July 3, 2025 Oviedo in the News

CITY OF OVIEDO

OVIEDO IN THE NEWS JULY 2025

TABLE OF CONTENTS City Council News from City Hall Events Employment Projects Recreation and Parks Public Safety Our Environment For Your Health

MEETINGS: June 23, 2025 - City Council Work Session - 5:30 p.m.

July 7, 2025 - City Council Meeting - 6:30 p.m.

City Council Chambers Oviedo City Hall - 400 Alexandria Blvd., Oviedo You can also view all public meetings live on the City's YouTube Channel!

City Offices Closure All City Offices will be closed on Friday, July 4, 2025 to observe Independence Day. Offices will re-open Monday, July 7, 2025 at 8 a.m.

Don't forget to join us at the Oviedo Mall for our Independence Day Celebration starting at 5 p.m. inside the mall. Vendors, food, fun and games and mall shopping before fireworks at 9 p.m. outside!

A Call to Artists!

The City of Oviedo and Public Arts Board are putting out a Call to Artists! We are looking for a logo design for the newly created Oviedo Arts and Entertainment District, located in Oviedo on the Park. The logo will be placed on a white, plastic reusable 16 oz. cup. The logo will identify the approved cups to be used as an open container within the district boundaries. Artists must be 18 years old or older and reside in the state of Florida. To send in your application, CLICK HERE Please fill out the form completely to be considered. The artist chosen will receive $1,000! If you have any questions, please reach out to Dalia Acosta at dacosta@cityofoviedo.net.

The deadline to submit is end-of-day August 4, 2025.

Design Guidelines Aspect Ratio: Must be 1:1 or 3:2 (vertical).

File Format: Initial submissions must be in SVG, PNG, or PDF. Final design will be required in vector format (EPS or SVG).

Color: Designs must include both a full-color and a single-color version.

Text Requirement: The logo must include the name "Oviedo Arts and Entertainment District."

Application Requirements To be considered, artists must submit the following: A completed entry form (available on the City’s website) The proposed logo design (SVG, PNG, or PDF) A current résumé or CV A one-paragraph artist biography An artist statement describing the vision behind the logo A proposed project schedule

Utility Customer Service Survey ​We'd love to hear from our customers!

If you are a new or existing utility customer, we'd love to hear from you! If you are a utility customer, we would love your feedback. Please take a few moments to complete a survey to let our customer service representatives know how we are doing.

Fill out the survey here Thank you for taking the time to fill out our survey. We do provide hard-copy surveys at our Utility Department located at 320 Alexandria Blvd. Please feel free to remain anonymous or provide any information if you'd like to be contacted.​

HURRICANE SEASON - JUNE 1 - NOVEMBER 30 Hurricane Season is just around the corner and now is the time to prepare yourself, your family and your property to make sure you are ready should a storm come.

In 2024 we have Hurricanes Helene and Milton pass over and thankfully Oviedo was spared any significant damage. Use our website to download a checklist and make sure all the boxes are checked.

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS WEB PAGE BE FLOOD AWARE It is a good time now to be Flood Aware and your insurance policy needs to be in place 30 days before a major storm event for claims. Residents should know what they can do to protect their property before the summer storms and hurricane season. Heavy storms can come through our area on any given day during the rainy season, causing water to rise.

Homes can easily flood, even if the homes/neighborhoods are not in a published flood hazard area. Here is some information the City can provide for you to help navigate through the insurance process.

If you would like to make an inquiry or need a copy of an elevation certificate or require a letter as verification, please tell us the street address and, if available, the subdivision, lot and block number. The City of Oviedo does not charge for this service. We are open from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please contact the Stormwater Coordinator at 407-971-5682 or e-mail at akortus@cityofoviedo.net.

INTERACTIVE FLOOD MAP

Safety Tips A lot is going on before, during and after a storm. You want to make sure your family and property are ready for the storm. Once the storm passes, there are still dangers that can lurk even when the clouds have cleared and the sun is shining.

Roadway flooding - you may want to get out of the house and go survey your neighborhood or area, but there could be hidden dangers in roadway flooding. If water is completely covering a road, you will not be able to see where the road starts and where the ditch begins. If you see water across a road, just turn around, don't drown.

