Polk County public meetings in 2025

Citizen's Healthcare Oversight Committee

The Citizens Healthcare Oversight Committee will meet to approve prior minutes, elect officers, and discuss the 2026 meeting schedule. The agenda includes year-end financial and operational reports from the Health Department and updates on the United Way Pilot Project.

• Approval of September 26, 2025 minutes
• Election of officers
• 2026 Proposed Meeting Schedule
• FY 2024/25 Year End Reports
• United Way Pilot Project Update

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing to consider adopting a large-scale comprehensive plan text amendment that modifies density and the 15% residential cap in the Employment Center-X (ECX) land-use category within the North Ridge Selected Area Plan. The board will also vote on a $371,385 consultant services authorization for a Horizontal Asset Risk Analysis project with Black and Veatch Corp.

• Public hearing on LDCPAL 2021-26: text amendment to modify density and 15% residential cap in ECX zone within North Ridge SAP
• Approve Consultant Services Authorization 18-066-04 with Black and Veatch Corp. for Horizontal Asset Risk Analysis ($371,385 not-to-exceed)
• Removal of equipment from inventory per Blanket Removal Form 2152

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will vote on several multi-million dollar infrastructure contracts and the sale of a utility system. The meeting includes multiple public hearings for land use changes and the installation of traffic calming devices.

• Proposed sale of Waverly Utility System to the City of Lake Wales for $5,300,000.00
• Construction contract with Kamminga & Roodvoets, Inc. for Spirit Lake Road Roundabout ($4,991,838.82)
• CEI services agreement with Eisman & Russo, Inc. for Thompson Nursery Road Phase I - Segment 1 ($5,010,675.00)
• Land Purchase Agreement with Preservation of Natural Florida, Inc. for CLASAC Project EL-113-24 ($226,250)
• Public hearings for speed humps on Arizona Avenue, Jamestown Avenue, and Fox Creek Drive South

The Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to remove Michael B. Schmidt from the Polk County Planning Commission, citing concerns about his impartiality in quasi-judicial proceedings. The board also approved multiple land use changes, construction contracts, and the sale of the Waverly Utility System to the City of Lake Wales for $5.3 million.

• Removed Michael B. Schmidt from Planning Commission (5-0)
• Approved $5,010,675 CEI contract for Thompson Nursery Road (5-0)
• Approved $4,991,838.82 Spirit Lake Road Roundabout contract (5-0)
• Approved $226,250 land purchase for Environmental Lands Program (5-0)
• Approved 14.6-acre Holly Hill Groves land use change to Residential-High (5-0)
• Approved 1.58-acre Lake Marion Creek Dr land use change to Convenience Center (5-0)
• Approved 12.64-acre Highway 542 East land use change to Business-Park Center (5-0)
• Approved sale of Waverly Utility System to City of Lake Wales for $5.3M (5-0)

TPO Transportation Disadvantaged Local Coordinating Board (TD LCB)

The Polk Transportation Planning Organization's Local Coordinating Board will meet to discuss and potentially approve the CTC's annual operating report for FY 2024-25, review FTA grant applications for FY 2026-27, and set the meeting schedule for 2026. The board must have five voting members present in the room to conduct business; members attending via Zoom can vote but do not count toward the quorum.

• Redesignation of the CTC for Polk County
• Review and approve the CTC's Annual Operating Report (AOR) for FY 2024-25
• Review of FTA grant applications from the CTC and Coordination Contractors for FY 2026-27
• Discuss and approve the Polk TD-LCB meeting schedule for 2026
• Appoint subcommittee members for annual evaluations of the CTC (Jan-March 2026) and TDSP (March-May 2026)

The Polk County TPO Transportation Disadvantaged Local Coordinating Board approved the redesignation of the Community Transportation Coordinator (CTC) for Polk County, keeping the designation with LAMTD. The board also unanimously approved the CTC's Annual Operating Report for FY 2024-25, the proposed 2026 meeting schedule, and the appointment of subcommittees for annual evaluations. All motions were approved unanimously.

• Approved CTC redesignation for Polk County to remain with LAMTD (unanimous)
• Approved CTC Annual Operating Report for FY 2024-25 (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 TD-LCB meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Appointed subcommittee members for CTC and TDSP annual evaluations (unanimous)
• Approved draft minutes from September 16, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Consented to FTA grant application from TLC Comfort Care (unanimous)

Transportation Planning Organization (TPO)

The Polk County Transportation Planning Organization is reviewing long-term transportation strategies and draft work programs for 2026-2031. The board will consider contract modifications and amendments to the Transportation Improvement Program.

• Increase of Cost Not-to-Exceed amount from $230,000.00 to $260,000.00 for Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. (CSA TPO-20-1009-02-05)
• Draft RFP for Master Services Agreement TPO 25-687 for a three-year planning contract
• Draft Long Range Transportation Plan - Envision 2050
• FDOT and Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise FY 2026/27 - 2030/31 Draft Work Programs
• Draft Amendments to the FY 2025/26 - 2029/30 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)

Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer will consider several new land use and variance applications. The hearing for a variance on Saturn Street is continued to a later date. The meeting is scheduled to begin at 1:30 P.M.

• LDLVAR-2025-58 (Saturn St Variance) continued to January 22, 2026
• LDLSE-2025-11 (Lola Urbain SE) scheduled for hearing
• LDLSE-2025-12 (Tillman Road SE) scheduled for hearing
• LDLVAR-2025-62 (3rd Ave Variance) scheduled for hearing
• LDLVAR-2025-63 (McCartney Citrus Ridge) scheduled for hearing

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer approved four special exception and variance requests, all with staff recommendations and no public opposition. One variance case was continued to a later hearing date. The minutes do not record any denials or substantive debate.

• Approved special exception for commercial vehicle parking at 11252 Country Haven Drive (LDLSE-2025-11)
• Approved special exception for commercial vehicle parking at 5525 Tillman Road (LDLSE-2025-12)
• Approved variance for reduced setbacks at 3472 3rd Avenue (LDLVAR-2025-62)
• Approved variance for side setback reduction at 76 Citrus Ridge Drive (LDLVAR-2025-63)
• Continued variance case LDLVAR-2025-58 (Saturn St) to January 22, 2026

TPO Technical Advisory Committee (TAC)

The Polk County TPO Technical Advisory Committee will review and vote on amendments to the five-year transportation improvement program, a draft 2050 long-range plan, and state agency work programs for FY 2026/27–2030/31. The meeting also includes transit planning updates and public communications.

• Amendments to FY 2025/26–2029/30 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
• Draft 2050 Long Range Transportation Plan – Envision 2050
• FDOT and Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise FY 2026/27–2030/31 Draft Work Programs for Polk County

The TAC unanimously approved amendments to the FY 2025/26-2029/30 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), including rail safety work on Crown Avenue and funding modifications for Lakeland Area Mass Transit District and LAMTD/Winter Haven. The committee also unanimously approved including comments from Chuck Barmby in the draft 2050 Long Range Transportation Plan (Envision 2050), which address BRT route limits and the Lakeland Park Drive extension. Additionally, the TAC unanimously approved a motion to review funding for rail and highway projects removed from the FDOT/FTE draft work programs.

• Approved FY 2025/26-2029/30 TIP amendments (unanimous)
• Approved including Chuck Barmby's comments in draft 2050 LRTP (unanimous)
• Approved motion to review funding for removed rail/highway projects (unanimous)
• Approved September 25, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Polk County Planning Commission will hold a workshop at 8:50 a.m. to discuss agenda items and ordinance revisions, followed by a public hearing at 9:00 a.m. No official action will be taken during the workshop, and no public comment will be solicited. The meeting will include approval of minutes, agenda reordering, and consideration of various zoning cases.

• LDCU-2025-32 (Colonial Avenue Duplex)
• LDCU-2025-30 (Hardin Combee Church)
• LDCU-2025-31 (Old Hwy 37 CU)
• LDCD-2025-10 (Poinciana-Bayberry St PPP Sub-District Change)
• LDCT-2025-24 (Powerline Landscaping Buffers)

The Polk County Planning Commission approved nine of ten items on the December 3, 2025 agenda, including conditional uses, comprehensive plan amendments, and land development code changes. The only denial was LDCU-2025-29 (Mammoth Grove Mine), a proposed non-phosphate mining operation on 855 acres, which was denied 6-1 after public opposition. All votes were unanimous except the mine denial.

• Approved LDCU-2025-32 duplex at 2345 Colonial Avenue (7-0)
• Approved LDCU-2025-30 church at 2729 Hardin Combee Road with setback reduction (7-0)
• Approved LDCU-2025-31 concrete batch plant on Old Hwy 37 (7-0)
• Approved LDCD-2025-10 Poinciana-Bayberry St sub-district change (7-0)
• Approved LDCPAS-2025-30 Lake Gibson Estates land use change (7-0)
• Approved LDCT-2025-21 Lake Gibson Estates text amendment (7-0)
• Approved LDSPD-2025-7 Skyview Drive 60-lot subdivision (7-0)
• Denied LDCU-2025-29 Mammoth Grove Mine borrow pit (6-1)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will hold multiple public hearings regarding land development code amendments and comprehensive plan changes. The body is also deciding on several contracts for infrastructure, insurance, and healthcare services.

• Consultant services for Chestnut Road Sidewalk Phase 2 and 3 Project ($395,050.00)
• Land purchase for Lift Stations 9 and 10 consolidation ($328,500)
• Proposed ordinance to allow cargo containers on residential properties of one acre or more
• Renovation of the Chain of Lakes Complex using Tourist Development Tax funds (~$600,000)
• Employee life and disability insurance policy with Hartford Insurance Company ($413,759 annual cost)

The Board of County Commissioners approved a $395,050 consultant contract for the Chestnut Road Sidewalk Phase 2 and 3 project, along with a $328,500 land purchase for consolidating Lift Stations 9 and 10. Several land development code amendments and comprehensive plan changes were adopted, including allowing cargo containers on residential properties of one acre or more and removing conditional use standards for mobile homes in Southeast Polk. All votes were unanimous (5-0) except for the ECX comprehensive plan amendment, which passed 4-1 with Commissioner Troutman dissenting.

• Approved $395,050 consultant contract for Chestnut Road Sidewalk Phase 2 and 3 (5-0)
• Approved $328,500 land purchase from Ida Patricia Holley for Lift Stations 9 and 10 consolidation (5-0)
• Approved Osprey Creek CPA map amendment changing 17.48 acres to Residential Low (5-0)
• Approved ordinance allowing cargo containers on residential properties of one acre or more (5-0)
• Approved ECX comprehensive plan amendment with Level 4 review (4-1, Troutman nay)
• Approved ECX LDC text amendment to match comprehensive plan change (5-0)
• Approved Southern Storage TAD for self-storage expansion (5-0)
• Approved resolution for uniform method of non-ad valorem assessments (5-0)

Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer will hear four variance requests at this meeting. One item has been continued to December 9, 2025.

• LDLVAR-2025-56 Silva Solivita Phase 5C Variance
• LDLVAR-2025-57 Thrasher Variance
• LDLVAR-2025-58 Saturn St Variance (continued to December 9, 2025)
• LDLVAR-2025-60 Fuquay Solivita Phase 7G Variance

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer approved two variances: one for a rear side setback reduction at 795 Via Como Street (Solivita Phase 5C) and one for an accessory structure exceeding 150% of the primary residence at 4427 Old Government Road. Two other variance cases (LDLVAR-2025-57 and LDLVAR-2025-58) were continued to the December 9, 2025 hearing. No public opposition was recorded for any item.

• Approved variance for rear side setback reduction at 795 Via Como Street (LDLVAR-2025-56)
• Approved variance for accessory structure >150% of primary residence at 4427 Old Government Road (LDLVAR-2025-57)
• Continued LDLVAR-2025-57 to December 9, 2025 hearing
• Continued LDLVAR-2025-58 (Saturn St Variance) to December 9, 2025 hearing

Board of County Commissioners (Organizational)

The Polk County Board of County Commissioners holds its organizational meeting to elect a new chair and vice chair, adopt a resolution authorizing warrant processing, and recognize the outgoing chair. The board also discusses federal grants, conservation easements, and interlocal agreements, and schedules multiple public hearings for December on zoning changes, traffic calming, and conservation land acquisitions.

