Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020 01 13 Regular 502 - East Central Florida Regional Planning Council Report and Recommendations • REGULAR AGENDA ITEM 502 noon„ CITY COMMISSION AGENDA I JANUAPYI3, 2020 1959 REGULAR MEETING TITLE East Central Florida Regional Planning Council Report and Recommendations SUMMARY At the April 22, 2019 City Commission Meeting, the City Commission approved for the City of Winter Springs to enter into an agreement with the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council (ECFRPC). The scope of services defined in this agreement included Technical Planning Assistance, Community Visioning, Community Survey, and City Council Presentation and Recommendations. Under the Community Visioning Scope, the completed report for Task 1: Adopted Vision and Trend Analysis with Case Studies was presented to the City Commission as an informational agenda item on September 9, 2019 and included updates, as recommended by the City Commission, from the June 10, 2019 City Commission Meeting. Task 2 of the ECFRPC scope of services was to provide a community workshop in which to engage the community in a discussion on priorities, opportunities, and needs within the City. Rather than having one workshop for all stakeholders to attend, the ECFRPC hosted two separate workshops; one for businesses within the City and one for residents of the City. Task 3 of the ECFRPC scope of services was to further engage the community by creating an electronic survey composed of topics addressed in the Community Workshops related to opportunities, priorities, and direction of the City of Winter Springs. ltwasanticipated that thesurveywould receive 400-500 respondents.The survey release date was delayed due to the additional community workshop (Task 2). The community survey was released on August 29, 2019 and was promoted through word-of-mouth, mailings, social media, and the City website. Due to an overwhelming response, and an increase in participation near the end of the thirty day survey, ECFRPC recommended an extension of the survey deadline to allow further citizen participation.The su rveywas closed on October 16,2019 after 7 weeks of response collection. A report of the preliminary survey results was provided to the Commission on the December 9, 2019 agenda. The survey showed that the most valued attributes of living in the Cityof Winter Springs are a family-friendly feel,safety, and a small town feel. These results also showed that residents would like to see City resources allocated to placing energy saving mechanisms on City property/facilities in order to promote sustainability; purchasing more properties for increased greenspace; attracting more sit-down dining restaurants; and planning for future water quality, sewer and creek maintenance. The results also showed that residents would like the future direction of the City to focus on small lot single-family detached homes; small locally owned eateries; a city-wide interconnected trail system; and a small portion would like to evaluate buffered bike lanes along the 434 corridor (the majority of respondents did not elect for focus to be placed on the 434 corridor). The raw data from the survey includes 1,230 responses to the survey and over 1,000 comments. Of these responses, 94% of participants were City residents and over 35% of those residents have lived in the City of Winter Springs for twenty or more yea rs. The ECFPPC has evaluated the information gathered through these engagement processes and has prepared a report that encompasses the results and recommendations for the next steps in the City's visioning process. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the City Commission receive and review the information provided. REGULAR •2 1 MONDAY, JANUARY 13, 2020 1 PAGE 2 OF 2 t �..tOd i 1459 i x Business and Public Engagement & Recommendations Report January 2019 Prepared for the City of Winter Springs by the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council This page intentionally left blank. Table of Contents WORKSHOPS...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................5 Overviewof Workshops..............................................................................................................................................................................................................6 BusinessOwners Workshop..................................................................................................................................................................................................6 Comments from Business Owners Workshop..................................................................................................................................................................6 Summary of Business Owners Workshop.........................................................................................................................................................................8 PublicWorkshop..................................................................................................................................................................................................................10 Mentimeter....................................................................................................................................................................................................................11 Breakout Group 1:Strengths,Opportunities and Areas for Improvement.....................................................................................................................12 Breakout Group 2:Business Development.....................................................................................................................................................................14 BreakoutGroup 3:Get Active........................................................................................................................................................................................18 BreakoutGroup 4:Sustainability....................................................................................................................................................................................17 BigIdeas.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................19 SURVEYFINDINGS.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................20 SurveyIntroduction..................................................................................................................................................................................................................21 Analysis of Winter Springs Survey Responses...........................................................................................................................................................................23 TheValues of Winter Springs...............................................................................................................................................................................................23 CityResource Allocation......................................................................................................................................................................................................23 Sustainability..................................................................................................................................................................................................................24 RecreationOpportunities...............................................................................................................................................................................................25 BusinessDevelopment...................................................................................................................................................................................................26 Improvements................................................................................................................................................................................................................27 Opportunities.................................................................................................................................................................................................................28 Priority Preferences for the Winter Springs Vision..............................................................................................................................................................29 ResidentialDevelopment...............................................................................................................................................................................................29 Recreation......................................................................................................................................................................................................................31 StateRoad 434 Corridor Improvements.........................................................................................................................................................................32 Opportunities.................................................................................................................................................................................................................33 RespondentInformation...........................................................................................................................................................................................................34 RECOMMENDATIONS...............................................................................................................................................................................................................35 Introduction..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................36 SustainabilityRecommendations........................................................................................................................................................................................37 RecreationRecommendations............................................................................................................................................................................................39 BusinessRecommendations................................................................................................................................................................................................40 Development and Redevelopment Recommendations.......................................................................................................................................................42 OtherRecommendations....................................................................................................................................................................................................43 APPENDIX..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................45 SurveyComments.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................46 Screen3-SUSTAINABILITY..................................................................................................................................................................................................46 Screen3—RECREATION.......................................................................................................................................................................................................51 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS 3 REPORT Screen3—BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT..................................................................................................................................................................................57 Screen3—CITY IMPROVEMENTS.........................................................................................................................................................................................61 Screen3—OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE CITY...........................................................................................................................................................................68 Screen 4—RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT.............................................................................................................................................................................74 Screen4—COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT...........................................................................................................................................................................76 Screen4—RECREATION.......................................................................................................................................................................................................77 Screen4—SR 434 CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENTS...................................................................................................................................................................78 Screen4—CITY OPPORTUNITIES.........................................................................................................................................................................................80 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS 4 REPORT WORKSHOPS COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS 5 REPORT Overview of Workshops In order to solicit comments, thoughts and ideas from the residents and business owners within the City, two public workshops were facilitated. The feedback from these meetings is contained in this report and was used to help craft the on-line survey on the MetroQuest platform. Business Owners Workshop The focus of the first workshop was to have conversations with business owners within the City. Letters were sent to every business in the City and the workshop was held on Thursday, June 27, 2019, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Attendance at this meeting included one business located in the City, a business located outside the City whose owners live in Winter Springs and a large property owner. Three residents attended as well. While attendance was low,the conversation was enlightening and provided a great deal of information. Comments from Business Owners Workshop The following comments were raised by attendees: 1. It is mostly local people who are starting businesses, mostly restaurants, because they live here. People don't want to drive in to the City of Orlando to go to work. 2. Most residents commute to downtown Orlando. 3. Town Center kills businesses. a. The location of the high school helps some businesses b. Perimeter businesses only survive c. Parking is a problem in the Town Center d. Lack of support for small businesses e. Everything is already only a 15-minute drive, so why go to the Town Center? 4. The Greenway is close to UCF. 5. Most of the businesses in Winter Springs are home based service businesses. 6. Landlord increasing rents in Tuscawilla Center kills businesses. 7. Many businesses are service based and industry based. 8. Most businesses don't survive in this area. 9. The population won't support businesses. 10. Traffic patterns need to be improved. 11. Parking in the Town Center is difficult for patrons mostly because employees take up much of the parking. Suggestions included: a. Provide signage along SR 434 for businesses in the Town Center. b. Need an overflow parking lot that the City should help build. c. Apartments took parking area that was planned by City. d. Lot should include 20-30 spots. e. More drive-through businesses may lower parking needs. f. Additional parking can be on grass with pervious surface. g. Eliminate some of the "all day" parking or limit some areas to one hour. h. The City created a code to require less parking but did not build a planned parking lot. 12. The tree ordinance is a problem and it is tough to remove a tree. 13. Target Industries that the area needs include: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT a. Grocery Store and better access to food b. Medical services and health providers c. Medical research d. Natural resources and recreation e. Industries/ecotourism f. Hotel or motel, one story 14. Restaurants are hard to keep going since there is not enough all day business. a. More medical businesses would use restaurants 15. Why is Winter Springs Beautiful? a. It has that old town feel and character because of the people b. It feels safe and comfortable 16. Winter Springs has a bad perception/ reputation in the business community. a. Too many requirements for development review b. Longwood v. Winter springs: Longwood was more helpful c. Don't keep moving the goal line during the approval process d. Permitting takes forever e. If you don't know what your challenges are,you can't easily evaluate your investment. 17. The Town Center has had multiple owners and this has hindered decision making. 18. There is a lack of signage on SR 434 and the speed limit is high. Many people do not know what businesses are in the back of the Town Center. a. Businesses along SR 434 and specific destination businesses in back get patronage. b. The owners of the Town Center do not want signage. 19. Community events attract people and the City does a great job. a. Fall Festival helped bring in businesses b. Need more parking c. Regular customers don't always return so there is a need for new customers and events draw them in. d. Scottish Games has parking issues i. The City uses the soccer fields and school parking lots during this event. 20. The Town Center was a way to concentrate all commercial in the City's busiest intersection. 21. People need to be in close proximity to businesses for the Town Center concept to be successful,- otherwise, uccessful;otherwise, strip centers would work just as well. 22. Lake Jesup has some potential. 23. SR 434 was four-laned by FDOT and this created problems. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS 7 REPORT Summary of Business Owners Workshop The information imparted by the participants were varied in scope, however a few main ideas surfaced: Town Center The consensus was that the Town Center was not functioning as envisioned. Comments centered on: 1. Lack of parking and need for an overflow parking lot 2. Lack of support for small businesses 3. Need for better signage 4. SR 434 is too high speed Types of Businesses Needed Target industries that would help Winter Springs include: 1. Grocery store 2. Medical services, health providers and medical research 3. Industries 4. Ecotourism 5. Low rise hotel Functional Roadblocks Some issues were identified that negatively impact business development: 1. Most residents commute to downtown Orlando for work 2. Landlords are increasing rents quickly 3. The population numbers in the area don't support businesses 4. Tree ordinance makes it too hard to remove a tree 5. Perception that the City has a difficult approval process Positive Feedback Some positive comments include: 1. The Greenway is close to UCF 2. The City has an old town feel that people like 3. The City feels safe and comfortable 4. Fall Festival helps businesses 5. Lake Jesup has some potential Priorities Identified The following five priorities were listed by attendees: 1. Parking improvements in the town center 2. Streamline permitting process 3. Mixed use development, including businesses in front of apartments 4. Improve marketing/branding. Example: "The Tree City" 5. Entertainment: City Amphitheater for live entertainment, a band shell, a movie theater, restrooms, venders at events to "make it alive!" COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS 8 REPORT COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS 9 REPORT Public Workshop The public workshop was held on July 11, 2019 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. The meeting was well attended with about 65 residents present. As people entered,they were provided two questions and instructions on how to answer these questions on the Mentimeter Workshop Groups: program. The meeting began with Mr.Chris Schmidt presenting the 1. Strengths, Opportunities proposed options for future landscaping and building setback requirements. Mr. Schmidt introduced Tara McCue from the East and Areasfor ' ' - ment Central Florida Regional Planning Council (ECFRPC) who explained 2. Business Development the Winter Springs 2030 and Beyond process and gave a short 3. Get Active presentation on how the City has grown over the past 7 years. Ms. 4. Sustainability McCue then explained how the workshop process would function. The attendees were divided into four groups and rotated between stations. Each station was facilitated by staff of the ECFRPC to guide the discussion and take notes. CITY OF • • 2031 &' Beyon . I� Open House Public-Work"s for Residents Thursday,July 11,2019 630 PM-8:30 PM Winter Springs City Hall 1126 East SR 434,Winter Springs,FL32708 The City of Winter Springs invites you to attend"winter Springs:2030 and Beyond," an interactive open house workshop to discuss priorities,opportunities and needs within the City.we will discuss current trends and howthe City can be the best place to live,work and play. +nu gl'HII� . Breakout sessions will discuss: What are our opportunities? What is Winter Springs'future? Where should we be in 10 years? How do we get there? 