Kelvin Soto, Esq. Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller Hosts Third Annual HalloWedding Scare-A-Mony & Reception

Clerk & Comptroller Kelvin Soto, Esq. invites 16 couples to say, “I Do” to their BOO this Halloween at the third annual HalloWedding Group Wedding “Scare-A-Mony” and Reception. This enchanting event promises a unique and unforgettable experience for all participants.

 

The Halloween Group Wedding Ceremony and Reception will take place in the idyllic setting of the Historic Osceola County Courthouse, the oldest continually operating courthouse in Florida. Couples will pledge their love and commitment amidst history, with the charm of the courthouse adding to the magic of the occasion.

Included with the “Scare-A-Mony” is a delightful reception featuring sweet treats sponsored by local Kissimmee Bakery, Candyland Designs, beverages, and themed music that will set the perfect atmosphere for celebration. Each couple will receive a decorative certificate commemorating their special day, themed photo opportunities, and a printed keepsake photo to cherish the memories forever.

Guests and couples alike are encouraged to embrace the spirit of the season by wearing family-friendly costumes or Halloween attire, adding a touch of whimsy and magic to the festivities.

Participating in this unforgettable HalloWedding is complimentary, although statutory marriage license fees apply. Couples can register for the event at the Osceola County Courthouse during their marriage license application process. Registration will be open from Tuesday, September 3rd, until Friday, October 25th, or until the event reaches full capacity. Given the popularity of the event, couples are strongly encouraged to schedule their marriage license appointments and sign up as early as possible to secure their spot.

“Celebrating love on one of the most festive days of the year is a thrilling experience for us all. Building on the success and popularity of last year’s event, our whole team is eagerly anticipating the opportunity to host this signature celebration. It is a genuine honor to officiate this special day for the passionate couples seeking something fun and unique,” shares Kelvin Soto, Esq., Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller.

For additional details about the HalloWedding Scare-A-Mony and Reception and to make an appointment, please visit https://osceolaclerk.com/special-marriage-ceremonies/. If you require further assistance or have any questions, please contact the Marriage Department at 407-742-3500 or email [email protected].

 

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Kelvin Soto, Esq., Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller, Announces New Branch Office in St. Cloud City Hall

Kelvin Soto, Esq., Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller, Announces New Branch Office in St. Cloud City Hall

Osceola County, FL – Aligned with Clerk & Comptroller Kelvin Soto Esq.’s vision to enhance accessibility and meet the public where they want, the Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller is pleased to announce the grand opening of a new extension office in St. Cloud City Hall. This strategic expansion aims to best serve the growing population of Osceola County by adding the office’s first satellite location.

Between 2010 and 2022, Osceola grew by more than 50%, nearly 6.5 times the national average of 7.7%.  With individual visits to the Clerk & Comptroller’s Office surpassing nearly 100,000 last year and the expanse in Osceola County’s growth, the demand for the provision of services at an additional location has been evident and a working project of the office for some time. The City of St. Cloud, with its rapid development and strategic location, was a natural choice for the Clerk & Comptroller’s first-of-its-kind extension office. This location will save valuable commute and wait time. Plans are already underway to identify additional locations for future expansion.

“We are committed to providing exceptional service to our constituents and ensuring that they have easy access to our office.  Our Administration is proud to be the first to offer a satellite office for constituents of the Clerk & Comptroller’s office, taking a significant step toward achieving that goal,” said Kelvin Soto, Esq.  “We are excited about this opportunity and the benefit to the greater Osceola County community.”

To start, the satellite office will offer traffic and criminal case payments, allowing people to have their driver’s licenses cleared in the same building as the Tax Collector’s branch office that provides other driver license services. Additional services will be added in the future. The St. Cloud Clerk & Comptroller Branch Office is open Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. by appointment only. Visit www.osceolaclerk.com/locations to make an appointment and for updates and information.

Clerk & Comptroller Kelvin Soto Esq., Launches NEW Virtual Queue

 

Announcing a New Era in Service at the Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller’s Office

 

In alignment with Clerk & Comptroller Kelvin Soto, Esq.’s commitment to modernization, efficiency, and excellence, we are pleased to announce the launch of our innovative virtual queue system on August 8th.

Join the Virtual Queue with Ease

Visitors can now seamlessly join the virtual queue from their smartphones upon arrival. Simply scan the QR code located by the elevators on the 2nd floor or click the link here to get started. 

