MEDIA AVAILABILITY: Sanlando Park Loop Trail Ribbon Cutting
Seminole County, FL (September 30, 2024) — Today, the Seminole County Parks and Recreation Department celebrates the completion of the new loop trail renovations at Sanlando Park in Altamonte Springs. Media are invited to attend a ribbon-cutting of the trail, funded by the One Cent Infrastructure Sales Tax, or Penny Sales Tax. The one-mile loop trail is paved and ADA-accessible, taking pedestrians and cyclists through the shaded areas between Sanlando Park and the Seminole County Softball Complex. The
Seminole County Community Health Promotes Community Health Needs Survey
The Seminole County Community Health Division has partnered with the Central Florida Collaborative to launch the 2025 Community Health Needs Assessment to identify health needs across the region. The survey aims to collect information from residents regarding community resources, health services, access to care, and more. This feedback will help improve the County Community Health Initiative, which aims to provide direct and immediate access to essential resources such as medical and mental health care,
Seminole County Government Television to Broadcast Canvassing Board Meetings
Seminole County, FL (August 11, 2024) — Seminole County Government Television (SGTV), the County’s official government television channel, will provide live coverage of Seminole County Canvassing Board meetings leading up to the August 20 primary election. The Canvassing Board is scheduled to meet:Wednesday, August 14, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., for canvassing of mail ballotsThursday, August 15, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., for canvassing of mail ballotsFriday, August 16, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., for canvassing of mail
Chairman Jay Zembower's Letter to Seminole County Citizens
Citizens of Seminole County, As we enter another election season it is my desire to ensure transparency and integrity in the election process. As a member of the County Canvassing Board, it’s paramount to me that every vote counts, and I will be performing my duties to the best of my ability on your behalf through this election season. The election process is a cornerstone of our great country. We all must have trust and confidence in the election process. Transparency is the single most important
NFPA Donates 500 Comfort Bears to Orange and Seminole County Fire Departments
Orlando, Fla. (July 8, 2024) – The National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) recently hosted its 127th annual conference and expo at the Orange County Convention Center. As part of a community outreach partnership, NFPA donated 500 comfort bears to the Orange County Fire Rescue Department and the Seminole County Fire Department with the goal of supporting the local Central Florida community. NFPA officials delivered the plush stuffed animals at a joint event held at Orange County Fire Rescue
Seminole County Firefighter Earns Florida Hero Recognition From Governor Desantis
Firefighter Chris Martin of the Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) and his wife, Christina Martin recently received an honorary Florida Heroes recognition by Governor Ron DeSantis at the second annual Florida Heroes’ Reception. This distinction is given to those who have made impactful contributions to others and have displayed exceptional courage, compassion, and resilience in the face of adversity. The Martins were two of 70 recipients in Florida to receive this distinguished recognition.
Seminole County's One Pill Can Kill Campaign Aims to Educate Residents
In recognition of Revive Awareness Day, Seminole County Community Services has partnered with local agencies to shine a spotlight on the Drug Enforcement Agency’s (DEA) One Pill Can Kill (OPCK) initiative. In April 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed into law “Victoria’s Law,” also known as Revive Awareness Day, to be proclaimed annually on June 6. This day is intended to raise awareness of the dangers of opioid overdose and the availability of life-saving Naloxone, a lifesaving opioid antagonist that can
2024 ESTIMATES FOR TAXABLE VALUES ANNOUNCED BY SEMINOLE COUNTY PROPERTY APPRAISER DAVID JOHNSON
2024 ESTIMATES FOR TAXABLE VALUES ANNOUNCED BY SEMINOLE COUNTY PROPERTY APPRAISER DAVID JOHNSON (Sanford, Florida) Seminole County Property Appraiser David Johnson has provided the 2024 Estimate of Taxable Values to the taxing authorities for budget planning purposes. The values include real and personal property per Florida Statute 200.065(7). The estimates will be finalized prior to July 1st and submitted to the Department of Revenue for approval and taxing authorities will then receive their
Seminole County Fire Department Teaches Nearly 500 9th and 11th Grade Students at Winter Springs High School Students Hands-Only CPR
