In addition, the police department outlined plans to utilize funds from its forfeiture account, which currently holds a balance of $194,538.84. The department intends to purchase 125 Safari Land Solles paddle holsters for Glock 47 pistols and two Skyo R10 patrol drones. The estimated cost for the paddle holsters is $6,891.25, while the drones are projected to cost $39,798.40. Presented for informational purposes, this item did not require commission action, yet it highlights ongoing efforts to enhance the department’s operational capabilities.

Infrastructure improvements and community development were other prominent topics at the meeting. The commission discussed a series of resolutions related to the Harmony area, where the developer FourStar seeks to realign West Lake Eloise Drive to improve safety and development prospects. This includes requests to vacate an old section of the roadway and a public utility easement, which no longer contains active utilities, to facilitate the construction of Harmony on Lake Eloise phases 3B and 5. Concerns were debated regarding the relinquishment of easements, with some commissioners expressing caution about future developments that might necessitate access. A city manager clarified that the relocation of utilities had already occurred, and the developer committed to removing any abandoned utilities at its own expense.

The commission also considered the naming of an unnamed right-of-way in the Lake Lucern subdivision, proposing to officially extend the designation of Green Pass to provide clarity for emergency services. This action would minimize confusion, especially since nine homes in the area have already been assigned addresses on Green Pass, with minimal financial implications limited to new signage costs.

The renaming of the Winter Haven Tennis Center in honor of Commissioner Bradley T. Dantzler was proposed, recognizing his contributions to the city’s recreational facilities over his twelve-year tenure. The financial impact would involve updating signage, manageable within the parks and recreation budget.

Affordable housing initiatives were another focal point, with the commission addressing the reappointment of members to the Winter Haven Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHACK). Seven members due for term expiration at the end of 2025 expressed a desire to continue serving, given the committee’s vital role in affecting funding opportunities under the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) program. Emphasizing the importance of active participation, a commissioner noted that having a commission member present at AHACK meetings enhances the committee’s effectiveness.

Resolution R2558 was introduced, concerning an unsolicited proposal for a public-private partnership to construct a 292-space parking structure. The proposal, submitted by a party with 50% ownership in the property, had previously been the subject of a public meeting for comment gathering. An upcoming meeting was scheduled to determine the proposal’s public interest merits, the proposer’s qualifications, and to review additional public comments.

The commission also explored the complexities of leasing public parking spaces and the challenges posed by future development pressures. Concerns were raised about the potential impact of future commissions altering existing agreements and the necessity of adhering to ordinance 02247, which limits leasing to no more than 10% of parking spaces.

The meeting concluded with strategic updates on community projects, including the Winter Haven Recreation and Cultural Center and upcoming holiday events. The city highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance quality of life and foster community engagement through various initiatives, such as Starlight Nights and the Christmas Boat Parade.