skill level. Students entering grades 3-12 will have a blast singing, dancing, and acting their way through summer.
|
|
|
|
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.
JULY 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, July 18, 6:30 pm City Commission Meeting*
Thursday, July 13, 6:30 pm
Thursday, July 27, 6:30 pm
Code Enforcement Board Meeting
Tuesday, July 11, 6:15 pm
Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Board
Tuesday, July 11, 5:30 pm - Cancelled
Development Review Committee Meeting
Wednesday, July 5, 9:30 am - Cancelled/Postponed to July 12
Wednesday, July 12, 9:30 am
Wednesday, July 19, 9:30 am
Planning & Zoning Board Meeting
Monday, July 10, 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.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Share on Facebook
Share on Twitter
Share via Email