Seminole County, Fla. (May 21, 2024) – Florida House Bill 157 (approved in 2021 Legislative) requires school districts to provide basic training in first aid, including CPR for all students in 9th and 11th grades. For the second year in a row, the Seminole County Fire Department’s trained all 9th and 11th grade students at Winter Springs High School over two days in hands-only CPR – this was nearly 500 students. The initiative is through SCFD’s Save-a-Life Seminole program. Hands-only CPR has been shown
‘Bring the Heat’ Classic Girls Gymnastics Competition Raises $10,000 to Support Cancer Preventative Initiatives for Firefighters
Seminole County, Fla. – January’s Meet Expectations’ ‘Bring the Heat’ Classic Girls Gymnastics Competition fundraised nearly $10,000 to help support cancer preventative initiative’s for Firefighters. The meet was in honor of fallen Orange County Fire Department Rescue’s firefighter Stephen “Shakey” VanRavenswaay, and Shakey’s daughter Brittney VanRavenswaay was part of the organizing committee for the gymnastics meet. Shakey died of pancreatic cancer at the age of 44 in 2015. 72% of Firefighter
Seminole County Announces 2024 Sports Hall of Fame Inductees
The Seminole County Sports Hall of Fame Committee is pleased to announce the induction class of 2024. These eight individuals represent a wide range of sports including basketball, soccer, volleyball, swimming, and youth sports refereeing. The inductees will be honored on Thursday, May 16 at Hagerty High School in Oviedo during the annual Seminole County High School Night of Champions ceremony. Attendance at the ceremony will be limited to inductees, their family members, and invited guests. Learn more
Seminole County Fire Department and HCA Florida Partner to Teach All Keeth Elementary Students Hands-Only CPR
Recently, the Seminole County Fire Department partnered with HCA Healthcare to teach all 550 Keeth Elementary School students (kindergarten – 5th grade) lifesaving hands-only CPR. Hands-only CPR was taught by Keeth staff, the Seminole County Fire Department and HCA Florida Healthcare. The initiative is part of “Keeth has Heart,” which includes teaching students how to live a healthy life, learning hands only CPR, and participating in the Kids Heart Challenge jump rope fundraiser to benefit the American
Seminole County Applauds as State of Florida Adds Yarborough Ranch to Florida Forever Program
Seminole County, FL (March 26, 2024) — The Seminole County Board of County Commissioners celebrated today as the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Board of Trustees approved the addition of the Yarborough Ranch property in Geneva to the Florida Forever list to be acquired by the State for conservation. This the first addition of a Seminole County property to Florida Forever. Formerly a cattle ranch, the property's 1,361 acres will serve as an important component of the Florida Wildlife
Seminole County Fire Department Partners With Pure Barre Lake Mary And Raises Money For St. Baldrick
Seminole County, Fla. (March 26, 2024) – In an effort to support the fight against childhood cancers, the Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) was recently crowned the winner for the 6th straight year in a row for fundraising for the Central Florida’s St. Baldrick’s Foundation event. Seminole County Fire Department’s team raised a total of $15,0095.14 and Engineer/Paramedic John Loria raised the most individual amount with $5,796. SCFD also proudly partnered with Pure Barre Lake Mary to host a
Spring Break Camp for Seminole County Children Impacted by Hurricane Ian
Seminole County, FL (March 20, 2024) — The Seminole County Office of Emergency Management, Seminole HEART, the YMCA of Central Florida, and the American Red Cross have partnered to provide Project:Camp, a free spring break day camp to children of families impacted by Hurricane Ian in 2022. The week-long camp, staffed by trained personnel from Project:Camp and the YMCA, offers critical social and emotional support and trauma-informed programming. Fifty registered campers who were impacted by flooding
Seminole County Partners With Sanford’s Swim Life For National Pool Safety Grant To Provide Free Survival Swim Lessons To Seminole County Youth
Seminole County, FL (March 8, 2024) — Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages one to four in Florida. In an effort to combat this statistic, the Seminole County Community Health Division received a two-year Pool Safely Grant from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission totaling $194,535. Seminole County recently awarded $115,000 of the grant funds to the Swim Life swim school in Sanford to provide free survival swim lessons to Seminole County residents as well as drowning prevention
