A technology that can help police find stolen cars, locate missing people and connect vehicles to serious crimes is now sitting on the sidelines in two Lake County communities.

Clermont and Groveland police have both suspended their automated license plate reader programs, putting a temporary halt to a surveillance tool that has become increasingly valuable to law enforcement — while also raising difficult questions about privacy, data retention and government oversight.

The decisions were made as concerns continue to grow over how automated license plate reader, or ALPR, technology should be used and regulated in Florida.

For police, the cameras can provide an important investigative lead. For residents, they raise a different question:

How much information should law enforcement be allowed to collect about people who have done nothing wrong?

For now, Clermont and Groveland officials are choosing caution.

CLERMONT SUSPENDS PROGRAM

Clermont Police Chief John Graczyk announced Tuesdy, September 1 that the city’s ALPR program was being suspended immediately.  The decision did not come because the department considers the technology ineffective. Quite the opposite.

According to Graczyk, Clermont officers and investigators have used ALPR technology in investigations involving robberies, kidnappings and other serious felony offenses. The technology has also helped officers locate missing people and recover stolen property.

Those successes, however, must be balanced against concerns raised by members of the community.

Among the issues cited by the department are privacy, who has access to ALPR information, how long data is retained, how information is shared and what safeguards are in place to prevent unauthorized access or misuse.

“Effective law enforcement depends upon public trust and strong partnerships with the community,” Graczyk said.

That trust, the department said, requires a clear and consistent legal framework.

Until there is greater clarity and definitive guidance from the Florida Legislature, Clermont police said they will discontinue use of the technology.

GROVELAND FOLLOWS

Just down the road, Groveland police have made a similar move. The Groveland Police Department has suspended use of all Flock Safety automated license plate recognition cameras within the city. Access to the Flock Safety system has also been suspended for all GPD personnel.

Before the suspension, Groveland had two cameras positioned at the eastern and western entrances to the city along State Road 50.

Like Clermont, Groveland said the cameras have served a legitimate law enforcement purpose.

They have helped police locate stolen vehicles, identify vehicles connected to criminal investigations and support other public-safety efforts.

But Acting Groveland Police Chief Armando Loney said the department decided that taking a step back was appropriate while questions surrounding oversight and governance are examined.

The message from Groveland was clear: public safety matters, but so does public confidence in how police use technology.

THE PRIVACY QUESTION

At the center of the debate is a basic difference between traditional police work and automated surveillance.

A police officer investigating a stolen vehicle may have a specific reason to look for that vehicle. An ALPR camera, however, can scan plates as vehicles pass — including vehicles belonging to people who are not suspected of any crime. That capability is precisely what makes the technology useful to investigators.

It is also what makes oversight important.

Questions about ALPR systems include how long location information is stored, who can search the data, what agencies can share it, and what rules prevent information collected for one purpose from being used for another.

Those questions are now front and center in Clermont and Groveland.

A TOOL POLICE SAY WORKS

Neither department is dismissing the potential benefits of ALPR technology.

Police say the systems can provide investigators with information that might otherwise take considerably more time and resources to obtain.

A camera alert could help officers locate a stolen vehicle. It could provide a lead in a missing-person case. It could help investigators identify a vehicle believed to be associated with a crime. But the value of that information does not eliminate the need for safeguards, officials say.

The challenge is finding the balance between effective policing and individual privacy.

WHAT HAPPENS NOW?

For the time being, the cameras are out of the equation for both departments.

Clermont said it will wait for greater guidance from the Florida Legislature concerning the appropriate use, regulation, retention, access and sharing of ALPR information.

Groveland said its officers will continue using traditional investigative techniques and other available resources while the suspension remains in place.

Whether the two cities eventually bring the technology back — and under what conditions — remains an open question.

Possible future policies could address how long data may be retained, who can access it, when searches are permitted and what information can be shared with other agencies.

Those decisions could ultimately determine whether residents see ALPR cameras as a valuable public-safety resource, an unacceptable form of surveillance — or something in between.

