This recognition represents the highest honor in governmental accounting and financial reporting and reflects the City’s strong commitment to keeping its champions informed and engaged.

An independent panel reviewed Clermont’s report and confirmed it meets the program’s rigorous standards, including demonstrating a constructive spirit of full disclosure and clearly communicating the City’s financial story in a way that encourages residents and stakeholders to engage with the information.

“This recognition is a tremendous honor for our city and a reflection of the outstanding work of our Finance Department,” said City Manager Rick Van Wagner. “We are grateful to our City Council for providing the leadership, tools, and funding needed to achieve this prestigious goal. Their continued support allows our team to deliver the high level of transparency and accountability our champions expect and deserve.”

The achievement highlights the strength of collaboration across the entire organization, with teams working together to ensure accuracy, clarity, and completeness in every detail of the report.

“This accomplishment truly reflects a team effort across our entire organization,” said Deputy City Manager Dan Matthys. “Our Finance Department works hand in hand with every department to gather, verify, and present the information that tells Clermont’s financial story. That level of collaboration and commitment to excellence is what makes achievements like this possible, and it speaks volumes about the professionalism and teamwork across our city.”

In addition to the City receiving this national honor, Clermont’s Finance Department was also recognized with the Award of Financial Reporting Achievement for its instrumental role in preparing the report.

To earn this distinction, governments must produce financial reports that are easy to read, efficiently organized, and in full compliance with generally accepted accounting principles and applicable legal requirements. The review process is thorough and requires unanimous approval from expert reviewers, making this recognition a significant accomplishment for any government.

This achievement reflects a strong partnership between City Council, City Manager, and staff, all working together to ensure Clermont continues to operate with excellence and transparency. Through this collaborative approach, the City provides clear, accessible financial information that builds trust and supports informed decision making.

The Certificate of Achievement is valid for one year. Clermont remains committed to maintaining these high standards and will submit its next Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for continued consideration, reinforcing its dedication to continuous improvement and accountability.

For Clermont champions, this recognition is more than an award. It is a reflection of a city that values openness, teamwork, and responsible stewardship, all working together to support a thriving and connected community.

This is what it means to be the Choice of Champions®.

The post City of Clermont Earns National Recognition for Excellence in Financial Reporting appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

They were accompanied by Angie Langley, CEO of Langley Consulting Group in Clermont, along with Chris Carmody and Kylee Anzueto of GrayRobinson. 

Habitat for Humanity was represented at the Capitol by CEO Danielle Stroud, Board Members Pernell Mitchell and Verna Fitzsimmons, and Habitat homeowner Latoya Sankey, who were joined by consultants Langley, Carmody, and Anzueto in advocating for key legislative priorities:

Youth Construction Academies – Habitat is seeking support for its Youth Construction Academies, which provide construction education, workforce development, and pathways to affordable homeownership. The legislative request is sponsored by State Rep. Taylor Yarkosky and State Sen. Keith Truenow.

Veterans Housing Initiative – Habitat is also seeking support for its Veterans Housing Initiative, which offers critical home repair assistance and homeownership opportunities to low-income veterans. The legislative request is sponsored by State Rep. Nan Cobb and State Sen. Keith Truenow.

This year, Lake officials are working with the lobbying team from Gray Robinson on the following priorities they hope will win legislative approval:

• Neighborhood Lakes Gateway Center. The Center will serve as a dynamic entry point where Orange, Seminole and Lake trail systems converge. The Center will feature a full-service library, concessions, bike repair shop and gathering spaces. Officials are seeking $800,000 to fund design, engineering and permitting.
• Judicial Center Expansion. At least one new circuit judge will be appointed to Lake County, necessitating extra space at the Judicial Center. Officials emphasized improving the connection between the public parking garage and the Judicial Center to promote pedestrian safety. Officials are requesting $1 million for a master site plan and architectural design.
• Lake Commissioners are asking legislators to provide resources to the Department of Transportation for badly needed improvements to the following roads: a) $43.6 million to widen SR 44; b) $28.7 million to widen U.S. Highway 441 near Mount Dora; c) $19.1 million to widen U.S. 441 near Mt. Dora; d) $104.9 million for improvements to SR 19 at Howey-in-the-Hills and e) $20 million to widen Hartwood Marsh Road in Clermont.