1126 E SP 434,Wnwr Sp,ing,,FL 32708 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS 10 REPORT Mentimeter Below are the two screenshots depicting the results of each question posed to residents at the beginning of the workshop.The two questions focused on a Vision for the City's future and the City's best assets. Figure 1 Mentimeter results for Question 1 For the City's vision, by far the words "ZZ Isafe" and "green" predominated, with words like quaint, livable, trees, recreation and residential populated the next tier. In addition, four keep free flowing traffic racyce bel frWirlally response cards were received from safe residents who did not have their fairimit• phones with them to vote. For the recremitior" residential- question, their answers were: multi— recreation f­flynewr�i. 2 only law density growth listen to ch-is recreation, aquatic center, continue to be a bedroom community, family community, parks, safe, progressive, inclusive and sports oriented. Figure 2 Mentimeter results for Question 2 What • • " • When asked about the City's best assets, residents responded with schools and parks with many other community location varied additions centering on family forests C (D central winds park and community. In addition, four "_fit;' _neighborsll response cards were received from 0 parks 1) 0 C family friendly residents who did not have their families schools small size phones with them to vote. For this central ilirinds the people that live here question,their answers were:outdoor, greenremaining •' " police dept sports center, residents, parks, trails, great employees caring and co -rned �„ ., Water parks, family-friendly, safe, good .. small community • •o reputation and beautiful Tuscawilla area. 41 0 41 41 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT Breakout Group 1: Strengths,Opportunities and Areas for Improvement This breakout group worked together to develop a list of the City's strengths, opportunities and areas for improvement. After the list was developed, each attendee was given 9 dots to place in each of the three topic areas to identify the areas they feel most strongly about in regards to the City. The groups were not limited to the ideas presented in their particular breakout and were allowed to place dots on ideas from other groups as well. Comments from Groups The table below is a compiled list of all the strengths, opportunities and areas of improvement identified by the residents and the number of dots associated with each item. As a number of items were repeated in more than one group,those items were combined for ease of processing the information (i.e. parks were mentioned in each group—the total dots were combined as one line item). Strengths Total Opportunities Total Areas of Improvements Total Votes Votes Votes police/safety/crime 23 pool/aquatic center 21 manage growth/low density 25 low property taxes 11 restaurants/dining(upscale) 15 golf course(redevelop sustainability and 15 greenspace) schools 10 saving trees 14 sewer/plan for sewage treatment 14 Trees(including to not look like all other hammock areas) 10 cities/mistakes/growth/control 12 parking in town center 13 growth/17-92 Parks 9 green space-more 11 traffic management and 12 efficiency/speed bike/trails 9 indoor recreation(all ages) 9 no more fast food 9 senior center 7 revitalize west side 9 water quality(proactive 8 low traffic 6 Lake Jesup lake front-accessibility 8 clean/manage creeks/ponds 8 and improvement events 5 provide for parking 7 town center/poor management(make it 8 city owned)/fill town center dog park 4 small town character 6 trees(more)that get big 5 recreation 4 keep good schools 5 east/west equal treatment 4 city services 3 public library 4 better special events 3 open spaces 3 create a town center people want 4 traffic light timing 3 to go to small town flavor 3 better street lighting 4 senior center 3 city employees 2 farmers market 4 maintain good school ratings 2 clean 2 attract business to town center 4 much improved set backs 2 family friendly 2 solar energy throughout city 3 slow high density 2 residents 2 commercial development of 434 3 recycling in schools 1 senior friendly 2 revitalize older facade downtown 3 west side improvements 1 small businesses 2 playground 3 utilization of parks 1 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT Strengths Total Opportunities Total Areas of Improvements Total Votes Votes Votes access to medical 1 maintain high rating of best small 2 no clear cutting for parking 1 city community 1 bike parking and access 2 art throughout city 1 involvement fitness center 1 sustainability-charging stations 2 slow residential develop 1 (private) I net-zero growth location to tourism 1 business development in core 2 water in apartments 0 areas shape of 1 waterpark/splash pad 1 better/more reliable utilities 0 roads/maintenance utilities 1 bowling 1 update flood maps 0 code enforcement 0 more efficient multimodal 1 sustainable irrigation 0 transportation community 0 close trail gap 1 road through town center 0 fellowship family focused 0 internet connectivity 1 trailer parks change to affordable 0 housing green 0 arcade 0 NIMBY 0 Lake Jesup 0 movie theatre 0 perceptions to overcome 0 location to 0 trolley 0 commission appointments(vacant 0 healthcare seats) low mileage rate 0 look through various lenses 0 better set backs 0 people 0 manage development and traffic 0 Scottish festival 0 acquire city property(annexation) 0 small but growing 0 more city owned property 0 turn lanes 0 theme/brand/mascots 0 increase tax base 0 high tech business 0 hotel 0 increase commercial tax base 0 west side redevelopment 0 art 0 walkable and other options 0 pickle ball 0 Common Themes from Strengths, Opportunities and Areas of Improvement Groups Strengths Overwhelmingly, the low crime rate/sense of safety/police force was rated as top strength of the City. The following strengths rounded out the top 6 and were pretty evenly ranked:the City's low property taxes, schools, trees, parks and trails/biking. These assets are also repeated in the other areas of discussion. Many of the other COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS 13 REPORT strengths focused around recreational opportunities, City events, and the family friendly/small town character of the City as well as its location to other assets and City staff. Opportunities When asked about opportunities for the City to advance, bring in to the City or investigate for its future, participants' number one choice was a pool/aquatic center. Participants also recognized that the City still has an opportunity for economic growth through more upscale dining, to save existing trees to keep with its Tree City designation, manage growth in a way to prevent overdevelopment and "looking like all the other cities", and create/keep more green space. Other opportunities identified focused around recreation for all ages - including indoor areas, activity/entertainment centers, library, pickleball, Lake Jesup access and others; economic development avenues including the revitalization of the west side of the City, attracting more business into the Town Center and other core commercial areas and planning for parking—especially in the Town Center. One big takeaway was the need to pursue these opportunities while still maintaining a small-town character and good schools. Areas of Improvement Echoing sentiment in the opportunities discussion, participants overwhelmingly noted that the City should focus on improving the ability to manage growth and density throughout the City. Discussion also focused on the potential redevelopment of the golf course in a sustainable way that allows for ample greenspace. Ensuring efficient sewer and sewage treatment utilities for current and future residents and businesses, parking in the Town Center and traffic management were also noted as priority areas for improvement in the City. Other areas of improvement were diverse and included discussion on improving the management of the Town Center and development within the City including no more fast food restaurants, slowing high density and residential development, prohibiting clear cutting, better setbacks and focus on west side development. Proactive water quality measures and the maintenance of waterways to prevent flooding were also noted along with improvements to the senior center and events. Breakout Group 2: Business Development The business development group had two maps to view: one showing the non-residentially zoned land uses by category indicating parcels were not yet developed and a second map showing wetland locations which would present obstacles for development on those vacant lands. Each group were provided maps to write on and notes were taken of all comments to the following prompts: • What kinds of businesses or industries should the City target? • What can be done to attract and retain business/industries? • Using the maps, what kind of development should be here (mixed use, straight commercial, industrial, etc.), and where should it go? Comments from Groups Group One comments: 1. People love the City! 2. Need a hotel like Courtyard by Marriott. It should be centrally located. They need a circular driveway which would require a variance from City. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS 14 REPORT 3. Need medical high-tech businesses and big pharma to increase tax base. Then there would be migration from California to Winter Springs. 4. Winter Springs has low crime which is what big industries like and it would increase the City's tax base. 5. There is a problem getting national restaurant chains to Winter Springs and that problem is that there is not enough traffic to sustain them. 6. Much of the vacant real estate is prime and very expensive, so it may not develop quickly. 7. What about the West Side? Everything is always about the Town Center. 8. The owners of golf course that closed were asking$15 million and now are asking$10 million. Restaurants and shops would be good there. Group One themes include a hotel, medical, high tech, increased tax base, expensive real estate, lack of west side development and the golf course. Group Two comments: 1. Need a low-rise corporate park in college-like setting. 2. Technology industry like the Central Florida Research Park. 3. More entertainment and dining. 4. Redevelop the west side on SR 434, especially the strip centers. 5. The City should buy the golf course like Altamonte Springs did with Rolling Hills and make it a City Park for the West Side. 6. Hotel near Greenbelt is needed. The Orlando Sanford Airport is nearby and people from there would use it. A mid-level hotel or a Bed and Breakfast that people could hold events at. 7. More small businesses on West Side. 8. Town Center is flawed and should be redesigned. It is mismatched for Winter Springs and needs more of a pedestrian feel similar to College Park and Winter Park Town Center. 9. Agri-hood area to supply local restaurants. 10. A library is needed for Winter Springs Group Two themes include low rise corporate park or technology park, more entertainment and dining, redevelopment of the west side, golf course purchase, hotel near greenbelt, redesign of Town Center, agrihood for locally sourced food and a library. Group Three comments: 1. The City needs an Economic Development Manager. (3 stars added) 2. Treat West Side equal to East Side. (3 stars added) 3. Turn the golf course into a City park. There are too many homeless living on the overgrown golf course. 4. More small independent restaurants and not high end. (1 star added) 5. Much land is land locked and need tax incentives for farm to table. No more chains. 6. Need a good supermarket. Maybe a Walmart mini super market or Aldi. 7. Hardware store like True Value or Ace. (2 stars added) 8. Most successful stores are destinations since Town Center hides those in back from SR 434 traffic. Need more stores not dependent on pass-by traffic. 9. Medical Research on SR 434. (1 star added) 10. Small hotel with a reception hall. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT `� 11. Nursery business. 12. Kids and baby store. 13. Winter Park type Main Street. Group Three themes include the need for an economic development manager, west side development, the golf course into a park, more small restaurants, farm to table, supermarket, hardware store, Town Center design, medical research and hotel. Group Four comments: 1. Keep the City family-oriented 2. Grocery Store. Was a Piggly Wiggly. Maybe at old DVM shopping center area. (1 star added) 3. Parking is horrible in Town Center. 4. More Mom and Pop stores. 5. Businesses are leaving the Town Center because rents are high. (1 star added) 6. When there are events, you can't shop at the Town Center. 7. The industrial park area should maintain as much green space as possible. (1 star added) 8. Movie and entertainment center, but with theater in Oviedo, it may be hard to get a theater. 9. Library and Aquatic Center(5 stars added) 10. There are enough apartments that we have reached the critical mass to get things like Starbucks. 11. Hotel of mid-range with 100 to 200 rooms. It would serve the airport. 12. Add more things for residents so money does not go to Oviedo businesses. (1 star added) 13. Add entertainment like in Sanford such as a brewery and music venues. (3 stars added) 14. SR 434 is a major thoroughfare with speeds too high for the Town Center. Group Four themes include families, grocery store, parking, small businesses, expensive rent, green space, entertainment, library and aquatic center, hotel, high speed on SR 434. Common Themes from Business Groups When comparing the major themes from each group,there are several shared comments. These include: 1. Desire to have another grocery store. The Publix at the Town Center was perceived as adequate, but less expensive choices and a place that did not require going to the Town Center were mentioned. 2. A local library and an aquatic center were desired by residents. 3. A hotel that is mid-sized and no more than 2 stories was of interest. Also a place for events, such as weddings. 4. The greenway industrial area should be campus like, save green space and be high tech. 5. The Town Center should be redeveloped to make parking easier and walking more attractive. 6. More emphasis should be toward the west side of town for development/redevelopment. Comments on maps: 1. Closed golf course should be a park with green space and trails. 2. Venetian shopping center should be a Walmart grocery or Aldi. 3. City should purchase existing Town Center and redevelop. (1 dot added) 4. Revitalize West End businesses and neighborhoods. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS 16 REPORT 5. No more apartments (shown twice on maps). 6. Corporate Park only near Greenway. The map below shows one groups ideas for hotels, technical corridors, entertainment and businesses. Figure 3 Notes on Map for Business Group L,%h , t,jke lL05up Entertainment&Park Technical corridor across the lake Amphitheater& Kids Playground � Technical Dark .r r. r{ Upscal '�' Hotel Eating& Business Parkin COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS 7 REPORT Breakout Group 3: Get Active The group was tasked with discussing the current and future conditions of Winter Springs' recreation facilities and ways for the community to get active. A map identifying the existing parks within the City was displayed for the group,as well as questions to stimulate discussion.The construction of the group welcomed open discussion and members of the group were invited to draw on the map. The facilitator asked three main questions: • What are the City's best recreation assets? • What other types of recreation facilities would you like to see in the City? • Which already existing facilities could be improved? Comments from Groups Group 1 Comments: 1. Community Pool at Central Winds or Trotwood Park 4 - . 2. Large sporting facility at Central Winds Park 3. Town Center Amphitheatre 4. Pickleball courts in Trotwood/Central Winds , Park r '+ 5. Dock extending into Lake Jessup 6. Concession stands at parks (as per City, --_ concession stands are located at upper fields at Central Winds) 7. Senior Center improvements 8. Cycling path through parks 9. More city sponsored events 10. Library Group 1 identified the need for a community aquatics center. Group members pointed out that the High School swim team has to be taken to a different city to use a swimming facility and the community could benefit from a community pool. Central Winds Park needs a large sporting facility for traveling youth sports. The town center amphitheater needs to be completed because it would be a beneficial recreation facility for concerts. Pickleball, one of the fastest growing sports in the United States, doesn't have supporting infrastructure in the parks. The parks in Winter Springs do not have a concession stand and residents would like to purchase drinks or other refreshments while there.The Cross Seminole Trail could be woven through various parks to improve connectivity. Residents would like more city-sponsored events like a movie night at the park.There is not a library in the city. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS _.8 REPORT Group 2 Comments: 1. West Side needs more attention and 5. Art Attractions upkeep 6. Central Winds Baseball Stadium 2. Public 9-hole golf course 7. More inclusive parks for kids 3. Pickleball course in Trotwood 8. Skateboard Park 4. Park east of 417 9. More attractions for kids Group 2 participants commented that the west side of the city gets less attention than the east side. Major events frequently occur in the east side of Winter Springs.Central Winds Park could use a baseball stadium to attract a minor league team or youth sports.There is a lack of attractions to kids, such as a skatepark. Additionally, the existing parks are not inclusive and reservations must be made at certain parks to use the space. A pickleball court would be nice in either Central Winds Park or Trotwood. Other cities have embraced the sport. Residents also spoke about the lack of public art attractions in the city. Group 3 Comments: 8. Winter Springs Golf Course transform to park 1. Increased shade at parks 9. Senior center pickleball 2. Aquatic center 10. More lighting on cross Seminole Trail 3. Kid amenities 11. Complete Missing link for bike path 4. Athletic Fields 12. Extend fishing pier 5. More park area at Highlands 13. Concession stands at parks 6. More lighting at fields at night 14. Boardwalk for Central Winds Park 7. Pedestrian bridge to town center 15. Remove smiley face at Trotwood 16. Cross country track Group 3 identified a variety of needs for the recreation facilities. Increasing the amount of shade found in parks was an issue.The need for an aquatic center was discussed.A pedestrian bridge into the town center would alleviate pedestrian dangers. Pickleball at the senior center. Completion of the missing link for the Cross Seminole Trail. Residents discussed the need an extended fishing dock at Central Winds Park,as well as concession stands for refreshments. Group 4 Comments 1. Aquatic Center 9. Focus on handicap population 2. Golf Course Greenspace 10. Uneven paths, lack of seating, lack of 3. Central Winds Park needs Cranes Roost activities for handicap children, more style boardwalk equipment 4. Fishing Dock 11. More west-side activities 5. E-alert on bike path/every park 12. Park communication 6. Bird Sanctuary 13. Central Winds park needs lights 7. Emergency Phone Service at Parks 14. Extend bike path 8. Don't charge for splashpad 15. Better promotion for Bear Creek COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT Group 4 highlighted the need for an aquatics center and an extended fishing dock at Central Winds Park. Every park needs an emergency alert button including the Cross Seminole Trail.The handicap population is underserved in terms of park services and accessibility. The west side of the city needs more activities focused in it. Common Themes from GetActive Groups Each of the four groups had a variety of discussion topics with wide-ranging issues.Several common points became evident throughout the public workshop. First,the need for a community aquatic center that can serve the residents and school swim team. Second, several community members discussed the idea of a sporting complex in Central Winds Park. Additionally, the idea of a longer fishing dock or boardwalk installed at Central Winds Park was requested. In several groups,the west side of town was thought to be underserved for community events. Central Winds Park and Trotwood Park were recognized as the best recreation facilities in the city. Installing emergency alert systems in parks would potentially increase safety and emergency response time. Breakout Group 4: Sustainability The Sustainability Breakout Group discussion included a presentation from CJ Davila from Florida Green Building Coalition. This was included as part of this group because the City's comprehensive plan included an objective to dW become a FGBC certified Green City and it was determined that this breakout group would provide an opportunity to educate residents on what this means. The FGBC L presentation described the process of the certification process for local governments as well as success stories from already certified jurisdictions. Questions then presented