• Elect Chairperson and Vice Chairperson
• Adopt Resolution Authorizing Banks to Honor Warrants signed by new Chairperson ($0 fiscal impact)
• Approve FEMA SAFER Grant for 50 additional firefighter positions ($10,228,826.66 one-time revenue, $6,358,459.84 cash match)
• Approve Interlocal Agreement with City of Winter Haven for Astute Financial Land Trust property ($600,000 one-time expense)
• Set hearings for December 2 and 16 on zoning changes, traffic calming, and conservation land acquisitions

The Board of County Commissioners approved a resolution to place a referendum on the November 3, 2026 ballot asking voters to authorize an additional 1.0 mill ad valorem tax for school operating purposes from July 1, 2027 through June 30, 2031. The board also reorganized, electing Martha Santiago as Chair and Bill Braswell as Vice Chair. Several other items were approved, including a FEMA grant for 50 new firefighter positions and a mandatory milestone inspection program ordinance.

• Approved resolution for school millage referendum on 2026 ballot (5-0)
• Elected Martha Santiago as Chair (5-0)
• Elected Bill Braswell as Vice Chair (5-0)
• Approved FEMA SAFER grant for 50 firefighter positions (5-0)
• Approved $846,132.75 consultant contract for Spirit Lake Road roundabout (5-0)
• Approved mandatory milestone inspection program ordinance (5-0)
• Approved conservation easement with HGS, LLC (4-0, Wilson recused)
• Approved Wilson Ranch Reserve Hydrological Restoration amendment (4-0, Wilson recused)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a workshop and public hearings to consider various conditional use permits, comprehensive plan amendments, and land development code changes. The meeting includes a review of specific property requests and a comprehensive plan update.

• LDCU-2025-27 (PRWC Wells #9 and #14)
• LDPD-2025-10 (Southern Storage TAD)
• LDCPAS-2025-26 (Natural Encounters CPA)
• LDCPAS-2025-17 (Braddock Rd & Berkley Rd NAC CPA)
• LDCT-2025-22 (Recovery Residences)

The Polk County Planning Commission approved all 19 items on its agenda, including conditional use permits, comprehensive plan amendments, and land development code changes. Notable approvals include a 747-home planned development (The Highlands Club), a childcare center, and several mobile home conditional uses. All votes were unanimous or near-unanimous, with occasional dissenting votes from Commissioner Schmidt or Updike.

• Approved conditional use for two additional water wells for Polk Regional Water Cooperative (7-0)
• Approved conditional use for mobile home at 720 Reynolds Road (7-0)
• Approved conditional use for mobile home on Robert Weed property (6-1, Updike nay)
• Approved conditional use for mobile home on Laura Downs property (5-2, Hickman & Schmidt nay)
• Approved conditional use for childcare center at 2445 Main Street (7-0)
• Approved expansion of Southern Storage self-storage facility (7-0)
• Approved 747-home Highlands Club planned development (6-1, Schmidt nay)
• Approved recovery residences land development code amendment (6-0)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will consider a resolution for a school board tax referendum and a $50.8 million expense for the Northeast Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility. The meeting includes multiple public hearings on land use amendments and ordinances regarding cargo containers and pool safety.

• Resolution for a School Board referendum to impose an additional 1.0 mill ad valorem tax annually from July 1, 2027, to June 30, 2031
• GMP Addendum No. 3 with Wharton-Smith, Inc. for the Northeast Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility ($50,825,822.00)
• Bargain Barn Road Realignment Infrastructure Agreement (not to exceed $3,756,473.49)
• Ordinance to allow cargo containers on residentially developed properties of one acre or more
• Acceptance of unanticipated revenue for Hurricane Milton Debris ($10,970,795.00)

The Board continued a state-required resolution to place a School Board 1.0 mill tax referendum on the November 2026 ballot to the first meeting in January, after commissioners expressed frustration over lack of discretion and School Board communication. The Board approved a $50.8 million construction manager at risk addendum for the Northeast Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility expansion, along with several other infrastructure and land use items.

• Continued School Board 1.0 mill tax referendum resolution to first meeting in January (5-0)
• Approved $50,825,822 CMAR GMP Addendum No. 3 for Northeast Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility (5-0)
• Approved Bargain Barn Road Realignment Infrastructure Agreement, cost not to exceed $3,756,473.49 (5-0)
• Approved $312,225 A&E services for new Christina Fire Rescue EMS Station (5-0)
• Approved $207,090 A&E services for new Willow Oak Fire Rescue EMS Station (5-0)
• Approved Economic Development Ad Valorem Tax Exemption for Fort Meade DC, LLC (5-0)
• Approved ordinance requiring criminal history screening for county employees (5-0)
• Approved ordinance setting commissioner salary at $52,792.27 annually (5-0)

Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer will consider withdrawn and pending zoning variance applications, including storage, road access, alcohol permits, and residential development proposals. No substantive decisions are scheduled; the meeting is procedural with case-by-case hearings.

• LDLVAR-2025-54 (Wabash Storage Variance) - Withdrawn Application
• LDLVAR-2025-33 (Bowling Green Right-of-way)
• LDLVAR-2025-36 (Wyngate Lane Variance)
• LDLVAR-2025-50 (Sitar Indian American Buffet Alcohol Variance)
• LDLVAR-2025-52 (Hudson ADU) and LDLVAR-2025-53 (Colman Road Quadplex ROW) - residential development proposals

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer approved eight special exceptions and variances for commercial vehicle parking, setback reductions, and an oversized accessory dwelling unit, all with staff recommendations and no public opposition. Two applications were withdrawn. The meeting adjourned at 2:26 p.m.

• Approved special exception for commercial vehicle parking at 1402 Tiger Lake Road (LDLSE-2025-9)
• Approved special exception for commercial vehicle parking at 2507 Lake Lure Loop North (LDLSE-2025-10)
• Approved right-of-way setback reduction from 65 to 20 feet for retail plaza near Bowling Green (LDLVAR-2025-33)
• Approved side setback reduction from 7 feet to property line for carport at 1441 Wyngate Lane (LDLVAR-2025-36)
• Approved primary structure setback reduction from 5 to 2 feet for mobile home at 9000 Highway 192 (LDLVAR-2025-49)
• Approved variance to allow 1,510 sq ft ADU exceeding 1,000 sq ft cap at 6850 AVT Ranch Road (LDLVAR-2025-52)
• Approved right-of-way and side yard setback reductions for quadraplex at Coleman Road and Carla Court (LDLVAR-2025-53)
• Approved right-of-way setback reduction from 35 to 28 feet for single-family dwelling at Old Medulla Road and Windee Avenue (LDLVAR-2025-59)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will vote on several high-cost infrastructure contracts and land use amendments. The meeting includes public hearings on zoning changes and the closure of a right-of-way for J Day Drive in Lakeland.

• Agreement with Texas Aquatic Harvesting, Inc. for a new wastewater treatment facility ($8,530,000)
• Construction contract with Ajax Paving Industries of Florida LLC for North Galloway Road at 10th Street ($3,063,097.56)
• FDOT agreement for the Kathleen Road Project Development and Environment Study ($2,000,000 revenue)
• Agreement with Fleischman Garcia Maslowski for a joint-use Fire Rescue Station ($799,930.85)
• Public hearing to change 17.42 acres on Crescent Road from Residential Medium to Employment Center

The Board of County Commissioners approved all agenda items, including the $8.53 million purchase of property from Texas Aquatic Harvesting, Inc. for a new wastewater treatment facility serving the East Regional service area. The board also approved a $3.06 million construction contract for roadway improvements on North Galloway Road at 10th Street, and a $799,930.85 agreement for architectural and engineering services for a joint-use fire rescue station with the City of Bartow. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved $8.53M wastewater treatment facility land purchase (5-0)
• Approved $3.06M North Galloway Road construction contract with Ajax Paving (5-0)
• Approved $799,930.85 fire station design contract with FG+M (5-0)
• Approved $4.99M Medicaid emergency transport payment agreement (5-0)
• Approved $2M FDOT Kathleen Road study agreement (5-0)
• Approved rezoning of 17.42 acres on Crescent Road to Employment Center (5-0)
• Approved Hamilton Road sub-district change to BPC-2 (5-0)
• Approved non-phosphate mining fill exemption ordinance (5-0)

Transportation Planning Organization (TPO)

The Polk County Transportation Planning Organization will review the draft Envision 2050 Long-Range Transportation Plan for public comment. The board will also consider a feasibility study for an I-4 intermodal passenger rail station and a grant support contract.

• Draft 2050 Long-Range Transportation Plan (Envision 2050) for public review
• Draft RFP for I-4 Intermodal Passenger Rail Station Feasibility & Planning Study
• Contract with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. for grant support not to exceed $100,000.00
• County Line Road Project Development and Environmental (PD&E) Study update
• Title VI and ADA Nondiscrimination Policy Plan Update

The Polk County Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) Board approved the Draft 2050 Long-Range Transportation Plan (Envision 2050) for public review and comment, with the comment period running from October 9 to December 9, 2025, when the adoption hearing will be held. The board also approved a draft RFP for an I-4 passenger rail station feasibility study and appointed Commissioner Madden to the selection committee. All action items on the agenda were approved without dissent.

• Approved Draft 2050 Long-Range Transportation Plan (Envision 2050) for public review and comment (unanimous)
• Approved draft RFP for I-4 Intermodal Passenger Rail Station Feasibility & Planning Study (unanimous)
• Appointed Commissioner Madden to RFP selection committee (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes of 8/28/25 (unanimous)
• Approved Executive Director quarterly timesheets and expense reimbursements (unanimous)
• Approved Title VI and ADA Nondiscrimination Policy Plan Update (unanimous)
• Approved $100,000 consultant services authorization with Kimley-Horn for grant support (unanimous)
• Approved proclamation recognizing October as Greenways and Trails Month with noted wording changes (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Polk County Board of County Commissioners meets to recognize Fire Rescue achievements, approve contracts totaling millions, and hold public hearings on land-use changes and zoning amendments. The board will also consider bond issuances, utility system acceptances, and appointments to various committees.

• Approve $7.9M recurring pharmacy benefit contract with LucyRx Health Solutions
• Approve $494,337 architectural/engineering contract for Courts & County Annex Building
• Approve $1.6M property purchase and renovation contract with Peace River Center
• Public hearings on zoning changes for Bowling Green District and Willow Oak Fire Station
• Appoint Tabitha Biehl as Director of Parks & Natural Resources Division

The Board of County Commissioners approved all agenda items, including a $494,337 contract for architectural and engineering services for the Courts & County Annex Building Phase I, a $7.9 million pharmacy benefit services agreement, and a $1.6 million contract for property purchase and renovations with Peace River Center. The board also confirmed Tabitha Biehl as the new Parks & Natural Resources Director and approved several land use changes and appointments. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved $494,337 architectural & engineering contract for Courts & County Annex Phase I (5-0)
• Approved $7.9M pharmacy benefit services agreement with LucyRx (5-0)
• Approved $1.6M contract with Peace River Center for property purchase and renovations (5-0)
• Confirmed Tabitha Biehl as Parks & Natural Resources Director (5-0)
• Approved land use change from Rural Cluster Center-Residential to Commercial on ±1.02 acres in Bowling Green (5-0)
• Approved small-scale comprehensive plan amendment for Willow Oak Fire Station on ±2.15 acres (5-0)
• Appointed Cassandra Richards to Sidewalk Advisory Committee (5-0)
• Appointed Brian Yates and Eugene Conrad to Tourist Development Council (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Polk County Planning Commission will first hold a workshop to discuss agenda additions, ordinance revisions, and comprehensive plan recommendations, with no official action taken. Later, the commission will conduct a public hearing to consider several zoning cases, including day care conditional use permits, ranch access waivers, and text amendments.

• LDCU-2025-17 (Sunrise Day Care CU)
• LDWA-2025-31 (Bear Oak Ranch Waiver)
• LDWA-2025-29 (McStuckers Ranch Access Waiver)
• LDCT-2025-7 (Cargo Containers LDC Text Amendment)
• LDCT-2025-8 (Pool Safety Text Amendment)

The Polk County Planning Commission approved all eight items on its agenda, including conditional use, waivers, comprehensive plan amendments, and land development code text amendments. Three items were continued to November. The commission also elected new officers.

