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January 2025 |
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Vol. 2 Issue 1 |
County News |
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Celebrating Seminole County’s Elected Leaders |
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Seminole County recently hosted an Investiture Ceremony for its newly elected and re-elected officials: County Commissioner Andria Herr, Tax Collector J.R. Kroll, and Supervisor of Elections Amy Pennock. It followed an earlier ceremony in November when County Commissioners Bob Dallari and Lee Constantine were sworn in after running unopposed in their re-election campaigns.
Each official took their oath of office surrounded by family, friends, and community members. Amy Pennock, J.R. Kroll, and Andria Herr expressed their gratitude and shared their vision for the County’s future during their remarks.
“It is an honor to serve this incredible community,” Commissioner Herr said. “Together, we are working to build a brighter, stronger Seminole County, ensuring it remains a place we are all proud to call home.”
A reception followed the ceremony, allowing attendees to congratulate the officials and enjoy light refreshments. Seminole County extends its appreciation to all who attended this memorable event and looks forward to a bright future under the leadership of its newly sworn-in officials. |
Seminole’s Top 10 for 2024: Celebrating a Year of Milestones and Momentum |
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Seminole County made incredible strides in 2024, from record-breaking achievements to initiatives that strengthen our community. Here are the top 10 highlights of the year: |
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10. Record-Breaking Sports Tourism
Seminole County hosted nearly 90 sports events, with 50 held at venues like the Boombah Sports Complex, bringing in a projected 2.2 million visitors. |
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9. Attainable Housing Innovations
The County launched first-of-its-kind programs to make housing more accessible. These initiatives included a Community Land Trust pilot project with Habitat for Humanity at Leadership Pointe in Sanford. |
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8. Supporting Our Veterans
Seminole County delivered $5 million in retroactive benefits to veterans and assisted with 350 monthly interactions through walk-ins and appointments. Events like the Veterans Appreciation Luncheon and Stand Down connected veterans with critical resources, while the Veteran of the Month program honored local heroes. |
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7. National Emergency Management Accreditation
In October, the County earned national recognition for its disaster preparedness and response efforts. The accreditation reflects exemplary coordination during hurricanes Helene and Milton, as well as ongoing recovery planning. |
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6. Launch of Seminole Forever
Seminole County officially launched its land acquisition program in December to protect natural lands. Applications for property consideration are now open, signaling a commitment to conservation. |
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5. Justice James E.C. Perry Courthouse Annex Opens
April marked the opening of the Courthouse Annex at Five Points. This $42.5 million project added 104,000 square feet of office space for key agencies, including Clerk of the Court, State Attorney’s Office, and Public Defender’s Office. |
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4. Enhancing Parks, Connecting Communities
The County approved a 10-Year Parks Master Plan to shape the future of green spaces. Key projects include the Rolling Hills Community Park, now entering its construction phase, and the Deer Run Park design phase. Seminole County Parks also achieved CAPRA reaccreditation, meeting 154 standards of excellence. |
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3. 50 Years of Fire Service
In October, the Seminole County Fire Department celebrated its 50th anniversary. Both current and retired firefighters came together to honor the department's achievements, including its ISO Class 1 rating and International Accreditation. |
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2. Yarborough Ranch Preservation
In partnership with the state, Seminole County secured the preservation of 1,361 acres of the historic Yarborough Ranch. |
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1. Penny Sales Tax Renewal
Seminole County voters approved the 4th generation of the Penny Sales Tax, securing funding for critical infrastructure and quality-of-life projects. |
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Seminole County Fire Department Welcomes Class 24-02 |
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The Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) recently celebrated the graduation of Class 24-02, welcoming 16 new Probationary Firefighters to the team. Held on December 13, the ceremony highlighted the Department's dedication to developing the next generation of emergency responders.
Keynote speaker and past Fire Chief Terry Schenk shared inspiring words, emphasizing the honor and responsibility that comes with serving the community. The event also paid tribute to long-time Chaplain Chris Whaley, who was honored for his years of dedicated service as he retired from the department.
As these new firefighters embark on their journey, Seminole County is reminded of the incredible opportunities a fire service career can offer. SCFD is currently accepting applications for firefighter positions, inviting individuals ready to make a difference in their community to join one of Florida’s most respected fire departments. |
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SCFD is a progressive department that prioritizes professional growth, advanced training, and diverse opportunities for specialization. Whether you’re inspired by the achievements of Class 24-02 or ready to take the first step in your fire service career, SCFD offers unmatched resources and support. |
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Seminole County business offices will be closed on Monday, January 20, in honor of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. Offices will re-open January 21.
Curbside trash and recycling collection will not be interrupted. The Landfill, Central Transfer Station, and Household Hazardous Waste tunnel will be OPEN. Seminole County parks will be OPEN but unstaffed with limited courts and fields available at no charge. Parks will close at 5 p.m.
Seminole County Library branches, Animal Services, and UF IFAS Extension Seminole will be closed on Monday, January 20, and will re-open with normal business hours on Tuesday, January 21. |
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Libraries are Popping! |
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Seminole County brought holiday cheer to residents this season with a pop-up library event at Grand Living Park at Lake Mary. Designed to enhance accessibility for senior community members, the event featured library card sign-ups, same-day checkouts, and access to the latest novels. The pop-up library rotates through various assisted living facilities every eight weeks, with residents able to conveniently return borrowed books to a designated location within their building. |
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4-H Members Hone Design Skills |
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Youth members of Seminole County 4-H began the new year with creativity and preparation for spring, honing their design skills at a poster workshop. This hands-on event emphasized key elements of poster and graphic design competitions, equipping members with the tools to craft award-winning submissions for the upcoming Central Florida Fair and County events. |
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Fungi Fundamental |
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Dive into the fascinating world of fungi with the Natural Lands Program. This engaging class explores mushroom biology, ecological roles, and identification techniques. The session concludes with a guided hike to search for wild mushrooms. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Saturday, January 18, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Ed and Imogene Yarborough Nature Center,
3485 N. C.R.-426, Geneva
Cost: $8 |
| Register Now |
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Telescope Nights |
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Come and view the wonders of the night sky! A telescope will be set up to showcase the celestial sights, weather permitting. This program is offered in partnership with the Emil Buehler Planetarium at Seminole State College.
Monday, January 13, 6:30–8 p.m.
West Branch, 245 N. Hunt Club Blvd., Longwood
Wednesday, January 15, 6:30–8 p.m.
East Branch, 310 N. Division St., Oviedo |
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Florida Tree Trek Hike |
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Celebrate Florida Arbor Day by enjoying a guided hike through mixed forests of pine, oak, and cypress.
Friday, January 17, 9–11 a.m.
Spring Hammock Preserve, 2985 Osprey Trail, Longwood
Cost: $5
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| Register Now |
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Seminole County Government, 1101 East 1st Street, Sanford, Fl 32771, United States |
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