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Winter Haven Commissioners Approve $377.2 Million Budget for 2027 Fiscal Year

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Winter Haven Commissioners Approve $377.2 Million Budget for 2027 Fiscal Year

Winter Haven Commissioners Approve $377.2 Million Budget for 2027 Fiscal Year
by James Coulter
 
Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. famously said taxes are the price of a civilized society. Winter Haven residents will be paying more of that price next year, as city commissioners have approved keeping the millage rate the same as last year to support a larger budget.
 
At their regular meeting on Mon., Sept. 28, 2026, Winter Haven city commissioners voted 4–1 to adopt the budget and millage rate for next fiscal year, with Commissioner Chad Davis casting the lone dissenting vote on both measures.
 
The budget totals $377,158,764, including $179,779,953 for capital investments for infrastructure. The general fund, the city’s second‑largest fund, rises to $86,135,247—an increase of roughly 8 percent over last year. Most of that fund supports essential services: $19.3 million for police, $18.5 million for fire, and $14.78 million for parks and recreation.
 
Ad valorem taxes remain the general fund’s largest revenue source, accounting for 38.49 percent. Those property taxes will be generated through a 6.5900‑mill rate, expected to produce about $33.1 million at a 96.5 percent collection rate.
 
Under the new rate, homeowners will pay $6.59 per $1,000 of taxable value. A home assessed at $150,000 with a $50,000 homestead exemption would owe about $659.00, while one valued at $250,000 would owe roughly $1,318.00.
 
The city’s taxable property values had grown 4.97 percent to $5.61 billion. Of that increase, 2.8 percent (or $164.8 million) came from new construction, while 2.14 percent resulted from higher existing property values.
 
However, Commissioner Chad Davis—who opposed both the budget and millage rate—offered an alternative he said would fund the city without raising taxes. He proposed rolling the millage rate back to 6.3888 mills, below the standard rollback rate, and covering the difference by using $1 million from the city’s $4.5 million unassigned fund balance.
 
Davis argued the fund balance currently sits at 35 percent, five percent above the city’s 30 percent emergency reserve target, calling the excess a “slush fund” for discretionary spending. He moved to amend the millage rate accordingly, but the motion failed 1–4.
 
Davis acknowledged he didn’t expect the amendment to pass, based on earlier comments during agenda review. Still, he criticized commissioners for raising taxes during what he called an “affordability crisis.”
 
“Tonight’s vote is exactly that kind of decision that fuels their frustration,” he said. “We can cut taxes dramatically and still fund every service… The decision is obvious, responsible, and fair.”
 
Mayor Brian Yates rejected that argument, saying the proposed rollback would barely affect homeowners. Under that rate, a $250,000 home, he noted, would save only $50.
 
Under the proposed 6.3888 rate, homeowners would pay $6.3888 per $1,000 of taxable value. A home assessed at $150,000 with a $50,000 homestead exemption would owe $638.88, a savings of $20.12. A home valued at $250,000 with a $50,000 homestead exemption would owe $1,277.76, a savings of $40,24.
 
“That is not meaningful change,” he said. “Fifty dollars is five Starbucks coffees. Nobody is skipping Starbucks—but everyone expects their trash picked up, clean water coming in, and dirty water going out. That’s what city property taxes do.”
 
Yates also called Davis’s plan fiscally unsound, arguing emergency reserves should remain untouched unless the city faces an actual crisis.
 
“I don’t think you take emergency reserve funds to reduce a millage rate without unforeseen circumstances,” he said. “Pulling from emergency funds is irresponsible. It’s not proper planning.”
 
Of note, the fund balance cannot be spent without approval of the City Commission. Currently, $1.5 million of the $4.5 million that is above the 30 percent fund target has been approved by the City Commission to go toward improvements to Sertoma Park’s football facilities. The City Manager has recommended waiting to assign the remaining $3 million until after year-end reconciliation is complete. Any future allocation of those funds will come before the City Commission for action.  

Haines City Woman and New York Woman Arrested in Posner Park Retail Theft Case

Carl Fish
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Haines City Woman and New York Woman Arrested in Posner Park Retail Theft Case

Two women with outstanding warrants were arrested Saturday evening, October 10, after allegedly attempting to steal more than $1,100 in merchandise from a store at Posner Park, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded to a report of a retail theft in progress and arrested Dionna Nicole Smith, 34, of Rochester, New York, and Journey Danae Myricks, 29, of Haines City. The Sheriff’s Office identified Myricks as also being known as Keyanna Letrail Richards.

