 February 2022
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North Boyd Parking Lot to Close for Construction
to Make Way for an Improved Lot
The new North Boyd Street Parking Lot is under construction. The new parking lot is being constructed within two City-owned parcels located at 37 North Boyd Street and 63 North Boyd Street. The scope of this project includes the construction of an asphalt parking lot (124 total parking spaces) with associated drainage, landscaping, irrigation and lighting improvements. The project will also include the installation of a bicycle repair shelter at the southwest corner of the parking lot.
The parking lot at 63 N. Boyd Street will close on February 7 and will remain closed for the duration of the project. Barring no unforeseen circumstances, the anticipated completion of the new North Boyd Street Parking Lot is May/June 2022.
Construction work will take place from Monday - Friday during normal working hours of 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, and on Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. (The exception is emergency work, which would require working outside of the normal working hours.)
For general information regarding the project, please contact the City of Winter Garden Engineering Department at 407.656.4111 ext. 2296.
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Winter Garden Fire Rescue Now Provides
Ambulance ServiceThe ambulances that you see around town are now led by Winter Garden firefighters! The Winter Garden Fire Rescue Department (WGFRD) has become the emergency medical transport agency for the community. In this role, WGFRD provides emergency medical services along with ambulance transportation to local hospitals for the entire City area, both within city limits and the unincorporated enclaves.
Since assuming this role on December 1, 2021, WGFRD has transported more than 500 patients to local area hospitals. WGFRD has a long-standing reputation of providing exemplary emergency medical services, including basic and advanced life support, prior to adding ambulance transportation to their list of services.
The previous emergency transport agency was American Medical Response, in which Winter Garden firefighters accompanied them to the 911 response calls. An independent study commissioned by the City overwhelmingly concluded the feasibility of Winter Garden firefighters transporting emergency medical patients to the hospital; especially since emergency medical services has always been an essential component of the WGFRD service delivery model.
“A fire-based emergency medical services system can significantly benefit a community due to the cross-training of the firefighters,” said WGFRD Chief Jose Gainza, Jr. “It is our passion and responsibility to provide our citizens and visitors the highest level of service at the intersection of pre-hospital care and public safety. WGFRD provides this exemplary service with integrity, compassion, and accountability.”
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Work in Your Own Backyard!
City of Winter Garden is Hiring
Tired of commuting? Looking for more time to do the things you love? Work where you live and add to your quality of life.
As our community continues to grow and thrive, the City of Winter Garden is seeking qualified individuals that exemplify the “Winter Garden Way” of providing top-notch service that residents expect, deserve, and appreciate. Candidates should possess a motivated mindset and a can do attitude to find creative solutions, while always putting the citizens first.
Winter Garden is a great place to both live and work. Click here to explore the job opportunities and the impressive benefit package.
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Free Visitors Map Available
A pocketsize City of Winter Garden, FL, Visitors Map serves as a handy reference guide for locals and visitors. The colorful guide unfolds to a ledger-size map of the historic downtown district that includes a directory of current downtown businesses and attractions. The back page has an overall map of Winter Garden including a directory of the City’s recreational amenities and rental facilities. Click here to view or download the map.
Printed maps are available at the following locations during operating hours: City Hall, Winter Garden Heritage Museum & Visitors Center, Central Florida Railroad Museum, and SOBO Art Gallery.
A PDF of the map is also available on the Downtown Winter Garden website, downtownwg.com/learn-more.
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Spring Break Camps With the kids’ spring break from school quickly approaching, there are some fun local options to keep them engaged. Space fills quickly so advance planning is beneficial.
Winter Garden Parks & Recreation Spring Break CampThe Spring Break Camp hosted by the Winter Garden Parks & Recreation Department is a fun way for your school-aged children to spend their time off from school. Campers will enjoy various activities, sports, arts and crafts, and more alongside their friends. A qualified, well-trained staff will provide a safe and outstanding break for your child. Camp is open to all children in Kindergarten through 8 th grade. Campers must bring a packed lunch, snacks, and a water bottle to camp every day. Camp dates: March 11, 14 - 18 7:00 am – 6:00 pm Camp is open to children Kindergarten through 8 th grade $21 per day City Resident / $26 per day Nonresident Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard Street Click here to register. Questions, call 407.656.4155. Garden Theatre Spring Break Camps Camp dates: March 14 – 18 Schoolhouse Rock Live Production Experience | Grades 1 – 3 | 8:30 am – 2:00 pm | $210 Get Down With Six | Grades 3 – 6 | 9:00 am – 2:30 pm | $190 Villains Musical | Grades 3 – 6 | 9:00 am – 2:30 pm | $190 Musical Theatre Songwriting | Grades 7 – 12 | 2:00 – 6:00 pm | $180 Click here to register. Questions, call 407.656.4155.Aftercare available for additional fee. |
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Use QR Code to Download Your Mobile Citizen App
In just a few clicks, you can notify the City about a leaky hydrant, a cracked sidewalk, a damaged street, a pothole or anything else that needs the City’s attention.