If you lose power and are relying on a generator for power, know how to use it! NEVER EVER put a generator in the home, under a window, by a door or in the garage. Generators expel carbon monoxide, which is an odorless gas that can kill. Keep it at least 20 feet from the house in an open area and plug only the essentials in.

Power poles may break and power lines may be on the ground. NEVER assume the lines are not conducting electricity. Never touch downed powerlines. Call your local power company to report them. Do not drive over them, do not walk over them. Turn around.

When cleaning up debris, handle with caution. Broken limbs are sharp; there could be other debris such as broken glass, nails and even stinging bugs or snakes that may be buried in the debris. Wear protective gear such as boots, gloves and eye coverings. If you are using power tools such as a chainsaw, read the instructions and handle with caution.

Oviedo Cultural Center Rentals Do you have an event you're planning and looking for a venue to host it? The Oviedo Cultural Center is the perfect place?

It is a full-service facility that can host events such as: Wedding Receptions Birthday Parties Retirement Parties Corporate Workshops/Functions Training and so much more To see what is offered and costs, please use THIS CULTURAL CENTER INFO LINK We have a list of vendors for use, tables/chairs/dance floor and may other amenities that come with package pricing. You can even rent the side stage, amphitheatre and lawn for your event! Free parking on site.

We are Hiring!

Here are the most up-to-date job listings!

Development Services Intern - Part Time Engineer - Full Time Heavy Equipment Operator - Full Time Maintenance Worker I - Full Time Police Officer - Full Time - Sign On Bonus Police Officer Trainee - Full Time Recreation Aide Specialist - Part Time

The City of Oviedo is Hiring! Check out the Sign-On Bonus! We offer full and part-time positions with benefits that fit your lifestyle, including: Competitive wages, A complete Wellness plan with an on-site clinic at no cost to you, dental and vision plans, flex spending accounts and other voluntary supplemental coverages. We have a full retirement plan that includes a 401K plan with 5% matching, a 457 deferred compensation plan, Roth IRA and public safety pension plans. Paid time off includes holidays, vacation, sick and bereavement days. Other perks of the job include a free Employee Assistance Program, free recreation membership, city discounts, tuition reimbursement and best of all…a chance to advance in your career doing what you love!

Public Works Capital Improvement Projects The Public Works team has been busy working to establish an easy-to-use story board where citizens can check on the progress of any of our capital improvement programs and repairs happening around the city.

This map shows all projects for: Water Stormwater Reclaimed Water Wastewater Transportation Click on the image below and go straight to all the projects!

Twin Rivers Storm Line Work A city vendor, Flotech, will be in Twin Rivers starting this week and into Thursday of next week, conducting learning and proactive work of the storm lines in the neighborhood. This is a cleaning and inspection that is done annually by the city and vendors. A city vendor, Flotech, will be in Twin Rivers starting this week and into Thursday of next week, conducting learning and proactive work of the storm lines in the neighborhood. This is cleaning and inspection that is done annually by the city and vendors.

Oviedo Blvd. Closure for Repairs Oviedo Blvd. Road Work - A portion of Oviedo Blvd, just north of Mike Roberto Way, will be closed for repairs starting Monday, July 7. Barring weather issues, the work is expected to be completed on July 11th. There will be detours in place. Please do not attempt to drive around the barricades. Follow the detours and drive with caution in the area. The repair work is being done to the damaged portion of the road that was washed out.

Fireworks Safety Our Firefighters want to remind everyone to be safe if you've picked up fireworks to use at home. We recommend everyone attend the professional fireworks shows, like the one that will happen at the Oviedo Mall on July 5th instead of trying to put on your own show at home. There can be devastating injuries if fireworks are handled wrong.

Please be safe this holiday weekend.

Drinking and Driving We want everyone to celebrate Independence Day with a long weekend, but we don't want anyone putting lives at risk if you decide to get behind the wheel after a few drinks. Not only do you risk yourself but you are putting the lives of other people in danger. Use a ride share program, have a designated driver or have a sober friend or family member drive you home. Facing a night in jail is not worth it either. Be safe Oviedo.