Receive Notifications: 

Once you join the queue, you’ll receive a notification directly to your smartphone when a customer care representative is available to serve you with care.

For Scheduled Appointments: 

  • If you have appointments for marriages or passports, you can conveniently check in through email or text upon arrival.

Assistance Available On-Site: 

  • If you don’t have a mobile device or require assistance, our customer care clerks are available at the information desk to provide support and guidance.

Features of the New Virtual Queue System:

  • Real-time Estimated Wait Times: Enjoy the convenience of waiting from your car, a nearby coffee shop, or our comfortable waiting rooms.
  • Enhanced Accessibility and Convenience: Designed to ensure a smooth and efficient experience for all visitors.

Security Reminder: 

Please allow sufficient time for security screening upon entering the courthouse.

This new virtual queue system represents a significant step forward in our dedication to delivering a seamless, efficient, and customer-centric service experience. We look forward to serving you with enhanced convenience and care.

Over $3,000 Saved During Month Long Veteran’s Appreciation Passport Event

 

Throughout the month of November, veterans and active-duty service members and their accompanying family members were offered free passport photo services and the waiver of the Clerk’s $35 processing fee that is incurred for each new U.S. passport application.

Clerk & Comptroller Kelvin Soto, Esq. is pleased to announce that his office’s first annual Veterans Day Passport Savings saved 67 constituents more than $3,000 by waiving the Clerk’s service and photo fees.

Our office thanks these veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice and look forward to hosting the event again next November in appreciation of  our valued veterans.

The Honorable Kelvin Soto, Esq. Officiates Second Annual HalloWedding Group Scare-A-Mony, Vow Renewal & Reception

Kissimmee, FL – It was an enchanting morning for a celebration of love and marriage at the Osceola County Historical Courthouse this Halloween. A total of seven couples participated in this unique experience, with six couples committing to “until death do us part” and one couple re-recommitting their eternal love during the 10:00 a.m. wedding, vow renewal and reception.  

The ceremony was officiated by The Honorable Kelvin Soto, Esq., Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller. The Historic Courthouse was transformed into an upscale Halloween wonderland, adorned with cobwebs, pumpkins, and black and purple roses.   Guests were serenaded by Halloween themed music, and a enjoyed celebrating their loved ones at the reception afterward with sweet treats.  

“May there never be tricks in your marriage, only treats and your love remains sweet for all eternity,” said Clerk & Comptroller Soto during the ceremony.  

Since taking office in January 2021, Clerk & Comptroller Soto and his executive team have taken every opportunity to fulfill the organization’s aspirations, one of which is to advance the well-being of all, one person at a time. The office aspires to serve the community with care, committing to excellence and driving efficiencies. This annual one-of-a-kind event is just one of the many ways Clerk & Comptroller Soto’s team is meeting the public where they want. Our team looks forward to creating more unique experiences to connect with the community we serve.   

Friends and family wishing to relive the experience may do so by viewing the ceremony which was live streamed and saved on the office’s Facebook page, @clerkkelvinsoto. For additional information please visit our website www.osceolaclerk.com.  

 

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Kelvin Soto, Esq. was elected Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller in 2020.  Prior to serving as Clerk & Comptroller, he served two terms on the Osceola County School Board.  Clerk & Comptroller Soto serves more than 400,000 constituents as the Clerk of Court, Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners, County Comptroller, County Recorder, and County Auditor in the nation’s 18th fastest growing county. 

KELVIN SOTO, ESQ., OSCEOLA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COUNTY COMPTROLLER, ANNOUNCES REDUCTION IN PASSPORT FEES FOR MILITARY VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES DURING THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER

KISSIMMEE, Fla. – The Office of Kelvin Soto, Esq., Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller, is honored to recognize the service of our military servicemembers by waiving the fees for passport photos and the Clerk’s passport processing fee for appointments occurring during the month of November.

“In honor and recognition of those who have served in our military, for the month of November, our office will waive the Clerk’s processing and photo fees for veterans and their accompanying family members,” said Clerk & Comptroller Kelvin Soto.  “Thank you for your service!”

Beginning Wednesday, November 1, 2023, the Clerk & Comptroller’s Office will waive the $35 Clerk Processing Fee and $12 Photo Fee for veterans and their accompanying family members who present a valid military I.D. or a copy of their DD-214.  The name on the I.D. or DD-214 must match associated documentation for the issuance of the passport.