Use the QR code provided to download the free Mobile Citizen app from Apple Store or Google Play to have a super convenient way to alert the City to have issues resolved or questions answered.
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Utility Bill Assistance Available for Low Income SeniorsAccepting Applications through May 1, 2022
The City of Winter Garden is currently accepting applications for the 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 $1,441.40 (Single) or $2,015.12 (Married)
Documents needed with application:
*copies of current identification
*2022 Social Security Benefit Statement OR 2021 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 contact City Clerk’s office 407.656.4111 ext. 2297.
APPLICATION and PROOF OF INCOME DEADLINE is MAY 1, 2022.
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New Website to Make Your Utility Bill PaymentThe City of Winter Garden launched a new Utility Billing website last month to make water/trash bill payments: https://UBPay.WGFL.gov. Please note that this is a new website address, so be sure to update any saved bookmarks on your computer to reflect the new website.
The new Utility Billing website can also be accessed from the City’s main website, cwgdn.com, by clicking the “Pay Utility” water drop icon at the bottom.
* If you were enrolled in recurring payments from your credit card OR had scheduled payments set up on the City’s previous Utility Billing website, you will be required to re-enroll using the new website. You will need to create a user name and password to set up recurring/scheduled payments. Check out our tutorial linked at the bottom of the new Utility Billing website. For security, your login and wallet information did not migrate to the new website.
* If your utility bill automatically drafts from your bank account, no action is necessary. We encourage you to set up a username and password on the new website to check payment/consumption history and/or to download previous bills.
* Alternatively, paying by phone is available 24/7. Call 407.656.5437 and have your account number ready.
If you have questions or encounter any issues, please call the Utility Billing Department at 407.656.4100. . |
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Winter Garden Public Safety
Offers Women’s Self Defense ClassThe Winter Garden Police Department will host free basic women’s self-defense classes throughout the year, and the first one is Wednesday, FEBRUARY 23. The class will be instructed by a police officer who is certified using S.A.F.E. self-defense techniques. Class dates | February 23, April 14, May 18, October 13, 2022
Time | 6:00 – 8:30 pm
Location | Winter Garden Police Department, Training Room, 251 W. Plant Street
Eligible Participants | Women only, ages 13 and up
Cost | FREE
Register by contacting Officer Gail Michaud at 407.656.3636 ext. 4405 or at gmichaud@wgpd.com. Reserve your spot early as classes fill quickly.
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Citizens Police Academy
March 2 – April 27Ever wonder what goes on inside your police department? Find out by enrolling in the Citizens Police Academy hosted by the Winter Garden Police Department, March 2-April 27.
This free 9-week course will meet on Wednesdays, 6:00-9:00 pm, at the Winter Garden Police Department training room. Winter Garden police officers and staff will discuss topics such as crime prevention, defensive tactics, and investigations. Class participants can also go on a ride-along with an officer and take a tour of the Orange County Jail.
Eligibility requirements:
-at least 18 years old
-live or work in a resident or work in the City of Winter Garden
-no criminal record
Deadline to register is February 18, but reservations fill quickly so do not delay. To enroll, click here to download an application or pick one up at the Winter Garden Police Department, 251 W. Plant Street.
Questions, contact Officer Gail Michaud at gmichaud@wgpd.com, 407-656-3636 ext. 4405. . |
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Drop Savers Poster Contest Open to
Winter Garden Students K - 12The City of Winter Garden cordially invites students to participate in our “Drop Savers” 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. The contest allows students to promote water awareness and the importance of water conservation in their daily routines.
The contest is open to Public School, Private School, and Homeschool students.
Entry deadline is Friday, March 4, 2022.