Seminole County Fire Department Earns CFAI International Accreditation Status
Seminole County, FL (February 28, 2024) – The Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) is proud to announce it is now an Internationally Accredited Agency with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI). To receive the accreditation, SCFD met or exceeded rigorous standards and criteria established through CFAI’s self-assessment and accreditation program. SCFD is one of more than 300 agencies, including 29 in Florida and nine in Central Florida, with International Accredited Agency status
Seminole County Veterans' Services Officers Obtain Over $5 Million in Retroactive Compensation for Veterans
Seminole County, FL (February 22, 2024) — In 2023, the Seminole County Veterans' Services Office helped local veterans receive more than $5 million in retroactive compensation from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Seminole County Veteran Service Officers assist veterans with obtaining disability compensation for benefits they were entitled to but didn't receive due to administrative delays or appeals. The experienced officers advise on applications and documentation, acting as intermediaries
Seminole County Awarded Nearly $200k Pool Safety Grant To Prevent Drownings By U.S. Consumer Product
Seminole County, FL (February 19, 2024) — Seminole County Government was recently awarded a two-year pool safety grant of $194,535 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for pool safety, education, training, and enforcement. The Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD), the Gunner Martin Foundation, and the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office Community Foundation will partner to use the funds for various education and outreach efforts that aim to prevent drownings and save lives. Only eight state and
U.S. Navy And Seminole County Fire Department & Seminole County Sheriff’s Office Conducted Joint Training Exercise During Daytona Beach Navy Week
Seminole County, Fla. (February 19, 2024) – The United States Navy recently collaborated with the Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) and the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) for a joint training exercise during Daytona Beach Navy Week. This cooperative effort aimed to foster a meaningful exchange of knowledge between active-duty Sailors and first responders, strengthening the bond between military and civilian emergency services.The scenario, carefully crafted for training purposes, facilitated a
Seminole County Fire Department Honors Personnel & Citizens Who Go Above And Beyond
Sanford, Fla. (February 8, 2024) – The Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD)recently held its Annual Awards Ceremony at Action Church in Winter Park. The eventwas emceed by WOFL FOX 35’s Danielle Knox and was attended by nearly 100personnel. More than a dozen awards were given to those who hadgone above and beyond for the Department over the last year. “During our Annual Awards Ceremony, we are proud to recognize personnel whoembody the high standards we aim to achieve every day in serving our citizens,”
Seminole County Animal Services Launches Pets For Patriots
Seminole County, FL (February 1, 2024) — Seminole County Animal Services is launching a new adoption program for our military veterans in partnership with Pets for Patriots. By joining forces with Pets for Patriots, Seminole County Animal Services will offer a free pet adoption to veterans who adopt program-eligible dogs and cats. Animals eligible for adoption through the Pets for Patriots Program include;Dog or cat, at least 2 years of age ORDog or cat with special needs ORDog or cat in the shelter with
Seminole County Officials Celebrate Wekiva Parkway Grand Opening
Seminole County, FL (January 30, 2024) — Seminole County officials joined the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX) on Friday to celebrate the grand opening of the Wekiva Parkway. The 25-mile toll road completes the beltway around Central Florida by connecting State Road (S.R.) 429 to S.R. 417. The Wekiva Parkway opening will minimize traffic congestion, benefit economic growth in the region, and protect sensitive natural resources in Seminole
Seminole County Fire Department Celebrates Opening Of New Fire Station 11 Facility Serving Altamonte
Seminole County, Fla. (January 19, 2024) – The Seminole County Fire Department in partnership with the Seminole County Board of County Commissioners and the City of Altamonte Springs, recently celebrated the opening of the brand new Fire Station 11, located at 2721 S. Ronald Reagan Boulevard in Altamonte Springs. The $5.78 million station was built less than a quarter mile from its original home, allowing the station to continue serving its existing first-due area of nearly 13,000 residents while
