A significant portion of the meeting focused on the implications of Senate Bill 784, which has introduced a new process for handling plat applications within the city. As of July 1st, any plat submitted must adhere to new timelines. This change aims to streamline the approval process, reducing bureaucratic hurdles for developers. Under the new system, the city must acknowledge receipt of a plat application within seven business days, determine its completeness, and conduct a full review within 180 days.

Concerns were raised about the potential liabilities associated with this new structure. The city attorney clarified that while the commission would still receive updates on developments, the final approval or rejection of plat applications would rest with the city’s administrative authority, particularly the city manager. This has raised questions about whether liability is being shifted away from the commission to the city staff.

The commission also discussed the broader implications of Senate Bill 180, which restricts local governments from enacting regulations more burdensome than those in place as of August 2024. This legislation, extending until 2027, has sparked frustration among commission members who feel their ability to influence development parameters such as lot sizes and setbacks has been diminished. A sentiment of limited control over future development decisions was expressed, with participants recognizing the constraints imposed by the new legislation.

Moving on to infrastructure projects, the commission addressed several items aimed at improving the city’s water systems. A noteworthy project involves the installation of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) towers to enhance water meter reading efficiency. The project will expand the number of towers from 14 to 21, with a budget of $234,177.44 and an expected completion time of 120 days. This initiative promises to provide real-time information regarding water usage and leak detection, allowing the city to notify residents promptly about issues.

In addition to AMI, the commission discussed extending utilities to the future Winter Haven Water Administration facility. Tucker Paving submitted the lowest bid for this $1.1 million project, expected to begin in September. Furthermore, a project to interconnect reclaimed water transmission mains between two water plants was outlined, with a bypass line planned to enhance water pressure during dry seasons. The direct purchase of materials for this project is anticipated to save approximately $70,000.

The meeting also highlighted the collaboration between the city and the Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce. Betsy Cleveland, the chamber’s CEO, detailed the chamber’s accomplishments over the past year, including organizing 43 events and conducting 32 ribbon cuttings. The Taste of Winter Haven and Community Fest were particularly successful, attracting thousands to Central Park. The chamber has also served as a valuable community resource, handling numerous inquiries from visitors and businesses.

The commission acknowledged the chamber’s strong financial health and strategic planning, noting the importance of collaboration between the local government and the business community. This synergy allows for the identification of challenges and solutions beneficial to both parties.

Other topics included the approval of travel for commission members to Florida League of Cities Legislative Policy Committee meetings and the awarding of a design-build contract for the South Lake Howard Nature Park. The park project, budgeted at $2,970,474, focuses on stormwater and wetland infrastructure and is set to begin phase two construction in early October.

Lastly, the commission reviewed the state housing initiatives annual report, detailing funding received through the SHIP program. Approximately $490,000 was allocated for fiscal year 2023, assisting 24 residents, with plans for future funding distribution outlined. The commission intends to authorize the mayor to sign off on the compliance report.

The meeting concluded with the adoption of several resolutions related to asset management, code compliance, and emergency management. Resolution 25-41 emphasized a structured approach to managing wastewater infrastructure, while Resolution 25-42 involved certifying unpaid special assessments. Resolution 25-43 adopted the Polk County multi-jurisdictional local mitigation strategy, and Resolution 25-44 updated statewide mutual aid agreements.