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July 2025 |
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Vol. 2 Issue 13 |
County News |
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Fireworks, Fun, and Safety: Seminole County’s Fourth of July Message |
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The Seminole County Fire Department is encouraging residents to stay safe while celebrating the Fourth of July.
In 2024, firefighters responded to nearly a dozen local fires caused by fireworks, most starting in dumpsters or garages after fireworks were thrown away too soon. Across the country, thousands of people are injured each year during Independence Day celebrations, especially from burns to the hands, face, and head.
If you plan to use fireworks at home, follow these simple safety tips:
- Never re-light a “dud” firework
- Only use fireworks outdoors, away from trees and buildings
- Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby
- Never allow children to handle fireworks. Sparklers alone can burn at 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit
When you're done, dispose of fireworks properly:
- Soak used, unused, and malfunctioning fireworks in water for at least 24 hours
- Double wrap them in plastic bags
- Place them in the trash. Do not store them in a garage or near your home
The safest choice is to let the professionals handle the fireworks. Public shows are planned in several cities across Seminole County, offering a fun and safe way to celebrate. |
Commissioner Constantine Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award |
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Seminole County Commissioner Lee Constantine has received the Marlene Young Lifetime Achievement Award from the Florida Association of Counties (FAC), one of the highest honors in Florida local government.
Presented during FAC’s Annual Conference last week, the award recognizes Commissioner Constantine’s more than 40 years of public service and his lasting impact on preserving local decision-making across the state.
A former Mayor of Altamonte Springs and longtime member of the Florida Legislature, Constantine has served on the Seminole County Commission since 2012. He is a past FAC President and has led numerous statewide policy and advocacy efforts.
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“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from my colleagues,” said Commissioner Constantine. “Public service has been my life’s calling, and I remain committed to protecting the quality of life for Seminole County residents and advocating for strong, self-determined local communities across Florida.” |
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Seminole County Holds Annual Hurricane Shelter Drill |
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The Seminole County Office of Emergency Management recently held its annual shelter exercise at Oviedo City Church as part of ongoing storm season preparations. The drill simulated the opening of a medically enhanced, pet-friendly shelter following a Category 3 hurricane.
Staff members participating in the exercise took on the roles of shelter visitors and volunteers. They walked through realistic scenarios from start to finish, including greeting residents, checking in pets, and helping individuals who rely on medical equipment like oxygen tanks, health monitors, and other devices that require electricity.
The annual shelter drill is a valuable training opportunity for both new and returning employees. It helps ensure Seminole County stays ready to respond when a real storm is on the way.
To learn more or register yourself or a loved one for medically enhanced sheltering, visit PrepareSeminole.org. |
| Learn More |
Seminole County Earns Strong Marks from Top Credit Rating Agencies |
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Seminole County’s financial health has been affirmed by two of the nation’s leading credit rating agencies.
Moody’s Ratings upgraded the County’s water and sewer revenue bonds from Aa2 to Aa1, its second-highest rating. The upgrade reflects the County’s strong cash reserves, steady system growth, and improved debt coverage.
S&P Global Ratings reaffirmed the County’s AA+ bond rating and raised its outlook from stable to positive, noting the County’s strong long-term planning and capital management.
“These ratings show that Seminole County is making responsible financial decisions that protect taxpayers and support long-term growth,” said Board Chairman Jay Zembower. “We’re planning carefully, investing wisely, and positioning our community for continued success.”
These strong ratings help keep borrowing costs low and support continued investment in infrastructure, utilities, and public services. Seminole County has maintained high credit ratings for years, driven by sound financial stewardship and a growing local economy. |
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Introducing Scout |
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Seminole County recently announced that Scout, its new on-demand public transit service, will begin operating in October 2025!
The service will provide residents with a flexible and more responsive travel option to get across the County, allowing riders to order shared trips through the smartphone app, Ride Freebee. Ultimately, the service aims to provide convenient, door-to-door service while reducing underused fixed bus routes. |
| Learn More |
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Holiday Closure |
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Seminole County Government offices will be closed Friday, July 4, 2025.
There will be no trash collection service July 4 and pick-up will resume July 7. The Central Transfer Station (CTS) and County Landfill will be open on July 4; however, the Household Hazardous Waste tunnel located at CTS and the customer service phone line will be closed.
Seminole County Libraries, Animal Services, Museum of Seminole County History, and the UF/IFAS Extension Services Office will be closed July 4. |
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Kitten Baby Shower |
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Kitten season is here! Visit Seminole County Animal Services and meet adorable kittens available for adoption — for just $5. Donations such as dry kitten food, non-clumping cat litter, cat toys, and other supplies are also appreciated to provide kitten foster homes with needed supplies during the influx of kitten season.
Thursday, July 10, 12–6 p.m.
Seminole County Animal Services, 232 Eslinger Way, Sanford |
| Learn More |
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Parks are Poppin’ |
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Celebrate Park and Recreation Month at “Parks are Poppin’” on Saturday, July 19! Enjoy hands-on activities from Seminole County Libraries, UF/IFAS Extension, and the Museum of Seminole County History. Families can explore the playground, grab free sno-cones and popcorn, and enjoy an afternoon of fun.
Saturday, July 19, 9–11 a.m.
Greenwood Lakes Park, 660 Green Way Blvd., Lake Mary |
| Learn More |
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From Page to Stage (Teen Theatre Group) Performance for Kids and Families |
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Catch a performance by this summer’s teen theatre group, “From Page to Stage”! The play, inspired by a children’s book, was written and rehearsed by the teens themselves — complete with costumes and sets they created.
Saturday, July 19, 11 a.m. or 2 p.m.
East Branch, 310 N. Division St., Oviedo |
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Seminole County Government, 1101 East 1st Street, Sanford, Fl 32771, United States |
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