Home Blog Page 241

Polk County Commission Considering Regulations on Accessory Dwelling Units No Greater Than 50 Percent of Primary Residence

Staff Reporter
-
0
Polk County Commission Considering Regulations on Accessory Dwelling Units No Greater Than 50 Percent of Primary Residence

by James Coulter

Are you planning on building a guest house on your property? Just make sure it’s not bigger than your own home. Or at least 50 percent bigger.

At their regular meeting on Tues. Mar. 4, the Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) reviewed a proposed amendment to the county land development code concerning restrictions on accessory dwelling units (ADUs), which include structures such as guest houses, mother-in-law suites, and garage apartments.

The new regulations will permit one detached ADU per residential lot so long as it does not exceed 50 percent of the primary residence and that it meets the Florida Building Code.

According to the development review committee staff report, “This amendment will provide a definitive cap on the size allowances of these structures to 50% of the principal structure; however, in instances where a property owner wishes to have an ADU that exceeds that, the staff is providing for a variance process to increase the size of and number of ADUs.”

Ben Ziskal, Land Development Director, explained how this amendment would permit structures up to 1,500 square feet to be built on properties with a primary home that is 3,000 square feet, with such structures still subject to impact fees.

This amendment is being proposed to help clarify several existing policies within the county’s land development code which, according to the staff report, “pertain to accessory structures and have been identified as problematic by County staff for purposes of issuing building permits, equitable code enforcement, and public safety.”

Previously, a maximum cap of 1,000 square feet, or 50 percent of the primary residence heated floor space, had been proposed; however, as the report explained, “the Planning Commission found this to be too limiting for larger homes.”

The amendment would also place setbacks for up to five feet in most residential districts. Currently, there are zero-foot setbacks for utility sheds, which have allegedly created complications within the county.

“In 2022, the LDC was changed to allow utility sheds up to 400 sq. ft. to be placed at the property line (zero-foot setback),” the staff report wrote. “This has created issues with stormwater run-off onto neighboring properties. This amendment will restore the setbacks to five (5) feet in most residential districts.”

During the public hearing for the amendment, one member of the public, Bobby Williams, inquired about the implementation. If he were to build a 3,000-square-foot house on five acres of land in Fort Meade, would he only be allowed to build a 300-square-foot barn in his backyard?

Ziskal replied no, unless Williams were to live in the barn. He clarified that the amendment made a clear distinction between “accessory structures” and “accessory dwelling units.”

The second reading of this amendment will be held at the next county commission meeting on Tues. Mar. 18.

Fire Weather Watch Issued for Polk County Thursday

Staff Reporter
-
0
Fire Weather Watch Issued for Polk County Thursday

Fire Weather Watch issued until March 6, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. by National Weather Service Tampa Bay Ruskin FL

…CRITICALLY LOW HUMIDITY WITH GUSTY WINDS WILL RESULT IN ELEVATED FIRE DANGER… .The National Weather Service in Ruskin has issued a Fire Weather Watch for low humidity, gusty northwest winds and moderate significant fire potential expected on Thursday afternoon.

The National Weather Service in Tampa Bay Ruskin has issued a Fire Weather Watch, which is in effect Thursday afternoon. * AFFECTED AREA…Sumter, Polk, Hardee, Highlands, DeSoto, Inland Levy and Inland Charlotte. * TIMING…Thursday afternoon. * WINDS…Northwest 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY…As low as 30 percent. * IMPACTS…Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

Information and BWC Footage Released Regarding Controversial Incident Involving Mother and Child in Winter Haven

Staff Reporter
-
0
Information and BWC Footage Released Regarding Controversial Incident Involving Mother and Child in Winter Haven

The following is a press release by WHPD regarding the incident that occurred on March 4, 2025 that involved a small child. BWC footage of the officer seen in multiple social media posts is below.

It should be noted that this is an unedited press release by the Winter Haven Police Department. Winter Haven Daily does not rewrite or rephrase the information disseminated. We hope readers appreciate being able to read the information and come to your own conclusion.

“On March 4, 2025 at approximately 1:15 p.m., Winter Haven Police officers were dispatched to a call at Santiago’s (898 Havendale Blvd., Winter Haven) for a disturbance involving a firearm. The subject observed with the firearm, 29-year-old Godfrey Hercules II (DOB 3/29/95) was in an altercation with a store employee, 46-year-old Jesus Crespo Perez (DOB 10/27/78) in the parking lot. Godfrey ultimately left the property heading south on Hwy 17.

