Mayor’s Column
April
By Mayor Anne Gerwig
Spring is the season of new beginnings. We are kicking off this month in high gear, as we prepare for the 2018-2019 Budget. We are completing our budget and will soon focus on the capital plan. We will present a balanced budget that continues to keep Wellington a great hometown.
Wellington’s Council joins staff for the 2018 Directions Workshop which is an integral to formulating the budget. The workshop takes place at Village Hall in early May. Directions is where Council sets our goals for the upcoming year and beyond. Council considers a broad range of topics focusing on sustainability within the Village, community improvement strategies, and planning for the impacts of growth outside of the Village. The Directions process is collaborative and is designed to foster an informed discussion that allows us to make rational and disciplined decisions for the community.
Several more of our major capital projects included in the current budget are underway. We are gearing up for some other major capital projects with construction anticipated to start mid-year.
• Tennis Center Parking Improvements – Spring 2018
• Brown Trail Expansion and Wellington Trace Improvements – starting Spring 2018
• Renewal/Replacement and Expansion of the Water Treatment Plant – starting Summer 2018
• Peaceful Waters Boardwalk Replacement, Phase I – starting Summer 2018
• Big Blue Trace/Barberry Turn Lane Improvements – starting June 2018
• Village Park Baseball Field Drainage Improvements and Dugout Replacements – June 2018
Stay up-to-date with our social media and website updates for these major projects.
If you enjoy the Wellington Green Market, or if you haven’t had a chance to experience it yet, you still have a few weeks left to stop by. The Green Market runs through April 28th, and then returns again in October. The market opens at 9 am every Saturday this month at the Amphitheater.
Summer Camp registrations is now open! Summer is just around the corner, register now before it’s too late. Last year camps filled up fast and we are expecting the same this year. Don’t hesitate and register online today! Wellington’s Summer Recreation Program Guide is available online, so make sure to head to our website www.wellingtonfl.gov to learn more.
Join us Sunday, April 21st starting at 4:00 pm at the Wellington Amphitheater as we celebrate Earth Day and raise awareness for environmental protection. During this free event, you will learn about recycling, composting, and respecting the earth. The celebration features live music, local vendors showcasing earth friendly products, free samples, and giveaways. We will recognize volunteers over the past year for their steadfast commitment to keep our Village green. In doing our part, this year we will plant a Bald Cypress Tree in honor of Arbor Day.
Lastly April brings to a close our Lakeside Family Fun Days and Nights events. Join us on April 14th to close out the Lakeside Family Fun Days events. Stop by for a variety of activities between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., which include kayaking, paddle boarding, bounce houses, lawn games, and demonstrations with local organizations under the pavilion. Additional scheduled activities include yoga, meditation, Zumba, art activities with the Wellington Art Society, a reptile meet and greet, and more! Then join us on April 26th for the last Family Fun Nights on the Lakeside Lei’d Back Luau event starting at 4:30pm to 7:30pm. This event features live Island-style music, food trucks from Wellington’s Thursday night Food Truck series, Hula dancers, face painting, a balloon artist, lawn games, and a Polynesian show featuring dances from Hawaii and Tahiti starting at 5:30 p.m. Guests are invited to learn how to hula with the dancers, and remain after the show for photo opportunities!
In terms of the environment, the Village takes immense pride in its parks, wetlands, and environmental preserves. We recognize the importance of preserving all of nature’s habitats. We must continue to ensure that we protect the environment and the rural charm of our Village. As we look towards the future, Council will continue to focus on the principles of preservation, stewardship, and accountability. Our primary goal is always to deliver for our residents.
A drive around our wonderful Village reveals great neighborhoods, great schools, and outstanding parks. My fellow Council members and I strive to listen to you and our Community. We work to ensure that we sustain and strengthen Wellington because it is our great hometown.
Have a great month. I look forward to seeing you at our events!