Langley emphasized that there is no substitute for face-to-face meetings; stating, “There’s a saying in Tallahassee… “If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu.”

The post Lake County And Clermont Leaders Travel To The Capitol appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

A presentation delivered at the recent Clermont City Council meeting regarding an economic development and design tour sparked significant controversy, with the Clermont Mayor raising concerns over transparency, authorization, libility, and use of city funds.

The tour, organized by Economic Development Director Nathan Norris, involved an overnight trip to Seaside and other high-end coastal communities along Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A. The stated purpose was to study urban design concepts and growth patterns for comparison to downtown Clermont as the city works with planning firm DPZ. Norris explained the trip was intended to help staff better guide and provide feedback during the planning process, particularly related to parking and development design.

The Mayor stated he was unaware of the trip until residents contacted him afterwards. No council members ultimately attended.

The total cost of the trip was approximately $5,500, including a charter bus, boxed lunches, dinner, and minimal beverage expenses. The city paid more than $3,000 toward the trip, despite the expenditure not being included as an approved budget item. Clermont Main Street later indicated it would contribute approximately $2,200 toward the cost, though the mayor noted this commitment was not approved in advance and did not meet city requirements for food and beverage expenditures.

Clermont City Manager Rick Van Wagner’s approval of the trip was also questioned. While the City Manager has discretionary authority to approve expenditures up to $50,000, the Mayor emphasized that such authority applies only to budgeted items. Since the tour was not budgeted, the City Manager did not have the authority to approve the expense.

Compounding concerns, civilians participated in the tour, raising additional questions regarding liability. Youth Council members, city staff, and community stakeholders were invited after staff illnesses reduced attendance. Participants included representatives from Clermont Main Street and youth representatives.

Mayor Tim Murry expressed frustration during the meeting, stating he was not informed of the trip and learned about it from residents. He said the situation reflected poorly on both his office and the city and described the process as lacking transparency. The situation was characterized as “execution before vision” emphasizing the importance of council oversight, especially when public funds are involved.

The Mayor also questioned why comparable communities closer to Clermont—such as Celebration—were not considered, noting that the 30A communities have vastly different economic and physical characteristics.

Council members stressed the need for clearer internal procedures, improved communication, and adherence to budgetary and approval requirements moving forward.

Council also voted 3 to 2 to keep the time of the council meetings at 3 pm. 

The next Clermont City Council meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 28 at 3 pm.

The post Unapproved Economic Development and Design Tour Raises Concerns at City Council Meeting appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

Seat 2:

• Bryan L. Bain
• Tod Howard 

Seat 4:

• Chandra L. Myers

The candidates for the Seat 2 shall appear on the November 4, 2025 General Election ballot.

Chandra L. Myers qualified unopposed as the only qualifier , therefore not requiring an election for Seat 4.

The post Clermont Election Qualifying For Seats. 2 and 4 Closed appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

“My time in Clermont has allowed me to grow and develop so that I can take this next step and continue to be an effective leader,” he said. “I am extremely thankful for the years of overwhelming support I have received from past and present city managers, council members and of course, the amazing men and women of the Clermont Police
Department.- Chief Broadway added that he is extremely grateful for the support and love the community has shown his entire department and he is certain those bonds have fostered an unprecedented partnership that he is certain will continue.

Under his direction, the Clermont Police Department has continued to advance in law enforcement trends and technologies that include one of the nation’s first mobile mental- health crisis units, the addition of a police analyst, a victim’s advocate, and an attorney to
the department, as well as maintained agency accreditation and low crime rates.

“It has always been a goal of mine to lead a larger agency and since Clermont is my home, I wanted it to be nearby,” he said. “Kissimmee has offered me that opportunity and I am honored and humbled to accept. I am eager to meet the men and women of the Kissimmee Police Department to share our experiences, knowledge, and best practices to continue to enhance community trust and provide the highest level of service to the residents and
visitors of Kissimmee.”

