Happy Thursday South Laker! Big changes could be coming to local code enforcement as officials aim for a "culture of compliance." Beyond the local headlines, we're also taking a journey into the world of 72-hour fermented Roman crusts and four exceptional local coffee shops you need to try.
Let’s dive in…
— Charlie Ferrer
🟠 South Lake News
Image Credit to The City of Clermont
Clermont is looking to increase code violation fines
The city is moving toward drastically tightening its grip on local code enforcement. In recent sessions, local officials discussed ramping up pressure on uncooperative property owners. Under current discussions, severe or repeat violations could face a massive spike in penalties, pushing administrative and compliance fines up to $1,000.
The city staff point out that prolonged enforcement processes, ranging from unpermitted additions to severe soil runoff and property neglect, drain taxpayer money and tie up public resources. The goal isn't to penalize everyday homeowners who have a bad lawn week, but rather to establish a "culture of compliance."
📊 Reader Poll
What do you think about Clermont potentially raising code violation fines up to $1,000?
Poll Results:
In our recent newsletter, we asked what features you are most eager to experience at South Lake Regional Park. With 7 total votes, the responses show a distinct preference for leisure over athletics.
71.43% (5 votes) | The Community Spaces: The vast majority of you are most excited for the shaded pavilions, walking trails, and family picnic spots.
28.57% (2 votes) | The Economic Boost: A portion of respondents are looking at the bigger picture, anticipating the positive financial ripple effects and regional sports tournament traffic heading to our local businesses.
0.00% (0 votes) | The Sports Variety: Despite the park’s massive footprint featuring a wide array of baseball, soccer, and cricket fields for local youth leagues, it received zero individual votes as a #1 priority among this group.
🏖️ Together with Tink’s Magical Vacations
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Disney, Universal, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, Europe— whatever's on your wish list, I'll take care of every detail so you can focus on the fun.
Whenever you're ready to start dreaming, I'd love to help!
Warmly,
Mindy
Senior Travel Planner
🏡 South Lake Homes
Image credit to Realtor.com
South Lake is growing! Step up and secure your perfect home in one of Florida's fastest-growing, top-rated communities!
Home 1
Price: $475,000
Address: 11618 Grand Bay Blvd, Clermont, FL 34711
Details: 2,613 sqft / 5 Bed / 3 Bath
Built in: 1996
Garage: 2 Cars
HOA: $90 per month
Click here: To view the full house & plan your showing!
Home 2
Price: $498,000
Address: 11232 Marseilles Blvd, Clermont, FL 34711
Details: 2,376 sqft / 3 Bed / 2.5 Bath
Built in: 1998
Garage: 2 Cars
HOA: $100 per month
Click here: To view the full house & plan your showing!
📰 Community Impact
Election Mailer Warning
The Lake County Supervisor of Elections is alerting local voters to disregard unofficial and misleading voter registration mailings currently circulating across the area. Officials emphasize that these third-party solicitations do not originate from the county office and often contain confusing or inaccurate information.
Transitional Housing Investment
Lake County Commissioners approved a significant $5 million contract aimed at expanding transitional housing options and support services for residents experiencing homelessness. The funded initiative will build critical infrastructure to help vulnerable individuals safely transition into stable, permanent living situations.
Honoring Local History
Keep Lake Beautiful is rallying community volunteers this weekend for a dedicated cleanup and restoration event at the historic Evergreen Cemetery in Leesburg. Participants will spend Saturday morning clearing overgrowth and debris to beautify the grounds and preserve the memory of those laid to rest there.
Invasive Species Challenge
The annual Florida Python Challenge is officially returning this summer, inviting outdoor enthusiasts and conservationists to help protect the state’s native wildlife. Running from July 10 through July 19, the 10-day event offers a $10,000 grand prize for the participant who humanely removes the most invasive Burmese pythons from the Everglades.
✅ South Lake Shortlist
4 local businesses that we trust and contribute to our community. If you are searching for the best coffee in town, here’s a list for you.
Just Love Coffee Cafe (Clermont) - A cozy, community-driven spot known for waffle-ironed comfort food and artisan coffee. The welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to hang out.
Dutch Bros Coffee (Clermont) - A drive-thru favorite with an extensive menu of customizable espresso drinks and energy blends. Fast, fun, and perfect for the morning commute.