The technology may help police solve crimes. But before the cameras go back to work, officials say the rules governing them need to be clear — and the public needs to have confidence in how they are being used.

Is BIG BROTHER WATCHING YOU? You can see where the cameras are located by visiting: https://flockcameras.com

The post Police Hit Pause On License Plate Cameras: Clermont and Groveland Suspend ALPR Programs, Citing Privacy Concerns, Oversight Questions And The Need For Clearer Rules appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

 Join us on Saturday, September 12 at noon for a fun and informative gathering of the Friends of the Minneola Library. The Friends is a non-profit organization that supports library services in Minneola. The group provides supplemental funding not covered by the city or county library budget.

These dedicated volunteers sponsor all programming, including monthly adult and kids craft programs, cooking demonstrations and our very popular Summer Reading program. Each year, the Friends hold two fundraisers: the Book Bake & Craft Sales in spring & fall. All monies raised benefit the library. The next sale is Saturday, October 3 from 9am-2pm at the Minneola City Hall. The Friends cherish their community and look forward to connecting with you.

Drop by the Open House, mingle with the Friends, enjoy light refreshments, and grab a ticket for a gift basket. Bring a friend and get an extra ticket. Whether you wish to support the library, donate books, want to learn more about what the Friends do or just want to talk books – we’re here for you.

For more information contact Josephine Dix at jdix@minneola.us or call the library at 352-432-3921.

The post You’re Invited to the Friends of the Minneola Library Open House (Sept 12) appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

Jarrell had previously been disciplined with a three-day suspension, the loss of his take-home department vehicle for 30 days and additional disciplinary restrictions for six months.

The disciplinary matter also played a role in the recent departure of Groveland Police Chief Shawn Ramsey. City officials said Ramsey’s handling of the sergeant’s discipline was insufficient, and Ramsey was terminated by the city.

The city has announced plans to appoint a third-party interim police chief to conduct a broader review of the Groveland Police Department, including its operations, policies and finances. Deputy Chief Armando Loney is currently serving as acting police chief, while Kevin Carroll has been named interim public safety director.

The post Groveland Police Sergeant Resigns Following Internal Investigation Into High-Speed Driving appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

In a brief statement, city officials confirmed Ramsey’s separation from employment and said they do not comment on personnel matters. The city simultaneously announced plans to appoint an interim public safety director and initiate an independent third-party review of the Groveland Police Department’s operations, policies, procedures, and finances.

As of today, no public records have been released explaining whether Ramsey was terminated, resigned, or separated under another employment arrangement. News organizations and public records advocates have submitted requests seeking documents related to the chief’s departure.

Ramsey’s exit comes amid an escalating dispute between the police chief and city leadership that had already become the subject of legal action and public controversy.

On Aug. 14, 2026, Ramsey filed a whistleblower lawsuit against the City of Groveland, alleging that he faced retaliation after reporting what he believed were violations of Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Law, misuse of public office, abuse of governmental authority, and other misconduct by city officials.

According to the lawsuit, Ramsey raised concerns about city governance and subsequently became the target of investigations, disciplinary actions, and other adverse employment measures. The complaint alleges that city officials sought to undermine his authority and retaliate against him for reporting perceived wrongdoing.

The legal dispute follows months of publicly reported tensions between Ramsey and Groveland Mayor Keith Keogh. Those disagreements reportedly involved internal investigations, whistleblower complaints, questions surrounding city governance, and the administration’s oversight of municipal operations.

Neither the city nor the mayor has publicly addressed the specific allegations contained in Ramsey’s lawsuit. City officials have maintained that personnel matters are confidential and have not disclosed details regarding the chief’s separation.

The city’s decision to commission an independent review of the police department has added another layer of scrutiny to an already contentious situation. Officials have stated that the review will examine departmental operations, policies, and financial practices, though they have not publicly linked the review to Ramsey’s departure.

At this time, the central question surrounding Ramsey’s exit remains unanswered. While his whistleblower lawsuit provides insight into the ongoing conflict between the chief and city leadership, no official explanation has been released regarding why he is no longer employed by the City of Groveland.

