A significant portion of the meeting centered around a request from BJ Manet, owner of Manx Pools and Grills, who sought sponsorship from the city for two upcoming events: Grill Fest and Smoke Off the Water. Both events are intended to benefit local charities, Girls Inc. of Winter Haven and the Humane Society, respectively. Manet requested that the city cover stage rental fees of approximately $1,586 for Grill Fest and $1,985 for Smoke Off the Water. This request sparked a discussion among the commissioners regarding the implications of waiving fees for nonprofit events.

Concerns were raised about setting a precedent for future requests, as the city typically sponsors community events through cash contributions rather than waiving fees. A commissioner pointed out that many organizations have previously paid for stage rentals, emphasizing the need for consistency in the city’s policies. The idea of establishing a nonprofit rate for stage rentals was suggested as a potential solution to balance fairness among various organizations.

Ultimately, a motion was proposed to offer a $1,000 contribution for Grill Fest as a form of sponsorship, which would allow the city to support the event while maintaining fiscal responsibility. This approach was favored over waiving fees and was seen as a way to ensure that the city receives recognition for its support, with the potential for the city’s name to appear on event banners. The motion passed without significant opposition.

Another topic was the Thompson Nursery Road widening project, which presented two layout options for consideration. The Florida Department of Transportation favored a multi-use path separated from travel lanes to enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists. However, the County Commission expressed a preference for a traditional layout with bike paths integrated within travel lanes, raising concerns about the safety of residents navigating the area.

A commissioner highlighted the dangers posed by fast-moving traffic on nearby Cypress Gardens Boulevard and suggested that the City Commission send a letter of support to the County advocating for the multi-use path. This letter would emphasize safety concerns and the potential risks for pedestrians and cyclists, urging the County to reconsider its position.

In addition to these discussions, the commission addressed several ordinances and resolutions. Ordinance 0-25-01, amending a previous ordinance related to the Winter Haven comprehensive plan, and Ordinance 0-25-02, assigning commercial zoning to an annexed parcel, were both adopted. Ordinance 0-25-08, involving an annexation request from Arc Industries Inc., was also approved, extending the city’s corporate limits.

The commission also reviewed Ordinance 0-25-09, amending the budget to accommodate a $200,000 grant from the Trail Go Grant program, and Ordinance 0-25-10, updating the city seal to include the year of incorporation. Both ordinances passed without public opposition.

The meeting moved on to new business items, including the adoption of a cloud-based permitting and licensing software known as Excelus. By partnering with Polk County, the city reduced implementation costs. The software’s total cost of $527,000 would be spread over five years, with the first year’s allocation already budgeted.

The commission wrapped up with individual reports, highlighting commissioners’ involvement in local events and community activities. The city manager informed the commission about ongoing initiatives, including the upcoming Polk County legislative delegation meeting, the ceremonial opening of the Chain of Lakes Park Baseball facilities, and challenges related to federal funding for local projects.