ECNL Soccer Events Generate Over $5.2M in Economic Impact to Seminole County
Seminole County, FL (January 5, 2024) — Seminole County will once again host the annual Elite Clubs National League (ECNL) Girls and Boys soccer events at Sylvan Lake Park, the Seminole Soccer Complex, and the Boombah Sports Complex on January 6–8 and February 2–4, 2024. These events bring over 23,000 players, coaches, and visitors to the area, occupying over 3,800 hotel rooms and generating a direct economic impact of more than $5.2 million to Seminole County. More than 335 teams from around the country
Seminole County Animal Services Launches Seniors For Seniors Campaign
Seminole County, FL (January 3, 2024) — Seminole County Animal Services is launching a new adoption special this January, offering FREE senior pets (6 years or older) to any senior (60 years of age or older). This program is designed to help senior humans rediscover the joys of having a cat or dog in their lives. There are numerous reasons why companion animals are great for seniors: Companion Animals Lower Blood Pressure: According to a scientific statement from the American Heart Association, people
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New Technology in All Seminole County Fire Apparatus Alerts Drivers of Emergency Responses
HAAS Digital Warning System for Road Safety Sends Real-Time Notices to Drivers When Emergency Vehicles Are Close in Proximity Seminole County, Fla. (December 12, 2023) – In an effort to enhance road safety and protect first responders and the motoring public, the Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) is now integrating HAAS Alert's Safety Cloud® digital alerting into all of its fire apparatus. This collision prevention service delivers real-time alerts to Seminole County drivers when SCFD
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The Seminole County Fire Department Welcomes 17 New Members in Class 23-03
(Seminole County, Fla.) – The Seminole County Fire Department recently celebrated the graduation of 17 new probationary Firefighters in Class 23-03. The graduation was held at CrossLife Church in Oviedo and Assistant Chief/B Shift Commander Bryon Chaney delivered the keynote address. SCFD Chaplain Kevin Matlock of CrossLife Church is a retired SCFD Firefighter. Class leader was Firefighter Caitlin Knoppe. Special guests included firefighter therapy dog Winston and his mom Erin of Chuluota. Half of the
Seminole County Animal Services Hosts Naughty List Fundraiser
Seminole County, FL (December 1, 2023) — Seminole County Animal Services is getting creative when it comes to fundraising for the interior design of our newly constructed Catio by introducing the Naughty List. For a $5 donation, individuals can add a naughty name to Santa’s list aka a litter box. Our cats will do the rest! This fundraiser will run all month at Animal Services and will be introduced at the inaugural Paws & Claus event this Saturday, December 2, 2023. Individuals can donate in person at
Seminole County Animal Services Hosts Paws & Claus This Saturday
Seminole County, FL (November 29, 2023) — Join Seminole County Animal Services for our first ever Paws & Claus event this Saturday, December 2, 2023. With the shelter currently full of animals, and our rescue partners in similar situations, Seminole County aims to highlight all the pets that are available for adoption and ready for a forever home. In 2023 so far, Seminole County Animal Services has taken in 7,239 animals. As Seminole County has faced influxes of animals several times over the last year
Commissioner Zembower Elected to Chair Seminole County Commission
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (NOVEMBER 15, 2023) – Seminole County Commissioner Jay Zembower was elected Tuesday by his fellow County Commissioners as Chairman of the Seminole County Board of County Commissioners. Chairman Zembower was first elected as Seminole County Commissioner for District 2 in 2018. He served as Chairman in 2020, successfully leading the County during the pandemic. “I am extremely optimistic about the County’s outlook,” said Chairman Zembower. “My goal is to help lead our County by
Seminole County Fire, Sanford Fire and American Red Cross Set Home Fire Safety Record: Install 372 Smoke Alarms in Sanford
Seminole County, Fla. (October 31, 2023) – The American Red Cross of Central Florida, the Seminole County Fire Department and the Sanford Fire Department recently set a record in the Greater Orlando for smoke alarm installed. The group installed 372 free smoke alarms in 196 homes in Carriage Cove, a manufactured homes community in Sanford. The effort was part of Fire Prevention Month and more than 80 volunteers participated, including:3 Lockheed Martin Volunteers15 Youth Red Cross Volunteers12 Red Cross