Between October 1, 2022, and September 30, 2023, the Clerk & Comptroller’s Office processed more than 16,200 new applications for a U.S. Passport book or card.  The Clerk & Comptroller acts as one of the U.S. Department of State’s Passport Acceptance Agencies, transmitting applications to designated facilities for final processing by the State Department.

The Clerk & Comptroller’s Office recommends making an appointment for passport services via our website at www.osceolaclerk.com and selecting “Passports” under “Other Services.”  Additional items, such as payment methods and frequently asked questions, are also available at that link or by scanning the QR code below.  Walk-in appointments may be available on a day-by-day basis, but constituents are strongly urged to arrive at 8 a.m. to ensure accommodation. 

 

Kelvin Soto, Esq. was elected Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller in 2020. Prior to serving as Clerk & Comptroller, he served two terms on the Osceola County School Board. Clerk & Comptroller Soto serves more than 400,000 constituents as the Clerk of Court, Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners, County Comptroller, County Recorder, and County Auditor in the nation’s 18th fastest growing county.

Osceola Clerk & Comptroller Kelvin Soto, Esq., Publishes FY22 Popular Annual Financial Report Osceola on the Rise

 

KELVIN SOTO, ESQ., OSCEOLA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COUNTY COMPTROLLER, PUBLISHES THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED SECOND EDITION OF OSCEOLA ON THE RISE, THE OFFICE’S POPULAR ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2022

KISSIMMEE, Fla. – Kelvin Soto, Esq., the Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller, proudly presents the second edition of Osceola on the Rise, the Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR) for Fiscal Year 2022. Following the prestigious recognition received for their inaugural PAFR for Fiscal Year 2021, the Office of Kelvin Soto, Esq., continues to enhance transparency and accessibility in financial reporting.

Osceola on the Rise serves as an accessible summary of the financial information presented in the Osceola County Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR). Presented in a simplified format, this report offers citizens a clearer understanding of Osceola County’s financial trends. New to this edition is “Helpful Chirps,” designed to provide insights into the PAFR presented by “Mocki,” the mockingbird from the office’s seal. To provide context, the report also includes statistics about the county’s rapidly growing and diverse community.

In a further demonstration of its commitment to excellence, the Clerk & Comptroller’s Office introduces the inaugural Community Services Guide alongside financial summaries. This guide comprises a directory of parks & recreation facilities, libraries, emergency services, public services, hospitals, utilities, transportation, secondary education institutions, County services, and achievements of the Clerk & Comptroller’s Office.

Clerk & Comptroller Kelvin Soto, Esq., expressed, “We take immense pride in presenting not only our financial report but also our Community Services Guide. Our ethos is rooted in integrity, accountability, and profound social responsibility. This comprehensive document embodies our dedication to transparent financial practices and our passion for delivering valuable information to our community.”

Aligned with Clerk & Comptroller Soto’s vision of engaging the public, Osceola on the Rise can be accessed digitally on www.osceolaclerk.com, through various social media channels, and on ISSUU.com. Print copies are available upon request.

 

Osceola Clerk & Comptroller Kelvin Soto, Esq. Announces Comprehensive Compensation Plan for Current & Future Employees

 

OSCEOLA CLERK & COMPTROLLER KELVIN SOTO, ESQ., ANNOUNCES COMPREHENSIVE COMPENSATION PLAN FOR CURRENT & FUTURE EMPLOYEES

KISSIMMEE, Fla. – The Office of Kelvin Soto, Esq., Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller, has announced the June 17, 2023, rollout of a comprehensive compensation strategy designed to enhance recruitment efforts, increase retention of valued employees, and to provide a long-term strategy tied to a merit-based philosophy in lieu of prior administrations’ longevity-based systems.

In 2020, Florida voters approved a constitutional amendment to implement a minimum wage of $15 per hour by September 2026. Upon taking office in 2021, Clerk & Comptroller Soto committed to swiftly implementing a $15 minimum starting pay which he realized in 2022. The Soto Administration’s new compensation plan will ensure the average hourly pay of operations employees is $18.80 in FY23 and that the office’s minimum starting salary will well exceed the 2026 constitutional mandate at a rate of $16.50—$1.50 per hour more and three years ahead of the constitutional mandate.

“I am pleased to announce a competitive compensation strategy that is designed not only to entice recruitment, but to reward our employees by ensuring their compensation is competitive in both the private and public markets,” said Clerk & Comptroller Kelvin Soto, Esq. “Our mission is to advance the well-being of all, one person at a time. This necessarily includes our valued employees who serve our constituents every day.”