Investigators allege the two women conspired to steal merchandise valued at $1,134.99.

As deputies took Smith into custody, Myricks allegedly fled through the store’s exit. Deputies quickly apprehended her, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies determined Myricks had an outstanding warrant for burglary with battery stemming from a Winter Haven Police Department investigation. Smith had a Pennsylvania warrant involving retail theft and a probation violation related to retail theft, the agency said.

Both women were taken to the Sheriff’s Processing Center. Each was charged with conspiracy to commit retail theft and retail theft, both third-degree felonies. Myricks also faces a first-degree misdemeanor resisting charge.

The Sheriff’s Office did not identify the store involved.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Connectivity to Expand in City’s Historic Core, Groundbreaking Ceremony Planned

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Pedestrian and Bicycle Connectivity to Expand in City’s Historic Core, Groundbreaking Ceremony Planned

A 3,200-foot-long asphalt multiuse trial will soon be constructed in Crystal Lake Park in Lake Wales. It will create a continuous loop around Crystal Lake when connected to the Park Avenue Connector Trail.

The trail will feature a scenic lake overlook with outdoor seating areas, historic-style lamp posts and native landscaping.

“This project has been in the works for more than three years,” Stephanie Lutton, parks and recreation director said.  “Capturing feedback from the community helped us shape the conceptual plans,” Lutton added. 

Crews are scheduled to reconstruct a segment of Third Street located behind the Lake Wales Public Library into an asphalt trail. A Victorian garden will be located along the west side of the trail at the base of the library.

“What’s unique about this trail, it weaves throughout the park, connecting many of its amenities,” City Manager James Slaton said.

Three existing multiuse trails and three trails in development will link Burns Avenue outside Bok Tower Gardens through a series of trails and portions the City’s parks system to the downtown historic district.

  • Tower Boulevard Trail will connect Burns Avenue to Kiwanis Park Loop Trail and the Lake Wake Wales Trailway. 
  • Kiwanis Park Loop Trail will connect to the Lake Wales Park Trail.
  • Lake Wales Park Trail connects to the Park Avenue Connector Trail.
  • Park Avenue Connector Trail transitions into a curbless street through downtown to First Street Two-way Cycle Track. 
  • First Street Two-way Cycle Track connects to the historic northwest neighborhood and eventually to the Lincoln Avenue. 


The City of Lake Wales will celebrate the start of construction with a groundbreaking ceremony:

Tuesday, October 20th

9:30 a.m.

Crystal Lake Park: Corner of Sessoms Avenue & 4th Street, Lake Wales, Florida

Community members are encouraged to attend and join City staff and project partners as the City continues expanding its trail network. 

Florida Poly Tops MIT, Harvard In Career Outcomes Ranking

Carl Fish
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Florida Poly Tops MIT, Harvard In Career Outcomes Ranking

LAKELAND — Florida Polytechnic University has earned another national distinction, ranking No. 4 in the country and No. 1 among public universities for career outcomes in WalletHub’s 2027 College & University Rankings.

The rankings, released Monday, Oct. 12, evaluated 738 institutions. The career outcomes category considers six measures, including return on educational investment, the percentage of graduates offered full-time employment within six months, and median salary after graduation.

According to Florida Poly, this marks the third consecutive year the Lakeland university has placed among the nation’s leading institutions for career outcomes. Its placement in that category puts it ahead of MIT, Yale, Duke, Harvard and Princeton.

“This national recognition shows the strength of Florida Poly’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers in high-demand fields,” said university President Dr. Devin Stephenson. “By pairing academic excellence with hands-on industry experiences, we give our graduates a competitive edge as they enter the workforce.”

The ranking focuses specifically on career outcomes and does not represent an overall ranking above those universities.

Florida Poly also reported that its alumni earn an average of $93,600 five years after graduation, citing data from MyFloridaFuture. The university said that figure is the highest in Florida’s State University System and 33% above the statewide average.

Bryan Brooks, vice president of student affairs, enrollment management and strategic communications, credited the practical experience students gain while attending Florida Poly.

“Our graduates are in high demand largely because of the experience they gain by tackling real-world challenges during their time at Florida Poly,” Brooks said. “Employers know that a Florida Poly degree represents solid technical expertise, adaptability and the skills needed to excel in today’s emerging industries.”