to the group included: • What are your thoughts on Winter Springs becoming a green and sustainable city? • Recommendations and actions for the City to become more green and sustainable. General thoughts on the Sustainability of Winter Springs: • Combat Sprawl- It takes a long time to get anywhere from the City whether it is for a hardware store or another grocery store. • Combatting being a drive through community- There were several individuals from separate groups that expressed the desire to not just be a city that receives drive through traffic. They want Winter Springs to be somewhere visitors and local residents would want to spend some time and money. • Keeping the City green and keeping the trees- A few participants mentioned the desire to keep Winter Springs as green as possible. There were a few comments about their distaste in knocking down native landscapes for development, without even considering keeping a good amount of COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS i7 REPORT those ecosystems in tact while developing. They also mentioned that Winter Springs was/has been Tree City USA and their desire to keep that type of theme alive. • Consolidating a City Vision- Another common idea throughout the groups was the desire for a consolidated City vision. Someone mentioned the previous City vision from 2009 and the deviation from those ideas. Another person mentioned how in the past 10 years or so there have been several changes pulling in different directions of what the City would be/look like moving forward. The participants expressed the need for one unified vision for the City that includes resident input in order for everyone to be accepting of new efforts. Sustainable Actions • More commercial options for residents • Transfer all of the City to use of Reclaimed like hardware stores, shopping, Water. drugstores, grocery stores etc. • Investigate/Utilize Solar and LED in the • More efficient recycling City. program/streamline process • Create a plan or goal for tree • Setbacks featured in City presentation diversification and replenishment after were not very desirable, the best one out development. of those was the Starbucks setback. (4) • EV Stations • Prioritize Green Space-expression that the • Adopt a stricter fertilizer ordinance. (2) City was Tree City USA and they want to • Be more conscious about landscaping. keep that going in the City. Desire to • Update City Codes to include these especially prioritize preserving green desires. space when developing. • Smart irrigation systems- some • Investigate the use of solar in the City or development has a timed watering system on new development. There was also for the whole development that residents discussion on having any developers be cannot control. There was desire to not held to an even higher standard to include have that since it does not take into new technologies. account rain and waters too heavily. • Green Parking Lots (2) • Creating a more walkable and bikeable city • Permeable Pavement that is safe for residents. • Cisterns • Get generators for gas stations. • Have a goal for the City to become carbon • Conduct a Traffic Study and feasibility of and nitrogen-neutral for any new an east/west major roadway. developments. (3) • Unified City COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT Common Themes from Sustainability Groups Overall, the groups were very interested in adding sustainable efforts to the community. It was evident in the discussion that there have been some decisions in the City they did not agree with, like the apartment building and its landscaping choices. However, participants seemed to want their input heard and a unified vision created to move forward in a way that the majority of the City wants. The participants wanted more of their trees/green space preserved and/or replenished moving forward with conscious efforts to keep natural landscapes even during development. They had several ideas for sustainable efforts the City could consider with low-hanging fruit such as adopting a stricter fertilizer ordinance, like other jurisdictions,to being carbon neutral. All of these sustainable action items should be considered by the City for feasibility. Residents noted they would like more opportunity for input on projects the City implements, maybe in public meeting format. Lastly, there was some talk about a bit of development that could be beneficial if done in a sustainable way and in ways that other comments expand on (in other groups). The general thoughts from the groups were resulted in themes based on common ideas that were mentioned repeatedly. These themes are: • Prioritizing better landscaping with larger setbacks to include existing trees and native landscaping since current ones were not liked by participants. • Upkeeping the Tree City USA claims and replenishing trees/saving as many as possible. • Adopting a stricter fertilizer ordinance. • Adding more sustainable goals for the City like using LED, reclaimed water, EV stations, cisterns, green parking lots. • Setting goals for new development and the City to strive for carbon and nitrogen neutrality. • Transportation- Doing a transportation study to assess feasibility of east/west road, walkability/bikability. • Being a Unified City with a unified vision. Big Ideas In addition, there was a board for anyone to add their "Big Ideas", as well as cards for them to add comments. One comment card was received, "Winter Springs needs aquatic/pool center. So many schools and adults that need these activities. Our kids drive out of the city to swim practice and water activities." The comments on the "Big Ideas" board were: 1. We need a library (1 star added) 6. Water park/pool/aquatic/community 2. Winter Springs:The Tree City. Let's keep Center for all ages it that way, Please! 7. FGBC we need to visit as a City 3. Agri-hood 8. Dementia friendly community 4. Redevelop Town Center-City should certification purchase 9. Emergency power/Ice 5. Water system The information from these workshops were synthesized for the development of the Winter Springs 2030& Beyond survey. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS 1 REPORT COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS z REPORT SURVEY FINDINGS COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS Zp REPORT Survey Introduction The City of Winter Springs is in the process of updating the comprehensive plan, reviewing the 2009 Strategic Plan and assessing the direction of the City. In an effort to engage residents and business owners to garner views and input regarding the City and the direction they desire the City to take,an online survey was developed. The survey, developed by the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council staff using an online platform called Metroquest, was formulated from input derived from the business stakeholder engagement workshops previously held. The survey was approved by the City of Winter Springs staff and was launched on August 29, 2019. The survey was closed on October 16, 2019 to allow for optimal feedback. A total of 1,230 valid independent responses were captured. took the survey.Tuesday, September 10th, Friday, September 13th and Wednesday, September 25th were the highest participation dates with 92, 178 and 83 responses, respectively. In addition, over 1,000 comments were received.The information below offers a look at the results. Winter Springs 2030 and Beyond A Progress OEM Please take a moment to participate in our survey! ■ The City of Winter Springs is looking to 2030 and beyond to create a vibrant community ■ to live,work and play.This survey is aimed to obtain feedback on values,priorities and � actions for the City. ■ "'s,rr� '� ■ e w Tell us what matters to you! This is your opportunity to identify your priorities and preferred " 0 strategies for the City,to add your Ideas and help continue the m'i4sa ? conversation. Your input counts! COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 21 Sample Size and Sources of Error In order to garner an accurate assessment of the overall population of Winter Springs, the sample size should be high enough to statistically significant. The factors influencing this are the number of respondents and the overall population of Winter Springs. The population of Winter Springs as of 2017,according to the US Census,was 36,635. Generally, the larger the sample size, the more statistically significant the results are, which means that there is less of a chance that the results happened by coincidence. Statistical significance is how likely it is that the difference between a control version and the test version is not due to error or random chance and the standard for this measure is usually a 95%significance level,which means that one can be 95%confident that the results are real. The recommended sample size is calculated using the following formula (from Survey Monkey Survey Size Calculator): z2 XP(1—P) 2 e Sample size= 1+ (Z2XP(1—P) ) e2N N = population size, e= margin of error, z=z-score, p is the standard of deviation. The z-score is the number of standard deviation a given proportion is away from the mean and for the 95% confidence level, this value is 1.96. Consequently,with a population of 36,635,to reach the 95% confidence level, only 381 samples would be required. We can, therefore conclude, that with 1,230 surveys being returned, the results are considered statistically valid. Every survey has sources of error, or factors that can lower the accuracy of the data gathered, even with a large sample size. The sources of error for this survey may include: • Not understanding the questions being asked. While every effort is made to ask the questions in a clear manner,the respondent may misunderstand. • Respondents may try to "tip the scales" by taking the survey more than one time. The background data was examined,and there were only 92 instances were 2 or more responses were from the same IP address. It may be the result of the survey being accessed by different household members, employees of the same business or even the use of public wifi to take the survey. (For example, computers in one office or home will register the same IP address.) Deeper examination also showed these duplicate IP addressed had various different these responses and comments and used different browsers. Of the respondents, eight stated that they were business owners in Winter Springs, and seven reported "other", which indicates that they live and work outside of Winter Springs. Twenty-eight responses were "resident and business owner" with 724 reporting themselves as residents. The remaining respondents did not give an answer to this question. The reason could be that they wish to remain anonymous, which is rather common. A common reason people do not want to give an address is that they think their information will be sold or otherwise gathered and they will receive spam or unsolicited mail or phone calls. A more unlikely situation is that the respondent may fear retribution if they say something that criticizes the City. It is not likely that the reason for not giving an address is to unduly influence the results in any manner. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 22 Analysis of Winter Springs Survey Responses The Values of Winter Springs Winter Springs 2030 and Beyond Q After the Welcome screen which described the purpose of 40 the survey, respondents were asked rank the top three • items they valued about Winter Springs in order of Safety importance to them. The image below shows the ResikentlalFac *w�'�`'!1!� Re«atoa Fo... com"MiTV percentage of respondents who ranked each item as their Family-Friendly Feel Tree city top value. Respondents chose Safety and Family-Friendly Groptr,g oGPenuni9es Feel as their top values for the City, closely followed by Small Town Feel Residential Focus. Two choices, Family-Friendly Feel and Small-Town Feel, are relatively similar, and arguably, if considered together would be ranked higher than Safety. , There is no doubt that the residents highly value the existing "feel" of the town, with its small, family-friendly feel. Winter Springs, as contrasted to nearby Oviedo or more distant Orlando, does have a more contained, small town persona. Other nearby cities like Casselberry or Longwood, ■21% Safety are more similar to Winter Springs. 09% Recreational Focus 10% 21% Safety was high on the scale and reflects that residents feel 5% Growing Opportunities 14% safe from crime and that there is a low crime rate. In fact,The 021% Family-Friendly Seminole Source (https://theseminolesource.com/two- Feel 9% semi nole-cities-land-floridas-50-safest-list-2019/) ranks - 20% Small Town 5% Feel 20% Winter Springs as the 20th safest city in Florida, with Oviedo 14%Tree City 21% listed as the next Seminole County safest city at number 40. 10% Residential Evidently, residents are cognizant of and are appreciative of Focus this. Tree City ranked at a respectable 14%, followed by Residential Focus. Growing Opportunities was not a popular choice. City Resource Allocation Screen three of the survey contained five categories: Sustainability, Recreation, Business Development, Improvements and Opportunities. For each of these categories, there were four or five action items that respondents could rank from 1(low)to 5 (high). This analysis shows the average ranking for each item within each of the five categories. It is important to note that an individual could vote for the highest number of stars for each entry, so voting high for any one category does not mean others must warrant a lower rating. Based on all responses across all categories,the following are the top 5 priorities for the City to focus resources: #1-Sewer and Water Quality #4- Purchase of Green Space (i.e. natural lands) #2—Community Engagement #5—Sit Down Quality Dining #3- Trees, Tree ordinances, Tree plantings and Tree City Designation COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 23 Sustainability Winter Springs 2030 and Beyond A Progress The first category for input was - - 0What to do - Sustainability. The choices (along Sustainabiiity Free-t. s tr--t ns tob..e i }mur ppa with further explanation) under the ,r,��. ft. dh—rr—d by �'t"labe"r—ggs sta"�aaa_F e` �e r©adrf commenfs and alher sugges6ans_ Recreation Sustainability category are depicted Incorporate Solar/LED Business Place solar and other energy saving mechanism on on the screenshot of the survey. Development City prapertyM ci lities. While all actionsarnered over an g Improvements Carbon Neutral Growth Updating Citycodes to transrbon to a carbon and average response, no one response nitrogen neutral City. 'r'r"� Qppprtunities was over a scoring of 4.The appendix Fertilizer Ordinance to this report show various Investigate and develop a stricter fertilizer ordinance. comments provided by respondents Prioritize Landscaping on this screen. It is evident through Require higher quality landscaping requiraments•.with greeter setbacks.. comments that preservation and replacement of trees and growth management are hot topics in the City. Other suggestions include the Sustainable Actions for City to Address adoption of Smart Water Application 3.9 Technologies, reclaimed water, 3.8 composting, increasing greenspace, c 3.7 better street lighting (LED), assessing to 3.6 new technologies and a focus on water 3.5 quality and water friendly landscaping. a 3.4 3.3 While the incorporation of solar and 3.2 LED lighting (3.84) for City properties Incorporate Carbon Neutral Fertilizer Ordinance Prioritize and facilities garnered the highest Solar/LED Growth Actions Landscaping rating overwhelmingly, comments did provide a mix of support and concern of cost. Many noted the need to ensure that the economics of incorporating solar works for the City without creating burden on tax payers. Ideas also included the potential of a phased approach. Comments also discussed incentivizing property owners to be energy efficient and install solar. Prioritize Landscaping ranked 2nd with a rating of 3.61. Many comments supported the promotion of native, low water type landscaping for setbacks with the caveat of distinguishing requirements for commercial, single family and multifamily. The desire to reduce the removal of trees with new development and placing the appropriate trees in appropriate locations (i.e. Right of ways) was discussed in many comments. The concept of the inclusion of outdoor art in landscaping as well as looking at the City of Port Orange as a case study was provided. Fertilizer Ordinance also scored above an average rating at 3.46 and received a variety of comments. In general, there was focus on using landscaping that didn't require fertilizers and pesticides and making a stronger ordinance to protect water resources. Other comments focused on providing recommendations but not stronger requirements. Education and outreach to discuss this further will be needed. Carbon Neutral Growth, the use of no greenhouse gas emitting energy is used to operate the building or construction, was the least supported action with a 3.45, still above a neutral rating. Generally, the comments provided for this option did not support the overhaul of the codes to completely offset carbon footprints, but to require, implement and encourage other actions such as prioritize trees, solar, and other emission reduction standards. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 24 Recreation Opportunities Winter Springs 2034 and Beyond Q Progress The second category was Recreation. _ _ Ipvast toa. The choices (along with further Sustainability Rata your support for act+'orrs Io be accompirshed by explanation) under the Recreation ' the Cdy related to recreafion opp-t—t-1 Pfsess add . wnvmenls or other suggestions. category are depicted on the screenshot. Recreation Funding Stakeholders provided general Business Are you,as resident,wi Ili ng to increase taxes for Development recreation facilities? comments regarding recreational Improvements Greenspace Purchase properties For more greenspace ,ith opportunities to be pursued by the City. unpaved-1kinglbiking trails. Opportunities Sporting Complex �.. Comments strongly suggested including Fund stadium facility for large sporting events. arts, culture and theatre into recreation ChildrerilTeen Activities programming. Other comments included More recreational activities for kids and teens. natural resource activities such as fishing Phones in Parks Install emergency phone system in par . and biking, a community pool and ks providing for more facilities/fields for a variety of sports. The highest rank belongs to Greenspace and the purchasing of properties for Support for Recreation Opportunities more greenspace with unpaved walking 4.5 and biking trails (3.91), which coincides 4 3.5 with the priority put on trees. Comments 3 from the public were primarily supportive =2 2.5 v of greenspace throughout the City and ° 2 L discussed the removal of trees and is a 1 limited space available. Suggestions 0.5 offered included greenspace being a o MA Funding Greenspace Sporting Complex Children/Teen Emergency Phones combination of paved and unpaved uses, Activities in Parks should be done in cost effective manner Recreational Options as to not raise taxes and could include smaller projects such as flat roof greenspace and areas buffering more intense development from lower density uses. Concerns revolved around the fear of purchasing greenspace for public use would not be in perpetuity and would eventually be sold to developers as Winter Springs runs out of developable land. The next rated opportunity was for more activities for teens and children (3.38). Comments varied in scope providing insight into the already existing parks and sporting facilities and programs for minors (even through the schools) to the need for more diverse programming, especially in arts, culture, robotics and other areas. It was suggested to reach out to the youth to gain insight into their perspective and desires for activities in Winter Springs. Providing emergency phones in parks rated slightly below average support (2.98). While the overwhelming comments felt this wasn't a priority due to the abundance of cellphones, some recommendations included providing one blue light system at each park for emergencies, which would only connect to 911. Other recommendations included providing wifi at parks and surveillance cameras. Willingness to fund facilities through increased taxes scored below a neutral rating at 2.95. Comments made it evident that a tax increase was not truly the way to go. Suggestions included looking in the budget for reallocation, COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 25 user and event fees, partnership with the high school, or find other sources of funding. Proponents in support of using tax dollars to pay for recreation facilities provided comments that if there was an increase it should be for specific projects vetted by public and be primarily uses for natural areas, arts/culture or an aquatic center. Not only did the option of"Funding for a Sporting Complex" rate unfavorably(2.11),the comments provided were very clear that there are already existing larger facilities throughout Seminole County and there are plenty of existing facilities in the City. There were concerns about traffic, costs, and the large amount of greenspace that would be lost. Additional comments also focused on the need for arts and culture facilities. Business Development The third category focused on Business Winter Springs 2030 and Beyond Q Progress �-- Development. The choices (along with - - _ 15474-77 . 