Tail Feather Coffee & Social House (Minneola) - A local gem offering premium coffee and exceptional service in a warm, neighborhood setting. The kind of place that feels like a immediate favorite from the very first visit.
Flag Coffee (Minneola) - A family-run shop with specialty coffee, fresh empanadas and pastries, and a charming bicycle-inspired interior. It’s tucked near the Clermont waterfront and a perfect stop for working, relaxing, or just treating yourself.
*Want to become a business partner with us. Let us know here!
🍽️ South Lake Eats
Image credit to Pinsa Fire
Pinsa Fire
Pinsa Fire brings the ancient Roman "pinsa" to the local food scene rather than the traditional Neapolitan or New York-style pizzas. The distinction starts with the dough: a blend of wheat, rice, soy, and sourdough flours, cold-fermented for 72 hours. The result is an oval, brick-oven crust that's light, airy, and crisp, with notably lower gluten than standard pizza. Try Pinsa Fire for yourself, and eat this distinct style of pizza.
Popular Dish: The standout option on the menu is the Fig & Prosciutto Pinsa. It starts with a base of sweet fig fruit spread, layered with melted mozzarella and tangy fresh goat cheese, then baked.
Location: 793 W Montrose St, Clermont, FL 34711
Website: pinsafire.com
🗓️ Weekend Fun
You can submit an event here.
Thursday, May 28
Clermont Matters | Clermont
📍 Clermont Historic Village
🕰️ 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Spring U-Pick | Clermont
📍 Southern Hill Farms
🕰️ 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Laughter for Social Change | Clermont
📍 The Station
🕰️ Starts at 6:00 PM
Off Beat Bingo | Clermont
📍 Gators Dockside
🕰️ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday Social Bike Ride | Clermont
📍 1675 Hancock Rd.
🕰️ 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Minneola Market & Food Trucks | Minneola
📍 City Hall Gymnasium
🕰️ 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Friday, May 29
Spring U-Pick | Clermont
📍 Southern Hill Farms
🕰️ 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Moms Founders Club Meetup | Clermont
📍 Glam Collective
🕰️ Starts at 8:00 PM
Off Beat Bingo | Clermont
📍 Gators Dockside
🕰️ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
District 5 Neighborhood Huddle | Groveland
📍 Hope International Church
🕰️ 7:00 PM - 8:15 PM
Saturday, May 30
Spring U-Pick + Fun Zone | Clermont
📍 Southern Hill Farms
🕰️ 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Royal Princess Tea at The Hide | Clermont
📍 Southern Hill Farms
🕰️ 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Clermont Waterfront Parkrun (Free 5k) | Clermont
📍 Lake Hiawatha Preserve
🕰️ Starts at 6:30 PM
Groove Infusion - LIVE Music | Clermont
📍 The View Clermont
🕰️ 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Clermont Adventure: Swim, Bike, Run! | Clermont
📍 Clermont Waterfront Park
🕰️ Starts at 7:00 AM
Saturday Social Bike Ride | Clermont
📍 1675 Hancock Rd.
🕰️ 7:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Minneola Trail Work Day | Minneola
📍 315 Madison St
🕰️ 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Paint Your Own Wine Glasses | Groveland
📍 Barrels and Boards
🕰️ Starts at 11:00 AM
Thigh High Surt + Wake (Day 1) | Groveland
📍 Lake David Center
🕰️ 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Karaoke Night with DJ Manser | Groveland
📍 Barrels and Boards
🕰️ 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Calling Kritter Bi-Weekly Auction | Groveland
📍 Ali’s Farm of Groveland
🕰️ 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
David Julia - LIVE Music | Minneola
📍 Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards
🕰️ 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Sunday, May 31
Farmers Market | Clermont
📍 Downtown Clermont
🕰️ 9:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Spring U-Pick + Fun Zone | Clermont
📍 Southern Hill Farms
🕰️ 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sing Along Sunday Brunch | Clermont
📍 The Station
🕰️ 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Sunday Breakfast Buffet | Clermont
📍 Suncreek Cafe
🕰️ 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Thigh High Surt + Wake (Day 2) | Groveland
📍 Lake David Center
🕰️ 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
❤️ Thanks!
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See you in the next edition!