• Approved conditional use for adult day care at 1140 Combee Road North (6-0)
• Approved waiver for Bear Oak Ranch residential lot access (6-0)
• Approved waiver for McStuckers Ranch access for up to 10 lots (7-0)
• Approved comprehensive plan amendment for 2.5 acres to Industrial at Old Tampa Hwy (7-0)
• Approved comprehensive plan amendment for 2.28 acres to Institutional at Motor Vault East (7-0)
• Approved text amendment to allow cargo containers for storage in residential areas (7-0)
• Approved text amendment aligning pool safety with Florida Building Code (7-0)
• Approved text amendment removing conditional use standards for mobile homes in SE Polk (7-0)

TPO Technical Advisory Committee (TAC)

The Polk County Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) meets to review updates on long-term planning, including the Envision 2050 update and the Polk County Vision Zero Action Plan. The committee also receives status reports on key transportation projects like the County Line Road PD&E Study and the I-4 Intermodal Passenger Rail Station Planning and Feasibility Study.

• Envision 2050 Update
• County Line Road Project Development and Environmental (PD&E) Study
• I-4 Intermodal Passenger Rail Station Planning and Feasibility Study
• Polk County Vision Zero Action Plan Update

The TAC unanimously approved the draft Cost-Feasible Plan for the Envision 2050 Long Range Transportation Plan, which will be considered for adoption by the TPO Board on December 9. The committee also received updates on several Polk County projects, the County Line Road PD&E study, the I-4 Intermodal Passenger Rail Station study, and the Vision Zero Action Plan. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved draft Cost-Feasible Plan for Envision 2050 (unanimous)
• Approved September 25, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer

The Land Use Hearing Officer will meet to approve minutes from August 26, 2025, and consider several variance requests. The body will review one item of old business and four new business items regarding land use.

• LDLVAR-2025-39 Prestwood Variance
• LDLVAR-2025-42 Old Winter Haven Road ADU
• LDLVAR-2025-44 1404 Wyngate Lane Variance
• LDLVAR-2025-47 Deer Creek - St George Drive Variance
• LDLVAR-2025-48 Publix Alcohol Variance

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer approved all five variance requests on the September 25, 2025 agenda. Each case had staff recommendations for approval, no public opposition, and no vote tallies were recorded. The approved variances include a carport setback reduction, an accessory structure size variance, a rear side setback reduction, a rear and side setback reduction, and an alcohol-distance variance for Publix.

• Approved Prestwood variance for carport setback reduction (LDLVAR-2025-39)
• Approved Span variance for accessory structure larger than primary (LDLVAR-2025-42)
• Approved Ruggiero variance for rear side setback reduction (LDLVAR-2025-44)
• Approved Herbert variance for rear and side setback reduction (LDLVAR-2025-47)
• Approved Publix alcohol-distance variance (LDLVAR-2025-48)

Board of County Commissioners

The Polk County Board of County Commissioners will meet to approve a $1.5 million tri-party agreement for housing funding, a $3.25 million cost increase for a road extension project, and a $4.2 million interlocal agreement for a transit system. The agenda includes public hearings on land use map amendments and the adoption of a budget.

• Approve Tri-Party Agreement for State Housing Initiatives Program (SHIP) Funding for Grove Manor Phase II Apartments ($1,500,000)
• 2nd Amendment to Power Line Road Northern Extension Infrastructure Agreement - Cost increase of $3,250,490
• Public Hearing to consider adoption of a Resolution to vacate portions of platted rights-of-way in Loughman, Florida
• Public Hearing (LDCPAS-2025-14) to change land use designation from Business Park Center to Industrial on 26.21 acres
• Approve Interlocal Agreement for Countywide Transit System with Lakeland Area Mass Transit District ($4,200,000)

The Board approved a $1.5 million Tri-Party Agreement for SHIP funding to support Grove Manor Phase II, an affordable housing project in Lake Wales expected to add up to 300 units. The Board also approved a $3.25 million cost increase for the Power Line Road Northern Extension Phase 1 infrastructure agreement. Several land use and zoning changes were adopted, including a Future Land Use Map amendment for a 26.21-acre parcel and text amendments to allow mobile home sales and heavy machinery sales in Industrial-X districts. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved $1.5M SHIP funding for Grove Manor Phase II affordable housing (5-0)
• Approved $3,250,490 cost increase for Power Line Road Northern Extension Phase 1 (5-0)
• Approved FLUMA change from Business Park Center to Industrial on 26.21 acres (5-0)
• Approved text amendment allowing offsite mobile home sales in Industrial-X district (5-0)
• Approved text amendment allowing heavy machinery sales/services as conditional use in Industrial-X (5-0)
• Approved FLUMA change from DRI to Residential Low on 17.1 acres near Haines City (5-0)
• Approved vacation of unopened rights-of-way in Town of Loughman (5-0)
• Approved resolution declaring Polk County Ag-Center serves a public purpose (5-0)

Board of County Commissioners (Final Budget)

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing to discuss and adopt the final budget and millage rates for fiscal year 2025/26. This includes the general operating budget and budgets for four Municipal Services Taxing Units (MSTUs).

• Proposed final FY 25/26 operating budget of $3,464,631,333
• Proposed operating millage rate of 6.6348 mills (4.3% increase over rolled-back rate)
• Proposed Parks MSTU budget of $46,013,519 and millage rate of 0.5286 mills
• Proposed Library MSTU budget of $12,074,224 and millage rate of 0.1985 mills
• Proposed Stormwater MSTU budget of $14,370,652 and Rancho Bonito MSTU budget of $67,564

The Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved the final FY 25/26 budget of $3,464,631,333 and set the operating millage rate at 6.6348 mills, a 4.3% increase over the rolled-back rate. The board also approved final budgets and millage rates for the Parks, Library, Stormwater, and Rancho Bonito MSTUs. No members of the public spoke during the hearing.

• Approved FY 25/26 operating millage rate of 6.6348 mills (4.3% over rolled-back) (5-0)
• Approved FY 25/26 final budget of $3,464,631,333 (5-0)
• Approved Parks MSTU millage rate of 0.5286 mills and budget of $46,013,519 (5-0)
• Approved Library MSTU millage rate of 0.1985 mills and budget of $12,074,224 (5-0)
• Approved Stormwater MSTU millage rate of 0.0941 mills and budget of $14,370,652 (5-0)
• Approved Rancho Bonito MSTU millage rate of 9.1272 mills and budget of $67,564 (5-0)

TPO Transportation Disadvantaged Local Coordinating Board (TD LCB)

The Transportation Disadvantaged Local Coordinating Board will discuss the process to re-designate the CTC in Polk and enter a new agreement with the Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged. The board will also review its bylaws and the CTC's annual operating report.

• Local recommendation process to re-designate the CTC and enter a new Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)
• Annual Review of Polk TD LCB By Laws
• CTC Annual Operating Report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025
• Polk TD 101 Annual Training and Basic Information

The Polk County TD LCB approved a motion to begin the local recommendation process to re-designate the Community Transportation Coordinator (CTC) in Polk County and enter into a new Memorandum of Agreement with the Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged. The board also unanimously approved its annual bylaws review with no changes, and approved the June 16, 2025 meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were made; remaining items were informational reports and announcements.

• Approved commencement of CTC re-designation process and new MOA (unanimous)
• Approved annual review of LCB Bylaws with no changes (unanimous)
• Approved June 16, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners (Final Budget)

The Polk County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing to adopt the final revised FY 25/26 budget. The meeting follows procedural notices and ADA accommodation details provided in the agenda packet.

• Public hearing on FY 25/26 Final Budget (6:00 p.m., Commission Boardroom)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a workshop and public hearing to consider various conditional uses and comprehensive plan amendments. The meeting includes reviews of specific site projects and district changes. No official action is taken during the initial workshop portion.

• LDCU-2025-11: ERUSA Water Treatment Plant
• LDCU-2025-19: CR 540A Booster Pump Station
• LDCU-2025-10: Mercado Mobile Home
• LDCPAL-2025-6: Poinciana Bayberry St CPA
• LDCPAS-2025-20: Willow Oak Fire Station

Board of County Commissioners (Budget)

The Board of County Commissioners is meeting for a public hearing regarding the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 budget. This is the primary purpose of the scheduled proceeding.

• Public hearing on FY 25/26 Budget

Board of County Commissioners (Budget)

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing to discuss and set tentative millage rates and the operating budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year. The meeting includes reviews of specific municipal service benefit unit assessments and taxing unit budgets.

• Proposed tentative operating budget of $3,464,631,333
• Proposed tentative operating millage rate of 6.6348 mills (4.3% increase over rolled-back rate)
• Fire Services Non-Ad Valorem Assessments with $92,529,673.00 estimated revenue
• Island Club West Utility MSBU ($68,534.14 estimated revenue) and East Bimini Bay Utility MSBU ($65,369.88 estimated revenue)
• Tentative budgets for Parks ($46,013,519), Library ($12,074,224), and Stormwater ($14,370,652) MSTUs

The Board of County Commissioners held the first public hearing on the FY 2025/26 budget and approved the tentative budget of $3,464,631,333 and tentative millage rates, including the countywide operating rate of 6.6348 mills (unchanged from the prior year). The board also approved all final assessment resolutions for street lighting, fire services, waste programs, and other non-ad valorem assessments. A second public hearing to adopt the final budget and millage rate was set for September 15, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.

• Approved tentative FY 25/26 budget of $3,464,631,333 (5-0)
• Approved tentative operating millage rate of 6.6348 mills (5-0)
• Approved tentative Parks MSTU millage of 0.5286 mills (5-0)
• Approved tentative Library MSTU millage of 0.1985 mills (5-0)
• Approved tentative Stormwater MSTU millage of 0.0941 mills (5-0)
• Approved tentative Rancho Bonito MSTU millage of 9.1272 mills (5-0)
• Approved final rate resolutions for street lighting, fire services, waste, and other assessments (5-0 each)
• Set final budget public hearing for September 15, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. (5-0)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will vote on several high-value infrastructure contracts and land purchases. The meeting includes public hearings on traffic calming devices and the adoption of a new county noise ordinance.

• Construction contract with CenState Contractors, Inc. for Holly Hill UFA No. 2 and Oak Hill No.4 wellheads ($3,379,950.00)
• Land Purchase Agreement for the Courthouse Electrical Upgrade Project ($1,812,222)
• Adoption of the 'Polk County Noise Ordinance' repealing and restating Ordinance 14-030
• Public hearings for speed hump installations on Wheeler Road North, Avenue U Northwest, and Dean Street
• Grant agreement with Florida Department of Law Enforcement for Medical Examiner Expansion ($3,000,000.00 revenue)

The Board approved an ordinance establishing vessel exclusion zones and designated swim areas on Lake Winterset, Lake Clinch, and Lake Ariana, and adopted a new county noise ordinance. It also approved traffic calming devices on three roads, including an additional speed hump on Kidd School Road. Several contracts and appointments were approved, including a $3.38M wellheads project and a $1.81M land purchase for the courthouse electrical upgrade.

• Approved vessel exclusion zones and swim areas on three lakes (5-0)
• Adopted Polk County Noise Ordinance, repealing Ordinance 14-030 (5-0)
• Approved speed humps on Wheeler Road North (2 humps, $10K) (5-0)
• Approved speed humps on Avenue U NW (4 humps, $20K) (5-0)
• Approved speed humps on Dean Street (9 humps, $45K) plus one additional on Kidd School Road (5-0)
• Approved $3,379,950 construction contract with CenState Contractors for wellheads project (5-0)
• Approved $1,812,222 land purchase for Courthouse Electrical Upgrade Project (5-0)
• Approved $496,930.66 engineering services agreement for Lake Marion Boat Ramp (5-0)

Transportation Planning Organization (TPO)

The Polk County Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) meets to decide on routine administrative actions, consultant contracts, and public hearings. The board will vote on quarterly expense approvals, nondiscrimination policy updates, and two AECOM contracts totaling $124,721 for roadway database and sidewalk studies. A public hearing will review amendments to the FY 2025/26–2029/30 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP).

