Apopka already advertising for Camp Wewa manager

By Reggie Connell, Managing Editor

It didn't take the City of Apopka administration long to start the process of hiring a manager for Camp Wewa. After plunking down a cool $4.7 million to purchase the former YMCA overnight children's camp, the City published a notice to fill the opening on August 17th - weeks before it closes on the camp that has been a mainstay in the community for over 70 years.

"Under general supervision, plans, supervises (full-time on-site residence provided) and coordinates Camp Programs, Facility Rentals, Facility Maintenance at Camp Wewa," the ad states under the job description. "The Camp Manager will provide direct leadership to the development and implementation of resident, day, and group camp programs such that ongoing targets for growth and retention are met or exceeded."

Back in July, the Apopka City Council voted 4-1 to approve and execute the purchase and sale agreement of Camp Wewa. Along with the purchase price, costs to upgrade the property to ADA compliance, convert well water to city water, and change its septic system to sewer would cost approximately $250,000, plus an additional $150,000 in improvements, according to an estimate by City staff. In total, an additional $3 million is expected to be paid by the City over the next five years for improvements, repairs, and operational expenses to the camp.

However, Apopka Mayor Bryan Nelson announced at that meeting potential help with the upgrade costs, and an opportunity for Apopka residents to volunteer.

"Lowe's is trying to schedule something for the first two weeks in September to completely renovate Camp Wewa," he said. "I'll be reaching out to Wekiva and Apopka High for kids who need their community service hours, and community leaders and The Friends of Camp Wewa to come out."

Those plans are still in place.

According to the ad, the annual salary for the Camp Wewa Manager position is between $49,972.46 – $81,205.24.

For more details, or to apply for the position, go here.