School Resource Officer of the Year The Oviedo Police Department is proud to announce that Officer Ashley Pierce has been named the Florida School Resource Officer of the Year by the Florida Association of School Resource Officers (FASRO). The award was presented during FASRO’s annual conference held over the weekend in Miami.

The Florida Attorney General/Florida Association of School Resource Officers SRO of the Year award is presented annually to a School Resource Officer who has made a significant contribution to their school and community.

This award is to recognize an individual who has gone above and beyond their normal duties as an SRO and has shown dedication and a tireless work ethic to enhance the SRO philosophy of counselor, teacher, and law enforcement officer. Each year the AG and FASRO partner to choose a victor.

Officer Pierce, an 18-year veteran of the Oviedo Police Department, currently serves as the School Resource Officer (SRO) at Lawton Chiles Middle School. Her dedication to students extends far beyond her regular duties.

She leads several impactful programs on campus, including the school’s food pantry to support families facing food insecurity, Panther Threads, a clothing donation closet for students, and a school supply drive at the start of each school year. Officer Pierce also organizes the school’s Angel Tree Program during the holidays, an annual Thanksgiving basket donation drive, and a holiday toy drive.

She even coordinates a holiday store, where students can select gifts for their families, extending her support to other schools across the district as well.

Officer Pierce is often accompanied by her comfort K9, Xander, a beloved presence at the school who provides emotional support and helps students manage stress and anxiety. Together, Officer Pierce and Xander foster a safe and nurturing school environment where students can thrive both emotionally and academically.

“Officer Pierce is so passionate about her community and helping kids who need it the most,” said Oviedo Police Chief Dale Coleman. “She is a rock for the kids at the school and exemplifies everything a police officer should be in Oviedo.”

The impact Officer Pierce has had on her school and the broader community cannot be overstated.

Her ability to build meaningful, trusting relationships with students, staff, and families is at the core of her success. She creates a positive, supportive atmosphere that is essential for a strong learning environment.

Pierce was selected from a pool of candidates across the state. The announcement was kept a surprise until the official presentation at the conference.

Founded in 1979, the Florida Association of School Resource Officers provides comprehensive training and support for school-based law enforcement throughout the state.

Window and Door Alarms We are getting into our hot season and this is the time of year where we spend a lot of time outside. The Fire Department has partnered with the Wesley Seth Foundation to make drowning deaths preventable. Fill out this INTEREST FORM and we can provide you with FREE door and window alarms that will alert you if a little one goes outside to explore and play in bodies of water. Florida has the highest drowning rates of children ages 0-9. Let’s prevent drownings!

Follow us!

Facebook: OviedoPD OviedoFireDepartment Twitter: @OviedoPD @OviedoFire

Oviedo Police Department is Hiring We are hiring police officers! When we are Stronger Together, so is our Community. Sign On Bonus 3K-10K (depending on years of experience) When we are Stronger Together, so is our community. We offer great ongoing benefits and a pension with the ability to rise through the ranks and earn certifications. Oviedo provides opportunities and a close-knit community, and it is the perfect place to raise a family! Apply here: https://tinyurl.com/jc48uzn7 Pay plan: Salary Starting $57,303.42 - $63,033.76 Police Pension with DROP (for qualified officers) Educational Incentive (for qualified officers) up to $130.00/month Tuition Assistance Program - up to $3,000 per fiscal year.

Shift Differential (night shift), K-9 Incentive, FTO Incentive (for qualified officers) Longevity (for qualified officers) For newly-hired, out-of-state officers, they will receive a $5,000 State of Florida Recruitment Bonus.

Please fill out all the information completely to be considered for the position.

Wildlife Whereabouts Looking for a fun and educational summer activity for the whole family? Join "Wildlife Whereabouts"—a new initiative from the City of Oviedo Public Works Department that combines outdoor adventure with citizen science!

Get outside, explore nature, and help track native wildlife by uploading your sightings to our interactive wildlife map. Whether you spot turtles, hawks, otters, or even something more elusive, your photos and observations can help us better track Oviedo's ecosystems and biodiversity.