• Approve AECOM contract for Roadway Network Database update at $74,723.00
• Approve AECOM contract for Sidewalk Inventory and Improvement Study at $49,998.00
• Public Hearing on Draft Roll-Forward Amendments to FY 2025/26–2029/30 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
• Approve Title VI and ADA Nondiscrimination Policy Plan Update
• Approve amended FY 2024/25–2025/26 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) and funding agreement

The Polk County TPO Board approved a $500,000 I-4 Intermodal Passenger Rail Station Planning and Feasibility Study, along with amendments to the Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) that allocate the funds. The board also approved a roll-forward of 123 projects in the FY 2025/26-2029/30 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and several consent agenda items, including consultant authorizations for a roadway database update and a sidewalk study. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved I-4 Intermodal Passenger Rail Station Planning and Feasibility Study ($500,000) (unanimous)
• Approved Amended FY 2024/25-2025/26 UPWP and funding agreement (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2025/26-2029/30 TIP roll-forward amendments (123 projects) (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including CSA with AECOM for Roadway Network Database update ($74,723)
• Approved CSA with AECOM for Sidewalk Inventory and Improvement Study ($49,998)
• Approved MOU for Regional TSMO Program
• Approved Title VI and ADA Nondiscrimination Policy Plan Update
• Approved June 12, 2025 meeting minutes

Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer will hear 10 zoning cases, including a rezoning request for Tiger Lake Road SE and nine variance requests for properties on Dille Street, Mossy Oak Lane, Desir Alcohol, Lunn Road, Palm Street, Prestwood, Blue Jordan Road, and Overlook Drive. One variance (Wyngate Lane) was withdrawn prior to the meeting.

• LDLSE-2025-7 (Tiger Lake Road SE rezoning)
• LDLVAR-2025-30 (Dille Street Variance)
• LDLVAR-2025-31 (Mossy Oak Lane Variance)
• LDLVAR-2025-35 (Desir Alcohol Variance)
• LDLVAR-2025-37 (Lunn Road Variance)

Board of County Commissioners

The Polk County Board of County Commissioners will hear presentations, recognize local groups, and vote on contracts and appointments at this regular meeting. The board will also hold public hearings on several small-scale land-use changes and set future hearing dates for ordinance changes.

• Approve $446,183.88 engineering contract with CONSOR Engineers for N. Galloway (CR 542A) at 10th St Intersection Improvement
• Approve $850,000 state grant for wetlands restoration along Lake Hamilton and Peace Creek Canal (match required)
• Approve $381,731 and $438,972 five-year agreements with DataMark Technologies for E-9-1-1 GIS software
• Public hearings on four small-scale land-use map amendments (no fiscal impact)
• Set hearing for new Polk County Noise Ordinance repeal and vessel exclusion zones on local lakes

The Board approved a sub-district change for the Stuart Property from Residential-Low-1 (RL-1) to Residential-Low-4 (RL-4) on +/- 178 acres, allowing smaller lot sizes, with a 3-2 vote. They also approved several other items including a resolution repealing newspaper publication requirements for non-land use notices, a health officer appointment, and multiple land use amendments. All other agenda items were approved unanimously.

• Approved Stuart Property sub-district change to RL-4 (3-2)
• Approved resolution repealing newspaper publication requirement for non-land use notices (5-0)
• Approved Aaron Kissler as Polk County Health Department Administrator (5-0)
• Approved Minute Maid Ramp Road CPA from RHX to TCCX (5-0)
• Approved Lake Daisy CPA from ROS to RL (5-0)
• Approved Lake Daisy sub-district change to RL-4 (5-0)
• Approved ECP Small Scale CPA from TCX to ECX (5-0)
• Approved $446,183.88 CEI contract with CONSOR Engineers (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a workshop followed by a public hearing to consider various land development cases. The body will decide on sign plans, text amendments, and comprehensive plan amendments.

• LDSP-2025-1 (Cottonwood Sign Plan)
• LDCPAS-2024-7 (Goldenrod Lane CPA)
• LDCPAS-2025-18 (Christina Fire Station CPA)
• LDPD-2025-1 (Poinciana PD)
• LDCU-2025-11 (ERUSA Water Treatment Facility)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will vote on several infrastructure projects, including the installation of speed humps on multiple roads. The board is also reviewing a large-scale land use change for Holly Hill Groves 2 and various software renewals.

• Master Purchase Agreement with Motorola Solutions, Inc. totaling $4,707,440.00 over 3 years
• $2,800,000.00 budget transfer from Chestnut Sidewalk Project to Willow Ridge, Lake Seward, and Davenport Drainage Projects
• Public hearing to change 14.6 acres at Holly Hill Groves 2 from Employment Center - X to Residential-High X
• Installation of speed humps on Catherine Drive ($35,000), Lakeland Highlands Road ($25,000), Stephenson Avenue ($10,000), and Tangelo Street ($15,000)
• Oracle SaaS and IaaS Cloud Services renewal for $1,290,247.36

The Board approved a $2.8 million budget transfer from the Chestnut Sidewalk Project to three drainage projects, a three-year $4.7 million Motorola Solutions contract, and a comprehensive plan amendment for 14.6 acres in Holly Hill Groves. It also adopted ordinances and resolutions for street lighting corrections and speed humps on five roads. Public comments focused on animal control and TNVR programs, but no action was taken on those requests.

• Approved $2.8M CIP budget transfer to drainage projects (5-0)
• Approved $4.7M Motorola Solutions contract amendment (5-0)
• Approved Holly Hill Groves 2 CPA land use change (5-0)
• Adopted Inwood Street Lighting MSBU ordinance amendment (5-0)
• Adopted speed humps on Catherine Drive (5-0)
• Adopted speed humps on Lakeland Highlands Road (5-0)
• Adopted speed humps on Stephenson Avenue (5-0)
• Adopted speed humps on Tangelo Street (5-0)

Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer will meet to approve minutes from June 26, 2025, and hear five specific land use and variance cases.

• LDLSE-2025-6 (Onix Delgado SE)
• LDLVAR-2025-26 (Publix Alcohol Variance)
• LDLVAR-2025-27 (Teegarden Variance)
• LDLVAR-2025-28 (Harrison Rd Variance)
• LDLVAR-2025-29 (West View Ridge Resorts - Mongoven Variance)

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer approved all five agenda items: a special exception for commercial vehicle parking, an alcohol distance variance for Publix, a rear setback reduction for a pool cover, a variance for an accessory structure larger than the primary structure, and a side setback reduction. All approvals were consistent with staff recommendations, and no public opposition was voiced at the hearings.

• Approved special exception for commercial vehicle parking at 487 Tindel Camp Road (LDLSE-2025-6)
• Approved alcohol distance variance for Publix at 800 NW Jersey Rd (LDLVAR-2025-26)
• Approved rear setback reduction for pool cover at 2222 Blackwood Drive (LDLVAR-2025-27)
• Approved variance for accessory structure larger than primary at 8910 Harrison Road (LDLVAR-2025-28)
• Approved side setback reduction at 251 Patterson Rd Lot H-45 (LDLVAR-2025-29)

TPO Technical Advisory Committee (TAC)

The Technical Advisory Committee is meeting to review and approve amendments to the long-term transportation improvement program and the unified planning work program. The committee will also receive an update on Envision 2050.

• Amendments to FY 2025/26 - 2029/30 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
• Draft amendments to FY 2024/25 - 2025/26 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP)
• Envision 2050 Update

The Polk County TPO Technical Advisory Committee approved amendments to the FY 2025/26-2029/30 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and the FY 2024/25-2025/26 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP). The UPWP amendments include funding for a website dashboard, road context classifications, grant preparation, and an I-4 Intermodal Passenger Rail Station Planning & Feasibility Study. The committee also received an update on the Envision 2050 long-range transportation plan and public comments.

• Approved FY 2025/26-2029/30 TIP amendments (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2024/25-2025/26 UPWP amendments, including I-4 rail study (unanimous)
• Approved May 22, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will hold public hearings on several comprehensive plan amendments and land use changes. The meeting includes votes on multiple construction and software contracts, as well as the setting of proposed millage rates for FY 25/26.

• Construction contract with 1st Class Roofing, Inc. for Polk County Specialty Care and Children Home Society building ($850,500.00)
• Right-of-Way Agreement with City of Lake Alfred for County Road 557 Project ($550,000)
• Public hearing to change 158 acres from Agricultural/Residential-Rural to Residential-Low (Stuart Thornhill CPA)
• Public hearing to reduce chicken coop setbacks from 50 to 10 feet
• Proposed millage rates for FY 25/26 and various Municipal Service Taxing Units

The Board approved a $850,500 roof replacement contract for the Specialty Care building, a $550,000 right-of-way agreement with Lake Alfred, and two phone system agreements totaling over $759,000. It also approved several land use and zoning changes, including a 158-acre residential rezone and a chicken coop setback reduction. Two items were withdrawn by staff, and a motion to install speed humps on Harney Street failed for lack of a second.

• Approved $850,500 roof replacement contract with 1st Class Roofing (4-0)
• Approved $550,000 right-of-way agreement with City of Lake Alfred (4-0)
• Approved $438,864.26 phone system agreement with Optus, Inc. (4-0)
• Approved $67,331.18 one-time and $253,023.85 annual Zoom phone agreement (4-0)
• Approved Brooks Street land use change from RLX to BPCX (4-0)
• Approved EAR-based comprehensive plan text amendment (4-0)
• Approved chicken coop setback reduction from 50 to 10 feet (4-0)
• Approved 158-acre Stuart Thornhill rezone to Residential-Low (4-0)

Board of County Commissioners (Budget)

The Board of County Commissioners is holding a public hearing to discuss the proposed budget for fiscal year 2025/2026.

• Public hearing on FY 25/26 Proposed Budget

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a workshop and public hearing to discuss several land development cases. The body is considering various comprehensive plan amendments and conditional uses.

• LDCPAS-2025-2 (Morame Watkins Road INST)
• LDCU-2025-8 (Mathews MH)
• LDCU-2025-6 (Wayside Baptist Church CU)
• LDCPAS-2025-9 (ECP Small Scale CPA)
• LDCPAL-2025-1 (GPK Holly Hill Groves 2 CPA)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will discuss infrastructure and utility contracts, land use amendments, and the 2025-2028 firefighters' collective bargaining agreement. The meeting includes public hearings on a 160-acre land use change in Poinciana and street lighting service units.

• North Ridge Trail Infrastructure Agreement (Deen Still Road to Laurel Estates) not to exceed $4,181,255.00
• Purchase of Motorola radios for Utilities emergency operations for $269,754.56
• Public hearing to change 160 acres in Poinciana Subdivision from Agricultural/Residential-Rural to Residential-Low
• Agreement with PlayCore Wisconsin, Inc. for park and playground equipment estimated at $500,000.00 to $850,000.00 annually
• Approval of 2025-2028 Collective Bargaining Agreement with Polk County Professional Firefighters I.A.F.F., Local 3531

The Board approved the North Ridge Trail Infrastructure Agreement for Deen South Road to Laurel Estates, with costs not to exceed $4,181,255.00. They also approved a $269,754.56 purchase of Motorola radios for Utilities emergency communications, and adopted a land use amendment for 160 acres in Poinciana. All votes were 4-0 with Commissioner Wilson absent. Public comments included concerns about flooding, animal control, and public records, but no formal action was taken on those items.

• Approved North Ridge Trail Infrastructure Agreement (Deen Still Road to Laurel Estates) up to $4,181,255 (4-0)
• Approved $269,754.56 for Motorola radios and services for Utilities emergency communications (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda (4-0)
• Approved disbursements (4-0)
• Approved minutes of June 17, 2025 meeting (4-0)
• Appointed Jenna Sutton to Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee (4-0)
• Appointed Gary L. Phillips to Tohopekaliga Water Authority Board (4-0)
• Approved Poinciana Subdivision CPA Amendment (160 acres to Residential-Low and Utility Enclave Area) (4-0)

Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer will meet to approve minutes from May 19, 2025, and hear three specific land use cases. The body will review one land use case and two variance requests.

• LDLSE-2025-5 (Delgado SE)
• LDLVAR-2025-24 (E Lake Hartridge Dr Variance)
• LDLVAR-2025-25 (Webb Barn Variance)

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer approved three requests on June 26, 2025: a special exception for commercial vehicle parking in an agricultural/residential district, a variance for a side setback reduction, and a variance for an accessory structure larger than the primary structure. All approvals followed staff recommendations with no public opposition at the hearings, though one opposition letter was noted for the barn variance. The minutes were approved from May 19, 2025.