The recognition comes during a period of growth for the university, which focuses exclusively on science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Florida Poly reported a record enrollment of more than 2,300 students this fall, an increase of 35% over two years.

The university has also launched new bachelor’s degrees in aerospace engineering and biomedical sciences. The biomedical sciences program includes a specialized pre-med track developed in partnership with the Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Construction is expected to begin in spring 2027 on the university’s planned Student Achievement Center. The 138,400-square-foot facility will bring academic support, career planning, professional development and student engagement services together in one location.

Florida Poly said the WalletHub recognition follows September rankings from U.S. News & World Report, which named it the No. 1 public college in the South and No. 16 nationally among public engineering programs at institutions without an engineering Ph.D.

Lake Wales Focuses on Furthering Redevelopment with $144M Budget, Higher Property Taxes

Allison
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Lake Wales Focuses on Furthering Redevelopment with $144M Budget, Higher Property Taxes

Lake Wales Focuses on Furthering Redevelopment with $144M Budget, Higher Property Taxes

by James Coulter

City residents may see higher property taxes on next year’s bill, but the added revenue will help accelerate redevelopment efforts: smoother neighborhood streets, enhanced downtown streetscapes, the revival of a historic hotel, and further rollout of the city’s award‑winning Connected plan.

At their regular meeting on Tues., Sept. 22, 2026, Lake Wales city commissioners voted unanimously to adopt the budget and millage rate for the upcoming fiscal year.

The $144,473,884 budget outlines a wide range of capital projects, many tied to Lake Wales Connected, the city’s master blueprint for revitalizing historic downtown and strengthening links between neighborhoods, parks, and commercial districts.

According to the city’s website, the plan envisions “downtown being the epicenter of Lake Wales with vibrant streetscapes and interconnected trails, connecting citizens and visitors to area establishments, nearby parks, green spaces and neighborhoods.”

Key investments include:

•       $1 million for citywide street resurfacing

•       $250,000 to implement the CRA’s downtown parking strategic plan

•       $2.5 million for upgrades to the Peterson Myers building and Stuart Avenue parking

•       $17.5 million to advance the Walesbilt Hotel restoration

City officials consider the Walesbilt Hotel one of the most significant redevelopment investments. Earlier this year, commissioners approved a $2 million interim agreement for preconstruction and design work, which also sets a maximum CRA contribution of $17.5 million toward the restoration.

A study by PlaceEconomics projects substantial economic impact: 173 construction‑phase jobs, $19 million in labor income, and more than $900,000 in local tax revenue. Once it reopens, the restored hotel is expected to attract 19,500 visitors annually and generate $12.1 million in visitor spending in the first year.

Beyond downtown redevelopment, the budget funds improvements across multiple city services, including:

•       Expansion of Memorial Gardens Cemetery

•       Restoration of the historic Stuart House

•       Construction of a new south fire station on Hunt Brothers Road

•       Renovation of the recently acquired police annex facility

•       Upgrades to the James P. Austin Community Center and the Family Recreation Center

•       Improvements to the city’s water and wastewater systems

•       Construction of multimodal trails, including the Ridge Scenic Highway Trail, Crystal Lake Loop Trail, and Kiwanis Loop Trail

•       Renovations at the municipal airport, including a new weather station and beacon, an expanded parking ramp, and an aircraft tug

The budget is supported by a millage rate of 8.0462 mills, a 6.85 percent increase over the rolled‑back rate of 7.5304 mills. Under the new rate, a homeowner with a taxable value of $200,000 would pay about $1,609 in property taxes, roughly $103 more than last year.

The higher millage rate reflects a major surge in the city’s taxable property base. In the past year alone, Lake Wales added more than $1.5 billion in value, a 20.56 percent increase driven by new construction, annexations, and continued development activity, according to Lake Wales News.

Parks and Natural Resources Staff Conduct Prescribed Burn at SUMICA October 13

Allison
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Parks and Natural Resources Staff Conduct Prescribed Burn at SUMICA October 13

Polk County Parks and Natural Resources staff plan to conduct a 160-acre prescribed burn for land management purposes on Tuesday, Oct. 13, at SUMICA, located at 14020 State Highway 60 E. in Lake Wales.

SUMICA will be closed to the public on Oct. 13 but is expected to open the following day.