A BOLO (be on the lookout) was issued for a red Nissan Altima with Hercules as the driver, a female passenger, and a small child passenger.

Ultimately, officers located the vehicle at the American Legion (300 Ave. M NW, Winter Haven) where Hercules, a female, and a young child had exited the vehicle. Hercules was located on the side of the building where he was quickly apprehended.

The female, 27-year-old Mariah Banks (DOB 9/11/97), was directed to get to the ground, and she immediately complied. Her young child mimicked the mother’s actions. Banks was quickly detained. Officers immediately calmed and cared for the young child. A Diamondback 9mm semiautomatic pistol was located in the vehicle. 

Officers responded with an appropriate level of caution with the understanding there was a weapon involved seeking to resolve the situation. When approaching Hercules and Banks, officers could not have known who was in possession of the firearm. As soon as the officer approaching Banks became aware of the presence of the child, he immediately pointed his firearm towards the ground at a low-ready position. At no point was the officer’s weapon pointed at the child as confirmed by multiple cameras.

As required by law, the Winter Haven Police Department notified the Department of Children and Families, of the details of the incident because it was a violent crime committed in the presence of a child.

Both Hercules and Banks were released, along with the child, because Perez declined to press charges. A complaint affidavit was filed with the State Attorney’s Office for Hercules for affray and improper display of a weapon. A complaint affidavit was filed with the State Attorney’s Office for Perez for affray. 

Police Chief Vance Monroe, Assistant City Manager for Public Safety Charlie Bird, and City Manager T. Michael Stavres will be available to address the media at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, March 6, at the Winter Haven Police Department.”

Strong Thunderstorms Moving Through Area- Including Parts of Polk County

Staff Reporter
-
0
Strong Thunderstorms Moving Through Area- Including Parts of Polk County

UPDATE

At 136 PM EST, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near Haines City, moving east at 35 mph. HAZARD…Wind gusts up to 50 mph. SOURCE…Radar indicated. IMPACT…Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Locations impacted include… Davenport, Lake Alfred, Haines City, Loughman, and Winter Haven.

—————

At 1226 PM EST, Doppler radar was tracking strong thunderstorms along a line extending from Zephyrhills West to near Riverview to near Memphis. Movement was east at 30 mph. HAZARD…Wind gusts up to 50 mph. SOURCE…Radar indicated. IMPACT…Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Locations impacted include… South Tampa, Plant City Airport, Tampa Executive Airport, Polk City, Winston, Downtown Saint Petersburg, Zephyrhills South, Orient Park, East Lake-Orient Park, Bradley Junction, Mulberry, Egypt Lake-Leto, Gibsonton, Thonotosassa, Highland City, Gibsonia, Temple Terrace, Duette, Crystal Lake, and Parrish.

In Loving Memory of Ted LaMar Stoner

Staff Reporter
-
0
In Loving Memory of Ted LaMar Stoner

Ted LaMar Stoner

April 9th, 1933 – February 16th, 2025

Ted LaMar Stoner, 91 years, was called home by his Lord and Savior on Sunday, February 16, 2025. He was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather who always put his family first.  

Ted was born on April 9, 1933, in West Unity, Ohio to the late Beryl V. and Ruth Stoner. He was a 1951 graduate of West Unity High School and served in the U.S. Army as a quartermaster. Before entering the U.S. Army, Ted met and fell in love with Vonna Jean Armbruster, the love of his life, they were married on October 7, 1955, and provided a loving home to their four children. Upon discharge, he became part owner of Stoner’s Inc. Trucking, increasing the fleet size to 13 outfits and within a few years becoming full owner. Under his supervision, Stoner’s Inc. Trucking served several eastern states and employed 20 employees. In 1973, he sold the trucking company and moved the family to Winter Haven, Florida. After a short period of time, he was back into trucking as Shop Foreman at Frozen Food Express until 2006. Then he helped his wife, Vonna Jean manage St John’s Thrift Shop until 2017.  

Ted was a longtime member of St John’s Methodist Church, West Unity American Legion, a Lifetime member of H.O.G. (Harley Owners Group), FMCA, Thousand Trails Resort, River Ranch Property Owners, and Good Sams RV Club. Ted enjoyed camping, traveling, riding his Harley and never missed a chance for family adventure.  