• Approved special exception for commercial vehicle parking at 12558 Country Place Road (LDLSE-2025-6)
• Approved variance for primary side setback reduction at 2429 Lake Hartridge Drive E (LDLVAR-2025-24)
• Approved variance for accessory structure larger than primary at 3849 Old Dixie Highway (LDLVAR-2025-25)
• Approved minutes from May 19, 2025

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will vote on several high-value service contracts and infrastructure projects. The meeting includes public hearings for land use amendments and a proposal for a human trafficking awareness campaign.

• Cooperative agreement with Carahsoft Technology Corp. for software modules ($3,228,188.60)
• Architectural and engineering services with The Lunz Group for a Sheriff's Office warehouse ($1,117,825.00)
• Small-Scale Comprehensive Plan Map Amendment for Lake Gibson Estates (Residential Low to Residential Medium)
• Small-Scale Comprehensive Plan Map Amendment for Lake Hancock Road (Business Park Center to Residential Low)
• Agreement for Willow Oak Fire Rescue Station property purchase ($366,000)

The Board of County Commissioners denied a proposed future land use change for Lake Gibson Estates that would have increased allowable density from 5 to 7 units per acre, with Commissioner Scott citing incompatibility with surrounding single-family homes. The board approved several contracts, including a $3.2M software agreement with Carahsoft, architectural services for a Sheriff's Office warehouse and a roadway maintenance facility, and a $997K lease for relocatable buildings. Three land development code amendments were continued to July 15, 2025, pending state legislation. The board also approved a right-of-way vacation and a health care assessment resolution.

• Denied Lake Gibson Estates FLU change from RL-3 to RM (4-1)
• Approved $3,228,188.60 Carahsoft software agreement (5-0)
• Approved $1,117,825.00 Lunz Group A&E services for Sheriff's warehouse (5-0)
• Approved $556,277.00 Lunz Group A&E services for roadway maintenance facility (5-0)
• Approved $997,923.00 Mobile Modular relocatable buildings lease (5-0)
• Approved Lake Hancock Road FLU change from BPC-2X to RL-1X (5-0)
• Continued three LDC text amendments to July 15, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved Goldenbough Road right-of-way vacation and quit claim deed (5-0)

TPO Transportation Disadvantaged Local Coordinating Board (TD LCB)

The Transportation Disadvantaged Local Coordinating Board will evaluate the Citrus Connection's FY 2023-24 performance. The board is also deciding on reimbursement rates for the upcoming trip equipment grant and updating the service plan for FY 2025-26.

• Annual Evaluation of the CTC — Citrus Connection’s FY 2023-24
• Approval of CTC Reimbursement Rates for the July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026 Trip Equipment Grant
• Update to the Polk Transportation Disadvantaged Service Plan (TDSP) for FY 2025-26
• Annual review and approval of grievance procedures

The Polk County TPO Transportation Disadvantaged Local Coordinating Board unanimously approved the annual evaluation of Citrus Connection (CTC) for FY 2023-24, the grievance procedures, the CTC rate model for FY 2025-26, and a minor update to the Transportation Disadvantaged Service Plan (TDSP) for FY 2025-26. All motions passed without dissent. No public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned at 2:38 p.m.

• Approved TD LCB Annual Public Workshop and quarterly meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved LCB's Annual Evaluation of CTC for FY 2023-24 (unanimous)
• Approved grievance procedures update (unanimous)
• Approved CTC rate model for July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved minor update to TDSP for FY 2025-26 with updated appendices (unanimous)

Transportation Planning Organization (TPO)

The Polk County Transportation Planning Organization will hold public hearings regarding draft amendments to the 2024/25 - 2028/29 and the 2025/26 - 2029/30 Transportation Improvement Programs. The board will also review priority transportation projects for 2025.

• Public hearing on Draft Amendments to FY 2024/25 - 2028/29 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
• Public hearing on Draft Fiscal Year 2025/26 - 2029/30 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
• Review/Approve Draft TPO Resolution 2025-04 supporting Best Foot Forward’s Pedestrian Safety Program
• Review/Approve Draft 2025 Priority Transportation Projects
• FDOT presentations on Advanced Air Mobility (AAM)

The Polk County TPO Board approved the FY 2025/26-2029/30 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) with over $3 billion in investments, including $760 million for highways, and also approved amendments to the current TIP. The board adopted Resolution 2025-04 supporting Best Foot Forward's pedestrian safety program, approved the 2025 Priority Transportation Projects list, and approved the consent agenda items. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved FY 2025/26-2029/30 TIP (unanimous)
• Approved amendments to FY 2024/25-2028/29 TIP (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-04 supporting Best Foot Forward pedestrian safety (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Priority Transportation Projects list (unanimous)
• Approved April 10, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved appointments to the Transportation Disadvantaged Local Coordinating Board (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a workshop followed by a public hearing to consider several land development and comprehensive plan cases. The body will review specific property amendments and a proposal regarding storm debris storage sites.

• LDCPAS-2025-2 (Morame Watkins Road INST)
• LDCPAS-2025-7 (Brooks Street CPA)
• LDCD-2025-1 (Stuart Property Sub-district)
• LDSPD-2025-1 (Old Dixie Highway SF)
• LDCT-2025-10 (Temporary Vegetative Debris Storage Sites after Major Storm Events)

The Polk County Planning Commission approved a comprehensive plan amendment changing 3.8 acres on US 98 north of Brooks Street from Residential-Low X to Business Park Center X (6-1). It also approved a sub-district change for 326.92 acres near Thornhill Road, a planned development for 11 lots on Old Dixie Highway, a land development code amendment for temporary storm debris storage, and an EAR-based comprehensive plan amendment. The Watkins Road institutional land-use case was continued to July 9 because the applicant did not appear.

• Approved LDCPAS-2025-7 Brooks Street CPA, 3.8 acres to Business Park Center X (6-1)
• Approved LDCD-2025-1 Stuart Property Sub-district, 326.92 acres to Residential-Low-4
• Approved LDSPD-2025-1 Old Dixie Highway SF, 11 single-family lots on 5.3 acres
• Approved LDCT-2025-10 temporary vegetative debris storage after major storms
• Approved LDCPAL-2025-4 EAR-based comprehensive plan amendment
• Continued LDCPAS-2025-2 Watkins Road INST to July 9, 2025 (applicant absent)
• Approved minutes for April 2 and May 7, 2025 meetings

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will vote on several high-value professional service agreements and public hearings regarding traffic calming and land use. The meeting also includes public discussion on animal control transparency and ordinances.

• Agreement with Jones Edmunds & Associates, Inc. for North Central Landfill Phase IV Cells ($2,940,797.77)
• Agreement with AECOM Technical Services, Inc. for algae bloom reduction in Upper Saddle Creek ($2,300,000.00)
• Agreement with The Lunz Group, LLC for Polk County Agricultural Center Complex Phase I ($1,572,400.00)
• Public hearings for speed humps on Eleventh Street Southeast (~$20,000) and Friedlander Road (~$15,000)
• Comprehensive Plan Map Amendment for Minute Maid Ramp Road 1 from Residential High to Tourism Commercial Center

The Board approved a $2.94 million contract with Jones Edmunds & Associates for engineering services for Phase IV Landfill Cells at North Central Landfill, extending capacity by 16 years. Also approved were a $2.3 million algae bloom technology test, a $1.57 million agricultural center design contract, and two speed hump resolutions. The board heard extensive public comments about animal control but took no action, with Commissioner Braswell noting the Sheriff's office runs Animal Control independently.

• Approved $2,940,797.77 contract with Jones Edmunds & Associates for Phase IV Landfill Cells (5-0)
• Approved $2,300,000 agreement with AECOM to test harmful algae bloom reduction technology (5-0)
• Approved $1,572,400 agreement with The Lunz Group for Agricultural Center Complex design (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including disbursements and prior meeting minutes (5-0)
• Reappointed Sean Malott to Industrial Development Authority for 3-year term (5-0)
• Approved transmittal of comprehensive plan map amendment for Minute Maid Ramp Road (5-0)
• Approved four speed humps on Eleventh Street SE near Highland City (5-0)
• Approved three speed humps on Friedlander Road near Highland Park Manor (5-0)

TPO Technical Advisory Committee (TAC)

The Technical Advisory Committee will review and approve amendments to the FY 2024/25 - 2028/29 Transportation Improvement Program and the draft FY 2025/26 - 2029/30 program. The body will also consider the Draft 2025 Priority Transportation Projects.

• Amendments to FY 2024/25 - 2028/29 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
• Draft FY 2025/26 - 2029/30 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
• Draft 2025 Priority Transportation Projects
• FDOT presentations on Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and Congestion Management Multimodal Planning (C3MP)
• Envision 2050 Needs Assessment

The Polk County TPO Technical Advisory Committee approved amendments to the FY 2024/25-2028/29 TIP, the draft FY 2025/26-2029/30 TIP (nearly $2B in investments), and the draft 2025 Priority Transportation Projects. All three motions carried unanimously. The committee also received presentations on FDOT's Advanced Air Mobility and congestion management initiatives, and the Envision 2050 needs assessment.

• Approved amendments to FY 2024/25-2028/29 TIP (unanimous)
• Approved draft FY 2025/26-2029/30 TIP (unanimous)
• Approved draft 2025 Priority Transportation Projects (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will review several high-value infrastructure contracts and a proposal for multifamily housing revenue bonds. The meeting includes public hearings on waterway protection and land use amendments, as well as a work session on solid waste fees.

• Proposed issuance of up to $27,800,000 in Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds for Lakewood Terrace Preservation, Ltd.
• Engineering services for Bone Valley ATV Park Campground ($864,752.29) and East Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility ($490,426.00)
• Construction agreement with CSX for CR 35A Kathleen Road @ Deeson Road Intersection ($541,047)
• Public hearing to repeal and restate the Polk County Waterway Protection Code
• Proposed land use change for 1.47 acres from Residential-Suburban to Linear Commercial Corridor

The Board approved a restated Waterway Protection Code and a resolution establishing designated swim areas and vessel exclusion zones on Lake Winterset, Lake Clinch, and Lake Ariana. The Board also approved several contracts, including engineering services for the Bone Valley ATV Park and the East Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility, and a construction agreement with CSX for a road intersection project. A motion to send a letter to the Governor requesting a veto of Senate Bill 180 was recommended for approval.

• Approved restated Waterway Protection Code and designated swim areas/vessel exclusion zones on Lake Winterset, Lake Clinch, Lake Ariana (5-0)
• Approved $864,752.29 engineering contract for Bone Valley ATV Park Campground (5-0)
• Approved $490,426.00 engineering services for East Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility (5-0)
• Approved $541,047.00 construction agreement with CSX for CR 35A Kathleen Road @ Deeson Road intersection (5-0)
• Recommended approval of letter to Governor requesting veto of Senate Bill 180 (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Approved reappointment of Mark Ferreira to AHAC (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Vermishia Pitts to AHAC (5-0)

Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer

The Land Use Hearing Officer will hear seven land-use requests: two special exceptions (Ulloa and Perez) and five variances (McLean, Hudson Harbor Lane, Coppertop Construction, Blue Jordan Road, and Willow Oak Fire Station Shed). The meeting also includes approval of draft minutes from April 24, 2025.

• LDLSE-2025-2 Ulloa Special Exception
• LDLSE-2025-3 Perez Special Exception
• LDVAR-2025-17 McLean Variance
• LDVAR-2025-19 Hudson Harbor Lane Variance
• LDVAR-2025-20 Coppertop Construction Expansion Variance

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer meeting on May 19, 2025, was procedural, with all seven agenda items presented and public hearings opened and closed. No final decisions, approvals, or denials were recorded in the minutes; each case was marked as 'Presented' only.