Source Polk County Government Florida

Prescribed burns are conducted when wind and weather conditions minimize smoke impacts to nearby residents and roads, but residents may still notice smoke in the surrounding area. Staff periodically conduct prescribed burns to maintain the health and ecological functions of its natural areas.Prescribed burning is the careful application of fire under a set of stringent environmental and weather conditions. All prescribed burns are subject to being postponed or canceled due to weather conditions and other factors.

Fires are a natural and important part of Florida’s landscapes that help restore balance to fire-adapted ecosystems. Polk County Parks and Natural Resources staff use prescribed burns to mimic historical natural fire cycles. These carefully applied fires maintain the health of Florida’s fire-dependent ecosystems, enhance wildlife habitat, improve soil health, promote biodiversity and reduce the risk of severe wildfires. Conducting periodic prescribed burns reduces vegetation and fuel loads, lowering the risk of intense, uncontrolled wildfires.

For additional information on site or trail closures should contact Polk County Parks and Natural Resources Division at 863-534-7377.

Culpepper Cardiac Foundation Donates 110th AED to Lake Shipp Baptist Church in Honor of Gregory Harris

Allison
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Culpepper Cardiac Foundation Donates 110th AED to Lake Shipp Baptist Church in Honor of Gregory Harris

The Culpepper Cardiac Foundation has donated its 110th automated external defibrillator (AED) to Lake Shipp Baptist Church, honoring Gregory Harris and helping the church improve access to lifesaving equipment for its congregation.

Harris, 25, was born and raised in Winter Haven and has been an active member of Lake Shipp Baptist Church since 2015. He chose the church as the recipient because several people living in its parsonage are elderly, and having an AED onsite could help ensure immediate assistance is available during a cardiac emergency.

Source Lake Shipp Baptist Church

“The church has been discussing its desire to get an AED for years,” Harris said. “In a business meeting this year, I offered the possibility of seeking a donation of the equipment and that I knew of an organization who might be willing to make such a donation to help us.”

Harris said he felt blessed to be selected by the foundation for the honor. He also expressed appreciation for the organization’s work in making lifesaving equipment more accessible.

Source Lake Shipp Baptist Church

“Having followed the extraordinary generosity and compassionate work of the Culpepper Cardiac Foundation for a long time, I can sincerely say that the impact they have on the lives of those they serve is inspiring,” Harris said. “Their unwavering commitment to helping individuals and families facing cardiac-related challenges is a true testament to the power of compassion, community, and selfless service.”

Harris also attended an AED demonstration led by Eric Shimcus, who explained how the equipment works and how it can guide people through responding to a cardiac emergency.

“The AED demonstration was incredibly informative and, quite frankly, fascinating!” Harris said. “I hadn’t fully appreciated just how intuitive and user-friendly these lifesaving devices are, or how effectively they guide even someone without medical training through the steps necessary to respond to a cardiac emergency.”

Lake Shipp Baptist Church Pastor Scott Owens also welcomed the donation, calling it a special honor to have the equipment placed at Harris’ home church.

Source Lake Shipp Baptist Church

Owens has been a member of Lake Shipp Baptist Church for more than 40 years and has served as pastor for the past two and a half years.

“Our church was blessed to be the recipient of a new AED equipment,” Owens said.

Owens has known Harris for many years and had the opportunity to baptize him. He said Harris has remained faithful to the church and is appreciated by the congregation.

Owens also praised the foundation’s work and its commitment to saving lives.

“Melanie and the entire Culpepper Team do an incredible job,” Owens said. “You can see through her testimony that saving lives is dear and near to her heart. I know the community as a whole is very thankful for their organization and mission.”

The AED demonstration was another important part of the donation, giving attendees an opportunity to learn about the equipment and other lifesaving devices. Owens said Shimcus also shared personal stories from his 25 years of service as a first responder.

Source Lake Shipp Baptist Church

“The demonstrations were so helpful in getting to know how to use the equipment plus the additional time Eric spent on talking about other life saving devices and sharing some of his own personal stories from his twenty five years of service as a first responder,” Owens said.

Harris said he looks forward to supporting the foundation’s continued efforts to expand AED accessibility.

“Again, thank you for bestowing such an honor to me,” Harris said. “I am excited to join Ms. Culpepper’s team as she furthers her commitment to AED accessibility for all.”

Owens also offered his thanks to the foundation for the donation, closing with a message of appreciation: “Well done Culpepper Team and thank you for our AED equipment! God bless you all!”