4DVMattoCIO -> further explanation) under the Business � Sustainability ,4a!e yoursupporf her actir>ns m 6e eccompfrshed by category are depicted in the screenshot. r e�in eiaredterm�M veme ts npannu5 areas.Please add comments and suggestions. # Recreation General comments included master Daytime Businesses planning, the need for a balance of Business Focus development activities on otfice-type Development businesses. businesses, keeping new business High Tech Businesses Improvements Market to high tech businesses&develop the development moderate to make sure the 0 Greemvay l]estrict small town, bedroom community feel is Opportunities Dining Focus development activities for quality sit-down kept and focus on arts/culture and nature. dining establishments. Comments throughout the various options Ecc-Tourism g p Create a plan for ecotoudsm;outdoor based followed a general theme of needing opportunities and businesses. Activity Based Business businesses to support the community and Bung in activity businesses (entertainmenh'theate Wbmwariesiarc adesietc) enhance the tax base, so long as it doesn't come with new development and maintains the residential feel of Winter Springs. Support for Focus on Business Actions 4.5 The type of business that residents most 4 =- desire is quality sit-down dining to 3.5 3 establishments. Comments in this category -- 2.5 were mixed between support and non- to z to 1.5 support, but in general discussion focused a 1 on providing a mix of dining establishments 0.5 to keep Winter Springs money in the City 0 Daytime High Tech Dining Eco-Tourism Activity Based versus going to other communities. Businesses Businesses Businesses Comments also focused on making sure Areas for City Focus new businesses/restaurants use existing empty space. The remainder of the business types are relatively evenly split, with a slight edge toward Activity Based Businesses (3.27) and Eco-Tourism (3.22) over High Tech Businesses (2.99) and Daytime Businesses (2.67), both of which were rated below a 3. Discussion in the comments for "Activity Based Business" again were mixed as would be with its neutral scoring. Comments revolved around the fact that there are numerous other areas around Winter Springs which have these businesses(some of which struggle) and ensuring that if these businesses were to come in that they be located in appropriate areas,away from residential areas.Comments concerning Eco- Tourism revolved around opportunities in Lake Jesup and the City's natural areas with some concern of tourists, COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT u traffic, and ensuring its locally oriented and done in moderation. In the "High Tech Business" option, there were mixed comments ranging from understanding that businesses diversify the tax base to no more growth and to focus on preserving greenspace. Finally, in terms of "Daytime Businesses" again, the general focus of comments indicated that some small local businesses needed to support the community would be helpful, as long as it uses already existing development. Improvements winter Springs 2030 and Beyond ® Progress The fourth category related to improvements the City can take to improve Sustainability te®tea sa �, pp f ret14 sta�a t aecmnplished by the City Fee1 f—to add cnrnrnarrts the quality of life in Winter Springs. The oreth—ggeshans. Recreation actions are listed in the screenshot. These Tree City Business Enhance dee ordinances,plard more trees&.maintain Development Tree City USA status. improvements were derived from the community meeting with residents and Improvements West Sine Redevelopment Focus Si redevelopment of underutilized pmparlias In west side of City. reflect the results from the SWOT analysis Opportunities Town Center Parking (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and �fe8+em"rop®�,i,�el�n`etinn�ena�neee roterNanlmerking lnT Center. Threats). Additional suggests included Sewer and Water Quality Proactive planning for hdure sewer,water quality& among others, improving arts, assessing creek maintenance Community Engagement infrastructure, consolidating public safety enhance`nd*thetylnp"t'nareesofplanning, p visioning and olhars and becoming a dementia caring certified community. While all of the choices commanded a respectable score, the Sewer and Water Quality category had the highest Support of Actions the City Should Take score (4.51) and was the highest scoring 5 action/priority of the survey. In this priority, 9 4 comments were all fairly similar — water t 3 quality needs to be the City's top priority and a 2 needs to be improved. Community 1 Engagement (4.15) and focus on Tree City o strategies (4) rounded out the most Tree City West Side Town Center Sewer and Community supported areas of improvement in the City. Redevelopment Parking Water Quality Engagement Actions In terms of Community Engagement, comments showed this is highly desirable and while the City does a good job of some communication, sentiments in the comments reflect the need for input to be considered.Comments regarding the Tree City designation and assessing thetree ordinance primarily focused on the issue of new developments allowed to clear cut mature trees, holding developers to a higher standard than the high residential standard, prioritize replanting and other native landscaping and that Winter Springs has lost the concept of being a Tree City. There is also some support for more Town Center Parking (3.49), however comments provided discuss that there may not be many options as they feel the design of the Town Center is flawed. Focus of some comments suggested that rather than add parking, provide for greater bike/pedestrian access and facilities as is the primary focus of a Town Center and that any improvements, parking or redesign should not be paid for with tax payer money. Support for West Side Redevelopment was the lowest rated (3.26), although neutral support. Comments for the most part agreed that attention needs to be provided in the west side which could include fagade improvements,and redevelopment opportunities. The sentiment against"new"development and the preservation of greenspace continued in this category. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT Opportunities Winter Springs 2030 and Beyond fri Pmgreaa The final category for the City Resource - • ` • • e"'WWd. 4 Allocation page of the survey was for Sustainability 0 ortunities that citizens thought may and.0-f gga rhectr Fefreetaeda--f. pp g Y Recreation and s. benefit the City. Some choices offeredFarm toTabie Business prornotad locally groom food_co mm unity garden, unique opportunities such as the Farm to 6evelopment Iarrnera market Improvements Sustainability Plan Table option, while others were ;dnaoda9aaneeded'.nadayplan and pngram, environmentally disposed. The other choices OPportunihes Prtontize Green Space increase open space requirements in new& r included the Management of Growth in a edevelopment projects. Manage Growth sustainable fashion and ensuring that the �gm��sta; nryeya'ea,:"`m'fb""d'"g"sig"t; golf course is redeveloped in a manner Golf Course Ensure red—lopmant a in a manner hamnon ous arses. harmonious with the surrounding area. All with surrounding, � options scored greater than average with the management of growth (4.3) and prioritizing green space (4.24) as the top choices. Prioritize Opportunities General comments included multimodal transportation, focus on bike network, uses 4 for the golf course and recreation ideas. Comments regarding managing growth were to 3 fairly consistent regarding no additional cu multi-family residences or new development, 1 no more density or traffic and focusing on o Farm to Table Sustainability Prioritize Green Manage Golf Course filling empty buildings with businesses. Pian Space Growth Comments pertaining to increasing Opportunity to Pursue requirements for greenspace for new development again revolved around limiting new development,thus saving overall greenspace, but also supported requiring greater green space that was natural and forested, not "open lawn space". Farm to table promotion scored 4.02 and comments were largely supportive of a farmers' market with some concern of ensuring local farmers and arts/crafts were provided priority and a viable location.The development of a sustainability plan (3.88) garnered general interest in the comments along with the need for additional information. There was also discussion about development codes. Ensuring the old Winter Springs golf course redevelopment is harmonious with surrounding areas was the lowest rated at 3.37, still above neutral. Comments offered a variety of ideas for the golf course from single family residential to enhancing natural areas to a community area with various outdoor nature-based facilities, including a 9-hole golf course. Regardless,the community expressed the desire to be a part of the planning process for the area. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 28 Priority Preferences for the Winter Springs Vision The fourth screen of the Metroquest survey addressed the areas that respondents thought should be front and center for the Winter Springs visioning process. The categories were focused on Residential Development, Commercial, Recreation, the SR 434 Corridor and Opportunities. For each of these categories, five pictures were presented that illustrated the options available. Residents did not rank these, but picked only one type of development or priority for Winter Springs. In this exercise, respondents were only allowed to choose one option as their strongest preference or priority, hence the saying "If all things are a priority,then nothing is a priority". Based on all the categories below, while comments indicated respondents would have chosen more than one option,the prefrences with the highest number of responses are: • Small lot, single family detached residential development • Small, locally owned eateries • City-wide interconnected trail system • Maintain current status of SR 434 • Commercialize Fiber Optic Network Winter Springs 2030 and Beyond progress t a �Wnel�dD Residential Development Residential Residential development For this choice, respondents picked from the °e 'dpmg^' Ca s,d�h�, „�r�ofde� ,,oRrexbas®. categories listed in the screen shot. The Commercial 0 �W = low, undisputed choice is for single family detached ' Recreation homes on small lots (73%). Comments were Small Lot.Single Single Family 434 Corridor Condos somewhat diverse but an overall sentiment • Improvements FamilyDetaehed Attached l qownry I was to avoid new high density residential. opportunities Comments suggested the desire for large lot single family, however due to the size of Small-Scale,Mixed- Apartments property needed to these developments and Used(residential the lack of this space in Winter Springs, large wlcommercial) lot single family was not provided as an option. ? i Other suggestions including senior housing. This was followed by small scale, mixed-use development that contained commercial uses Residential Development Preference (18%). Townhomes, condos and apartments 80% were chosen significantly less, all less than 7% 70% r of respondents. a 60% CO 50% L 40% w 30% c u 20% v a 10% 0% Apartments Condos Single Family Small Lot,Single Small Scale, Attached Family Mixed-Use (Townhomes) Detached (residential with Residential Type commercial) COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT Commercial The choices for commercial development included small locally owned eatiers along with fast food choices. Small Chain Retail, Niche Grocery and Hotels were the other choices for commercial development opportunities. The overwhelming preference was for Small, Locally Owned Eateries (60%), followed by Niche Grocery (13%). Small Chain Retail (12%) and Hotel (11%) were nearly split and Fast Food Establishments (3%) were not popular. Comments were varied and supportive of niche grocery and a small number of restaurants. Comments also suggested to avoid bringing in fast food establishments and discussed the potential of a hotel. Winter Springs 2030 and Beyond Q Progress • what to do Residential Commercial Development � Consider population.requirements for businesses. Commercial � T Recreation 434 Corridor Improvements Small,Locally Small Chain Retail Niche Grocery Owned Eateries opportunities , IGS Hotel Fast Food Establishments 7 Commercial Development Priorities 70% 60% Y C v 50% ' C O G a, 40% z 0 c 30% M Y ?; 20% a 10% 0% Small.Locally Small Chain Retail Niche Grocery Hotel Fast Food Owned Eateries Establishments Commercial Options COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT Recreation For the recreation choices, the City-Wide Interconnected Trail System ranked highest (35%), followed by the Lake Jesup Boardwalk(26%). The Aquatic Center ranked next (20%), followed by the Library (12%). Indoor Recreation was the lowest ranking option (8%). As the Cross Seminole Trail already traverses the north end of the city, there is a great opportunity to link the trail systems and to bring it to the Lake Jesup Boardwalk. Comments made it clear that many had a difficult time chosing just one choice and would be open to a variety of these choices. Some specific ideas included indoor recreation areas to include areas for events, classes and other opportunities; the library should be more modern and provide technology; arts and cultural amenities are also needed. Winter Springs 2000 and Beyond A Progress 4 What to do 4 Residential Recreation • r Development moose your#1 investment for ttre City's iutum- • Commercial r � Recreation r of 434 Carridor • Improvements Library Indoor Recreation Aquatic Center Opportunities - Lake Jesup City-Wide Boardwalk 3nterconnected Trail ^�vcTPm Recreational Investment Priorities 40% 35% c cu 30% 0 25% v z 0 20% m 15% M Y ami 10% V a 5% 0% Library Indoor Recreation Aquatic Center Lake Jesup City-Wide Boardwalk Interconnected Recreational Options Trail System COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT State Road 434 Corridor Improvements The SR 434 Corridor, which is the main east-west roadway in Winter Springs, is a barrier between the north and south sides of town. Overwhelmingly, respondents prefer to maintain the current status of SR 434 (nearly 45%). Other choices included addition of bicycle facilities (22%), multi modal options (14%), lane reductions (12%) and covering bus stops (7%). The movement of traffic is an important function for the roadway and is recognized as such by residents, though discussion has included ideas to slow traffic by key areas such as the Town Center in order to spur visitors to enter the center and that traffic is an issue. Winter Springs 2630 and Beyond Q Progress - • • 8 what to do i - Residential 434 Corridor Improvements i a I7evelopment Choose your vision for SR 434 r • Commervai ` r r f R Recreation r 434 Corridor • Improvements Maintain Current Add Buffered Bike More Mulli-Modal r Status Lanes Options Opportunities [Pi Lane Reduction Covered Bus Slops Near Town Center SR 434 Priority Improvements 50% — 45% u, c 40% 4, - 35% 0 CL 30% v cc 25% 0 ao 20% M v 15% V v 10% a _ 5% 0% Maintain Current Add Buffered More Multi- Lane Reduction Covered Bus Status Bike Lanes Modal Options Near Town Stops Center SR 434 Priority Options COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT Opportunities The final section for the vision preferences is for opportunities, which include various actions that will assist the City in the future. These are displayed in the accompanying screenshot.The installation of a high technology fiber optic network is considered an important opportunity, but this option is followed by the preference for centralized senior services and the Municipal Tree Farm. The Green City designation was also popular as well as the hiring of an Economic Development Manager. No action was clearly preferred over the remainder, but the fiber optic network edged out the other preferences at just over 25%. Winter Springs 2030 and Beyond A Progress • • • 111 1 11 Residential Opportu n flies • 1 Development Chooea y—priority for City oppo11—itn- Commercial 4-s� 1 GERTi F�IEd 1 ' Recreation Commerciaized Florida Green - Fiber Optic Network Building Coalition Hire Economic Green City t 434 Corridor Deveiopment Improvements Manager r Opportunities Centralized Senior Municipal Tree Services Farm a E 30% Opportunities for the City to Pursue Z 25% — v CL 200 EA I. = 15% 4- 10% to v 5% a 0% Hire Economic Commercialized Florida Green Municipal Tree Centralized Development Fiber Optic Building Farm Senior Services Manager Network Coalition Green City Priority Opportunities COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT Respondent Information The last screen of the survey served to collect information regarding the residency and age of the respondents. Ninety-nine percent(99%)of respondents noted they were residents and/or business owners in Winter Springs. Of the 94%of resident respondents, respondents being residents only,the majority of responding residents have lived in Winter Springs over 15 years. A wide age range of respondents provided input into the survey. Ages 18-25 however were underrepresented. 100% 94% 40% Residency Status Residency Time 90% 35% 80% N 30% C 70% Y N C 'a 25% r60% o v CL '^ c 20% z 50% W Y C + 40% _ WU 15% c u a v 30% 10% a 20% 5% 10% 4° 1% 1% 0% 0% Less than 1 One to Five Six to Ten Eleven to Sixteen to Over Resident of Business Resident and Other year Fifteen Twenty Twenty Winter Springs Owner in Business Years Winter Springs Owner in WS Length of Residency in Winter Springs Age of Respondents 25% 20% Y c v c CO 15% N Gl 0 v 10% E 3 Z 5% I 0% 18 and 19 to 25 26 to 35 36 to 45 46 to55 56 to 65 66 to 75 75 and Over Under Age Group COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 35 Introduction The recommendations developed in this section are derived from the review of the Winter Springs Trend Analysis and Plan Review, feedback from the business and public workshops, and finally, the Winter Springs 2030 and Beyond survey data and provided comments. This section of the report breaks down recommendations into general areas, typically related to the areas of the survey: Sustainability, Recreation, Business Development, Development and Redevelopment and general recommendations which do not typically fall under one category or may be more operational in nature. These recommendations are not meant to constitute a vision of Winter Springs, but instead provide further direction to reach that vision as well as to modify the strategic plan which should be approached more as an operational framework for City staff and City Council. While the following pages delve deeper into recommendations, strategies and ideas for the City,there are a few major takeaways from this process in its entirety: 1) There are various items from the 2009 Strategic Plan yet to be completed by the City; 2) Outstanding items exist in the comprehensive plan from 2009 with accomplish dates which have already passed; 3) Natural areas and water quality are priorities for residents in Winter Springs; 4) Moderate business development is recognized as a need to provide services and tax base within the City and should occur in existing developments; 5) Much of the community sentiment does not want to see more new development, especially multi family; 6) Arts and culture, sustainability and greening practices are new ideas that interest the community; 7) Maintaining the small-town, family-friendly sense of Winter Springs and keeping taxes low are important; 8) The public wants to be engaged and heard in decisions that affect the community. Priority recommendations to the City Staff and City Council: 1) Update strategic plan to address outstanding items from the 2009 Strategic and Comprehensive Plan that are still valid while using the survey to drive additional operational priority strategies to be completed within the next 10 years.This process should be undertaken in a City Staff and Council workshop. 2) Address the concerns over water quality and tree/landscaping sustainability within the City and develop a strategy for continued enhancement. 3) Continue to develop a vision for the City by assessing vacant and underutilized parcels for options including development, redevelopment or natural areas. This process should be community driven and should drive future development and parks and recreation in the City 4) Conduct an in-depth parks, recreation and trails survey and plan, in conjunction with #3, to create a feasible diverse, connected plan with potential funding options. 5) Move forward with the business development contract to help further continue the discussion of increasing business retention, especially small, local businesses, in the community. Engage the community. 6) Consider the creation of a sustainability board comprised of community experts and enthusiasts who can help drive the development of a sustainability plan, programs, and projects. Engage the community. