The meeting also delved into discussions about the city’s transportation and infrastructure. Tom Phillips, General Manager of the Lakeland Area Mass Transit District, updated the commission on the transit system’s status. Notably, ridership has nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels, with 87% of transit users in the Winter Haven area lacking personal vehicles. Phillips underscored the success of Route 30, which operates seven days a week, and the transportation disadvantaged service for individuals below the poverty line. Despite the increase in services, there will be no budget increase for the upcoming fiscal year.

During the transportation portion of the meeting, there was a discussion about the state-required financial disclosure form for transportation disadvantage registration. The requirement for individuals to disclose financial information to confirm they are below the poverty line to qualify for certain transportation services was debated. Although discomfort in sharing such information was acknowledged, the necessity of the state mandate to provide these services was emphasized.

Microtransit options were also explored, along with development patterns around the city, signaling the commission’s interest in innovative transportation solutions and strategic development. The commission then approved the annexation of 56.74 acres of territory north of Avenue Northeast and south of Lake Smart, an action that paves the way for future land use designation and zoning assignments. This annexation, recommended for approval, reflects the city’s expansion efforts and strategic planning for growth.

In terms of land development and zoning, the commission approved rezoning parcels in both the Woodpoint Phase One and Phase Two subdivisions and the Cypresswood Palace subdivision. This rezoning enables vacant lots to be developed with similar setbacks to existing lots, allowing for a cohesive expansion of these neighborhoods.

The commission also addressed the city’s financial health by considering the appropriation of funds for municipal expenses. There was a surplus in the general fund, and it was decided to transfer this surplus to the construction fund. A portion of these funds is earmarked for the Lake Conine project.

Additionally, the commission gave the nod to the consent agenda and approved the resolution for the plat entitled Harmony in Lake Eloise Phase Two.

The city manager expressed gratitude to the commission for their support during the strategic planning retreat and highlighted the creation of actionable strategies to achieve the retreat’s goals. The manager also thanked the commission for their support of community events.

Commissioners reflected on their participation in several community events, including the strategic planning session, Main Street Bark in the Park, the chamber legislation wrap up, and the First Missionary Baptist Church Heritage Day. Their involvement and positive feedback illustrate the commission’s active role in the community and their endorsement of local engagement.

In addition, the first reading of an ordinance to extend the corporate limits of the city to include an additional 0.89 acres was presented, though this will be revisited at a later date for further review.