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FREE Fire Break Device for Residents on Home Oxygen Therapy

Oxygen therapy saves lives - but it can increase fire risk. A fire break device adds an extra layer of protection to keep you and your loved ones safe. City of Winter Garden residents on home oxygen therapy and living in a single-family home are eligible for a FREE fire break device. The device extinguishes a fire in the oxygen delivery tube if it is accidentally ignited - a lifesaving safety feature.

PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY:

*Must be a resident of City of Winter Garden
*On home oxygen therapy
*Live in a single-family home

HOW THE DEVICE WORKS:

*Works like an in-line fuse
*Stops fire instantly before it spreads
*Protects oxygen equipment and your home
*Provides peace of mind for patients, caregivers, and families

HOW TO GET A FREE FIRE BREAK DEVICE:

Send an email to Winter Garden Fire Rescue at OFM@cwgdn.com to schedule a free home visit.

Utility Bill Assistance Program Provides Steep Discounts 
for Low Income Seniors 
Application Deadline: May 1, 2026 

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.

Complete the application and return it to the Winter Garden City Hall Reception Desk, 300 W. Plant Street, Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. Hard copies of the application are also available at the desk or by contacting the Utility Billing Customer Service, 407.656.4100.

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

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.

Zanders Park's Renovations Are Complete 

New Playground, Courts, & More 

Construction is complete on the enhancements to Zanders Park in Historic East Winter Garden Neighborhood, 362 11th Street. The renovations include new playground equipment, a renovated basketball court, and the addition of pickleball courts.

A grand opening will take place at Zanders Park on Saturday, February 7, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm. Festivities will include family-friendly music, free pickleball lessons, and complimentary refreshments (while supplies last). Please note that since this park is within a neighborhood, parking is extremely limited. 

Only Rain Goes Down the Storm Drain: 
Anything Else is Illegal

A storm drain near a home or business is NOT an invitation to dump trash, yard waste, chemicals, and grease. In fact, placing those items in the storm drain is illegal and poses a threat to the health, safety, and welfare of the public because it flows directly into our waterways.

According to State law, ONLY rainwater and potable (drinking) water can be discharged into the storm drain. Therefore, dumping anything that is not stormwater or potable water (even mop water) in the storm drain, intentionally or accidentally, is a crime. For businesses, fats, oils, or grease (FOG) should always be contained in an approved outdoor oil dumpster and serviced regularly. 

There are penalties for putting trash, grass, leaves, chemicals, paint, and FOG in the storm drains. Penalties include fines and cleanup costs. Cleanup costs can be expensive because the discharge may have traveled for miles, and the offender would be responsible for the entire cleanup, not just on their property.   

Common Illegal Pollutants and Contaminants that Should NEVER Go Down a Storm Drain:

• Oil
• Grease
• Fertilizer 
• Motor Oil
• Detergents
• Trash
• Debris
• Lawn clippings
• Pet waste 
• Household chemicals

Remember, only rain down the drain! 

How To Report Violation:

To report a suspected violation, please contact the City of Winter Garden Public Services Department:

• During Business Hours, call 407.656.2256.
• On Weekends and After Hours, call 321.436.4559.

Creative Spirit of Winter Garden Exhibit 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 | Now – 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.

BABYSITTING
For students aged 10+, the course will cover general babysitting rules, guidelines, and concepts. Students will learn how to properly change and dispose of diapers, serve age-appropriate foods, as well as develop an understanding of contact lists and emergency situations. Students will also be taught skills in first aid, child safety, and health & wellness.  

Wednesday, February 11 | 6:00 – 8:30 pm 
Age | 10 years & older | $89

BALLET BASICS – TEENS & ADULTS 
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. 

Wednesdays | February 4 – February 25 
10:30 – 11:30 am
Age | 16 years & older 
$65 City Resident / $70 Nonresident, per 4-week session

CREATIVE MOVEMENT 
This unique program introduces basic dance ballet techniques and movement through dance, games, and songs. Class focus is on gross motor skills, left/right, body awareness, ballet positions, and beginner ballet technique and language. Advance registration required. 

Wednesdays | February 4 – February 25 
9:30 – 10:15 am 
Age | 2 – 4 years old
$60 City Resident / $65 Nonresident, per 4-week session

KICKBALL – ADULT LEAGUE
Gather your friends and come out to play the game we all remember from grade school which 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.

Games | 6:45 pm, 7:45 pm, & 8:45 pm
$325 per team for season
Braddock Park, 13460 Lake Butler Boulevard

SPRING LEAGUE
League begins Thursday, March 26
Registration | Now  – February 20

Registration may close early due to limited availability in each league. Number of league games varies each season.

MIDDLE SCHOOL & HIGH SCHOOL RUNNING CLUB 
Participants will receive training that develops speed, stamina, and an understanding for fast-twitch and slow-twitch muscle fibers. The four-week program will conclude with a Versatility Contest that will test abilities in the 100 meter and one-mile events. A male and female Versatility Champion will be determined for ages 11-14 and ages 15-18.

Tuesdays | February 10 – March 3 
6:00 – 6:50 pm
Age | 11 – 18 years old 
$100 City Resident / $120 Nonresident 

PICKLEBALL ADVANCEMENT 
This course will focus on advancing your game by working on the strategy and theory of pickleball. It will provide in-depth discussion and explanation during simulated games and specific scenarios. Each class session will be 1.5 hours in length. The course is designed to assist players who consistently play and are interested in elevating their game by providing a better understanding of the nuances of pickleball. 

Thursdays | February 12, February 26
12:30 – 2:00 pm 
$30 City Resident / $40 Nonresident 
Veterans Memorial Park, 420 S. Park Avenue 

USSSA SOFTBALL - ADULT LEAGUES
Hit a grand slam with our spring and fall 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. Number of league games varies each season.

Games| 6:45 pm, 7:45 pm & 8:45 pm
$500 per team for season
Braddock Park, 13460 Lake Butler Boulevard
Veterans Memorial Park, 420 South Park Avenue

SPRING LEAGUE
League begins Monday, March 23
Returning Team Registration* | Now  – February 20
New Team Registration | February 4 – February 20

*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.

TENNIS LESSONS - YOUTH & ADULT
Highly skilled instructor brings years of experience and knowledge to participants. Class space is limited, advance registration required. 

Now – March 6
Age | 5 years & older 
Lesson time and fees vary, visit cwgdn.com for details. 
Chapin Station Park, 501 Crown Point Cross Road

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.

Inventory Control Specialist (Full-Time): Performs tasks to ensure that the Police Department is mission-ready by ordering, tracking, repairing, assigning, and maintaining departmental equipment.  The position is also responsible for administrative tasks and responsibilities including data entry, information dissemination, filing, computer functions, and other related tasks. This classification is non-supervisory and receives general supervision from the Support Services Supervisor.

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