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 36 Sustainability RecommendationA There are various policies in the City's comprehensive plan (ObjectiveAll A , `' 1.8)aimed to increase sustainability across City operations,codes and development including having at least one LEED certified planner and undertaking activities to obtain the designation of a Florida Green ' a +� City. While these actions were originally to be accomplished by 2012, F 0. we recommend the City maintain the language and update the - 4 fulfillment date to 2022/2023 and work to follow through on all 1461i�: policies. The City should also start its path towards sustainability by developing a sustainability action plan and add sustainability as a focus of one or more of the existing advisory boards that address similar items.The plan should include steps to complete all actionable policies included in the comprehensive plan and create checklists for those policies such as 1.8.4 which state that various sustainability options should be considered when making land use and infrastructure investment decisions. The plan should be structured with small incremental steps to be accomplished each year. For Ii R 9 example, year 1 could include changing all lighting in City facilities to LED. To track cost savings, as part of year 1, the City should begin tracking energy consumption and cost expenditures/savings. This information would be useful in determining the return on investment for various activities including solar and help in developing a greenhouse gas emissions inventory. As residents were most supportive of LED and Solar within the City as long as it was cost feasible and not a burden on tax payers, the City should also begin to investigate the costs, long term investment vs. savings in the implementation of solar in City facilities. Some cities across the U.S. begin by adding solar to one facility at a time, such as police or fire stations. Including solar in the form of art was also a suggestion and could be potentially implemented at parks which have lighting. Development leads to more impervious pavement placed on the ground, contributing to increased run off into sewers. Because the City prides itself on being a Tree City, landscape ordinances are an important component to ensure proper tree coverage, and can also serve to enhance =1 sustainability and resilience in the City through water capture and carbon sequestration. Using Low Impact Development (LID) techniques, reducing impervious pavement and implementing other unique stormwater management strategies can help capture and cleanse runoff, thus relieving pressure on sewer systems. This also provides more visually appealing landscaping and stormwater solutions and can increase the water quality of surrounding streams, lakes and wetlands. Most of the City drains to Lake Jesup,which is an impaired waterbody according to the State of Florida. LID improvements could have a positive impact on the Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDL) for Lake Jesup and help keep pollutants COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 37 from entering this water body.This would occur not only through tree planting but various types of native ground cover, rain gardens, swales, and other low impact development landscaping techniques including, as one survey respondent suggested, roof top gardens. Residents and business owners would benefit from these techniques along right-of-ways (ROWS) or within new development, and with education garnered by these demonstration sites, existing businesses and residents could implement these landscapes on their own property potentially through incentives, thus further decreasing run off and improving water quality. It is recommended that within the next year,the City reassess parking,greenspace and stormwater requirements in land development codes to determine if the codes reflect the pride the City takes in being green. Low Impact Development requirements should be added as necessary. To build on the momentum of how low impact landscaping improves water quality, it is recommended that simultaneously with this effort, the City investigate the strengthening of the fertilizer ordinance and, if changes are instituted, include the educational component of this effort for residents, local landscapers, and businesses that sell fertilizer. As the City develops its sustainability action plan, conversation should include what "carbon neutral" development would look like for the City and if and how the City should advance this effort. Investigations should be made into other communities throughout the United States to assess best practices, strategies, codes and policies. In the survey, 20% of respondents preferred that the City investigate the feasibility of a municipal tree farm. In the Case Study report, information about a community that advanced a municipal tree farm is provided. The climate in central Florida would allow a variety of trees, plants and shrubbery to be grown and harvested on the site. Partnerships with local schools and other community groups could foster a sustainable, long-term community asset with events such as Arbor Day tree give aways and others. Educational classes that stress planting the right tree in the right place can be coordinated with Seminole County IFAS program, where this is already taught. With limited undeveloped properties in the City, the farm could be potentially co-located with other parks, especially passive recreation parks, that may be developed in the future. Additionally, there were suggestions by residents about a community garden. This could be the co-location of these facilities on one site. An underutilized/undeveloped property assessment is discussed later in the recommendations section, and locations where community assets such as the tree farm/garden could be considered are included in the analysis of future development on identified parcels. The citizens of City of Winter Springs have voiced an interest to for their community to become more sustainable and resilient. There are several other cities and counties in the region that have similar values and have committed to work within the framework of the East Central Florida Regional Resilience Collaborative. The Collaborative espouses three pillars under the resilience umbrella; (people) Health + Equity, (places) Build Infrastructure+ Natural Environment, and (prosperity) economic resilience.Woven throughout those pillars will be a reduction of the carbon footprint, risks and 7 vulnerabilities utilizing emergency management, and increasing efforts toward sustainability, region wide. It is recommended that the City of Winter Springs join other EAST CENTRAL FLOREIDA cities, counties, academia, non-profits and other ■ f + ■ governmental entities in the East Central Florida Regional • R A T I V E Resilience Collaborative. The expertise and products of the collaborative can be used by the City to advance its efforts in resilience and sustainability. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 38 Recreation Recommendations According to Objective 1.3 in the Recreation and Open Space Element of the City's comprehensive ;.r plan, a survey is to be completed every 5 years to assess recreational needs, park usage, funding, and program/facilities preferences. This Winter Springs 2030 and Beyond survey covered a broad ;+ level of recreation opportunities; therefore it is s recommended that the City follow up with a more - •�. detailed parks and recreation survey. This more focused survey should delve into activities and _ r facilities at each park and assess the desire for new facilities and programs, and provide follow up to input in this survey. Over the past few years, the City, through its Perk Up Parks initiative, has upgraded numerous parks throughout the City through the installation of large pavilions, basketball courts and improving or building playgrounds. It is recommended that this initiative be continued by focusing on creating passive, natural recreation areas and new facilities and programs, as well as its current projects,that serve seniors as well as children. The survey and an updated parks plan could continue to serve as the guide for the initiative. Connecting with nature has positive benefits on people's wellbeing and quality of life. Creating space to connect with nature is an important part of community development. Purchasing additional natural greenspace and creating an interconnected trail system throughout the City were identified as the top recreational priorities for City resources. The City should assess current parks and open space in the City to determine feasible locations to provide more unpaved walking and biking paths, connect trails and parks throughout the City and provide facilities passive in nature (no ball fields). An example may be looking at the potential of expanding the walking path at Central Winds Park to meander down to the water to a boardwalk along Lake Jesup that can also serve for fishing and bird watching. New locations for greenspace could also include wetland or mitigation areas that would have very limited development. These areas could include a small, unpaved, ADA compliant parking area (including bike parking) or be accessed through bike trails, and provide nature trails with boardwalks, where necessary, to traverse creeks or flood areas. Other ideas could include a sensory garden, walking trails through low impact development landscaping areas(serving as educational piece),the inclusion of art in parks. Activities for kids and teens also ranked above neutral in the survey responses with added comments about the inclusion of activities for seniors and those with disabilities as well as arts and culture. Reaching out to constituents through a more detailed survey could refine the wishes of the community. Activities could include COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 39 more structured events and programming strictly for these age groups or facilities such as skate/bike parks, rock climbing walls/adventure courses, gaming rooms, art classes, educational classes, meeting areas, and others. The idea of an aquatic center, due to its cost, would need to be flushed out further, and could include conversations with partners such as Winter Springs High School. The location for a facility of this type would also need to be assessed in the parks plan as the overall consensus is that residents do not want to utilize undeveloped properties for continued building, unless it is part of a greater master plan potentially at the old Winter Springs Golf Course. It is recognized that the City would need to find a way to pay for upgraded facilities, new recreational areas and more programing. While increasing taxes to pay for enhanced recreational facilities and programs did not rate overwhelmingly high, it was only slightly below an average ranking at 2.95 out of 5. It is recommended that if the City desires to investigate funding major changes and acquisitions for parks and recreational opportunities, the above-mentioned survey could provide discussion of potential funding mechanisms for citizen input as well as provide an opportunity for educating the community on the current budget allocations. As a result,the City may come to a citizen-backed funding mechanism, whether a small, short-term tax, a bond, a user's-fee, grants or a combination of avenues, that would fund a plan with specific items. Business Recommendations Attracting quality, sit-down dining establishments,whether locally owned or national chains, should be explored further by the City and the economic development consultant the City may engage. Currently, there are some successful dining establishments in the City that have been in business for quite some time, while others have been hit and miss. Some reasons for this may be the deficiency of daytime businesses in the City or the competition from dining establishments in surrounding communities. In the Town Center, some may have not had enough exposure to passing traffic on SR 434 due to lack of signage. It is recommended that the City explore tasteful signage along its rights of way for businesses in the Town Center. There are a number of areas for businesses to locate within the City in existing development, including the Town Center,the new plazas(Villaggio and Stone Gate Plaza) on SR 434 and the old strip mall at SR 434 and Sherry Avenue. The key discussion the City needs to have is how to attract and keep dining establishments in the City. The contractor may provide types of incentives and targeted messaging for this,as well as assess the return on investment and feasibility of attracting local and national chains. From the permitting side, the City could establish a more streamlined permitting process for new businesses of any form. While constituents were understanding that businesses are needed in the area for the tax base and to serve the community, there was clear input that new business should be in moderation,serve the community,and only occur in existing developed areas and not require new development. From the survey and business group breakouts, introduction of a "farm to table" environmentally .'� friendly restaurant or market was a popular notion. The City could establish incentives for a �. restaurant or provide an area for a farmer's market. This would help local farmers, help local businesses and provide residents with fresh, locally sourced food.This could coincide with the number one choice of quality sit down dining establishments in the F City as the most desired priority for the City to focus its business development efforts. The key, according to COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 40 many comments and the survey data, is to steer away from fast food and ensure that the restaurants maintain the small town, family friendly character of the City. Another often mentioned business was a small hotel to serve the community. The hotel could feature fewer than one hundred rooms that serve visitors who are seeing friends in the area, attending a sports event at the new Seminole County Sports Complex, visitors using the Orlando Seminole International Airport or doing business in the area. A mid-range establishment that is part of a chain or chain subsidiary, also known as select- service hotels, such as Courtyard by Marriott, Four Points, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Inn & Suites and Hyatt Place could serve this purpose. Perhaps an economy hotel such as America's Best Value, La Quinta, Microtel and similar establishments may not be as desirable; however, newer, well-kept properties can be an asset and still fulfill the City's need. Some hotels have agreements with businesses that bring in clients or employees for meetings or training, similar to the hotels in Lake Mary near the interstate. While Winter Springs currently does not have any such businesses, the Gateway Interchange area may have such businesses in the future. The connections between the Cross Seminole Trail and the Town Center should be promoted. Currently,there is a lack of signage to indicate that the trail is adjacent to the Town Center. An alternative route that brings trail patrons nearer to the Town Center should be offered along with bicycle z parking and signs indicating what businesses are in the vicinity to visit. Food, drink and shopping opportunities in , the Town Center can be a positive experience for trail users. Trail oriented events along Blumberg Boulevard can t ' draw from recreationally oriented patrons as well as - t ra residents who can park at the Town Center. Bike parking facilities would also need to be added at key locations in the Town Center and other areas as the interconnected trail system in the City is developed. With the Cross Seminole Trail and Lake Jesup, as well as the parks, there are ample opportunities for businesses focused on these sectors from fishing charters, bike tours, events such as 5ks, and others like a dinner cruise on Lake Jesup (from public comments). A boardwalk along Lake Jesup could be a welcome activity for trail users to break up their ride or walk so they could experience the beauty of the lake and maybe see a few alligators. Activity based businesses not only can provide singular opportunities but can also be combined with eco-tourism. Eco-tourism and activity-based businesses could go hand in hand as some of the activity-based businesses may draw those patronizing eco-tourism businesses and opportunities. For example, with one current brewery just off the trail,there is the opportunity for a brewery bike tour. The City should seek to become designated as a "Florida Trail Town" which could help promote these opportunities. The types of activity-based businesses available has great potential; from indoor and outdoor activities, activities from all age sectors, high to low intensity activities and everything in between. Communities within central Florida have everything from large movie theatres to small picture show theatres, ax throwing, arcades, high adventure courses, breweries, arts/painting businesses, and many more. These types of businesses could bridge the gap between children and teen activities currently available in the City and also still provide activities for adults and seniors. These types of businesses should be located in commercial or industrial areas depending on the type of activity. Redevelopment COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 41. of the strip mall on SR 434 and repurposing the immense parking area could lead to potential new, creative, businesses. It could serve as an entertainment center with various activity-based businesses and dining. Several comments pertained to creating a corporate park or technology industry area in the Gateway Interchange area. The area is privately owned. In order to promote this, the City could provide incentives to compete with other areas, however the landowner must be willing to cooperate and have a realistic view of the land values in the area. However, as with the main sentiment throughout the survey, while the community knows the corporate park has been in the plans for many years, the idea of additional development is not favored. Other businesses that were mentioned that would be a good addition to the City were a hardware store like Ace or True Value, a supermarket like Aldi or Walmart mini super market, a nursery, a brewery and music venue and more "Mom and Pop" stores. Revitalization of specific areas was discussed, including the golf course (as a park, trails, residential or mixed-use),the older strip centers and the older west side in general. Since these are private businesses or lands, the City could provide incentives or develop plans or parameters to expedite approvals of concepts that are acceptable to the City. Again, the key would be to ensure redevelopment is the main priority of the City versus new development and engage the community in redevelopment ideas and further business development concepts. Development and Redevelopment Recommendations Growth management is important for the limited space that remains to develop in the City. Discussions with citizens, staff and elected officials should occur to decide how and where green space and parks will be located as well as future development. It is evident through this process that the community wants to manage growth in a way that preserves the small-town, family friendly feel that makes Winter Springs home. As large vacant parcels for development are a scarcity in Winter Springs, redevelopment and infill development will be the City's main avenue of growth.With this in mind and the desire to increase the amount of greenspace in the City, it will be important for the City to manage the type, look and feel of the development coming into the City. The City's comprehensive plan (Future Land Use Policy 1.4.1) calls for the creation of redevelopment or small area plans to identify and establish redevelopment opportunities. The City should utilize this process of identifying vacant and underutilized parcels and engage the community in the vision process for key parcels which could include visual preference and greenspace options. The conversation of development should also include any needed City resources such as police stations, park and recreational facilities, and other assets and services such a municipal tree farm and potential senior service complex, both of which received 20% and 21% of respondent priority choices for the City,just behind incorporating commercialized fiber optic network in the City (25%). The golf course, one of the prime areas for redevelopment, should be a site that elicits community input into its redevelopment. The location of the site is prime in that it provides direct access to a key commercial corridor, can provide ample green space (both active and passive), and can provide a multitude of mixed-uses and building types. Its location also is important to provide access to a variety of services/businesses that may be needed in the west side of town. Other under-utilized parcels or large parking areas should be included in the analysis, along with vacant parcels. This type of activity, combined with an engagement to update the Perk Up Parks plan, would give the City a true vision for how to manage growth and provide recreational opportunities. Having a vision for redevelopment makes things easier for developers to know what is acceptable and unacceptable within the City and may help to drive the market. In addition to redevelopment, sometimes a building mayjust need a face lift. In many communities, community redevelopment agencies offer incentives or match costs to facilitate fagade improvements of businesses and COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 42 homes. While the west side is not considered a CRA, the City should investigate the potential of providing a match or other incentive to facilitate these