• Presented LDLSE-2025-2 (Ulloa Special Exception) for commercial vehicle parking at 5760 Floy Drive
• Presented LDLSE-2025-3 (Perez SE) for commercial vehicle parking at 4119 Simms Road
• Presented LDLVAR-2025-17 (McLean Variance) for accessory structure at 1703 Marker Road
• Presented LDLVAR-2025-19 (Hudson Harbor Lane Variance) for rear setback reduction at 1205 Hudson Harbor Lane
• Presented LDLVAR-2025-20 (Coppertop Construction Expansion) for side setback reduction at 2718 Combee Road
• Presented LDLVAR-2025-22 (Blue Jordan Road Variance) for accessory structure at 28 Blue Jordan Road
• Presented LDLVAR-2025-23 (Willow Oak Fire Station Shed) for rear setback reduction at 4210 Willis Road

Planning Commission

The Polk County Planning Commission holds a workshop to discuss agenda items and upcoming ordinance revisions, followed by a public hearing to consider six land development and comprehensive plan cases. No official action is taken during the workshop. The hearing includes a vote on the Polk Prosper 2050 comprehensive plan update.

• LDCU-2025-4 (Alaynah Mendoza MH) – land use change request
• LDCPAS-2025-3 (Lake Gibson Estates CPA) – comprehensive plan amendment
• LDCPAS-2025-5 (Lake Hancock Road CPA) – comprehensive plan amendment
• LDCD-2025-1 (Stuart Property Sub-district) – sub-district designation
• Comprehensive Plan - Polk Prosper 2050 – major long-range plan update

The Polk County Planning Commission approved three land-use requests: a conditional use for a mobile home, a small-scale comprehensive plan amendment for Lake Gibson Estates, and a small-scale comprehensive plan amendment for Lake Hancock Road. Two items were continued to a later meeting, and a presentation on the Polk Prosper 2050 comprehensive plan was given.

• Approved conditional use for mobile home at 101 Leighs Road (LDCU-2025-4)
• Approved small-scale comprehensive plan amendment for Lake Gibson Estates (LDCPAS-2025-3)
• Approved small-scale comprehensive plan amendment for Lake Hancock Road (LDCPAS-2025-5)
• Continued Stuart Property Sub-district (LDCD-2025-1)
• Continued Old Dixie Highway SPD (LDSPD-2025-1)

Board of County Commissioners

The Polk County Board of County Commissioners is holding a regular meeting with a consent agenda, public hearings, and multiple contract approvals. Key decisions include a large-scale comprehensive plan amendment for the Poinciana subdivision, a camping ban ordinance, and several infrastructure contracts totaling over $10 million.

• Approve $3,249,568 engineering contract with Carollo Engineers for Northwest Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility improvements
• Approve $3,064,574 utility infrastructure agreement with Clayton Properties for Touchstone Development force main extension
• Public hearing to consider camping ban ordinance prohibiting camping on certain county property
• Approve $2,500,000 state funding agreement with FDOT for North Ridge Trail construction
• Approve $1,420,000 land purchase for a new EMS/Fire Rescue station from Ruby K. Branson Trust

The Polk County Board of County Commissioners approved a $3,249,568 agreement with Carollo Engineers for Part 1 engineering services for the Northwest Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility improvements. The board also approved several land-use changes, including a comprehensive plan amendment for the Poinciana Subdivision and a text amendment allowing mobile homes by right in pre-1971 plats. A proposed business park center land-use change for the Alderman Road property was denied, and a related text amendment was not moved forward. Several items were continued to the June 17, 2025 meeting, including the Stressed Basins and Stormwater Management text amendment, due to pending state legislation.

• Approved $3,249,568 engineering contract with Carollo Engineers for wastewater facility improvements (5-0)
• Approved $3,064,574 utility infrastructure agreement with Clayton Properties Group for Touchstone Development (5-0)
• Approved $2,500,000 FDOT construction funding for North Ridge Trail Project (5-0)
• Approved $1,420,000 land purchase for new EMS/Fire Rescue station (5-0)
• Approved Poinciana Subdivision CPA amendment changing 160 acres to Residential-Low (5-0)
• Approved LDC text amendment allowing mobile homes by right in pre-1971 plats (5-0)
• Approved economic development tax exemption for Supply Properties II, LLC (4-1, Braswell nay)
• Denied Alderman Road CPA amendment for Business Park Center land use (4-1, Troutman nay)

Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer will consider one land use special exception (LDLSE-2025-1 McIntosh SE) and eight variance requests (LDLVAR-2025-6 through -18) at the April 24 meeting. The meeting also includes approval of the March 27, 2025 draft minutes. No further details on individual items are provided in the agenda.

• LDLSE-2025-1 McIntosh SE special exception
• LDLVAR-2025-6 Birdie Dr Variance
• LDLVAR-2025-8 Mather Road Variance
• LDLVAR-2025-9 Cinnamon Dr Variance
• LDLVAR-2025-11 Jones Accessory Variance

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer approved all nine items on the agenda: eight variance requests and one special exception. Each approval was based on staff recommendations, with no opposition from the public except for one case where a neighbor raised concerns. The meeting adjourned at 4:18 PM.

• Approved variance for side setback reduction for RV cover at 373 Bridie Drive (LDLVAR-2025-6)
• Approved variance for accessory structure larger than primary structure at 3920 Mather Road (LDLVAR-2025-8)
• Approved variance for rear and front setback reduction for duplex at 1095 Skyview Boulevard (LDLVAR-2025-13)
• Approved variance for rear setback reduction for accessory structure at 450 Cinnamon Drive (LDLVAR-2025-9)
• Approved variance for accessory structure larger than primary structure at 3921 Timber Wood Drive (LDLVAR-2025-11)
• Approved variance for impervious surface ratio at 4320 County Line Road (LDLVAR-2025-14)
• Approved variance for impervious surface ratio at 4040 County Line Road (LDLVAR-2025-15)
• Approved variance for rear primary setback reduction for accessory structure at 10 Citrus Ridge Drive (LDLVAR-2025-18)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will consider several high-value infrastructure contracts and land use amendments. The meeting includes public hearings on fire station land use changes and updates to the Land Development Code regarding mobile homes and stormwater management.

• Construction contract with C&T Contracting Services, Inc. for septage receiving and leachate treatment system ($21,430,000.00)
• LAP Agreement with FDOT for the Old Dixie Trail Project ($2,000,335.00 unanticipated revenue)
• Engineering services amendment with Hazen and Sawyer, P.C. for septage receiving stations ($488,410.00)
• Public hearings for land use changes for Bradley Junction and ABC Road fire stations
• Proposed LDC amendment to increase public hearing mailer radius from 500 to 1,000 feet

The Board approved a $21.43 million construction contract with C&T Contracting Services for a septage receiving and leachate treatment system, along with a budget transfer of $18.34 million. Also approved were an engineering services amendment, a FDOT agreement for the Old Dixie Trail project, several land use and text amendments, and a board appointment. A proposed ordinance prohibiting camping was continued to May 6.

• Approved $21.43M construction contract for septage treatment system (5-0)
• Approved $18.34M budget transfer for septage project (5-0)
• Approved $488,410 amendment for engineering services (5-0)
• Approved $2,000,335 FDOT agreement for Old Dixie Trail (5-0)
• Approved land use change for Bradley Junction Fire Station (4-0, Scott absent)
• Approved land use change for ABC Road Caloosa Fire Station (5-0)
• Approved text amendments for I-4 SAP, INST-2, mobile homes, 1,000-ft notice, stormwater (5-0)
• Continued camping prohibition ordinance to May 6 (5-0)

Transportation Planning Organization (TPO)

The Polk County TPO Board approved a $230,000 consultant contract for Part Two of the 2050 Long Range Transportation Plan (Envision 2050) and adopted performance targets for pavement, bridges, and system performance. All consent agenda items, including the 2024 FDOT Certification Review and a time extension for the Kimley-Horn LRTP contract, were approved unanimously. Presentations covered the Southport Connector, Moving I-4 Forward, and the Northeast Polk Subarea Study, but no decisions were made on those projects.

• Approved $230,000 CSA with Kimley-Horn for 2050 LRTP Part Two (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-03 performance targets for pavement, bridge, and system performance (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 FDOT Certification Review (unanimous)
• Approved time extension for Kimley-Horn CSA for 2050 LRTP Part One (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-02 authorizing TD Planning Grant application (unanimous)
• Approved one-year extension of Master Services Agreements with AECOM, Benesch, Kimley-Horn (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of TPO staff services agreement (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes and director timesheets (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission first holds a workshop to discuss agenda items and upcoming ordinance revisions, including the comprehensive plan update. During the subsequent public hearing, they will consider 14 items such as zoning changes, text amendments, and land use plan amendments. Several items have been deferred to future meetings, including the Rifle Range Road CPA and LDCU-2025-3.

• Text amendment on chicken coops and roosters (LDCT-2025-5)
• Stressed basins and stormwater management text change (LDCT-2025-3)
• Mobile homes allowed in all plats prior to 5/20/1971 (LDCT-2025-6)
• Winslow’s Point RMD modification (LDPD-2024-23)
• Bradley Junction Fire Station land use change (LDCPAS-2025-4)

The Polk County Planning Commission approved 10 of 13 agenda items, including several land use changes, conditional uses, and code amendments. It denied a large-scale comprehensive plan amendment, a sub-district change, and a text amendment for a proposed business park on Alderman Road (5-2). Two items were continued to future meetings.

• Approved waiver for residential lot access via private road easement on Sunset Lane (7-0)
• Approved conditional use for mobile home at 117 4th Street (7-0)
• Approved large-scale map amendment to Tourism Commercial Center near Minute Maid Ramp Road (7-0)
• Approved small-scale map amendment to Linear Commercial Corridor on State Road 60 (7-0)
• Denied large-scale map amendment to Business Park Center on Alderman Road (5-2)
• Denied sub-district change from BPC1 to BPC2 on Alderman Road (5-2)
• Denied LDC text amendment for Alderman Road development conditions (5-2)
• Approved PD modification for 40-foot lots at Winslow's Point (5-2)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will vote on several high-cost infrastructure contracts and public safety equipment. The meeting includes public hearings for comprehensive plan amendments and land development code changes. The board will also consider the creation of a Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee.

• Joint Use Fire Rescue Station contract between City of Bartow and Polk County ($12,000,000 total; County portion $6,780,000)
• Motorola Dynamic System Resilience Equipment for Public Safety Radio System ($1,553,994.08)
• Buckeye Loop Road Infrastructure Agreement (County portion $705,676.39)
• Public hearing for Orchid Springs CPA to change land use from Residential Low to Residential Medium on 2.55 +/- acres
• Proposed settlement in Leigh Ashley v. Polk County Board of County Commissioners ($150,000.00)

The Board denied two related proposals for Indian Lake Estates (ILE): a comprehensive plan text amendment to allow duplexes and up to four dwelling units per acre on septic, and a companion land development code change. Both were denied on 4-1 votes, with Commissioner Troutman dissenting. The Board also approved a joint fire station with Bartow, a COPS grant, radio equipment, and several other items.

• Denied ILE text CPA allowing duplexes and septic density (4-1)
• Denied companion LDC text amendment for ILE (4-1)
• Approved joint fire station with Bartow ($6.78M county share)
• Approved DOJ COPS grant and budget ($1.559M)
• Approved Motorola radio resilience equipment ($1.554M)
• Approved Buckeye Loop Road infrastructure agreement ($705,676 county share)
• Approved Geosyntec engineering services for Southeast Landfill ($424,297)
• Approved ordinance for closing county-owned roads

TPO Technical Advisory Committee (TAC)

The Polk TPO Technical Advisory Committee will consider Resolution 2025-02 adopting performance targets for pavement, bridge, and system performance. The committee will also receive updates on the Envision 2050 long-range transportation plan, the Vision Zero safety initiative, and the 2025 Roadway Network Database. A legislative update and discussion of the 2025 Transportation Priorities Subcommittee are also on the agenda.

• Resolution 2025-02 adopting performance targets for pavement, bridge and system performance
• Envision 2050 Long Range Transportation Plan update
• Vision Zero Polk safety initiative update
• Polk TPO 2025 Roadway Network Database
• 2025 Transportation Priorities Subcommittee action item

The Polk County TPO Technical Advisory Committee approved nominations for the 2025 Transportation Priorities Subcommittee and unanimously approved updated Envision 2050 performance targets for bridges, pavement, and system performance. Staff reported that preliminary revenue estimates show significantly less funding available for LRTP projects, and the 2025 Roadway Network Database now shows six failing road segments, up from a year ago.