Ted is survived by his wife of 69 years, Vonna Jean Stoner, two daughters, LanaJo (Charles) Carlisi, Brenda Stoner and one son Kent Stoner; six grandchildren, Kent Stoner II, Levi (Chelsea) Vernon, Alicia (Samira) Hernandez, Charles Carlisi II, Chelsea and Kristian Stoner; two step grandchildren Ashley and Michael Sweigart; three great-grandchildren, Elise MacDonald, Bianca Vernon, and Julian Vernon; three step great-grandchildren Allison, Eliza and Lilly Petrie. He preceded in death by his parents, brothers Doyle Stoner and Jack Stoner, sister-in-law Dortha Stoner, granddaughter Kelly Stoner and son Kevin Stoner.  

He will be greatly missed by his family and many friends whom he cherished.  

Memorial services will be at St. John’s Methodist Church on March 8, 2025, at 11:00 am. Interment will be at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell.  

Ford Pro Launches

Staff Reporter
-
0
Ford Pro Launches

Ford Pro Launches LocateFordWorkTrucks.com. This intuitive platform, developed in collaboration with and powered by Work Truck Solutions®, provides customers with a new tool to search the nationwide inventory of upfitted versions of Ford F-Series Super Duty® Pickup and Chassis Cab, America’s No. 1 heavy duty truck; Ford Transit, America’s No. 1 commercial van; E-Transit™, America’s No. 1 electric cargo van; and more.

“This collaboration is a testament to the shared commitment of Ford Pro and Work Truck Solutions to provide unparalleled tools that serve customers on their journey and strengthen the ability of dealerships to deliver what their buyers need, all while adding efficiency and value to the entire commercial vehicle ecosystem,” said Kathryn Schifferle, founder and Chief Vision Officer at Work Truck Solutions.

LocateFordWorkTrucks.com transforms the way businesses find and acquire upfitted vehicles by providing instant access to a comprehensive inventory of work-ready trucks and vans.

  • Instant Access: LocateFordWorkTrucks.com, accessible via FordPro.com, allows customers to instantly locate in-stock, upfitted work trucks at Ford dealers nationwide, from Maverick® to F-750®.
  • Advanced Search: Powered by Work Truck Solutions’ advanced search technology, the platform offers easy-to-navigate filters for make and model type, upfit type, vehicle class, fuel type, and more, helping customers find the perfect vehicle configuration for their specific need or industry.
An upfitted 2025 F-450 Super Duty® Chassis Cab XL on a work site.

The Ford Pro Upfitter (FPU) program, formerly Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM), establishes strong cooperation between Ford Pro and final-stage vehicle manufacturers. This collaboration not only helps ensure that aftermarket companies have strong quality operating systems, but also helps provide a seamless, end-to-end customer experience — from initial selection to final delivery. Dealers utilizing Ford Pro Upfitters can now view and track those vehicles as they progress through the process. Upfitters can apply via the Ford Pro website.

Ford Pro is also enhancing data integration with its upfitters to improve customer experience and efficiency by seamlessly tracking inbound vehicles to their facilities. Qualified upfitters are also now integrated into the Ford Pro website, providing co-marketing opportunities and increased visibility. Ford Pro upfitting solutions simplify the upfitting experience:

  • Find an Upfitter Tool: Customers can locate and directly engage with Ford Pro-qualified upfitters in their area using an online tool.
  • Upfitter Pools: Ford Pro is piloting transparent visibility to upfitter inventory, allowing customers to view readily available chassis located at upfitters, further accelerating the modification and delivery process.
  • Vehicle Integration System 2.0: The Ford Pro Vehicle Integration System 2.0, available with some Ford products, digitally connects the upfit to the vehicle to reduce the need for aftermarket upfit equipment control modules, hard switches, and secondary control panels and provides a single point for vehicle signals and data.

“Ford Pro is connecting upfitters, dealers, and commercial customers to simplify the customization process.”

Esteban Plaza-Jennings, Ford Pro upfit strategy manager

Upfitted versions of the Ford F-Series Super Duty® Pickup and Chassis Cab.
An upfitted 2025 F-600 Super Duty® Chassis Cab with a crane.

“Ford Pro is connecting upfitters, dealers, and commercial customers to simplify the customization process and integration of equipment into vehicle systems,” said Plaza-Jennings. “There’s a reason Ford has been the commercial vehicle leader for 40 years1 — our commitment to fostering strong relationships with customers and upfitters alike helps everyone build on a proud legacy of productivity.”

To explore the full range of Ford Pro upfitting solutions, visit FordPro.com.

