Happy Monday South Laker!

Hope you’re having a great start to your week! Today we’re diving into Clermont’s decision to drop its property tax rate for the second year in a row, along with the official dates and polling locations for early voting across Lake County.

We’re also highlighting the new 60,000-square-foot medical expansion in Minneola, checking out authentic Greek gyros and cheesecake baklava at Sarah’s Greek Cuisine, and sharing top local business picks to beat the summer heat.

Let’s dive in.

— Charlie Ferrer

The City of Clermont has officially approved a reduction in its property tax rate for the second consecutive year, lowering the millage rate from 4.88 to 4.59. Under the new rate, property owners will pay approximately $4.59 in city taxes for every $1,000 of taxable property value.

While a millage rate reduction is genuine tax relief from the city, it doesn't automatically guarantee a lower bill. Because taxable property values across Clermont and South Lake County have continued to rise sharply, many homeowners will see their overall assessed value jump.

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South Lake is growing! Step up and secure your perfect home in one of Florida's fastest-growing, top-rated communities!

Home 1

Click here: To view the full house & plan your showing!

Home 2

Click here: To view the full house & plan your showing!

Early Voting Roadmap
Lake County has released official dates, times, and polling locations for early voting ahead of the 2026 Primary Election. Beat the Election Day lines by casting your ballot at any designated site across the county. Before you go, double-check your registration status and review your sample ballot.

Healthcare Expansion Boost
A new 60,000-square-foot medical office building has opened on AdventHealth Minneola's campus, bringing expanded outpatient access to cardiology, orthopedics, oncology, and general surgery for South Lake families. The addition marks another step in Minneola's rise as a regional hub for medical care.

Superintendent Search Begins
The Lake County School Board has kicked off its search for a new superintendent following Diane Kornegay's retirement announcement. Board members are gathering community input and candidate criteria as they look for the district's next leader. With student enrollment climbing fast, finding the right person to balance growth and academic quality will be key.

Clear the Shelters
The Lake County Animal Shelter is joining the nationwide "Clear the Shelters" campaign throughout August, with adoption fees waived on qualifying pets. It's the perfect time to give a shelter animal a home, so stop by and meet your new best friend.

Craving authentic Mediterranean flavor?

Sarah's Greek Cuisine is a family-owned gem in Clermont known for fresh, made-to-order dishes bursting with bold, authentic taste. Whether you're dining in or grabbing takeout, the menu's wide range of classic Greek specialties means there's something to satisfy every craving.

What to order:

Looking to keep your ride cool, private, and stylish?

Tint Addiction Window Tinting in Clermont has built a reputation as one of the area's top choices for window film installation. Their skilled technicians deliver precise, bubble-free results that block Florida's intense sun and harmful UV rays, keeping interiors cooler and more comfortable year-round.

Customers rave about the shop's attention to detail, fast turnaround times, and friendly, professional service. Whether you need auto, residential, or commercial tinting, Tint Addiction's craftsmanship and reliability have made them a trusted name in the local community.

2026 Teacher Appreciation Breakfast | Clermont
📍 Wesley Center at Living Hope Church
🕰️ 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Martini Monday in Dobel Lounge | Clermont
📍 The View
🕰️ 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Bagels with Council Member Bill Petersen
📍 Panera Bread
🕰️ August 3, 9:00 AM - 10:30 A

Coffee with the Chamber | Clermont
📍 Citrus Coffee Company
🕰️ 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM

Survery Says | Clermont
📍 Buffalo Wild Wings
🕰️ 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

2026 Teacher Appreciation Breakfast | Clermont
📍 Wesley Center at Living Hope Church
🕰️ 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM

The View Run Club | Clermont
📍 The View
🕰️ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Lunch with Mayor Murry
📍 Cantinas
🕰️ August 4, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Run Clermont at Suncreek Brewery | Clermont
📍 Suncreek Brewery
🕰️ 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM

Tuesday Night Run Group | Clermont
📍 The View Clermont
🕰️ 6:45 PM - 9:45 PM

1 Million Cups Gathering | Clermont
📍 The View
🕰️ 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

Music Bingo - Hosted by FunkMaster K & Sweet Beatz | Clermont
📍 The View
🕰️ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Downtown Clermont Run Group | Clermont
📍 741 W Montrose St.
🕰️ 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM

Wednesday Social Bike Ride | Clermont
📍 1675 Hancock Rd.
🕰️ 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Off Beat Bingo Night | Clermont
📍 Gatros Dockside Clermont
🕰️ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Karoake Wednesdays at Mullets | Clermont
📍 Mullets
🕰️ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Back to School Bash: Color Wars | Groveland
📍 Vision Church
🕰️ Starts at 6:30 PM

Voice your concerns!

Clermont

Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting
📍 Clermont City Hall
🕰️ August 4, Starts at 6:30 PM

Minneola

Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting
📍 Minneola City Hall
🕰️ August 3, Starts at 6:30 PM

City Council Meeting
📍 Minneola City Hall
🕰️ August 4, Starts at 6:30 PM

Groveland

City Council Meeting
📍 E. L. Puryear Building / Community Center
🕰️ August 3, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

CRA Task Force Meeting
📍 E. L. Puryear Building / Community Center
🕰️ August 5, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

If you found something useful in this newsletter, pass it along to your friends and family, and especially those still looking for things to do.

See you in the next edition!