• Approved Jan 23, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Transportation Priorities Subcommittee nominations: Carlie Flagler, Ben Ziskal, Bob Wiegers, alt Julie Womble (unanimous)
• Approved Envision 2050 updated performance targets (unanimous)

Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer will consider one special exception and three variance requests, including a Sam's Club alcohol variance, at the March 27, 2025 meeting. These are land-use decisions that affect property use regulations for the applicants.

• LDLSE-2024-12: Binzha Special Exception
• LDVAR-2025-1: Sam's Club Alcohol Variance
• LDVAR-2025-2: Trebiatowski - Via Galuppi St variance
• LDVAR-2025-4: Rogers Variance

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer approved a special exception for Juan Binzha to park commercial vehicles at 7333 Catherine Drive in a Residential Suburban district, despite opposition from neighbors citing safety and noise concerns. The officer also approved three variances: an alcohol setback reduction for a Sam's Club, a rear setback reduction for a screen room in Solivita, and an accessory structure variance for a property on Saddle Creek Road. All decisions followed staff recommendations.

• Approved LDLSE-2024-12 special exception for commercial vehicle parking at 7333 Catherine Drive
• Approved LDLVAR-2025-1 alcohol beverage setback reduction for Sam's Club near Haines City
• Approved LDLVAR-2025-2 rear setback reduction for screen room at 1145 Via Galuppi St
• Approved LDLVAR-2025-4 accessory structure variance at 2710 Saddle Creek Road

Board of County Commissioners

The Board will hold a public hearing to consider adopting updated warehouse/industrial transportation impact fees based on a new study. Other public hearings include a text amendment on accessory structures and setting hearings on a camping prohibition ordinance, a comprehensive plan amendment, and zoning changes. The consent agenda includes a $3.2 million FDOT sidewalk project agreement, a $1 million HATCH program contract extension, and multiple plat approvals and contract amendments.

• Public hearing to adopt updated rates for warehouse and industrial transportation impact fees (P.1)
• Public hearing on text amendment to accessory dwelling unit and accessory structure regulations (O.1)
• Approve Local Agency Program agreement with FDOT for Maine Avenue Sidewalk Project ($3,228,442) (H.1)
• Approve first amendment to contract with Tri-County Human Services for HATCH Program staffing ($1,020,132) (H.2)
• Set hearing on ordinance prohibiting camping on certain property for April 15, 2025 (R.38)

The Board of County Commissioners denied two motions to increase warehouse and industrial transportation impact fees, leaving current rates in place. The first motion, for a rate of 1.71 with a blockage factor, failed 3-2, and the second, for a 1.98 blended rate, also failed 3-2, both lacking the required supermajority. The board approved all other agenda items, including the Maine Avenue Sidewalk Project agreement, a contract amendment for the HATCH Program, and a text amendment for accessory dwelling units.

• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Approved LAP agreement with FDOT for Maine Avenue Sidewalk Project ($3,228,442) (5-0)
• Approved first amendment to Tri-County Human Services contract for HATCH Program (5-0)
• Approved engineering services for Daughtery Road Park Phase I ($736,759.10) (5-0)
• Approved grant for Circle B Bar Reserve Pond Project ($200,000 grant + $200,000 match) (5-0)
• Approved two new and six reappointments to Contractor Licensing Board (5-0)
• Approved accessory dwelling unit text amendment with 1,000 sq ft cap (5-0)
• Denied warehouse impact fee increase to 1.71 with blockage factor (3-2, failed supermajority)

TPO Transportation Disadvantaged Local Coordinating Board (TD LCB)

The Polk County TPO Local Coordinating Board for the Transportation Disadvantaged will hold a public workshop to gather input for updating the county's Transportation Disadvantaged Service Plan (TDSP), then convene a regular meeting to consider an amendment to the June 2024 TDSP and a proposed change to a performance measure. The board will also receive a quarterly report from the Community Transportation Coordinator (CTC).

• Public workshop to collect comments on transportation disadvantaged issues for the TDSP update in June 2025
• Action item: Amendment to the June 2024 Polk Transportation Disadvantage Service Plan
• Action item: Proposed change to a performance measure
• Approval of December 16, 2024 meeting minutes
• CTC quarterly report presentation

The Polk County TPO Transportation Disadvantaged Local Coordinating Board (TD LCB) met on March 17, 2025, and approved two amendments to the June 2024 Transportation Disadvantaged Service Plan (TDSP). The first amendment adds a Standard Operating Procedure for adverse incident reporting, and the second updates the performance measure for average cost per paratrip from $35 to $50. The board also approved the December 16, 2024 meeting minutes and received the Citrus Connection quarterly report. No public comments were made during the workshop or the meeting.

• Approved December 16, 2024 TD LCB meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved TDSP amendment adding adverse incident reporting SOP (unanimous)
• Approved TDSP amendment changing performance measure from $35 to $50 per paratransit trip (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Polk County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on March 5, 2025, to consider 11 new business items, including waivers, conditional uses, comprehensive plan amendments, and a text amendment. Prior to the hearing, the commission will hold a workshop to discuss agenda items, ordinance revisions, and comprehensive plan recommendations; no official action or public comment will be taken during the workshop. One item (Rifle Range Road CPA) has been continued to the April 2 meeting.

• LDWA-2024-61 (Maguire Waiver)
• LDWA-2024-60 (Pitt Road Waiver)
• LDCT-2025-2 (INST-2 Text Amendment)
• LDCPAS-2024-29 (Rifle Range Road CPA) continued to April 2, 2025
• LDCPAL-2024-14 (Poinciana Subdivision)

The Polk County Planning Commission approved all 11 land development cases on the March 5, 2025 agenda, including waivers, conditional uses, text amendments, and comprehensive plan amendments. One case (LDCPAS-2024-29) was continued to April 2, 2025. All votes were unanimous except for three items with dissenting votes.

• Approved LDWA-2024-61 Maguire Waiver (7-0)
• Approved LDWA-2024-60 Pitt Road Waiver (7-0)
• Approved LDCU-2024-40 Martinez MH (7-0)
• Approved LDCU-2024-37 Posner Reserve (7-0)
• Approved LDCT-2024-28 I-4 SAP Revision (7-0)
• Approved LDCPAL-2024-17 Stuart Property Thornhill Road (5-2)
• Approved LDCPAL-2024-14 Poinciana Subdivision (7-0)
• Approved LDCPAS-2024-34 Orchid Springs CPA (6-0, 1 abstention)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will vote on several multi-million dollar wastewater infrastructure contracts and two 20-year extensions for the South Fort Meade mine. The meeting also includes public hearings on accessory dwelling unit rules and traffic calming on Shenandoah Street.

• Amendment to Wright-Pierce, Inc. for Northeast Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility Expansion ($9,658,092.00)
• Agreement with Black & Veatch Corporation for southwest regional wastewater treatment facility improvements ($3,100,586.00)
• Two adoption hearings to extend the South Fort Meade mine development order by 20 years
• Public hearing for three speed humps on Shenandoah Street near Lakeland (estimated $15,000.00)
• Proposed LDC Text Amendment regarding Accessory Dwelling Units

The Board approved a $9.66 million amendment with Wright-Pierce for construction administration on the Northeast Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility expansion, and a $3.1 million engineering contract with Black & Veatch for the Southwest facility. They also approved a $1.84 million water supply agreement amendment, confirmed Shawn Smith as permanent Fire Chief, and approved several land use and road items.

• Approved Amendment No.3 to Wright-Pierce agreement for Northeast Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility expansion ($9,658,092)
• Approved Black & Veatch engineering services for Southwest Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility improvements ($3,100,586)
• Approved Seventh Amendment to Cypress Lake Alternative Water Supply Agreement ($1,840,000 not-to-exceed)
• Confirmed Shawn Smith as Polk County Fire Rescue Services Director (Fire Chief)
• Approved ADU text amendment with 1,000 sq ft limit (first reading)
• Approved FLU map amendment for Space Source Inc (7.49 acres, Poinciana DRI)
• Approved 20-year extension for South Fort Meade Mine DRI (17,508.5 acres)
• Approved speed humps on Shenandoah Street, Lakeland ($15,000)

Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer

The meeting includes approval of the January 23, 2025 minutes and public hearings on two variance cases: LDLVAR-2024-66 (RoadPro ISR Variance) and LDLVAR-2024-67 (St. Pierre Variance). No additional details about the variances are provided in the agenda.

• LDLVAR-2024-66 (RoadPro ISR Variance)
• LDLVAR-2024-67 (St. Pierre Variance)

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer approved two variance requests on February 25, 2025. The first allowed an increase in Impervious Surface Ratio from 55% to 59% for a 5.6-acre property at 100 Airport Road South. The second allowed an accessory structure larger than the primary structure at 1967 E Fox Hollow Drive. Both were approved with no public opposition.

• Approved ISR variance from 55% to 59% for 5.6 acres at 100 Airport Road South (LDLVAR-2024-66)
• Approved variance for accessory structure larger than primary structure at 1967 E Fox Hollow Drive (LDLVAR-2024-67)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will review several high-cost infrastructure and staffing requests, including a wastewater treatment facility addendum and a request for 75 additional positions. The meeting also includes multiple public hearings for comprehensive plan amendments and a work session on warehouse and industrial impact fees.

• Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) Addendum No. 2 for Northeast Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility ($30,421,036.00 one-time expense)
• Request for 75 additional positions to address field operations overtime (estimated $9,200,000 annual recurring cost)
• Federally-Funded Subaward and Grant Agreement for DR-4834 Hurricane Milton (estimated $10,817,250.00)
• Public hearing to change 420 acres from Phosphate Mining and Agricultural/Residential-Rural to Industrial (LDCPAL-2024-12)
• Work session on Warehouse and Industrial Impact Fees

The Board approved a $30,421,036 Construction Manager at Risk Guaranteed Maximum Price Addendum No. 2 with Wharton-Smith, Inc. for the Northeast Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility expansion, increasing capacity to 6-9 million gallons per day. They also approved 75 additional Fire Rescue positions to address overtime issues, at an estimated $9.2 million annual recurring cost. All votes were unanimous (5-0) except the denial of the W. Lake Marion Road closure request, which passed 4-1 with Commissioner Troutman dissenting.

• Approved $30.4M CMAR GMP Addendum No. 2 for NERWWTF expansion (5-0)
• Approved 75 additional Fire Rescue positions to reduce overtime, $9.2M annual cost (5-0)
• Denied request for 60-day road closure of W. Lake Marion Road (4-1, Troutman nay)
• Approved consent agenda, disbursements, and Feb 4 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved PRWC Heartland Protection grant amendment for $416,098 (5-0)
• Reappointed Steve Bissonnette and Cauney Bamberg to Citizens HealthCare Oversight Committee (5-0)
• Appointed Chad McLeod to Tourist Development Council (5-0)
• Approved 5 land use and zoning amendments (all 5-0)

Transportation Planning Organization (TPO)

The Transportation Planning Organization will hold public hearings on amendments to the Momentum 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan and the FY 2024/25-2028/29 Transportation Improvement Program. The board will also elect officers, make appointments, and consider a resolution adopting FDOT safety performance targets. Presentations are scheduled on the Central Polk Parkway East corridor evaluation and the SunRail extension study.

• Public hearing on draft amendments to Momentum 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan
• Public hearing on draft amendments to FY 2024/25-2028/29 Transportation Improvement Program
• Resolution adopting FDOT safety performance targets
• Election of TPO officers and board appointments
• Presentation on Central Polk Parkway East Alternative Corridor Evaluation (ACE) from State Road 60 to US 17/92

The Polk County TPO Board unanimously approved amendments to the Momentum 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan and the FY 2024/25-2028/29 Transportation Improvement Program, both tied to the Moving Florida Forward I-4 widening project. The board also adopted Resolution 2025-01 setting FDOT safety performance targets, reappointed officers and board members, and heard presentations on the Central Polk Parkway and SunRail extension. No public comments were made during the public hearings.