Click here for complete details and entry form, or call 407.877.5193. |
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 2021 High School Winner - Peyton Brown - West Orange High School - Division 5
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Recycling Cart is Not for
Bulk ItemsNever place bulk trash inside the recycling cart. Large or improper items can damage the recycling trucks and the sorting equipment at the recycling facility.
The following non-acceptable items were recently found in our City’s recycling carts:
• Baby Car Seats • Computers
• Lights • Wood
• Metal TV Trays • Tarps
• Inflatable Decorations • Large Tires (on or off the rim)
• Construction Material • Yard Waste
Articles in good condition can be donated. If materials are ready for disposal, they should be placed out for bulk collection.
If large items are found inside your cart, it will not be emptied. Please place only accepted recyclables in your recycling cart to prevent costly damage.
For questions, call 407.877.5193.
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Exhibits to Celebrate Winter Garden’sBlack HeritageTwo exhibits during Black History Month celebrate the history and accomplishments of Winter Garden’s African American people. Visit these impactful exhibitions available to the community. Free admission. |
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1 N. Main Street
Photographs and documents honor advances made in education, business, and politics over the past century, ultimately leading to social change.
Tuesday – Saturday | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
February 1 - 28
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Art in Public Places Gallery in City Hall300 W. Plant Street
A cooperative exhibit provided by the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation and the Crealde’ School of Art featuring historic and contemporary images documenting the history and accomplishments of Winter Garden’s African American people.
Monday – Friday | 7:30 am – 5:30 pm
February 1 – March 31 .
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Live Music Every Friday Catch live music every Friday night from 7:00-9:00 pm in the center of Downtown at Centennial Plaza.
This month’s Fridays on the Plaza musical line-up:
- February 4 - Renegade Fusion (Country)
- February 11 - Vocalitas (Jazz, Harmony)
- February 18 - Amy Robbins (Folk, Acoustic)
- February 25 - Tree Frogs (Classic Hits, 70s & 80s)
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Fun withPARKS & RECREATION!Click here for a list of Parks & Recreation programs, classes, sports leagues, camps 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. Advance reservations required.
Super Soccer Stars
Super Soccer Stars is a soccer development program for children 18 months - 3 years old. All classes teach soccer skills in a fun, non-competitive and educational environment. Through our age - specific curriculum, soccer is used to nurture and build self-confidence and teamwork. Each session lasts four weeks, with new sessions starting each month. Tuesdays beginning February 1, March 1, and April 5 Saturdays beginning February 5, March 5, and April 9 18 - 24 months; weekdays 5:15 – 5:45 pm, weekends 10:00 - 10:30 am 2 - 3 years; weekdays 5:50 – 6:35, weekends 10:40 - 11:20 am $56 City Residents; $64 Nonresidents Youth & Adult Tennis LessonsHighly skilled instructor brings years of experience and knowledge to participants. Class space is limited, advanced registration required.
Six-week sessions beginning February 7 & April 11
5 years and older
Fee Varies – check here for details
Chapin Station Park, 501 West Crown Point Cross Road
Boot Camp With Brad
Looking for cardio and strength training exercises that utilize both weights as well as body weights? 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 and Thursdays
5:00 – 5:50 pm | 16 years and older
$16 City Residents /
$18 Nonresidents per class
$55 City Residents /
$65 Nonresidents per month (8 classes)
Gentle YogaGreat 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 4-week session
Active 50+ Programs & Day Trips
Adventures in CraftdomLet your creativity run wild as you create a unique craft item each month. Supplies provided. You will walk out with a finished product. Registration required as availability is limited.
Tuesday, February 8—Crystal Heart Earrings: learn how to make small heart earrings
1:30 pm – 3:30 pm | $10
Boccia Ball
Boccia is a precision ball sport similar to Bocce Ball. The game is played inside and you sit next to your opponent on the Boccia Court. It can be played one-on-one or in teams. The object of the game is to throw or roll leather-like balls so that they land as close as possible to a target ball.
Spring (February-May) | Tuesdays, 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Free
I Want To Know
This activity will address different topics that may be of interest to you. February’s topic is Hearing Health by Daniel Troast, Au.D. (Doctor of Audiology).
