JULY 2021
Greetings from City Hall!

Summer is here, and so is the rain!  Our camp has started, and all of the things that come along with summer are now in place.  We are moving ahead, full force with most of our programs, and slowly working into the remaining ones, once we figure out the necessary tweaks for the safety of all. It feels like we are back to our normal selves, and as you all know, it’s HOT!!!!

First and foremost, don’t forget to root for the Tampa Bay Lightning, as they continue to defend last year’s championship, with the ultimate goal of repeating!  The City has a tremendous relationship with the organization, and we are blessed to be part of the continuing commitment of serving the community, especially for the kids!  Every time we have a special event, you’ll see members of the Lightning Community Hockey organization present, giving away sticks, balls and hockey equipment to anyone who wants it.  They help us with Leagues, put on Clinics, link us to some of the players from the past, and really make us feel like a part of the Lightning organization!  I’ve said it many times before, in my book, they are the best organization in professional sports, and they prove it, over and over again.   Go Bolts!!!!!!!

On another note, we are hosting a Hurricane Expo, coming up on July 13th, from 5 to 8 pm.  The purpose is to provide up to date information on what you will need, in order to be prepared should a storm come our way, along with a lot of helpful information about your property and storms in general.  Please save the date and try to attend if you can, it will be worth your while.  Not to be ignored, there are two storms in the Southern Atlantic currently, and are heading in this general direction.  If they will affect us, it likely will be prior to our Expo, but in either case, make sure you have a plan for your family and your property.   We continue to be vigilant in our training to make sure that everyone is safe, should a storm hit us directly.  

Also, don’t forget that the “new” FEMA maps go into effect on August 24th, 2021, which is coming up soon.  They will affect flood zones, and have a significant influence over flood insurance rates, and likely construction costs.   Make sure you know exactly how these new maps can affect you, its very important.

Lastly, I wanted you to know that we are close to completing the first bound copy of next year’s annual budget, which is due to be delivered to the City Council in July, with a budget workshop to be scheduled between that time, and the two public hearings in September, when it will be officially adopted.  Our fiscal year is October 1st through September 30th, so be on the lookout for our upcoming budget document, which will be available soon.

Ok, one more thing…..sorry, couldn’t help myself…did you receive our magazine????  Experience Oldsmar, latest edition should have gotten to your home, and once again, our staff has outdone itself!  Great source of helpful information, beautiful and professionally done, articles about citizens and businesses, and best of all…..it’s FREE!  If you didn’t receive one, contact us and we will try to make sure that you do.

Stay cool, if possible and don’t forget the helpful information about our community found below.

Go BOLTS!!!!!!!!!!  

Al b
DISASTER PREPAREDNESS GUIDE
The annual All-Hazard and Hurricane Preparedness Guide for 2021from Pinellas County is now available. This publication contains vital information to help you prepare for a storm or disaster. Copies are available at City Hall, Library, and Cypress Forest Recreation Center.

ALERT PINELLAS
Receive alerts about emergencies and other essential City news by signing up for ALERT Pinellas - a FREE service to residents and businesses. You choose how to receive alerts and can enter up to five different Pinellas County locations for notifications. An excellent resource for the upcoming Hurricane Season.

FLOOD ZONE
Hurricanes, tropical storms, and continuous rain can create flood hazards - especially with high tide & storm surges. It's not uncommon to hear about projected flooding of areas. Knowing your flood zone will help you prepare & plan beforehand to protect your property.

EVACUATION ZONE
In order to know when to evacuate, you need to know which zone your property is located. Don't know? Don't worry - Pinellas County provides this specific information. Additionally, you'll see the closest accommodations to help you plan ahead.

HOLIDAY CLOSURES

City offices, facilities, and the library will be closed on Monday, July 5 in observance of the Independence Day holiday.

Please note that solid waste and recycling routes are NOT impacted by this holiday. Normal business will resume on Tuesday, July 6.
FEMA FLOOD MAPS
As part of the adoption of the new FEMA Flood Maps, the City is updating its Flood Ordinance.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Maps will be changing this summer. As such, your insurance may be affected.

CITY JOB OPENINGS
Do you know someone looking for their next employment opportunity? The City of Oldsmar is currently seeking full and part-time applicants. Full-time benefits include medical/dental/life insurance, 401(a) contributions plan, paid sick/holidays/vacation and much more.

SUMMER FERTILIZER BAN
Pinellas County's fertilizer ordinance bans the sale and use of any lawn or landscape fertilizer with nitrogen or phosphorous now through September 30 to protect our aquatic environment during the rainy season. Use Florida-Friendly yard products that contain iron and other micronutrients to ensure healthy lawns.

WE HAVE PODCASTS!
As part of City Council's Connected City efforts, podcasts have been created to educate our residents, businesses, and visitors on programs, events, and government topics.
Be sure to to follow 'Experience Oldsmar' on your podcast platforms!

MEETINGS LIVE STREAMING
Oldsmar City Council meetings/workshops and Advisory Boards are live streamed for online viewing via the City's official YouTube Channel. Please take a moment and subscribe to receive notifications of future live streaming events.

LIBRARY SUMMER READING
The Oldsmar Public Library is offering various Summer Reading programs through August 7 to keep young readers busy and occupied with unique opportunities.
Reading Logs, Scavenger Hunts, and Kid's Craft Kits are offered weekly this summertime!

BALL HOCKEY CAMP
Oldsmar Sports Complex
July 12 - 16, 9am - 12pm
Ages 9-13
$60 (RC) / $90 (WO)
All players need are a stick and sneakers to learn the basics of the game of hockey and develop skills.

MAGIC CAMP
State Street Center
July 19 - 23, 9am - 12pm
Ages 8-12
$75 (RC) / $112.50 (WO)
Learn the art of magic with cards, coins, and other magical items! All materials provided.