improvements. The survey findings are interesting because there is a desire for mixed use,as well as small lot single family residential , ` development over multi-family. This is where additional public input is needed as mixed use can be vertical, such as the new development Moss Park on SR 434 _ — — — with businesses on the bottom floor with IMF- '' _ I � °``' then 1-2 stories of residential above. This - �L residential can be apartments, lofts, or ¢t other types of housing which could serve as affordable housing but also allow business owners or employees to live Moss Park Mixed Use,SR 434, Winter Springs above their places of employment. Mixed-use can also occur throughout a parcel with businesses fronting the road and then providing small-lot housing in the rear of the parcel with alley ways and pedestrian/bike access throughout the property. Engaging the community in a deeper conversation for large redevelopment or new development project ideas would provide developers with project concepts embraced by the community prior to initial plan submittal.Additionally,educating the public regarding the impacts of various types of development on the tax base and City resources could occur during the vacant and underutilized property planning process as commercial and mixed-use development typically brings in more tax base than residential roof tops. There are tradeoffs to be made when considering development type and funding city facilities to enhance the quality of life within the community. Additionally, development is not just about the buildings on a site, but also the accessibility to these locations via multiple means. If the City is to showcase its desire to be a "trail town" connections to the "conceptual" trail master plan along with bicycling amenities such as bicycle racks should be required as development occurs. Development should also allow for transitions to new trends, such as drop off/pick up for uber/lyft, rideshares, transit stops, and others. Other Recommendations While many of the recommendations in this report can be divided into specific categories, other recommendations are intertwined between categories or serve more as holistic or operational in nature. Additionally, as comments from the public workshop and the results of the survey demonstrate, water quality and creek maintenance are also important to the community. Stormwater, if not already incorporated into their work program, should, on a bi-annual basis and prior to/after hurricanes, assess creek flow and debris and conduct clean up as necessary to ensure these facilities are functioning properly. It is also important for the planning staff to review land development codes to ensure that regulations do not promote the laying of turf to waterways and encourage a buffer between Florida native flora and development areas While requirement of low impact development techniques through more robust codes was discussed in the "Sustainability Recommendations" it is important to readdress the positive impacts that capturing water onsite can have in maintaining sewer functionality as new development and redevelopment occurs. It also takes COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 43 proactive planning to ensure that the existing and planned utilities have carrying capacity for new development and any redevelopment that may occur. The highest-ranking opportunity for the City to investigate is the incorporation of a commercialized fiber optic network within the City. The City should engage the local service providers to identify their long-range plans for utilities and technology advances within the City. Providing feedback to the community as to the status and plans of these utilities and the roll that the City and/or development may play in its incorporation is also recommended. Hiring an economic development manager and applying as a FGBC Green City are opportunities the City should address in the strategic plan. The economic development manager could advance findings from the business market analysis the City is planning to undertake. The manager can also oversee the study and engage the public in a more detailed conversation about business development in the City. As the City needs to implement various strategies related to sustainability as per the comprehensive plan prior to applying as a Green City, this step should occur in or around year 4 of the strategic plan. Engagement across the board was an overriding theme throughout the survey. Ideas to engage the pubic in various capacities were discussed through this report through additional surveys,community meetings to discuss projects and obtain input from design to visual preference. An additional component to include in these discussions is the youth of the City. Engaging middle and high school students through a youth civic group in the same capacity as adults are engaged would be beneficial. It not only would also provide an opportunity to teach civics and other aspects government, it gives the youth opportunity to provide input concerning the direction of the City in multiple ways. Finally, a number of creative ideas and concepts, as well as concerns were identified by constituents in the survey comments. It is highly recommended that the City council and staff review the comments for additional thoughts and ways to improve the city as this report tried to capture overriding themes, concepts and concerns identified in the engagement process. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 44 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 45 Survey Comments Screen 3 - SUSTAINABILITY Suggest Another/General Comments A mayor who doesn't take money from construction companies,due to he has approved another living construction building. Add composting! Adopt Smart Water Application Technologies(SWAT)to save water and money. Comply with SJRWMD and State FAC Admin Codes and Exceptions for reclaimed water use and SWAT. ban pesticides;purchase and set aside"green spaces"for wild life and wildflowers. better lighting for residential areas. Clean up the drinking water,better than minimum standards. Clean up green standing water ponds,ie.The one on Winter Springs blvd. Conservation and growth of green natural spaces.STOP APARTMENT DEVELOPMENTS Consider growth based on impacts to resources. Require that the city's growth consider impacts to water supply,runoff,electrical grid,etc.so that the city remains sustainable. ALSO: Track the evolution of 5G cellular standards and consider being an early adopter. 5G is projected to allow self-driving vehicles, dramatically increase data throughput on cell phones and the like. Would like to see the city become a test site so we advance earlier than most. Improve the city water Improve water filtration and quality. Keep trees and stop building apartments Many more trees. Too many have been removed for construction Minimized and Controlled growth of residential areas.Stop Big Interests and let the City Council actually represent the will of the city residents. New urbanism;Neo-traditional development No more new developments. Update empty buildings...churches,restaurants,natural groceries... Park updates;Crosswalks-seen kids getting almost hit by car when they can cross at same time cars with green light can turn right. Prioritize residential and city xeriscaping. Purchase land for more green areas Replace each tree cut down with new tree Stop building new homes of any kind. Stop cutting trees for apartments and house.Stop draining the lowlands.No more resident building or business. Stop developing and cutting down trees.Stop taking away land from animals and making them homeless where they are coming into residential areas Stop development of massive apartment complexes.Overcrowding makes us just like any other overcrowded City. Stopping destruction of trees.Eliminating new construction. Winter Springs needs to have a venue dedicated to the arts.Our High School's motto is"Celebrating Academics,Arts,and Athletics".The city has plenty of facilities for supporting the"Athletics"but not much for the Arts.Don't we want to be the city that knows how to create relationships with all of our schools and citizens? COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 46 LED COMMENTS A large investment for little return over the long run. Save the money and keep our taxes low. All street lights should be led As long as it's cost effective-Many solar companies are overcharging-"renting"out solar panels with large monthly payments that don't end and exaggerating how much electricity they will generate. Challenge of this idea is that the longer you wait to implement,the more opportunities and choices and savings can be had. While I support doing this,I would structure it out over a prolonged period and restructure the plan as damage was incurred to any group of properties or facilities(i.e.from a major hurricane or accident). Community solar panel bank to run all public and private businesses.Sell solar to them at a fraction of what FPL charges for electricity. Good idea but need to make sure the economics work I work in a sustainability job. It is more cost effective and important than ever. would like to see more solar,but the use of LEDs puts too much"blue"light into our nighttime environment,affecting wildlife and humans by changing our circadian rhythms to negatively harm sleep cycles. If it also saves the city money.Don't raise taxes. If it is cost effective.I'm worried that it will cost more than it saves.Government is not notoriously good at implementing projects in a cost effective manner. If trees are not removed Incorporating solar is very important.As items need to be replaced we need to think about replacing with LEDs and/or solar options to help It depends how cost effective it is.I wouldn't want it utilized if it cost several times the amount It's about time the sunshine state takes a more proactive stance in lowering everyone's costs through solar savings. LED before Solar Make it a rule that all flat top buildings make use of their flat tops,for solar for plants for the gardens and parks and restaurants. Make it mandatory to put these on all flat roof tops if they aren't being used for some other special purpose such as gardens restaurants etc. My daughter started looking into getting her school WSHS more solar this year but there are many hurdles she faced.She hasn't given up! Only if it doesn't raise taxes Only if the expense is not burdensome to residents(i.e.no local tax increase) Only if we have the funds to do this. only where it is cost effective. Products are still lagging in efficiency but still cost a premium... Not yet. Property owners should receive financial incentives for installing solar panels and other energy savings devices on their Winter Springs homes. rooftop solar yes,led is smart move Should be done ONLY if a cost/benefit analysis determines that the infrastructure will pay for itself within 5 to 6 years. Solar-waste of$ Solar and carbon reduction should be an absolute priority. Solar panel farms located in the city take up to much space and are ugly the cost of installing would take too long to make it pay The reason I support this is to provide a long-term cost savings to the tax payers of Winter Springs. Use some of the more creative collectors.I've seen trees and other things that are very beautiful compared to just the panels located in parks for lighting. waste of tax money Waste of tax payer money. While these systems"feel"good they are not cost effective and do not return value back. With common fiscal sense. would be helpful for the city to look leveraging/helping residents leverage programs to help pay for solar on residential properties COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 47 PRIORTIZE LANDSCAPING COMMENTS Again,don't become so strict that it is a deterrent. Current efforts are more than sufficient. Developers tend to raze existing landscaping when building.Something like Lake Mary's development requirements should be considered here. Devils in the details...leaving natural landscape&trees as much as possible would be a plus,rather than wiping out everything to build. Another concern would be'irrigation',utilizing reclaimed water in lieu of pulling from natural resources. Everybody cuts their grass For whom? How? I can neither support nor oppose-I would HOPE the ordnances would be reasonable,but the other possibility exists,and it could harm some homeowners. Greater emphasis on wildlife protection! Greater setbacks so no more"RIZE"apartments right next to street Greater setbacks would be good,especially if there are trees on them. Green,green,green of any kind and any height.People will stop complaining of too much heat and will enjoying the shade Greenspace is great but wildflowers in the median and low cost landscaping would be optimum would love us all to have lush green lawns.The fact is-some of us can not and never will afford to sod our whole yard.To keep it up would mean installing sprinkler systems.Let's just do what we can to keep our yards clean and tidy. If a developer removes trees they should be required to plant that many trees to replace them and protect our"tree city".Our natural areas are being obliterated by all of the development. i If we quit cutting down so many trees the landscaping requirements can be more lax I'm not sure what this means..ls this for public or private?What setbacks would this entail? important near roadways to keep traffic vision clear of obstacles Keep the trees!The Blake apartments have made the trail hot from the lack of shade-and already and even worse in a few years these apartments will be out of style.The Blake apartments have no charm and are an eyesore.What makes winter springs great is being able to walk outside and enjoy nature. Keeping grass cut is important.However,planting new bushes in the median every month is a waste. Landscaping can make or break the feel of the city.Winter springs over the years has done such a great job of keeping the city green while developing and expanding.In essence...more trees! Landscaping should require little water. Landscaping,really?We need fewer empty buildings,less apartment complexes,no more new empty buildings!Landscaping is the least of this town's worries. Look good....Feel good. More natural landscaping,no St.Augustine grass Need more outdoor art. Let's come up with a mascot and theme for the city Need to enforce code better.Too many trashy yards with junk cars,travel trailers,work trailers,parking in there yards,etc.. not sure how greater setbacks apply here? not well defined Our landscaping already is very nice but I believe we do need to have the setbacks and if we have to put in ugly buildings please put up some type of green barrier so we don't have to look at them. Plant some wild flowers and native plants and stop wasting so much water! Please make the new apartments nicer looking.The new ones Tuskawilla and 434 by McDonald's look like the projects.Have a say in the looks and designs of the new construction of our future. Prioritize landscaping RE xeriscaping to also minimize the need for water consumption as well as fertilization.Adjusting setbacks to preserve as much old growth as possible is where I see the value in any setback requirement. Reduce use of water to maintain landscape.Switch to less vegetation in medians Refer to Port Orange,FL,they have a set back from the road and the town is so attractive,whereas we are building right on top of the road on 434. Setbacks are already killing land owners rights and ability to build for a reasonable return. Stop allowing cutting trees!!! People move in to the mature trees neighborhoods,cut all the trees on their property and then move out.Outrageous. Stop allowing developers to clear cut all new development Stop razing the trees in the Tree City Stop taking the trees!If homeowners can't,why can developers? Stop the use of Round Up in city areas,as noted on the Trail earlier this year when I emailed the landscape staff member(who is no longer employed). The landscaping at the moment seems sufficient-do not feel we should decrease,but don't see the need for increases COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 48 There should be an ordinance that prohibits planting trees close to the sidewalks. People are constantly planting trees between the sidewalk and the street which is why there are so many problems with the sidewalks being uneven. If there is already an ordinance in place for this,it is not being communicated or enforced. This should be a commercial requirement,not residential. i Too many apartments are right up against the streets such as the Rise. want to my family to grow in a nice non congested area where people take care and pride in their property We need to foster xeriscaping not traditional landscapes. We need to have more Florida sustainable landscaping,ones that use a lot less water.We should have a ban on St Augustine grass as well,it uses too much of our finite resource of water. We need to prioritize education and schools not this totally useless large landscaping budget!Enough already!!! What exactly does setback mean?Will most people understand this and answer correctly? Will this affect the established homes and businesses? You need to specify commercial vs residential,and single family vs.multiunit. FERTILIZER ORDINANCE COMMENTS Are you seriously considering this? Stalin wished he thought of this. Ban the use of Round Up Cannot support nor decline this one since it's such a broad statement. Are banning fertilizer usage? Are you mandating increased fertilizer usage? Are you regulating what fertilizers can be used? I can neither support nor oppose. Chemical use is bad,but don't go overboard. close to bodies of water Don't know anything about this If it can be done cost effectively. If this is affecting our water resources,we should be placing great resources on this. Include all government properties too.Especially parks.It would be nice if it were possible to have compost delivered from the landfills. Make use of composting off for the delivery of compost from our dumps to be used in our gardens.Make use of paper bags for yard waste instead of plastic.This way you won't get the plastic in the compost. Need safe chemicals not hurting our land or water No chemicals, on the ground or in the air! No.Just want people to cut there yard before it's a foot high Not sure what this entails Not sure what this means Other than suggestions,the City should not mandate usage. Restricting fertilizer use will help to protect Florida's water resources and result in purer water in our aquifer. Seriously,with all of the residential growth and builders still permitted to install green lawns vs.xeriscaping...this has to stop. Seminole County has a stronger fertilizer ordinance yet WS continues to ignore the main issue that hurts our water quality. Stop the use of Round Up completely.There are alternative products without the harmful risks.Round Up and other Carcinogens have been linked to cancer.There is a huge lawsuit going on right now against Round Up and its link to cancer. Stop using herbicides and pesticides,particularly Roundup and other general herbicide products that are known carcinogens. The health of Lake Jesup and the wildlife population is very important. The health of Lake Jesup of our priority. There's absolutely no evidence that fertilizer runoff is or has had any effect on anything,If you pay people to"investigate"what do you think they'll say? (what you paid them to say) this may be a huge factor with our city's water quality issues as well this needed to help keep our water clean This show be a critical concern because of our environment! Water is a critical resource Water quality isn't safe and can possibly be from fertilizer overruns.We need better water quality or else we're goi g to be a cancer filled town/county like northern states. We need to save our water and save our animal life.Stop using fertilizer that goes right into our lakes and water resources that will eventually kill us all. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT CARBON NEUTRAL GROWTH COMMENTS 2 words: Climate Crisis All government properties including the parks need to be included in this City should not mandate any code changes Do you realize the atmosphere is 781A nitrogen?Can't change that. If it can be done cost effectively In my opinion,it is not worth the investment required to achieve this goal Look at what the city of orlando is doing...good role model. Make use of the flat roofs.Parks,cafes gardens etc. Not necessary Not sure what is meant by this...city vehicles run on natural gas or hydrogen vs regular gas?electric vehicles? Not sure what this means One important step can be to require more trees to be planted in new developments. When forests are razed to make way for new construction,we should require that each tree that is lost be replaced by a new tree in the finished landscape. This will surely add to the beauty of our area,and teach children to appreciate the role of trees in helping to slow global warming,a subject that is scary to most of them. Solar and carbon reduction should be an absolute priority. The city vehicles should be electric or hybrid,and more charging stations should be available throughout the city. There's absolutely no evidence that this is an issue here.Let's not waste time and money on this. This could use more explanation.I am assuming this refers to increasing the use of renewable energy(such as wind and solar)that does not produce carbon,as well as making changes to eliminate industrial and agricultural carbon production. I would not be a big fan of carbon offsetting here,although it may be necessary in larger cities dealing with smog. This question is ambiguous at best.How will this affect established homes and businesses? This statement is somewhat scary in nature. What would you regulate? Homes? Production facilities? Cars? Such a migration could be overstated and backfire. Too costly. Waste of taxpayer money We need to stop cutting down all the trees. We need to stop so much building.Our tree population has been demolished and we are going to start feeling the impacts when we have too many people and not enough trees to help with the carbon. Will only add more cost to the taxpayers. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 50 Screen 3 - RECREATION GENERAL COMMENTS Add arts and culture Add arts and culture! Additional bike trails that are not just a stripe on the vehicle travel lane. Arts&culture community pool with lap lanes Create more activities like concerts in the park that bring community together and funds for the city. Create more playing fields to allow sports like Lacrosse. Currently there are not enough fields for all sports that need a place to play. Also,build a rebound wall(s)for Lacrosse/Soccer Practice use. encourage fishing in lakes and ponds,especially in central winds park with a fishing pier Focus on the arts as recreation I feel that Winter Springs already has sufficient sport complexes.On Winter Springs High School's motto of"Athletic,Arts,and Academics"I feel that a combination of existing sports facilities and great schools support Athletics and Academic,but Winter Springs as a city does nothing to supports the Arts.I feel this should be a question asked to the city's residents.I support Art and culture facilities with 5 stars! movie theater stage/theater/ music/performance/venue(like Plaza Live in Orlando) Not everyone is into sports. performing arts center Public pool Public transportation that connects with the train Stopping the destruction of our trees and wildlife space. Support more arts and culture! The arts are wonderful. Theater,etc. We need an improved splash pad for children.Oviedo has much better ones than we have.We also need significant improvements regarding the arts and culture.I feel WS lacks in both of these areas.It would also be great if WS offered monthly movies in the park like Oviedo has would also support a"natural burial"city cemetery.This would serve the community while also preserving green space.It would also provide good public relations publicity for the city,as not too many cities offer this popular,forward-thinking,and environmentally friendly service. GREENSPACE COMMENTS Absolutely Better than more unoccupied apartments Finish up the bike trail connection by the junk yard off 419 Getting over crowded-too much building. Great idea,just not unpaved. Hard to answer. The business development model and green space expansion would be in direct conflict,and home plats would be harder to come by. We could price our land out of reality if we do not have an overall plan that is effective. I haven't talked to one neighbor yet that is fond of the residential growth in WS. The animals are being displaced a d our small town/tree city is no more! I have been a realtor for 25 years and all of my clients that bought in WS over Oviedo didn't want cookie cutter neighborhoods with NO trees. If it can be done cost effectively. Instead,the City should address the town center.WS needs a functional Town Center.Buy or change the land use master plan to designate the available land around the TC for TC expansion.A functional TC should have Good restaurants,a bank,boutiques,parking,etc it would be nice to have both paved and unpaved areas. Leave woods woods!Stop developing wild green space. Less townhomes,more greenspace preservation. Long time ago Winter Springs was the best city to live and was name the tree city.Look where we are now it's the concrete city.Perfect example MC Donald at the corner of Tuscawilla and 434 is surround by the good old trees and the new development is bare......and that lot had beautiful nice old trees.Don't tell me they were sick or they could have fall on somebody.....they went through lots of hurricane and storms. Most sincerely.Develop already developed sites.Keep Winter Springs natural as possible COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 51 Not if we don't have the funds or have to raise taxes Not with my tax dollars! Our wildlife habitats are shrinking and they have no place to go. Ideally,with the creeks&streams that meander through Winter Springs that provides some corridor protection for wildlife,we need to ensure that lands adjacent to these areas remain rural in nature. Please look into buying old winter springs golf course and how that green space can benefit the community beyond more homes and commercial interests Stop all of the apartments going up and keep the rest of the areas wooded. STOP the Apartments!!!! This is a great idea.We should definitely be putting green space in front of ugly buildings. This is extremely important. _ This is needed since there is so much development and clear cutting! Use the flat roofs also We already have too many buildings and not enough land We don't need to buy green space so that in 5 years the realtors on the board or Townhall will see it for developers for profit.No to money for greenspace. We had a lot of greenspace until someone approved all those ugly apartments and you let them cut down ALL the trees! We have excellent trails currently,always beneficial for more or to enhance as the town grows. We have plenty of that--especially if the city stops selling off green spaces to developers Within reason.Don't saddle the residents with the debt. Would love walking bike trails! Yes YES,let's keep that"green space"feeling of Winter Springs. Yes,yes and yes. There can never be too much greenspace. CHILDREN/TEEN ACTIVITIES COMMENTS A bigger splash pad and/or public pool!!! add more arts and culture Arts and culture Arts and Culture would be great for this.Winter Springs minors are already offered plenty of sports leagues,but not all students are interested in sports. Can we focus more on affordable art programs? Ball sports are great,but what about dancing,acting,singing,painting,sculpting,etc? Depends.We also have decent selection close by Desperately needed and very much overdue. have a carnival or fair that is really great rather than just small ones that few people go to. don't have children;but,summertime activities that are of interest to teens could reduce vandalism,mischief...'idle hands is the devils —workshop':-) _ If they are learning about nature and appreciation of native animals and birds,fine. Keep kids in town.Movie theater,stores,and restaurants on 434.No more residential! Kids should have facilities to encourage responsible citizenship. More recreational facilities other than baseball No need,plenty of schools and parks already No.School and personal yard satisfies this need Older kids and teens are often forgotten. I think there are plenty of activities for younger kids. Please add more for older kids and teens.:) Overlaps my comment about a facility for the community. Such a facility could allow indoor activities to enrich our children and families and facilitate new opportunities like a performance outlet,a gaming place,a place for a city band and orchestra,etc. Such things could be our outreach to other cities. Perhaps in certain pockets of the town,but overall I think we have ample. Please include the arts.Not all kids are into recreational activities.We want to be a city where families want to move too because we offer diversity in our activities. Rec center and club house for residents only COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 52 Swimming pool with slides The city should support band,drama,and debate programs in out schools. Drone and robotic hobbies should be supported with space and facilities. there is enough already We definitely need more teen activities.Investigate to see what seems to attract teens in other cities. We have a HS facility and Central Winds Park Yes,need more places to go in the city You are doing a great job with the children parks PHONES IN PARKS COMMENTS All ages seem to have phones today. Assuming it would only dial the police dept Q)or 911. Come on,everybody has a cell,even young children now. Doesn't every body have a cell phone? Don't most people have cell phones. and if they don't who says you have emergency phones exactly where it would be needed Everyone already has a personal phone Everyone has a cell now days.This expense is not needed. everyone has a cell phone. This is a waste of money. Everyone has a cell phone.No need everyone has a cellphone Everyone has a phone Everyone has cell phones Everyone has cell phones so adding phones in parks is really useless. Everyone has cellphones now. Blue light phones seem unnecessary for sure! Great idea! How will you keep them from being misused or abused? If you mean a blue light system like those on college campuses,then yes. It's not a bad idea to have one well located emergency phone in each park,but I don't think we need to overdo it-there are so many people with cell phones. Lights for safety and water for dehydration on trails is highest importance! Most everyone has a cell phone on their person. Most of us have phones but you never know when an emergency might happen and a good old land line is needed. Most people have cell phones Most People have cell phones Most people have cell phones Most people have cell phones.Ensure public areas have good wifi&cell coverage. No No No-who doesn't have a cell phone these days? No need to spend money there.Everybody now-a-day has a phone in their pocket not necessary with all the cell phones on people using the parks Not needed. Or video surveillance People have phones how about cameras proving good wi-fi coverage and good lighting for dusk and evening activities Safety is paramount! security yes but I'm not sure phones are the way to go Seems like everyone has cell phone,so is this cost effective?Although does pinpoint exact location... This is a no-brainer.I can't believe it hasn'y already been done. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 53 this should be a major safety priority This will become abused by teenagers,but there is an obvious place where it would be useful. What about a 55 and older luxury condo building. Not all need a Nursing Home room. We have many aging residents that are very healthy. When everyone and their brother has cell phones?? While many would say"no everyone has a cell phone these days",this is actually a good idea.Placement would need to be strategic and in a well-lit area. Think college campus emergency phones. Who doesn't carry a cell phone now days? Who maintains them and tests them? Not just a first cost concern... WiFi in the parks with all the cell phones don't think that is needed With cell phones so prevalent and vandalism so easy,I would not give this high priority. with the abundance of people with cell phones--why is this even an issue? Yes-with the sunrail nearby in Longwood and Altamonte it is easier for people to wander into our area through the trails.With the new buildings there are more residents living here-this necessitates more precautions for safety. FUNDING COMMENTS Start charging a small fee instead of raising taxes.Higher fee for those that are in unincorporated Winter Springs Absolutely not!Give the WSPD more money for resources. add arts and culture! Already plenty of recreational facilities here As a retiree I cannot afford an increase to taxes.Charging a nominal fee for recreation use should off-set a need to for tax increases. As long as they are well designed to incorporate into green space. Community pool dependent on the recreational facilities. I love that many of the parks have been updated and even given facilities. Depends on the recreational facility Depends on what it is and needed increase Depends on what the facilities entail. Depends on what the proposed facilities are. Find other ways. Find the money in the existing budget&find ways to cut costs that make sense.I'm sure there is plenty of waste in the budget. For greenspace and recreation,yes.For a sports complex,no.Such a complex should be as self-sustaining as you are requiring the local arts,etc businesses to be,or align with the school system to share the assets as well as the cost. For parks and trails For sports and practice fields.Do not favor a public pool. It didn't work for the country club. Happy with what we have. Our household already pays$4500/yr in property taxes. Having a kid I understand the value of having parks and other facilities to allow our kids to grow and be healthy through sports and other activities. Hell no.The city provides a space for a freaking private company to train dogs,even though residents pay for the maintenance of the dog park. During regular hours,that area should be opened to tax payers that maintain it.Absolutely ridiculous. I am in unincorporated Winter Springs.But would gladly help and fundraising for special projects. I am unincorporated but I would be willing to pay for use of the recreational facilities and opportunities like we have in the past I like the idea of additional recreational facilities but I am against increasing taxes. My property taxes are already extremely high and hard to afford as is. I find it hard to believe the city's budget cannot handle this expense. I support the idea that we,the residents,must invest in our city. Obviously,we must also be careful not to make new taxes oppressive. I will support this if your recreation are outside and no concrete involve If the recreation"facilities"consist of natural areas,fine. I think we have enough buildings and sports areas now I'm not in town full-time so although I do think it's important to have these facilities,I'm not interested in paying for them at this point. It depends on what it is.The city really needs an aquatic facility. It depends on what they are.If they are the kinds of things that all people can use(such as trails and parks),then yes.Large-scale buildings that serve particular sports and athletes,no,absolutely not. It depends on what you are going to spend it on. Parks?The arts? Or just ball fields? It would depend on the recreational facilities.For example,the one community pool the city has is at the senior center.That is a limited population. No COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 54 no No NO NO no NO NO No more taxes. Just maintain what we have. No tax increase.Cut cost to fund this project. No we have parks and recreation. No!Use our money more wisely. No.I already cannot afford a 40 year old home here. Not if we have to pay to use them like picnic table at the parks not just NO,but HELL NO One of the problems today is the thought that Cities must provide a form of entertainment to residents,other than ball fields,parks and nature settings. Free concerts,etc.cost$$$to city residents when it has got to the point that the overcrowded venues(because its free)result in those of us who don't go due to parking,traffic and crowded situations. If there was a way to limit attendance to residents&their guests could reduce crowds...just sayin'. Only if those facilities will be a part of increasing the activities for kids and teens.Don't forget about the arts! Please an Aquatic Complex! We've waited for 25 years,2 swimmers had to practice at Oviedo and elsewhere. We can do better! The community has been asking for this for years. We are tired of going to Casselberry,Oviedo,paying a fortune at the"Y"for their facilities. We have room. Let's do this! Seminole County never has a problem with the sales tax increase to better our roads and schools. I don't think they would have a problem supporting recreation either. since a majority of the city is moving towards rentals/apartments. some type of fare taxing for them to pay their fare share.versus just the homeowners The ones we have aren't always maintained.... to a certain extent....not a stadium.We got parks and ball fields. Couldn't we use WSHS if need be? we have enough areas We have in the past when it is clearly articulated where the dollars are going to. We need a pool strictly for residents requiring a pass to get in,not everyone has their own pool.No more sports complexes or ball fields,some basketball courts are needed We seem to be doing pretty well at current funding levels. Why is it that we always have to raise taxes?That seems to be the default way. Willing to pay more in taxes,but must see what tax monies are paying for. Within reason.Not a fan of taxes.We already pay too much.Bring in more restaurants especially on the 434 corridor to pay taxes! WS is a great city.Our taxes are already higher than neighboring cities.We should be able to reallocate budget without raising taxes. Oviedo has a rec center and property taxes are 10%lower than WS rate... Yes Yes resident no to tax hike Yes within reason Yes!I'd love to have an aquatic center with an amazing splash pad like Oviedo has Yes,as long as it goes towards issues around quality of life and not just corporate and developer bottom lines. Yes,but within reason. SPORTING COMPLEX COMMENTS 0 stars Absolutely not Absolutely not. Absolutely not. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 55 As long as this is done without an increase to taxes for example a large corporation support building Central Park already does a great job and allowed us to carve out our niche. City doesn't need this,County already in that business Don't need this here. Don't we have enough?Also many require kids to belong to a team. If they are not good enough or just want to play for fun these"stadiums" do not allow them in&are locked. First I've heard of this idea. I'd like to know more details before giving an opinion. How about an arts and culture center? I do not believe we need to compete with the new softball fields like in lake Mary. But improved smaller rec areas are needed. I don't want a lot of high noise events feel that Winter Springs already has sufficient sport complexes.On Winter Springs High School's motto of"Athletic,Arts,and Academics"I feel that a combination of existing sports facilities and great schools support Athletics and Academic,but Winter Springs as a city does nothing to supports the Arts.I feel this should be a question asked to the city's residents.I support Art and culture facilities with 5 stars! I In existing park or buying more land??? Let those who use it,pay for it! Maybe a community pool,but not a stadium- never No _ no no No No No not at all,we have facility that is present No stadiums NO WAY WILL WE SUPPORT THIS No Way.Creates too much traffic No way...this would disrupt the quiet and quaint feel of our town. No,the teams always get better options leaving the complex empty and an eye sore. No,we do not need to build more. No.We have enough closeby No.Although additional traffic may be issue,we would constantly need funding to support whatever teams No..That would ruin W.S.. It would bring crowds,crime. NOT AT ALL _ Only if surveys indicate that businesses will profit from these efforts.Therefore an increased tax base will add income to the City coffers. only if this is for the benefit of people who live in the city--must be revenue positive Orlando is just a few minutes away. Let them have the stadium facility. We also have enough traffic around here. Adding a stadium would just make it worse. pay for without taxpayer funding Please think bigger-not just a stadium,but a community facility where we can assemble,educate,entertain. We don't need to have another Orlando Convention Center,but a smaller version that the city could use for civic events and lease out for profit making would be a good idea. Please,no.We do not need the traffic this would bring.There are plenty of facilities in the area. Plenty of existing facilities within the county. Plenty of sport areas at schools. Plenty of those already Small town is no place for large sporting events The arts needs to be represented too! The recreation department should be working with the school system so that the stadium field's and the courts would be available to the public. They sit there empty more than 50%of the time.Other cities do this. There absolutely needs to be more sporting venues in WS.The loss of the Seminole County Baseball facility to Sandford was a travesty! There are enough outdoor track and field areas without needing a dedicated complex. There are enough sporting complexes in Seminole County&local ball parks...we do not need the traffic congestion related to these events and the impact of outdoor lighting to surrounding areas. this would end up taking away from the small down feel,and will create traffic issues -would hate to see a large sports complex come to W.S1 Totally unnecessary when we are so incredibly close to downtown Orlando and UCF. We don't need a stadium..again really..a stadium is the best you can come up with when the town is going to hell. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 56 We have a large stadium at the high school.We also have tennis courts and other fields.It would be great if we could work together with the county to make better use of these facilities. We have Central Winds Park.... While this might be a good idea it would take a lot of land from any greenspace initiatives. Would rather have more music and art WS has demonstrated an inability to effectively manage it's sporting complexes-perfect example is Central Winds baseball complex-very pretty,but not functional. It's about the only baseball complex in all of central FL that does not have a batting cage,which is beyond absurd given the resources spent on other things up there. The response from the parks department has been"A batting cage is provided for these fields at Trotwood park"-which is more absurd and an insult to the intelligence of any person who any level of baseball/softball experience- and yet WS has had the funds to allocated to central winds for aesthetics yet not functionality Screen 3 - BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT GENERAL COMMENTS A healthy and sustainable city and lifestyle requires all of the above;balance is paramount.Therefore,the vision and commitment of the city and its resources requires balance. and Rt 434 into another 436 or Redbug Lake Rd. Arts and Culture Bring a major hotel to the Greenway District to support Business Travelers(and other visitors)working at the High Tech Businesses in the Greenway District. Buying or assigning in the master plan of land near the town center for expansion of the town center.A Town center should have quality restaurants,banks,boutiques,etc. Counter type restaurants are a good option Nature Center or natural playground/garden Need an AMC theater,there aren't many options and run down.Community Sports complex for kids and family. DINING COMMENTS Allergy friendly options can always use more restaurants...maybe a chain or two Develop 434 corridor with Restaurants!NO MORE APARTMENTS OR HOUSES!!!!! Don't forget to include parking.It would be nice if we had some type of shuttle service here in Winter Springs. Focus on local not franchises or chains.Yes we need restaurants. I am not interested in super fancy restaurants around me. I am good with what we currently have. If I want to go out for casual dining I have to go to Oviedo. Restaurants can be nice things to look at,we should put the parking in the back. If we stress family,then we need to stress dining for the families. Some nice places are in order,but should not be the main focus if we are building a family friendly community. Maybe the city should have tried to attract more dining options instead of those hideous apartments! More drive thru businesses More restaurants More restaurants Needed.I travel to other cities to dine. No additional development.We need to use the spaces we have already. No.Winter Springs lifestyle is home cooking. NOT Necessary! Of course that is what all towns went,but often it is fast food which should be minimized if at all possible! Please,let's stop adding fastfood joints&get some decent mom&pop cafes&larger restaurant corps to move in. Serious lack of this kind of business here Should go along with the expansion of the Town Center That would be great.however the town center has proven time and again that they are more interested in HIGH lease payments than resident enjoyment The Town Center has really disappointed in this regard.Too many restrictions from the city,rents too high,parking inadequate. Try for a mix of local and chain restaurants.Make sure there's parking. we could use more quality dining. again need lunch time traffic to sustain. need quality business that could use/drive dining COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 57 We have a lot of restaurants already We have lived here for over 35 years and need more restaurants and entertainment and shops We have plenty in area-no more We have plenty of homes and not enough restaurants. Everybody goes to Oviedo to eat. Why not get more restaurants here and keep the money in Winter Springs. This would also alleviate traffic coming and going between WS and Oviedo. We have the people,so let's keep our money in the city with places to dine we need more choices We need more dinning places like Oviedo has that way the community will spend the money in their own city and not outside. We need more good restaurants in winter springs. We need some higher established restaurants While this seems nice,I'm do not think the city can make this happen. If there is an opportunity businesses build such facilities. Winter Springs is seriously lacking in any upscale dining...the last one was Stonewood Grill. Also,why are all the new cost friendly Organic Grocers popping up in Winter Park or Orlando???We need them in Winter Springs! Would be nice if we could have more places to dine to keep the money in WS.Right now lots of money going to Oviedo because that's our only option. Yes we definitely need a better selection of restaurants Yes,we need more option in the city Yes.We could use a couple more on Tuscawilla Rd ACTIVITY BASED COMMENTS again it needs to be sustainable with the level of area population Again,the more we have to offer our citizens the less amount of time they will have to travel elsewhere. Winter Park and College Park are huge draws for home owners because everything they need is right in their city and they can walk there! any of these would be great Don't over do it.Too much crowding and traffic is not what we want.Keep it small town!!!!1 Don't push for more businesses. Especially arts and culture in WS. I'd like to see a small-town coffee shop. If Oviedo Mall can't make a go of this,we don't need more attempts at it. In moderation. It would depend on the type of entertainment. Winter Springs is still and should remain,a'bedroom community',including no disturbances at night such as noise,lighting,traffic...location and size of venue would be key elements. keep more income here from these activities. Leave those in Oviedo. Maybe if it is family oriented but even then I am skeptical. Much needed and long overdue. No arcades No more businesses NO!!ALREADY TOO MUCH DESTRUCTION IN WINTER SPRINGS No, No.As a region we have all the available activity based businesses within reach NOT wanted!!! Other cities are beating WS to the punch and those businesses don't seem to be thriving. Oviedo Mall is near enough to WS for these activities. Phony business environments,like the poorly designed area around 434 and Tuscawilla Road,ultimately hold business opportunities back. It is not government's job to"invest". Very few people in government understand the damage that they do economically when trying to force these things. Provided they are family friendly. Would prefer to avoid alcohol themes. That's what the town center should be for. Not just fast food. The new theater will be a great addition.It would be nice if we could also Work with the county to make more use of the theater at the high school.Also let's do more outdoor entertainment.Casselberry's.Got a lot going on we should look at what they're doing,especially with the art. The one brewery failed.We have entertainment in other places around town.We do live in the greater Orlando area after all. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 58 Theaters These things are fun for everyone.But they are ugly.You've already started this in them all let's keep it there make it a huge entertainment complex. This would be awesome.Again,please bring to 434 side of town!We need stuff over here!Signed,Your Forgotten Constituents! Ummm....we had 2 breweries basically next door to each other.... We have so many empty buildings as it is.Lets fill those up first. We've already started this in the mall let's continue make them all a huge entertainment complex like the one in Kansas City. Yes,theater and cultural arts. Yes,this would be great for the city Yes,yes and yes You already have Winter Springs Performing Arts as a local theatre! ECOTOURISM COMMENTS Our alligator infested lake could be a huge attraction.We should make more use of it.It would be nice to have a local restaurant on it and a marina.Put it in where the water intake plant is.Also it would be nice to open up our creeks for kayaking and boating.Soldiers creek,G Creek, Bear Creek,and I'm sure there's others I don't even know about.Could all be cleaned up and usable. Again,Where Already have too much businesses here. Central Winds Park Definitely.We have a very unique lake.I believe it still holds the most alligators in the United States. We also have connectors to many other lakes it would be nice to open these up more so people can use them to get from Lake Jessup to Lake Howell and into the Winter Park chain of Lakes.Make some of the things like bear Creek and G Creek and the places that can be kayaked eh Encourage quiet eco friendly activities like kayaking not jet skies and noisy lake activities. going easy on growth in areas that overbuild would be as effective I don't care if they are eco-friendly,just bring more businesses. I think maybe a handful and small eco-tourism can be considered,but tourism is so saturated in Central Florida and with that comes a lot of unwanted traffic. Love this idea but I am not for bringing in the cruise ship buses.Let's keep it local Nature center No No.Will lead to additional construction to accommodate ecotourists. Not sure how Eco-Tourism is defined;but,bringing'tourists'in to trample our nature trails and throw plastic in our lakes...is never a good idea. Not sure what this is but it sounds worth while. Something along Lake Jessup would be awesome! This seems to have fallen away here.Developers can take down hundreds of trees with little consequence,and put up faux-quaint subdivisions. To much of a city to make it an eco tourism destination.Properly maintain existing green space&add more when inexpensive properties become available. We need to emphasize saving our green spaces and protecting animal habitat.Seminole Co.is fast losing it's image of a"Natural Choice". Working with the state to clean up Lake Jesup would be key to this plan. WS can establish a system of historic bike paths that can lead a rider from one interesting site to another supported by plaques or signs describing the buildings,events or land uses that occurred at each location. Lake Jesup is unused. Is that because of the alligator problem or other environmental problems? HIGH TECH COMMENTS agree,this is the type of business we want to attract. ALREADY HAVE TOO MANY EMPTY BUILDINGS Best way to increase tax base. Bring in some high tech business with better paying jobs for tax base Define the Greenway District Don't push for more businesses. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 59 High tech businesses lead to greater congestion,pollution and higher carbon prints. I know something has to go in there it's a shame.Please make it environmentally compatible and pleasing,and again use the rooftops for recreation and gardens. I would hate to see this because of the traffic increase,and the ugly type warehouse buildings that come with them.I know it's been in the plans for a while.If it Has to happen please use the roofs for gardens restaurants parks and solar. Then put beautiful green space in front of them. Make them set back the buildings so that they are not visible from the highway.Make sure they follow all the rules.No high tech Waze.Rooftop being used No No no more development No more growth NOM No.Pollution causing activities will further ruin our water quality Not familiar with the Greenway district,will have to research. If it's adjacent to 417,possibilities. Remember that bringing corporate headquarters brings high revenues and a partner in development. Bringing jobs brings only limited opportunities by comparison. Same as above. This is a bedroom community. If we wanted to live closer to tech companies,we would move there. Existing ones are not that far away. Not interested in tight relationships between government and business,either way. Timing is right and there is talent here! We do not need any businesses in the Greenway district. We already are built up enough. We need to halt development.We are making our environment worse by cutting down all the trees.I believe the majority of the residents feel this way. Who owns this property?Do we really need to develop the last bit of green space? DAYTIME BUSINESS COMMENTS Again,where? All there are in winter springs are empty office buildings that need to be leased.We don't want our own 14 eyesore. Already have plenty of unleased commercial space. Bring jobs and corporate tax base to WS!It's a no brainer.Stop drawing more residents!!!!! Business is good for our tax base. Disapprove of government targeting business. Keep taxes low and amenities reasonable(as they mostly are today)and businesses will be fine. Don't push for more businesses. would like to see a hardware store,like an Ace Hardware,in our Town Center Area. I'd say yes,but I've watched office bldgs sit empty for decades,others go into foreclosure and decay.Why build and leave empty? It's nice to have restaurants and local shops,not big box stores.If you put in tech businesses in large buildings,use the roofs for recreation and solar. _ Keep the small-town feel.It seems like there are plenty of business opportunities very close by in other cities. More business Ratables means less taxes for residents. No No more business offices. No more growth no starbucks or at least limit to business volume No.Office type businesses are dying off in today's job creating markets regardless of whatever statistics show for new construction. NOT needed!!!Keep it residential Remember that bringing corporate headquarters brings high revenues and a partner in development. Bringing jobs brings only limited opportunities by comparison. Seems like we have a bunch of empty offices already. Seems that office type businesses would house'higher paying'jobs in lieu of service oriented businesses. Although,Winter Springs does not have any guest accommodations,hotels or lodges...perhaps something to be located either at the Town Center or adjacent to 417(?) COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 60 Small businesses are great but let's keep Winter Springs a small town feel. Strike a land use and fiscal balance among industrial,commercial,office and residential of varying densities. We already have too much traffic increasing projects in WS,diminishing that"small towm"feeling. We need good shops and restaurants to get people out into the community. Whatever we do in Winter Springs,I hope we don't become just another hideous Dr.Phillips. While I am not opposed to expanding businesses,it would compete with our current bedroom community atmosphere. Without building more office space!Make use of the space that exists already. Yes if jobs pay>than$20/hr YES,let's get some jobs here first. The rest will follow. Screen 3 - CITY IMPROVEMENTS GENERAL COMMENTS Arts Comment-I love seeing our community come together. Fireworks,Christmas Parade. I would hope that we would be considering how to increase community togetherness and making improvements along those lines. Consolidate public safety department with the county sheriffs office. Do a study on the infrastructure-we don't have the infrastructure to support the building taking place in Winter Springs. Avoiding traffic gridlocks. More upscale SINGLE-family residential communities. Stop trying to get people to come here,it is ok to drive to a nice restaurant and then come back to your own home. Widen 434 east of the 417 Winter Springs must become a Dementia Caring Certified Community/Businesses per the State DCCI Initiative. SEWER AND WATER QUALITY COMMENTS Again,less development and more focus on responsible practices with fertilizers,irrigation,etc. Decrease sewer charge. Drinking water needs attention and quality improvement. How about adding fluoride to the water? Everyone should take a tour of our sewage processing plants. People should be more aware of what they flush down the toilet.Make it easier and safer to dispose of medications and poisons and other contaminant.Instead of any old high-tech business on the Greenway,Maybe we could get some recycling plants and I could actually do something with recycling. Everyone should take a tour of our sewage treatment systems,and learn more about septic systems. Find ways to consistently exceed federal TTHC and other element standards. Current actions are not working. FIX OUR WATER FOR OUR KIDS SAKE!!!! For the amount we pay in water bills,this should be a given,not a question Good as is. Good luck to implement this with our politician Having lived here for over 35 years we have never used tap water for drinking.No one I know in W.S.does.Awful water quality Honestly?This should be the number one issue to tackle.There was a LOT of concern about the water quality report that apparently hasn't been addressed in years.PLEASE fix our water. I recently installed a whole house filtering/softening system due to the borderline water quality issues over the years. It's been a constant worry for my family. I've read the detailed reports and I understand the underlying causes. 1 believe this is one of the top resident concerns you'll be hearing about. I think WS does an outstanding job/service in this area.Keep up the great work. I would love to wake up at 4 am and not have to drink a glass full of chlorine.A better job can be done with our water quality,especially with how much we already pay. Infrastructure sustainment is vital! Including emergency preparedness and hurricane readiness. Keeping water clean is very important.Finally got a good report after years now. Let's get our water standards wayyyy up!We need safe drinking water! Many developments are of an age where sewer&water lines need replacing,not just constant repairs that keep failing. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 61 Much needed! Need help with serious creek bank erosion next to homes bordering Howell Creek. No brainer. Not a resident but creek maintainence could go along with recreation. Our water quality is not where it needs to be. Promises of change with the new plans barely moved the needle Please,seems like the water quality causes piping issues in the homes. Proactive usually better than reactive.Unless company has a tie to a board member. Sanitary and sewer in many areas is so old it is failing in many places. Need to upgrade those areas before adding more homes,apartments and businesses,more stop growth until we catch up The best that can be said about WS water is that it shouldn't kill you. It is undrinkable,smells bad,and ruins plumbing and appliances. It is the worst thing about living in WS. This should be WS highest priority to fix. The water quality here is terrible. This is one of the main functions of most cities and WS fails here. Granted there are local conditions involved, but water quality should be very,very much higher on the list. Much more important than many of the things you're asking about in this survey. The water STINKS.Fix it and stop BSing about it. The water tastes awful in Winter Springs requiring residents to have to buy expensive filters.How about improving the basics of water quality. This has been a major issue for years.Please consider improving our water This is top priority for us.Better water quality Um,I think I do pay for sewer,so yes use those payments for the project...just don't raise taxes or add to my water bill. Very important. Water is so important! Our standards need to be raised;people do read that water report. Some of the bridges in Tuscawilla over the creeks are in terrible condition and need to be overhauled. Water quality is awful.After a few years inside of fixtures get black slimy crap on them.This needs to be fixed. Water quality is subpar and needs a lot of funding and work.I moved from Ocean County NJ to get away from the water quality that we have within the town.We are going to have cancer clusters here in 20 years and everyone is going to be surprised and say that they didn't know every time chemical compounds were found in the water,they didn't realize what was going on.It's time to wake up to better water quality and better,faster monitoring. Water quality should be our#1 priority. Water quality to residents should already be of utmost concern we always have poor water data barely meeting standards. We have to stop cutting down our forest or flooding will happen. Also,we put in more and more apts&residential and power,water,&sewage are not increased in size for this housing increase. More power,water and sewage demand contribute to brown outs,flooding,etc. We need to focus on this one.I have installed a whole house filter and the water is still not good. We should have top notch water and I don't love how much our water smells like chlorine. We should reexamine our use of fluoride in water. Studies show that it is not helpful for preventing tooth decay,and my even be the cause of developmental problems in children. We've already had a steady increase in taxes to support this with little,if no improvement.Humm... Would love the option to go on sewer up on the ranchlands.Lots of us still on septic Yes Yes if considered for existing development.No if a prerequisite is additional development/redevelopment for the sake of increasing density Yes!The city always seems to have problems with their water. Yes,please let's put a little more money into better water quality Yes,yes,yes,yes,yes. Plan for consumption,damage to runoff patterns,impacts of new roads,parking lots,and firms. Yes. Please maintain the creeks and the bridges over them including the eroded areas around the bridges. You're just thinking about this now? COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMENTS and growth COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS REPORT 62