Tuesday, February 22 | 12:00 – 1:00 pm
Free
Shine and Dine – Winter Garden
The Winter Garden Parks & Recreation presents lunch and a matinee at the historic Garden Theatre. Come join us for this fun-filled afternoon with friends. Meet at the fountain/gazebo on Plant Street at 11:45 am. Group lunch is Dutch treat at 12:00 pm at a local restaurant with the performance immediately following at 2:00 pm. Program cost includes theatre ticket only. No transportation is available. The Mountaintop - At the most human level, we are all the same. Hours after delivering his iconic “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” speech, Martin Luther King, Jr. returns to his room at Memphis’ Lorraine Motel to plan for his next march. Soon after, a motel maid arrives at his door with a newspaper, a cup of coffee, and the news that he won’t live past tomorrow. Her revelation spurs an all night conversation that illuminates the humanity behind the Civil Rights icon as King reflects on the man he is and the man he hoped to be. Written in honor of the individuals that Dr. King inspired but never met, Katori Hall’s Olivier Award winning play is a stunning imagining of King’s last night on Earth. Sunday, February 6 | 11:45 am $20 City Resident / $22 Nonresident
The Ringling Museum – Sarasota, FL
Whether you are a fan of the circus, art, or history, the Ringling has something for everyone, including beautiful gardens. Take a tour of the Museum of Art, the Circus Museum, the Ca’ d’Zan, and stroll through the estate. It all tells the story of the Ringling’s, their circus, and its relationship to Sarasota. Dutch treat lunch.
Thursday, February 17
7:30 am – 6:00 pm
$43 City Resident; $47 Nonresident
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Winter Garden Art AssociationSOBO Art Gallery127 S. Boyd Street407.347.7996 wgart.org
Open Tuesdays – Saturdays, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
FREE Admission EXHIBITION
Women’s Living Legacy
2D & 3D works that celebrate the legacy and history of women on others, society, and the future.February 1 – March 26Opening Reception | February 35:30 – 8:00 pmCALL TO ARTISTS
Interested artists can submit online between the FIRST and the EIGHTH of the month prior to an exhibition.
March 1-8 ¦ Submit your best 2D & 3D works to the Top Choice Annual Awards Exhibition, open to all types of artistic entries.
WORKSHOPS FOR ADULTSClick here for more information or to register.
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 members; $15 non-members
Open Artist Studio Come in and create your art surrounded by other local artists.Every Tuesday | 11:00 am – 4:00 pmOpen to all | FreeTechnique Tuesdays @ TwoEvery Tuesday | starting at 2:00 (during Open Artist Studio)Open to all | Free to members & first time visitorsA different instructor & technique will be featured every week. Pick up new tips & techniques while enjoying the Open Artist Studio space. Click link above for full schedule.February 1: “Pastel Oils” Nicora GangiFebruary 8: “Plein Air” Orit Reuben
Master Class: Oliver Sin
This workshop will help students to make competent portrait drawings. Step-by-step demonstrations will help students to understand the structure of the face in terms of shapes, planes change, anatomy, and value by using lines and value rendering. Fee required.
March 6 -10
Expressive Floral & Still Life Painting in Oils
Wish your paintings popped from across the room? Come learn how by painting still life and florals from life. Through demonstrations and discussion, followed by plenty of one-on one instruction, you can learn to make your paintings sing with light, color, depth, and movement in this all-from-life class. Fee required. April 9 - 11ART FOR KIDSClick here for more information or to register.
Wednesday Art Club2nd grade – 5th grade: 2:30 – 3:30 pm
Middle and High School 3:45 – 4:45 pm
$15 each session, (members $12) includes all materials
Home School Classes
SOBO is excited to offer Standards Based Art classes for small groups of Home School artists led by Lenore Eastham, Certified Art Educator.
$15 per child per 55-minute session
Initial classes will be available in time blocks between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm.
Become a Member or Donate
Interested in becoming a member of the Winter Garden Art Association or simply donating to the arts? Join or Donate here. VOLUNTEER
Currently accepting applications for volunteer opportunities at SOBO for Saturdays!
Click here to sign up.
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ParadeBook by Alfred Uhry | Music & Lyrics by Jason Robert Brown
Directed by Joseph C. Walsh
I’m trapped inside this life and trapped beside a wife who would prefer that I’d say “Howdy!” not “Shalom!” This provocative Tony Award-winning musical explores the endurance of love, hope, and compassion against seemingly insurmountable odds. Ostracized for his faith, Leo Frank, a Brooklyn-raised Jewish man, is accused of murder in 1913 Atlanta. The whole town turns against him, leaving his wife Lucille as his only defender. A moving love story, a riveting murder mystery, and a gripping courtroom drama, Parade illuminates a circus of conflicting accounts, false testimony, and mishandled evidence in a town reeling with social and racial tension.