Source Lakr Shipp Baptist Church

Neurodivergent Diversions: 4 Tips To Make Your Autistic Child’s Halloween Not‑So‑Scary

Allison
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Neurodivergent Diversions: 4 Tips To Make Your Autistic Child’s Halloween Not‑So‑Scary

Neurodivergent Diversions: 4 Tips To Make Your Autistic Child’s Halloween Not‑So‑Scary

by James Coulter

Halloween is right around the corner, and while many children look forward to costumes and candy, some Autistic children experience the holiday very differently. Sudden surprises can be startling. Bright lights, bold colors, and loud noises can overwhelm the senses. And the unfamiliar social cues of trick‑or‑treating can make the night feel unpredictable rather than fun.

But Halloween doesn’t have to be frightening. With a little planning, parents and caregivers can create a sensory‑friendly holiday that emphasizes predictability, comfort, and choice, giving Autistic children room to enjoy the parts of Halloween that feel safe and exciting to them.

Here are several practical ways to help your Autistic child have a not‑so‑scary, sensory‑friendly Halloween:

#1. Prepare Early and Make Halloween Predictable

Halloween often brings sudden changes in routine and unfamiliar environments. Early preparation helps make the holiday feel safer and more manageable.

Introduce Halloween gradually through picture books, short videos, or simple social stories. Explain what your child will see, hear, and do with costumes, decorations, and trick‑or‑treating so the night feels less like a surprise.

If you plan to trick‑or‑treat, preview the route during daylight and note anything potentially overwhelming, like loud animatronics or barking dogs. At home, practice the basics: walking up to a door, knocking, and holding out a bag. For non‑verbal children, communication cards or a simple script on a device can make the experience more predictable and empowering.

#2. Choose Comfortable, Sensory‑Safe Costumes

Costumes can be a major sensory trigger. Itchy fabrics, tight seams, and stiff masks can quickly turn excitement into discomfort. Letting your child choose their costume increases comfort and gives them a sense of control.

Opt for soft, breathable, tag‑free clothing. Remove or cover any irritating seams before your child wears the outfit. Introduce the costume in short practice sessions at home to identify sensory issues early.

Safety matters too: ensure masks allow clear vision, costumes fit properly, and hems aren’t long enough to cause tripping. A comfortable costume sets the stage for a calmer night.

#3. Reduce Sensory Overload During Trick‑or‑Treating

Neighborhoods can be overwhelming on Halloween night: flashing lights, barking dogs, crowded sidewalks, and sudden scares. A few adjustments can make trick‑or‑treating more manageable.

Go out earlier, before sunset, when things are quieter and decorations are less intense. Noise‑canceling headphones or sunglasses can help reduce sensory overload.

Start with familiar neighbors or trusted locations. Sensory‑friendly community events (trunk‑or‑treats, church gatherings, or children’s parties) often offer calmer alternatives.

Set clear comfort‑based limits. Decide on a realistic plan together, such as visiting a few familiar houses or staying out for twenty minutes. Ending with a preferred activity, like a favorite movie or a stop at the park, helps keep the evening positive and predictable.

#4. Offer At‑Home Alternatives

Trick‑or‑treating isn’t right for every child. If your child prefers staying home, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Halloween without the sensory overload.

Create a candy treasure hunt around the house or yard to keep the fun of “finding treats” without the crowds or noise.

Pumpkin decorating is another great option and no carving required. Paint, stickers, googly eyes, yarn, and glitter let children explore creativity without sharp tools.

A Halloween‑themed sensory bin can be calming and festive. Fill a shallow container with dry rice or beans, then add small trinkets like plastic pumpkins or soft fabric bats. Include soothing textures such as pom‑poms or felt shapes.

City of Davenport Hosting Trunk or Treat Event Halloween Night

Allison
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City of Davenport Hosting Trunk or Treat Event Halloween Night

City of Davenport –

October brings costume planning, sweet treats, and family traditions worth sharing. This year, make the City of Davenport’s Trunk or Treat part of your family’s story.

Join us October 31 from 6–9 PM at Tom Fellows Community Center, 207 North Blvd. W in Davenport for a free evening of food, games, prizes, a costume contest, and entertainment by Studio C.

Gather your little ghosts, superheroes, and storybook characters for a night of treats and memories close to home.

Please note the updated location at Tom Fellows Community Center, 207 North Blvd. W.

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