“Chief Broadway has been a positive force in our community since he arrived here 15 years ago,” Interim City Manager Rick Van Wagner said. “Chief, we thank you for your leadership and guidance that we will surely miss, but we wish you all the best in this new
role.”

Van Wagner announced Clermont Police Deputy Chief John Graczyk will serve as
Clermont’s Interim Chief.

(for further information, VISIT  CHIEF BROADWAY)

The post Clermont’s Police Chief Broadway Accepts New Role As Kissimmee’s Next Police Chief appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

City Council Meeting Schedule Change

Following a lengthy discussion, the Council voted to adjust its meeting schedule. Moving forward, meetings will be held at 3:00 pm on the second Tuesday of the month and 5:30 pm on the fourth Tuesday of the month.

Former council member Keith Mullins expressed concerns that earlier meetings would limit participation for residents who work during the day. Mayor Tim Murry emphasized the importance of maintaining consistency in scheduling. Meanwhile, Councilmember Pederson pointed out that residents of Kings Ridge and other senior communities prefer attending meetings during daylight hours. Additionally, the Council acknowledged the need for better resources to record all meetings and workshops, ensuring accessibility for all residents. The City Manager was also tasked with preparing agendas that help prevent meetings from extending late into the night.

Backyard Chicken Pilot Program Approved – The Council approved a two-year pilot program allowing residents of single-family homes to keep backyard chickens (no roosters). Homeowners interested in participating must complete a basic application process. This initiative aims to gauge community interest and feasibility before making the program permanent.

Golf Carts Permitted in Downtown Clermont – Residents will soon be able to operate golf carts on designated city roads in specific areas of downtown Clermont. A $20 registration fee will be required and a sticker will be issued to identify the vehicle. Drivers must be 18 years or older. This initiative is designed to enhance mobility and convenience in the downtown district.

For further details or to stay updated on upcoming meetings, residents are encouraged to visit the city’s official website or attend the next scheduled Council session.

The post Clermont City Council Meeting Highlights – February 11, 2025 appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

The issue arose when the city’s management agreement with the LCRA neared its expiration. While Mayor Tim Murry acknowledged he was aware of the contract’s timeline, he had anticipated a routine renewal process. However, the situation took an unexpected turn when he received a letter indicating that other groups were seeking approval for boathouse usage and the council was contemplating other offers.

“I was surprised that a short-term agreement extension would be placed on the consent agenda,” said Mayor Murry, explaining that such an important decision warranted more thorough discussion. The consent agenda is typically reserved for non-controversial matters that city staff or workshops can address without in-depth deliberation. 

The proposed short-term agreement would extend the current contract through July 31, 2025.  City staff recommended the extension to allow additional time for exploring the best long-term management and usage options for the boathouse. Financially, the revenue generated from the agreement has already been factored into the fiscal year 2025 budget. 

The proposed extension would not be advantageous to the LCRA as they prepare for their competitive season.

Tensions were high as rowers and supporters called for greater transparency in the decision-making process. Many voiced concerns that profit motives were being prioritized over community needs.  

Adding another layer of complexity to the debate, City Manager Van Wagner, who is also a local pastor and former mayoral candidate, who lost to Mayor Murry, faced criticism from some members of the public. One speaker acknowledged his strengths as a minister but questioned his qualifications to manage city affairs effectively. 

The controversy surrounding the boathouse is not an isolated incident. Other community spaces under city’s agreements, including CPAC and the Historic Village are underscored by broader concerns about how city resources are managed and allocated. By the end of the discussions, many of the council members seemed to be wavering under the influence of the LCRA members.  

For now, the future of the LCRA and its boathouse remains uncertain. The next opportunity for discussion will be at a city workshop scheduled for Tuesday, February 4 at 5 pm at the Clermont City Center, where stakeholders will have another chance to seek solutions and advocate for their vision of Clermont’s recreational future.

The post Lake County Rowing Association Fights to Keep Its Home appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

I am not sure how, but the first month of 2025 – a year that has brought many changes to our City – is gone! We have an interim city manager, a new city attorney, and two new Council Members. We are in the middle of a tough transition that will take some time to adjust but as your elected officials, we have an obligation to stay focused on doing what is best for our community. 