February 25 - March 13 | Matinee and Evening Performances
ASL-Interpreted Performance: March 10, 7:30 pm
Tickets start at $25 | Discounts available for youth, seniors, groups, and military members.
Click here to purchase tickets.
EDUCATION
Talent is blooming at the Garden! At every age level, our students are encouraged to try something new, develop their theatre skills, and become more confident in everything they do. Camps and classes are tailored to fit the needs of each grade or skill level and are taught by experienced local theatre professionals.
Teen Intro to Comedy Improv - Have a funny bone? Want to learn how to make the whole room laugh with you? In this introduction to improvisation, students will learn tips and tricks from industry comedians. This course is ideal for students with little to no previous improv experience.
Mondays | February 14 - March 7 | 6:30 - 8:30 pm
Grades 7 - 12
Click here to learn about our educational programs.
Click here to learn about Garden Theatre’s health and safety protocols.
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APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR HOMEOWNERSHIP
West Orange Habitat for Humanity
The City of Winter Garden is partnering with West Orange Habitat for Humanity to build affordable homes within our City. Currently, new homes are being built, and they are looking for new homeowners.
Applications are available for homeownership. Please follow these steps to find out if you qualify and apply: - Click here to review qualifications.
- If you meet qualifications, complete the online pre-qualification form.
- A Habitat for Humanity staff member will contact you about pre-qualification status and next steps.
In addition, West Orange Habitat for Humanity is co-hosting an in-person Rental Assistance Application Event with Bright Community Trust and housd, where questions about the homeownership application can also be answered. To pre-register, click here.
A Rental Assistance Application Event
Saturday, February 26
9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Maxey Community Center, 830 Klondike Avenue, Winter Garden
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Fire Hydrant Flow Testing Continues through February
The Winter Garden Fire Rescue Department will continue fire hydrant flow testing through mid-February.
This important preventative maintenance activity serves several purposes. This process ensures 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 of the lines and removing sediments from the system.
Residents may notice a brief reduction in water pressure and some discoloration of the drinking 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 from your cold water side for several minutes.
If you experience continued loss of pressure or water discoloration, please contact the Public Services Department at 407.656.2256.
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Local COVID-19 Vaccination and Testing Sites
There are a number of local options to get a COVID-19 vaccine. All vaccines are free. For a detailed list of vaccination sites, click here.
There are free COVID-19 testing sites located throughout the community. Click here for more information about these testing sites and to register, as well as to find a list of retail pharmacies and medical clinics that offer testing.
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Subscribe to Official City Communication Tools
to Be in the Know
The City of Winter Garden has several communication tools to keep you aware of the latest happenings and developments in the City of Winter Garden and Downtown Winter Garden. Take a moment to subscribe to the tools below to be the first to know about 2022 events and announcements: - Follow @OffficialDowntownWinterGarden on Facebook and Instagram.
- Subscribe to the Official Downtown Winter Garden website at downtownwg.com to receive periodic e-blasts about events, special offers, and news to your inbox. The website is also a handy official guide to the Downtown shops, restaurants, cultural and recreational venues, community sites, and much more.
- Subscribe to the City of Winter Garden website, cwgdn.com, to receive official notifications via email or text. Click the “Stay Connected” icon to sign up to receive important news flashes, calendar and meeting announcements, bid postings, and timely information.
Now sit back and let the City news come to you.
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Participate in Your City
There 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 is currently seeking volunteers for ALL Boards and Committees. There are open seats on 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.
FEBRUARY MEETING SCHEDULE
The City has resumed in-person meetings.
Architecture Review and Historic Preservation Board Meeting
Tuesday, February 15, 6:30 pm
City Hall - Planning/Building Department Conference Room
City Commission Meeting*
Thursday, February 10, 6:30 pm
Thursday, February 24, 6:30 pm
City Hall Chambers
Code Enforcement Board Meeting
Tuesday, February 1, 6:15 pm
City Hall Chambers
Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Board
Tuesday, February 8, 5:00 pm City Hall - 3rd Floor Conference Room
Development Review Committee Meeting
Wednesday, February 2, 9:30 am
Wednesday, February 16, 9:30 am
City Hall Chambers
Planning & Zoning Board Meeting
Monday, February 7, 6:30 pm
City Hall Chambers
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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