Polk County Director of Human Resources (HR) and Equity Out After Receiving Criticism For Poor Performance

Carl Fish
-
0
Polk County Director of Human Resources (HR) and Equity Out After Receiving Criticism For Poor Performance

In early 2025, Polk County Commissioner Bill Braswell publicly criticized Kandis Baker-Buford, the county’s Director of Human Resources and Equity, over unresolved deficiencies identified in efficiency studies conducted in 2017 and 2024. Braswell expressed frustration that these issues had not been addressed and advocated for a management overhaul of the HR department. Subsequently it has been confirmed that Baker-Buford is no longer with the county. We don’t know what occurred specifically in her no longer being with the county.

Editors Note: We don’t know if she resigned, retired or was terminated.

The Daily Ridge News reached out to Amber Smith, Communications Division Director, for comment and this was her response: “I can confirm that Kandis Buford is no longer employed with Polk County. We do not comment on personnel issues.”.

Editors Note: It is our understanding that Baker-Buford has been gone since Monday February 24th, however as you can see from the previous quote the county will not elaborate on her departure.

After the criticism, in response, Baker-Buford through a Lakeland Ledger article refuted Braswell’s accusations, suggesting that his criticisms were racially motivated. She received support from the NAACP, which argued that the criticisms failed to acknowledge the systemic challenges she faced. The Ledger article also pointed out how Braswell denied any racial bias, maintaining that his concerns were solely about the department’s performance and the need for effective leadership to implement necessary changes. 

This exchange highlights the complexities in addressing organizational deficiencies, where performance critiques intersect with discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Baker-Buford, serving as the Director of Human Resources (HR) and Equity for Polk County, Florida, has been the focal point of various criticisms over her 26 years of service, particularly concerning her management practices and involvement in contentious personnel decisions within the Polk County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC).

2017 Whistleblower Lawsuit

In 2017, Dr. Nancy King, the former medical director for Polk County, filed a whistleblower lawsuit against the county, alleging retaliatory termination after she raised concerns about the hiring of a firefighter deemed medically unfit. The lawsuit named several county officials, including Baker-Buford, accusing them of overriding standard medical clearance procedures to advance a diversity initiative. Dr. King contended that Baker-Buford’s involvement led to the hiring of an unqualified candidate, compromising public safety and exposing the county to potential liabilities. 

2024 Efficiency Study and HR Management Concerns

In 2024, an efficiency study highlighted ongoing deficiencies within Polk County’s HR department, many of which had been previously identified in a 2017 report but remained unaddressed. Braswell said a “management shakeup” was needed. “You have department heads who feel like they can’t get anything done.” 

“For an individual to stonewall an operation of 2,200 people is just unacceptable,” Braswell said. “If it was in any private business, a lack of efficiency gets flushed out of the door real quick.”

Allegations of Retaliation and Hostile Work Environment

A former employee, Ashly Woosypiti, came to the commission and said she was reportedly fired for gossiping, falsifying county records and interfering with an investigation, but none of the accusations were found to be true.

“The reason why the commissioners have to get involved is because I and many, many other Board of County Commission employees have taken their complaints of harassment, hostile working place, hostile work environment and other racial complaints to the county manager’s office and unfortunately nothing was done about it,”

Editors Note: Allegations were reportedly investigated against Baker-Buford by Equal Opportunity administrator Richard Bradford, who happened to work as a subordinate under Baker- Buford.

Support from Community Organization

Despite the criticisms, Baker-Buford has received backing from various community organizations, including the NAACP. In response to Commissioner call for a management shakeup, supporters argued that Baker-Buford has been committed to promoting diversity and equity within the county’s workforce. They contended that some of the criticisms directed at her were unfounded and failed to acknowledge the systemic challenges she faced. 

Winter Haven Library Presents 4th Annual Peeps Diorama Contest

Staff Reporter
-
0
Winter Haven Library Presents 4th Annual Peeps Diorama Contest

Winter Haven Public Library: We’re thrilled to announce the return of our fourth annual Peeps Diorama Contest! Submit a scene from your favorite book using peeps as the characters.

Entries can be submitted to the library from March 31-April 5.

Build a scene from your favorite books using PEEPS as the characters.  Submit your diorama the week of March 31-April 5 with the completed registration form, below.  Dioramas will be judged in four categories: Ages 9 & under, Ages 10 to 17, Ages 18 & up, and Team/Family.  Winners will be selected by People’s Choice.  Come and cast your vote April 7-12 at the library!