The lawsuit remains pending, and additional details may emerge as public records requests are fulfilled and court proceedings continue.

The post Groveland Police Chief Shawn Ramsey Departs Amid Whistleblower Lawsuit and City Review appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

 

Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) has been awarded a $5.2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) to support the development of the Eustis Education and Training Center (EETC), a regional workforce development facility designed to address critical labor shortages and strengthen economic growth across Lake County and Central Florida.

The post U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $5.2 Million in Lake-Sumter State College Workforce Training Center appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

The 2nd Unofficial Results have been provided to the Division of Elections.

The recount resulted in Mr. Strada receiving one more vote, and Mr. Baker received one more vote.

“Our recount process went flawlessly, thanks to the entire team’s careful attention to detail,” said Alan Hays, Lake County Supervisor of Elections. “I am grateful to every staff member and the Canvassing Board for their dedication throughout the election and recount process.”

The Lake County Canvassing Board will meet on Wednesday, August 26th at 10:00 am to certify the Official Results and provide them to the Division of Elections.

As Lake County’s trusted source of election information, voters are welcome to reach out to the Supervisor of Elections Office at 352-343-9734 with comments or questions.

The post Lake County Supervisor of Elections Concludes Recount Of The Republican Primary, U.S. Representative, District 11 Race appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

Blaise Ingoglia – Chief Financial Officeer 

Wilton Simpson – Commissioner of Agriculture 

Taylor Yarkosky – State Representative, District 25 

Sean M. Parks – County Commissioner, District 2 

Leslie Campione – County Commissioner, District 4 

Ricky Harper – North Lake Hospital District NW Seat 4 

 

Democratic Primary Results:

 

Angie Nixon, United States Senator 

Ronnie “Ron” Murchinson-Rivera – Rep in Congress, District 6 

James Pericola – Rep in Congress, Distroct 11

David Jolly – Governor and Lieutenant Governor 

Annette Taddeo – Chief Financial Officer 

Joey Mendoza Atkins – Commissioner of Agriculture – 

Reginald A. Ward – North Lake Hospital District NE Seat 2

Nicole M. Morris – Circuit Judge, 5th Circuit, Group 27 

Pat Kelley – School Board, District 1  

Mayor Keith “Chef” Keogh – Groveland District 1

 

Detailed results can be found by visiting https://enr.electionsfl.org/LAK/3996/Summary/.

 

The results do not include: Provisional Ballots and Ballots undergoing the Cure Process

Voters who need to resolve provisional ballot or signature issues must do so by 5:00 p.m. Thursday, August 20th.

In accordance with Florida Statutes, the unofficial and official results will be certified by August 21st after provisional ballots have been canvassed.

The Post-Election Voting System Audit for the 2026 Primary Election will be held on Tuesday, August 25^th at 8:30 am at the Supervisor of Elections Office located at 1898 E. Burleigh Blvd., Tavares. The public is encouraged to attend.

“Voting provides American citizens with the incredible opportunity to determine leaders who will guide our local communities, county, state, and nation” commented Alan Hays, Lake County Supervisor of Elections. “Each voter who participated in the Primary Election helped shape the General Election and therefore the future,” Hays added.

Election related questions are encouraged to reach out to the Lake County Supervisor of Elections Office by phone at 352-343-9734, online at LakeVotes.gov or in person at the elections office in Tavares.

The post 2026 Lake County Primary Results Are In appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

The project, located at 821 W. Minneola Avenue on approximately 0.635 acres, received a recommendation for approval from the Clermont Planning and Zoning Commission during its Aug. 4, meeting. 

Under the approved permit, the development may include up to 16 dwelling units, with a maximum density of 25 units per acre unless a Community Benefit Agreement is proposed. The project will consist of four buildings, each featuring retail and restaurant space on the ground floor. Commercial uses will be limited to a combined total of 6,000 square feet.