Visit the City’s Stormwater Page Scroll to the Floodplain Habitats and Wildlife Map Look for active species to find in your area Submit your sightings here

SAFETY REMINDER Please observe wildlife from a safe distance. Never disturb nests, eggs, or young animals—this is not only harmful but prohibited by law. Refrain from feeding or attempting to approach ANY wild animals. Keep kids away from snakes, alligators, and/or bears. Remember, the goal is observation, not interaction.

This is a fantastic way to keep kids engaged, support environmental education, and contribute to wildlife conservation efforts. Let’s reconnect with nature—responsibly.

Otter Box The City of Oviedo’s Public Works Department proudly introduces the newly re-wrapped Stormwater vehicle, affectionately nicknamed the “Otter Box.” Designed to support stormwater education and outreach throughout the city, the Otter Box brings a fresh and engaging look to an important environmental program.

The vehicle features eye-catching graphics centered around an otter theme—connecting directly to the City’s ongoing Wildlife Whereabouts initiative, which encourages residents to document sightings of native wildlife, including otters that inhabit local waterways like Sweetwater Creek, Live Oak Reserve, and the Little Econ River.

“This vehicle used to be a familiar sight at city events as part of our stormwater education efforts,” said Stormwater and Floodplain Administrator Amanda Kortus. “The previous wrap had become worn, so we retired it temporarily. Now it’s back on the streets with a fun and fresh design, ready to help educate our community.”

The Otter Box will once again serve as a mobile educational display at events promoting awareness about how stormwater systems work and why protecting local waterways is so important. The otter was chosen because they have been seen in Sweetwater Creek, Live Oak and the Little Econ River, making them the perfect, adorable mascot for stormwater.

In addition, Public Works wants to promote the Wildlife Whereabouts programs, where residents and visitors can take pictures and report where they have seen local wildlife.

Keep an eye out for the Otter Box around town—and remember, protecting our stormwater system helps protect our local wildlife. The City would like to thank Just Wraps for their great workmanship wrapping the Otter Box.

Do not feed the Ducks Feeding the ducks creates many issues, including poor nutrition, spread of disease through feces, overcrowding and prevents them from developing natural foraging abilities. Their excrement pollutes our waterways and harms not just other wildlife but your pets as well. Please spread the word and remind your neighbors to avoid feeding the ducks.

Do Not Litter Waterways Let's keep our waterways clean! If you see any intentional dumping, please let us know! Not only is dumping unsightly, but it is also illegal & can contaminate waterways. Please do your part and pick up after yourselves. Use our FIX IT FORM to report any litter you may see.

PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES Special Events Athletics Youth Adult Aquatics Youth Adults Seniors Activities Youth Teens Adults Seniors Parks and Facilities Senior Programs Oviedo Cultural Center Volunteer Opportunities

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA TO STAY UPDATED ON PROGRAMS Facebook: OviedoRecNParks Twitter: City of Oviedo Rec and Parks

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR PROGRAMS ONLINE

Memberships Available for Residents and Non-Residents

SPLASH ZONE HOURS SPLASH ZONE (3 SESSIONS) 12:00pm - 2:00pm (check in begins @ 11:30am) 2:00pm - 4:00pm (check in begins @ 1:30pm) 4:00pm - 6:00pm (check in begins @ 3:30pm)

Daily Admission: Oviedo City Resident - $6 Non-Resident - $9

Enjoy Our Facilities For Your Health Each month we will feature a place at our facilities where you can practice healthy habits throughout the year. These spaces will include not just physical health, but mental health breaks as well.

​RIVERSIDE POOL Get some laps in or take a class! Riverside pool is open to the public and we offer open swim times, seniors swim aerobics or swim lessons for children and adults. It's hot outside right now, so why not take advantage of the water? It's a great way to build muscles in the arms and legs while enjoying the refreshing pool.

There are memberships available for residents and non-residents.

Riverside Pool is located at Riverside Park, 1600 Lockwood Blvd., Oviedo FL 32765

July - Senior (55+) Open Swim Monday through Thursday 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Friday 8:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.​ Click here for more information about prices and lessons

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