Casselberry recognizes retiring commissioner

Sandra Solomon, formerly of Casselberry, was recently honored at a special meeting of the Casselberry City Hall Board of Commissioners. Solomon served 12 years on the board as a commissioner, filling seat 3, and was retiring after her term limit was completed.

Tenacious, passionate, an inspiration, personable, full of vim and vigor, and Casselberry's No. 1 cheerleader were all descriptive words spoken by the board members of Solomon at the ceremony.

"What we love about Sandi is that she puts it out there. She made things happen, whatever it took," said City Commissioner Anthony Aramendia.

City Manager Randy Newlon recalled that she championed the acquisition of the city golf course and coining the motto "Keep Casselberry Green."

The golf course was just one of many projects Solomon accomplished during her 12 years in office. She saw to it that the bike trail was completed-and hopes to see it eventually connect to the Winter Park and Winter Spring trails. So many trees have been planted in Casselberry that it won the designation of "Tree City USA." Solomon is proud of the Code Enforcement that has cleaned up this little city; and the development of Lake Concord Park with its beautiful landscapes, music festivals and art gallery.

As she leaves office, she shared her wish list for future Casselberry development: Housing around the 14 lakes in the city; more restaurants; a boutique hotel ("If Sanford can have one, why can't we?" she asked); an event center where the old police station stands; a parking garage on 17/92; and development of the Live Oaks Center.

Solomon also has been very involved in the Jewish community. One of the many hats she wore was as the president and co-founder of the Zionistas, an organization that advocated for Israel. The group became part of the local ZOA Chapter in Central Florida. She recently moved to Oviedo.