"Believe you can and you're halfway there."

Clermont will soon enhance public safety with a new fire station in the rapidly expanding Wellness Way area, backed by a $3.5 million federal grant.

The grant will fund 15 new firefighter positions, helping the city keep pace with growth as Wellness Way evolves from former orange groves into a busy residential community.

About 6,000 homes are already built, with another 15,000 on the way, putting pressure on emergency services.

Current emergency response times in the area lag behind the city average, raising health concerns as noted by Fire Chief David Ezell.

The fire department plans to open a temporary station by early summer, with construction on a permanent facility starting in October.

Additional grants are also targeting water and infrastructure improvements, ensuring Clermont’s rapidly growing neighborhoods remain safe and well-served.

McKinney Park in Clermont came alive on November 8 as locals gathered for the first-ever ‘Year of the Youth’ festival, a celebration aiming to uplift children and unite the community.

Inspired by a heartfelt conversation with Bishop Sean Johnson, Clermont native Robin Brown collaborated with Mayor Tim Murry and Sharon Keys to address youth challenges in Lincoln Park, focusing on love and support.

A standout moment featured Devin Jarrett, who spoke of his journey from incarceration to advocacy, urging young people to make positive choices.

Attendees enjoyed a basketball tournament, volleyball, and lively cheers from the South Lake High School Eagles, while local organizations shared valuable information about health and youth services.

The Clermont Police and Fire Departments fostered connections with crime prevention tips and interactive tours.

Thanks to Walmart of Clermont, guests were treated to free food and refreshments.

Organizers hope the festival grows as an annual tradition for the city’s youth.

- Clermont is home to the Citrus Tower, a 226-foot-tall observation tower that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. 

Happening in South Lake This Weekend:

Downtown Clermont Wine Stroll

📅 Date: Friday, November 14, 2025
🕒 Time: 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Location: Downtown Clermont, FL (Historic district)
🎟️ Admission: Varies depending on wine‐tasting package
📄 Details: Enjoy a relaxed evening in historic downtown Clermont with a stroll through local shops while sipping wines and exploring the local charm.

Clermont Cars & Coffee

📅 Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025
🕒 Time: 8:00 AM – 10:30 AM
📍 Location: Foxtail Coffee, 2608 S Hwy 27, Clermont, FL 34711
🎟️ Admission: Free to attend
📄 Details: A morning meetup of car enthusiasts—great for casual coffee, car-spotting, and mingling with the local automotive community.

WEEKENDS AT THE WINERY – Maria Salerno Live

📅 Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025
🕒 Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

📍 Location: Lakeridge Winery, Clermont, FL

🎟️ Admission: Typically free with purchase of wine/entry (check winery)
📄 Details: Live music performance with Maria Salerno at a local winery — relaxed afternoon option for music + wine outdoors.