• Approved December 19, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Executive Director quarterly timesheets and expense reimbursements (unanimous)
• Reappointed Trish Pfeiffer as Chair and Commissioner Roberts McCarley as Vice-Chair (unanimous)
• Reappointed Vice Mayor Jeremy Clark to Local Coordinating Board (unanimous)
• Reappointed Mayor Pfeiffer, Commissioner Musick, Commissioner LaLonde to Suncoast TPA (unanimous)
• Appointed Mayor Omar Arroyo to Central Florida MPO Alliance, Commissioner Vernel Smith as alternate (unanimous)
• Adopted LRTP amendments for I-4 Moving Florida Forward (unanimous roll call)
• Adopted TIP amendments including North Lake Fitness Trail, Lakeland transit funding, I-4 widening (unanimous roll call)

Planning Commission

The Polk County Planning Commission will hold a workshop to discuss agenda items and upcoming ordinance revisions, followed by a public hearing to consider seven items including comprehensive plan amendments, conditional use permits for a sand mine and auto sales, a mine DRI extension, and two land development code text amendments. No official action is taken during the workshop; all decisions occur during the public hearing.

• LDCPAS-2024-28 Space Source CPA (comprehensive plan amendment)
• LDCU-2024-39 St. Helena Sand Mine Modification (conditional use permit)
• LDCU-2024-1 Small Bay Auto Sales CU (conditional use permit)
• LDCU-2024-38 & LDDRI-2024-1 South Fort Meade Mine DRI Extension
• LDCT-2024-21 & LDCT-2024-25 text amendments on accessory structures and livestock/fowl

The Polk County Planning Commission approved all six land-use items on its agenda, including a comprehensive plan map amendment, a sand mine modification, a conditional use for vehicle sales, two South Fort Meade mine DRI extensions, and an accessory structures text amendment. The commission tabled the livestock and fowl text amendment. All approvals were unanimous (7-0).

• Approved LDCPAS-2024-28 Space Source CPA (7-0)
• Approved LDCU-2024-39 St. Helena Sand Mine Modification (7-0)
• Approved LDCU-2024-1 Small Bay Auto Sales CU (7-0)
• Approved LDCU-2024-38 South Fort Meade Mine DRI Extension (7-0)
• Approved LDDRI-2024-1 South Fort Meade Mine DRI Extension (7-0)
• Approved LDCT-2024-21 Accessory Structures LDC Text Amendment (7-0)
• Tabled LDCT-2024-25 Livestock & Fowl LDC Text Amendment (7-0)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will consider several land development code amendments, including warehouse separation and the establishment of a new Community Development District. The meeting also includes votes on various infrastructure contracts and housing assistance grants.

• Public hearing on amending Section 220 regarding warehouse uses and loading areas
• Public hearing to establish the Winslow’s Point Community Development District
• NCLF Transfer Station Site Improvements design and permitting contract (not to exceed $476,512.93)
• SHIP Program homeowner assistance agreement for a Winter Haven property ($203,475.00)
• Proposed settlement in Christopher Pierson v. Polk County ($75,000.00)

The Board approved a text amendment requiring additional buffering for warehouses, established a new Community Development District for Winslow's Point (533 units), and approved a comprehensive plan amendment for Indian Lake Estates allowing duplexes and sewer connections. Several other items were approved, including design contracts for landfill and utility facilities. A request to change land use for Deen Still COREX was continued to February 18.

• Approved warehouse separation text amendment LDCT-2024-18 (5-0)
• Approved Winslow's Point Community Development District (5-0)
• Approved Indian Lake Estates comprehensive plan amendment LDCPAL-2024-15 (5-0)
• Approved first reading of SR 60 & Boy Scout Road activity center plan LDCT-2024-27 (5-0)
• Approved design and permitting contract for North Central Landfill transfer station, not to exceed $476,512.93 (5-0)
• Approved agreement with CPH Consulting for warehouse/fleet facility design, $210,909.00 (5-0)
• Continued Deen Still COREX land use change to February 18, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda and disbursements (5-0)

Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer will hold a public hearing on January 23, 2025, to consider three land use cases: two special exception requests (LDLSE-2024-10 on Thompson Road SE and LDLSE-2024-11 by Alvarez) and one variance request (LD LVAR-2024-59 by Smith). The meeting also includes approval of the prior meeting minutes from December 10, 2024.

• LDLSE-2024-10 (Thompson Road SE) – special exception request
• LDLSE-2024-11 (Alvarez Special Exception) – special exception request
• LD LVAR-2024-59 (Smith Variance) – variance request

The Polk County Land Use Hearing Officer approved all three agenda items: a special exception for commercial vehicle parking at 4508 Thompson Road, a special exception for commercial vehicle parking at 727 Saddlewood Boulevard, and a variance for a side setback reduction at 344 Sunshine Dr. All approvals followed staff recommendations, with no opposition recorded for the latter two cases.

• Approved special exception LDLSE-2024-10 for commercial vehicle parking at 4508 Thompson Road (no vote tally recorded)
• Approved special exception LDLSE-2024-11 for commercial vehicle parking at 727 Saddlewood Boulevard (no vote tally recorded)
• Approved variance LDLVAR-2024-59 for side setback reduction at 344 Sunshine Dr (no vote tally recorded)

TPO Technical Advisory Committee (TAC)

The Polk County TPO Technical Advisory Committee will elect officers and vote on a resolution adopting FDOT safety performance targets. They will also review and approve amendments to the Momentum 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan and the FY 2024/25-2028/29 Transportation Improvement Program. Presentations will cover the SunRail Extension PD&E study and the Central Polk Parkway East Alternative Corridor Evaluation.

• Election of officers for the TAC
• Draft TPO Resolution 2025-01 adopting FDOT Safety Performance Targets
• Amendments to the Momentum 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP)
• Amendments to the FY 2024/25-2028/29 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
• SunRail Extension Project Development and Environmental (PD&E) Study presentation

The Polk County TPO Technical Advisory Committee approved Resolution 2025-01 adopting FDOT Safety Performance Targets, amendments to the Momentum 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan for I-4 Moving Florida Forward projects, and amendments to the FY 2024/25-2028/29 Transportation Improvement Program. The committee also elected Tess Schwartz as Chair and Carlie Flagler as Vice-Chair. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Resolution 2025-01 adopting FDOT Safety Performance Targets (unanimous)
• Approved amendments to Momentum 2045 LRTP for I-4 Moving Florida Forward projects (unanimous)
• Approved amendments to FY 2024/25-2028/29 TIP including North Lake Fitness Trail and I-4 projects (unanimous)
• Elected Tess Schwartz as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Carlie Flagler as Vice-Chair (unanimous)
• Approved December 5, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board will vote on consent agenda items including a $4.7 million reimbursement for Thompson Nursery Road improvements and a $2.3 million intersection project at US 27 and Tierra Del Sol. Public hearings are scheduled on land development code changes for warehouse separation and a conditional use for three dwelling units. A work session will update the Comprehensive Plan.

• Thompson Nursery Road Phase 2, Segment 5 infrastructure agreement (county reimbursement up to $4,729,067)
• US 27 at Tierra Del Sol intersection improvement contract with Ajax Paving ($2,286,826 one-time expense)
• Piggyback agreement for park and playground equipment (annual recurring $3M–$4.5M)
• Public hearings on warehouse separation (LDCT-2024-18) and conditional use for three dwellings (LDCU-2024-36)
• Adoption of 2025 State Legislative Priorities for Polk County

The Board approved a construction contract with Ajax Paving Industries for the US 27 at Tierra Del Sol intersection improvement project, including a budget transfer of $1,286,827 from the Transportation Trust Fund. Also approved were a $4.73M infrastructure agreement for Thompson Nursery Road, a $1.48M CMAR addendum for AMI radio towers, and a $700,000 behavioral health contract with Peace River Center. All votes were 4-0 with Commissioner Santiago absent.

• Approved $2,286,826.36 construction contract with Ajax Paving for US 27 at Tierra Del Sol intersection (4-0)
• Approved $4,729,067.16 reimbursement agreement for Thompson Nursery Road Phase 2, Segment 5 (4-0)
• Approved $1,479,127.28 CMAR GMP addendum with SEMCO Construction for AMI radio towers (4-0)
• Approved $700,000 behavioral health contract with Peace River Center (4-0)
• Approved piggyback agreements for park and playground equipment (estimated $3M-$4.5M annually) (4-0)
• Approved Land Development Code amendments for infrastructure installation (LDCT-2024-26) (4-0)
• Approved first reading of warehouse separation amendment (LDCT-2024-18) (4-0)
• Approved conditional use for three dwelling units on one parcel (LDCU-2024-36) (4-0)

Planning Commission

The Polk County Planning Commission will hold a workshop at 8:50 a.m. to discuss agenda items without official action, followed by a public hearing at 9:00 a.m. The public hearing will consider eight items: a sign variance for Lakeland Regional ER, a rights restoration for Rodriguez on ABC Road, a comprehensive plan amendment and text amendment for LaRoche Road, a COREX on Deen Still Road, comprehensive plan text amendments for Indian Lake Estates, a text amendment for Indian Lake Estates, and an accessory structures text amendment. The commission will also receive a comprehensive plan update.

• LDPVAR-2024-1 – Sign variance for Lakeland Regional ER
• LDCU-2024-36 – Rights restoration for Rodriguez on ABC Road
• LDCPAS-2024-27 – Comprehensive plan amendment (CPA) on LaRoche Road
• LDCPAL-2024-15 – Comprehensive plan text CPA for Indian Lake Estates
• LDCT-2024-21 – Text amendment for accessory structures

The Polk County Planning Commission approved five land-use requests, including a sign variance for Lakeland Regional Health, a conditional use for a non-conforming dwelling, a comprehensive plan amendment and text amendment for LaRoche Road, and a large-scale future land use change for Deen Still Road. It denied two related amendments for Indian Lake Estates that would have allowed duplexes and added a use table. One text amendment regarding accessory structures was continued to a later meeting.

• Approved LDPVAR-2024-1 sign variance for Lakeland Regional ER (7-0)
• Approved LDCU-2024-36 conditional use for three dwelling units on Alturas-Babson Park Cutoff Road (7-0)
• Approved LDCPAS-2024-27 LaRoche Road comprehensive plan amendment (6-1, Bass nay)
• Approved LDCT-2024-22 LaRoche Road text amendment (6-1, Bass nay)
• Approved LDCPAL-2024-9 Deen Still Road large-scale land use change (4-3, Schmidt, Bass, Agnini nay)
• Denied LDCPAL-2024-15 Indian Lake Estates comp plan text amendment (1-6, Dalton aye)
• Denied LDCT-2024-24 Indian Lake Estates text amendment (1-6, Dalton aye)
• Continued LDCT-2024-21 accessory structures text amendment (7-0)

Board of County Commissioners

The board will hold adoption hearings for multiple comprehensive plan amendments and a new community development district (CDD) for the Grenelefe area, involving 526+ acres. They will also vote on a $6 million HUD grant for a flyover, a resolution denying closure of Lake Marion Creek Road, and sidewalk grants. Other items include subdivision plats, utility system acceptances, and a $60,000 settlement in a lawsuit against the Sheriff's Office.

• Grenelefe rezoning: Large-scale comprehensive plan amendment to change land use on 526± acres from Tourism-Commercial Center and DRI to residential and neighborhood activity center (Items P.2-P.5)
• $6,000,000 HUD grant for FDC Grove Road / North Ridge Trail Flyover (Item H.1)
• $850,000 HUD grant for Poinciana community sidewalks (Item H.2)
• Resolution denying closure of Lake Marion Creek Road and prohibiting road closures without board approval (Item G.1)
• Proposed settlement of $60,000 in Robert Tyler v. Polk County Sheriff's Office (Item R.26)

The Board approved a series of measures to redevelop the Grenelefe area, including comprehensive plan text and map amendments, a land development code text amendment, and the creation of a new Community Development District (CDD). The board also approved an interlocal agreement with the Grenelefe CDD to ensure commitments are followed through. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved Grenelefe UEA Comp Plan Text CPA (LDCPAL-2024-6) (5-0)
• Approved Grenelefe UEA LDC Text Amendment (LDCT-2024-10) (5-0)
• Approved Grenelefe DRI CPA map amendment on 526 acres (LDCPAL-2024-5) (5-0)
• Approved creation of Grenelefe Community Development District (LDCDD-2024-6) (5-0)
• Approved Interlocal Agreement with Grenelefe CDD (5-0)
• Approved HUD grant agreement for FDC Grove Road/North Ridge Trail Flyover ($6M) (5-0)
• Approved HUD grant agreement for Poinciana sidewalks ($850K) (5-0)
• Approved resolution denying Lake Marion Creek Road closure and requiring board approval for road closures (5-0)