The approval also reflects provisions established through a settlement agreement which amended the city’s Land Development Code to allow for bonus density of up to 40 units per acre through a Community Benefit Agreement.

A notable architectural feature of the project includes a covered gallery extending along the north and east sides of the development. The gallery may project up to 10 feet into the public right-of-way, subject to the issuance of a Right-of-Way Utilization Permit. City officials noted that adjustments to the design may be required if underground utilities affect the placement of supporting columns.

Prior to construction, the applicant must submit formal site plans for review by the City of Clermont Site Review Committee and obtain all necessary permits and approvals. The project must also comply with city codes, regulations, ordinances, and the Comprehensive Plan.

Additional conditions require inspections by the Fire Marshal and Building Inspector before any Certificate of Occupancy can be issued. The permit will become void if substantial work does not begin within two years of issuance, and city officials retain the authority to revoke the permit if any conditions are violated.

The permit must be executed through the Clermont City Clerk’s Office and recorded in the Public Records of Lake County within 90 days of City Council approval.

The post Clermont City Council Approves Conditional Use Permit For West End Plaza Mixed-Use Development appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

The post New Proposal Aims to Create Educational and Medical Anchors for Groveland’s Future appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

Lake Technical College hosted an open house and official ribbon-cutting for its south campus on Friday, August 14th. The newly renovated campus, located at 680 Highland Avenue in Clermont, remains a work in progress, with additional classrooms and workforce training opportunities expected soon.

Current course offerings include culinary, nursing, paramedic, and HVAC programs. Classes are held in both traditional classrooms and realistic training areas designed to replicate real-world work settings.

The dream of bringing a vocational education center to the South Lake community may not have become reality without the persistence and determination of Sharon Keys, a Clermont native. Sharon began pursuing the idea after the former Clermont Elementary School campus was vacated and students moved to the new Aurelia Cole Academy on East Avenue, Clermont, in 2023.

Sharon and other community leaders formed the Lincoln Park South Lake Alliance, or LPSLA, to bring attention to the needs of young people in the South Lake area. Among those needs was—and remains—access to adult learning options, including workforce skills training.

Through quiet determination, Sharon and the LPSLA helped save the historic campus from demolition. After months of meetings and negotiations, and with support from local leaders and political figures, their dreams and prayers became reality.

The original campus was built in the early 1900s as a segregated school. Founder James A. Townsend had the one-room building constructed in 1902. Over the years, the campus continued to grow and was later taken over by the Lake County School District during segregation. Its more than 120-year history includes desegregation in the 1960s, when the campus transitioned from a junior high school to a middle school and eventually became home to Clermont Elementary School.

The first phase of the redesigned campus included the opening of the Lincoln Park Education Center – LPEC, in May 2024. LPEC is designed for students balancing education with part-time work, family responsibilities, or other obligations that create scheduling challenges. Students can earn a high school diploma through an 18-credit option while attending classes on a flexible schedule.

The second phase of the campus redesign includes Lake Technical College’s portion of the learning center. The grand opening coincides with Lake Technical College’s 60th anniversary and comes as the college announces a $3.7 million State of Florida investment in the south campus. The appropriation will support continued construction and campus transformation.

1 of 3

“This appropriation is an investment in people,” said DeAnna Thomas, president of Lake Technical College. “Every classroom we build, every lab we establish, and every program we expand creates new opportunities for individuals to build rewarding careers while helping employers find the skilled workforce they need.”

“We have seen dreams come true, but we still have work to do,” Sharon said, referring to efforts to establish a community center for area youth. She has also helped lead an effort to locate photographs, memorabilia, and other information related to the early 1900s history of Lincoln Park School, a project also being mirrored by the Clermont Historical Society. Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact Sharon at LincolnParkSouthLakeAlliance@gmail.com.

Lake Technical College and Lincoln Park Education Center are both accepting applications for fall enrollment. For more information, visit www.LakeTech.org or www.Lake.K12.FL.US.

The post 120 Years Later, a New Chapter Begins At Clermont’s Lincoln Park Campus appeared first on South Lake Tablet.