The compensation strategy takes into consideration various factors, including salary adjustments for eligible employees, market research based on industry standards and local market trends, as well as adhering to transparency and just pay in establishing job responsibilities and competencies. To ensure future success of the compensation plan, the Soto Administration committed to excellence in innovation, reclassifying staff where necessary to maximize efficiency, combining departments with complimentary duties, and embracing the use of technology to assist the office in reducing costs wherever possible.

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Statement from The Honorable Kelvin Soto, Esq., Osceola County Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller, on the Passage of HB 837

 

STATEMENT FROM THE HONORABLE KELVIN SOTO, ESQ., OSCEOLA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT & COUNTY COMPTROLLER, ON THE PASSAGE OF HB 837

“Over the last several days, my office has processed an unprecedented number of circuit civil cases related to auto and other negligence claims in response to the legislature’s passage of HB 837.

Beginning March 17, 2023, attorneys from across Florida began filing cases in anticipation of the Governor’s approval of the bill, which took effect Friday, March 24, 2023.  As a result, my office received more than seven times the anticipated number of circuit civil cases we would expect for March.

Our office actively monitors the legislative process and anticipated the passage of HB 837.  As such, we nimbly deployed staff to ensure that we could stay within state mandated timeliness requirements for the processing of new cases.  As of today, I’m proud to share that 99 percent of these cases were completed within those guidelines.

This was only possible due to the hard work undertaken by this Administration to modernize personnel management, prioritize training, and our commitment to a robust recruitment process; this has enabled a more agile workforce that can more easily address changing needs made apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This in turn allowed us to benefit from our cross-training efforts, permitting deputy clerks to learn new competencies and to provide opportunities for professional growth.  These efforts reduced the backlog in half by the end of the weekend.  While we still have some outstanding cases to process, we have confidence that they will be complete before the week’s end.

Moving forward, we are fully prepared to address the proportionate increase in subsequent filings.  We are equipped to manage these increases without any hindrance to our customers, maintaining the high level of customer care and service our constituents have come to expect.”

Kelvin Soto, Esq.
Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller

The Office of Kelvin Soto, Esq., Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller, Hosts Operation Greenlight

The Office of Kelvin Soto, Esq., Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller, Hosts Operation Greenlight

This upcoming event is an opportunity for individuals who have overdue financial obligations in Osceola County court cases to save 20 percent in collection surcharges and to potentially have their driver’s license reinstated.

In Osceola County, Operation Greenlight will be held online from March 11-25, 2023 or in person, Monday-Friday, March 13-17 and March 20-24, 2023 from 8:00am-5:00pm. For added convenience, extended hours are available, and payments will be accepted until 6:00pm on Tuesdays & Thursdays March 14, 16, 21 & 23. 

This year, many of the state’s clerks of court are participating in coordinated events throughout March to highlight the importance of fulfilling past due court obligations and reinstating driver’s licenses.  Individuals must ensure payment of all financial obligations in each separate county where a case is suspending their driver’s license to be eligible for reinstatement. To find more information about other counties’ events, please visit https://www.flclerks.com/page/greenlight.

The Clerk & Comptroller first offered Operation Greenlight in 2015 to help drivers save money and get back on the road.  During 2022’s event, 377 drivers become eligible for reinstatement.  

“It is our sincere hope that individuals with suspended driver licenses will take advantage of this limited time opportunity to have their additional fees waived.” Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller, Kelvin Soto, Esq. said.  “Driving on a suspended license can have significant consequences and we encourage those eligible to let us help then get back on the road soundly.”

To participate online, individuals may request a payment plan at www.osceolaclerk.com. Prior to requesting a payment plan, individuals must confirm there are not any out of county or out of state suspensions or revocations, child support suspensions, or judicial department ordered revocations.  Individuals can check the status of their driver license by clicking here.

To request a payment plan online, individuals will fill out the Partial Payment Agreement Form.  Once the form has been completed, individuals will email the form to [email protected].  A Customer Care Clerk from the Clerk & Comptroller’s Office will email or call the person requesting the payment plan to confirm the status of the application and take the initial payment.  Once the license is cleared, constituents may return to driving on the road or visit the Osceola County Tax Collector’s Office if necessary.

For questions, please contact the Traffic Division at (407) 742-3566 or email [email protected].