I am asking for everyone to get a little more involved in how our City operates by attending a Council meeting or one of many upcoming Council workshops and let us hear from you. Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Council workshops have historically been scheduled on the third Tuesday, and additional dates can be added. 

Please visit and bookmark www.Clerm

ontFl.gov for more details on these public meetings as well as information on another year filled with great community events. 

In January alone, we celebrated “Florida Arbor Day” by handing out 1,500 young trees to be planted in Clermont and our first-ever “Skate Night” at the Arts and Recreation Center was sold out. We braved unusually cold air as we remembered Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on January 20. 

A special thanks to Clermont’s own retired United States Naval Aviator Commander Donnie Cochran, who served as our parade grand marshal and to the Christian Men in Action, the Lincoln Park Motorcycle Club and Genesis of Central Florida for making this event possible. 

Clermont Police Department’s annual “Honor the Fallen 5K” will be held on February 22 and is dedicated to Lake County Sheriff Deputy Bradley Link who was killed in the line of duty last summer. 

Make plans now for “Pups in the Park” at Lake Hiawatha Preserve and “Pig on the Pond” at Waterfront Park in March. 

To be more accessible, I will be at Clermont City Hall, 685 W. Montrose Street on Monday and Wednesday mornings. Please stop by for a visit, to share a concern or ask a question. “Lunch with the Mayor” also continues at noon on the first Tuesday of each month. On February 4, we will meet at Portillo’s (1251 E. Highway 50) and March 4 at Grace O’Malley’s (2400 US 27). There is no need to register so just show up if your schedule allows it. 

I am honored and remain grateful for the continued opportunity to serve as Clermont’s Mayor. I sincerely appreciate your support and I depend on you to help keep me informed on community issues and concerns. As always, you can reach me at tmurry@ClermontFl.org. 

Until next time, 

Mayor Tim Murry 

The post Clermont News From Clermont Mayor Tim Murry (Jan/Feb) appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

Lunches are held at noon on the first Tuesday of each month at varying locations. fff

“Every month, I encourage Clermont’s citizens to join me for a casual meal and conversation. “I want our residents to know that I am accessible. I am here to listen to their concerns and answer any questions they may have”, said Mayor Murry.

Those planning to attend or need additional information, call directly to the restaurant at 352-230-3013. Attendees are fexpected to pay their own way.

For more community events, visit The South Lake Tablet.

The post Lunch With Clermont Mayor Tim Murry At Portillo’s (Feb 4) appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a social activist and visionary leader, was instrumental in the fight to end segregation and achieve civil rights for African Americans. His leadership led to landmark legislation, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Dr. King’s legacy inspires individuals and communities to strive for equality, justice, and unity.

This year’s celebration carries the theme: “Keeping the Dream Alive”, with a special emphasis on educating and inspiring youth to carry forward Dr. King’s mission.

Event Highlights

The day will begin with the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade at 10:00 AM. The parade will start at McKinney Park, located at the corner of E. DeSoto Street and Bloxam Avenue, and will make its way to Waterfront Park. Parade participants, including floats, cars, bikers, and marching units, are invited to join the celebration. To participate, visit the Lincoln Park Rams’ Facebook page for application details or contact James “Moose” McGriff at 321-689-7718 or Walter “Champ” McGriff at 352-874-1567.

The main program at Waterfront Park begins at 11:00 AM and promises a day filled with engaging activities and entertainment for all ages. Highlights include:

• Live Entertainment
• Food Vendors
• Fun and Games for Families

This event is an opportunity for the Clermont community to come together, reflect on Dr. King’s contributions, and renew their commitment to unity and equality.

Get Involved

• Parade Participants Wanted: Showcase your float, car, bike, or marching unit in the parade.
• Vendors and Sponsors: For information on vending or sponsorship opportunities, contact Kassier Kyler-Murry at 352-361-6965 (kkyler777@gmail.com) or Tim Murry at 352-217-1140 (tleemurry0754@gmail.com).

Join us on January 20 as we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and celebrate his vision of a world united in justice and equality. Together, we can keep the dream alive!

The post Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration in Clermont: “Keeping the Dream Alive” (Jan 20th) appeared first on South Lake Tablet.