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Seminole County Fire Acquires Two High-Water/Flood & Multi-Use Rescue Vehicles
The Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) has two older 6x6 high-water vehicles that were built in 1968. SCFD used them for water rescues during Hurricane Ian in flood-prone areas. Due to the need for continued natural disaster preparedness and response in the County, in April 2023, the Seminole County Board of County Commissioners approved a little over a half million dollars ($502,000) to purchase two new 6x6 high-water vehicles (Acela Monterra GL Cassis Cabs) with enhanced capabilities to replace the
Animals From Recent Animal Abuse Case Go Up For Adoption at Seminole County Animal Services
Seminole County, FL (October 10, 2023) – Over a dozen animals recently signed over in the Tonya Grose animal abuse case are now going up for adoption. During the last two weeks, these animals have all been carefully monitored by our Veterinary staff and are now ready to be adopted to loving and caring homes. Those animals that are still in need of additional Veterinary attention continue to be cared for by staff at Seminole County Animal Services. All animal adoptions continue to be just $10 to
Seminole County Sports Hall of Fame Accepting Nominations for Class of 2024
Seminole County, FL (October 2, 2023) – The Seminole County Sports Hall of Fame Committee is accepting nominations for the 2024 recognition class of male and female athletes and contributors now through February 28, 2024. AWARDS GIVEN: • ATHLETE: Current/former residents (at least 35 years old) who attained excellence in athletics in Seminole County.• CONTRIBUTOR: Coaches, officials, administrators, financial supporters, or members of the media who contributed to athletics in Seminole County.• LEGACY:
Seminole County Fire Honored with Life Saving Award/EMS during Patriot Day Breakfast Hosted by CFHLA
Seminole County, Fla. (September 28, 2023) – Personnel from the Seminole County Fire Department and Seminole County Sheriff’s Office were recently honored with a Life Saving Award in the category of Fire Rescue/EMS during the Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association’s (CFHLA) Annual Patriot Remembrance Day Breakfast, which reflects on the tragic events of September 11, 2001 and honors local heroes. During the ceremony, local fire rescue, law enforcement emergency medical services and security personnel
Seminole County Commission Adopts 2023-24 Fiscal Year Budget
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (SEPTEMBER 26, 2023) – The Seminole County Board of County Commissioners approved today a budget totaling $1.07 billion for Fiscal Year (FY) 2023-2024. The FY 2023-2024 Budget utilizes the County’s financial resources in the most responsive and efficient manner to meet the community’s needs. The budget preserves current service levels while maintaining without an increase in countywide ad valorem, fire, and road millage rates. The budget maintains the countywide ad valorem tax rate at
Over 40 Animals Surrendered in Animal Cruelty Case; Seminole County Animal Services Over Capacity
Seminole County, FL (September 21, 2023) - Last night, over 40 animals were surrendered to Seminole County Animal Services following an animal cruelty arrest in Altamonte Springs. Numerous dogs, cats and birds were all found inside of a home after reports of a pungent odor. All live animals were surrendered to the care of Seminole County Animal Services following the arrest and are now being evaluated by the Veterinary team. This influx of animals has stressed an already full shelter with dozens of
Seminole County Fire Department Celebrates Groundbreaking For Station 39 In Northwest Area Of The County In Order To Serve Growing Population
Seminole County, Fla. (September 19, 2023) – The Seminole County Fire Department in partnership with the Seminole County Board of County Commissioners and County Management recently hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for Fire Station 39, which will serve the Northwest area of the County in the Paola/Heathrow area. Local dignitaries, neighbors, partners, County officials and fire personnel gathered for an official groundbreaking ceremony of Fire Station 39 held on September 19, 2023. The new site will be
Commissioner Constantine Appointed to NACo Transportation Committee
SEMINOLE COUNTY, FL (SEPTEMBER 5, 2023) – Seminole County Commissioner Lee Constantine was recently appointed to the National Association of Counties (NACo) Transportation Policy Steering Committee and will serve as Vice Chair of the Transit and Rail Subcommittee. Active in NACo for many years, Constantine is a member of NACo’s Board of Directors, as well as Vice Chair of the NACo Programs and Services Standing Committee. Commissioner Constantine previously served as a member of the Environment, Energy