Contest Rules and Information:

  • All people/characters should be represented using PEEPS and each entry must contain at least one PEEPS of any shape or color.
  • Dioramas must be submitted with your name and book title on back of the box AND a completed official entry form.
  • Entries will be accepted at the Winter Haven Public Library during regular business hours, March 31-April 5. *Late entries will not be accepted.
  • Entries must be in a box no larger than 2′ X 2′.
  • The contents of your diorama must be secure enough to be transported. 
  • If your diorama does not meet the previous guidelines, it will not be included in the contest.
  • Voting will take place April 7-12 at the library, ‘People’s Choice’ style by the general public.
  • Four winners, one from each category, will be contacted and announced by close of business April 15.
  • Dioramas can be picked up during regular business hours April 21-26. Unclaimed items will be discarded.

Registration form:

https://www.mywinterhaven.com/DocumentCenter/View/2007/WH-PDC-Entry-Form

We can’t wait to see what you create!

Risk of Damaging Storms Wednesday for Parts of Polk County

Staff Reporter
-
0
Risk of Damaging Storms Wednesday for Parts of Polk County

The National Weather Service Tampa Bay shares weather info for March 5, 2025.

A line of thunderstorms will move through the area Wednesday, bringing a marginal risk of severe thunderstorms. Damaging winds, isolated tornados, and small hail will be the main threats.

Parts of Polk County, including Winter Haven are under marginal risk.

The greatest threat will be from approximately 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Local Family-Run, Woman-Owned Art Studio Offers Fun Atmosphere for All Ages

Staff Reporter
-
0
Local Family-Run, Woman-Owned Art Studio Offers Fun Atmosphere for All Ages

Art on Fire Studio is a small, family-run, woman-owned business, catering to people from all walks of life. It offers a fun and relaxing atmosphere perfect for creating and sharing with friends or family. Fun for all ages- the studio caters to most ages, from toddler to students to adults.

Regina Montesano is the owner of Art on Fire Studio and she shared her story behind opening the studio.

“Art is something I have come to appreciate later in life,” she said. “About ten years ago I found myself smack dab in the middle of a mess in life. Work was all-consuming, family was challenging and I needed to de-stress. I started adult coloring, playing around with canvas painting and a few other things, and found those activities to really help calm my mind.  Then, one birthday, my sister surprised me with a paint-your-own pottery experience. Wow! What a fun yet peaceful experience. I was hooked. Fast forward to the fall of 2023. My husband and I were discussing retirement, brainstorming things we could do now to prepare for extra income once we finally bid farewell to corporate jobs. Going all pie in the sky, I mentioned opening a PYOP (paint your own pottery) studio. It wasn’t more than a few weeks later when a friend Diana Santiago Gill and I were discussing “if only I could….” daydreams and she said that she’s always wanted to open an art studio – paint your own pottery, polymer clay, etc. That was just the nudge we needed. We both seized the moment, began researching, pursuing our certifications and one year later, almost to the day, Art on Fire Studio opened its doors.”

They offer a variety of art activities including:

-Clay Handbuilding

-Mosaic Plaques

-Paint Your Own Pottery

-Throwing on the Pottery Wheel. 

These are perfect for ALL levels of experience.

They also plan to launch their Fused Glass in March. 

Throwing on the pottery wheel is an exciting and unique art experience. The studio has been lucky to have Chuck Byer as a mentor.

“Our spin instructor and manager, Andrea Friedmann learned the art of throwing pottery under his tutelage and to this day he continues to support us in ways too numerous to mention,” Montesano said. “We are fortunate to carry a number of his pieces for sale in our studio, both finished and also ready to glaze. Thanks to Chuck we also carry some very unique, poured items that are not readily available from some our larger vendors. He recently poured a Darth Vader for one of our clients and now we have orders coming in left and right! Chuck is one of our biggest fans and has become family. We even named our largest kiln after him.”

So what are you waiting for? Try this local Winter Haven studio out for yourself! Art on Fire Studio is located at 5937 Cypress Gardens Boulevard, Suite 500 in Winter Haven, FL 33884.

Montesano said, “Until I am ready to retire, my sister, Andrea Friedmann, runs the business along with the friend I mentioned earlier, Dianna Santiago Gill, who is referred to as our “sister from another mister.” We all enjoy our respective professions, but there is nothing quite like doing something for the sheer joy of it. For us, that is Art on Fire Studio. The goals we shared at our grand opening remain in the forefront of our minds – to offer a safe, relaxing space where creativity blossoms. We strive to cultivate a space where folks can feel from the moment they walk in the door, that they are valued, welcome and appreciated for who they are. From beginner to master, we have projects for everyone. Let us help you find your creative bone!”

1...240241242...1,203Page 241 of 1,203