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Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence: The Seminole County Fire Department
The Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) reached a significant milestone on October 1, 2024, and celebrated 50 years of dedicated service to the community. Most notably, the Seminole County Fire Department hosted a 50th anniversary reunion for retired firefighters and current personnel to reminisce and celebrate the growth over the last half century. More than 200 retirees, including all five former Fire Chiefs and some of the original 1974 crews participated in the event. Food was generously donated by
Seminole County Celebrates Strong Voter Support for Penny Sales Tax Renewal
Seminole County is thrilled to announce the successful renewal of the Penny Sales Tax with over 73% voter approval, demonstrating strong community support for continued infrastructure investment. The passage of the Penny Sales Tax renewal empowers Seminole County, its seven cities, and Seminole County Public Schools to move forward with critical projects that ensure the safety, connectivity, and sustainability of our community. Since its inception in 1991, the Penny Sales Tax has transformed Seminole
City of Sanford to Install Trail Town Sign Following Designation from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Office of Greenways and Trails
The City of Sanford recently celebrated its recognition as a Florida Trail Town with a special photo opportunity featuring Sanford Mayor Art Woodruff, City Manager Norton Bonaparte, and Seminole County Commissioner Andria Herr. The officials gathered to pose with the new Trail Town sign, which will soon be installed in Downtown Sanford, along the Sanford RiverWalk trail, highlighting the city’s commitment to outdoor recreation and eco-tourism. The Trail Town Program designation, awarded by the Florida
Seminole County Accepts Generous Donation of 10 Starlink Mini Kits from Congressman Mills
Seminole County is proud to announce the acceptance of 10 Starlink Mini Kits, generously donated by Congressman Cory Mills, to enhance the County's emergency communication capabilities. The donation was presented at the Seminole County Emergency Operations Center, where Seminole County Vice Chair Andria Herr, Sheriff Dennis Lemma, County Manager Darren Gray, and Fire Chief Matt Kinley were in attendance to accept the gift on behalf of the County. During the presentation, Congressman Mills also honored
Hurricane Milton Afternoon Updates: Thursday, October 10
Seminole County, FL (October 10, 2024) — Seminole County officials announced the following updates for Hurricane Milton during this morning's news conference. Watch the full update on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUfZzsHXd1U POWER OUTAGES: Since Wednesday night, Seminole County has had over 80,000 power outages with reports of downed trees and gusts of wind at speeds of 89 miles per hour. This morning, there were over 115 traffic signals down across the County, with roads closed due to
Hurricane Milton Afternoon Updates: Wednesday, October 9
Seminole County officials announced the following updates for Hurricane Milton this afternoon. For the latest information, visit PrepareSeminole.org or register for alerts by texting 'Storm2024' to 888-777. Watch the full update on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/BbWyd3ryywU?si=KmVzoYA8zoRQHnr7 EVACUATION ORDER: Seminole County issued an evacuation order for residents with special needs, in mobile homes, and in flood prone or low-lying areas. If you’ve experienced flooding before, like during
NEWS CONFERENCE: Seminole County Shelter Openings
Seminole County, FL (October 8, 2024) — The Seminole County Office of Emergency Management is preparing to open shelters on Wednesday morning at 8 a.m. A list of general population, pet-friendly, and special needs shelters will be shared on PrepareSeminole.org after today's 2 p.m. news conference. Shelters should be used as a last resort alternative to evacuation or sheltering with friends or family. Cots are not provided at General Population Shelters. Special needs shelters are open to those who need
Hurricane Milton Afternoon Updates: Tuesday, October 8
Seminole County, FL (October 8, 2024) — Seminole County officials announced the following updates for Hurricane Milton this afternoon, Tuesday, October 8, 2024. For the latest information, visit PrepareSeminole.org or register for alerts by texting 'Storm2024' to 888-777. Watch the full update on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/YjuRX-tyebc?si=Qr_IUH7QqYnu_qEa SHELTERS: Eight shelters are opening at 8 a.m. tomorrow, Wednesday, October 9 – this includes special needs, pet friendly, and general
Hurricane Milton Update No. 1
Friends, As our region prepares for another tropical impact, the Seminole County Chamber can be a resource for your business before and after the storm. If you're like me, you're watching every Milton forecast, trying to make the difficult decisions on a wide range of things, understanding forecasts and outlook change. You feel the pressure to not be wrong, to ensure your employees and customers are safe, and to continue operating as long as possible. Right now, the Chamber will be closed
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
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
