ReportWire

Tag: Polk County

  • Polk County reaches 3-year agreement with fire union, ‘Kelly Days’ included

    [ad_1]

    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — Polk County commissioners recently approved a three-year collective bargaining agreement with the local firefighters’ union. 

    The deal is expected to boost pay and reduce employee burnout.

    What You Need To Know

    • Polk County approved a new three-year agreement that includes a pay raise and a paid day off for a certain number of hours worked — known as “Kelly Days.”

    • County leaders say the changes aim to improve work-life balance for firefighters, reduce burnout and attract new recruits.

    • The Kelly Day schedule is expected to be implemented by next October. 


    When Spectrum Bay News 9 last spoke with Polk Fire Rescue in February, county leaders had approved $9.2 million to help fund 75 new positions. Now, this new agreement with the Polk County Professional Firefighters I.A.F.F., Local 353, will give current and future employees a 4.1% pay raise and a paid day off for a certain number of hours worked — known as “Kelly Days.”

    Joe Halman, deputy county manager for public safety, says the Kelly Days will provide a better work-life balance for employees. Similar to other Florida fire departments, Polk County firefighters will get a paid day off for every seventh shift worked as part of a three-week cycle. Halman says the change comes after in-depth conversations with fire crews.

    “So, we’ve heard them. (We’re) letting them know that we care about them. We’re concerned about them because public safety is a very difficult job, and our folks do a great job day in and day out to make sure our citizens are taken care of,” he said.

    Halman says the addition of Kelly Days and a pay increase will improve firefighters’ performance. He also hopes it will help attract more recruits to the agency.

    The county’s agreement with the International Association of Firefighters will take effect on Oct. 1, 2025. The Kelly Day schedule is expected to be implemented by Oct. 12, 2026.

    [ad_2]

    Alexis Jones

    Source link

  • Lakeland Regional launches new immersive program for students

    [ad_1]

    LAKELAND, Fla. — Lakeland Regional Health is taking action to prepare and inspire the next generation of medical professionals. 

    The hospital has launched its new summer program, Discover, which provides teens in Polk County the opportunity to explore their medical passions. For Makayla Ficquett, the Discover program reinforces a dream she’s had for years.

    What You Need To Know

    • Lakeland Regional Health launched a free four-week summer program Discover will expose Polk County teens to various careers in the medical field

    • Students Makayla Ficquett and Lillian Miranda say the program has helped clarify or expand their career goals

    • In addition to department tours, the program includes peer mentoring, lectures from medical professionals


    “I always knew I wanted to do surgical, but I didn’t know what,” Ficquett said. “I thought neuro would be cool, but my hands aren’t as steady, so I thought orthopedic would be something to definitely be interested in, as it is a more hands-on experience.”

    The 17-year-old student says she started to develop a passion for orthopedics in middle school, but until now, she hadn’t realized how much preparation is necessary.

    “It’s definitely eye-opening to see all the sterilizing processing that goes on behind the scenes, and that you don’t really think about it when everyone goes into surgery or any procedures you would possibly have during medical,” she said.

    As for 18-year-old Lillian Miranda, the immersive experience is opening her eyes to different pathways she could take.

    “I really want to be a registered nurse, but it has me considering a lot — if I want to continue doing that field or maybe just like study it, and if I want to continue something else that I really want to do, then I could probably stay in school and learn more,” she said.

    Along with visiting different departments in the hospital, the free four-week program also includes peer mentoring, lectures from medical professionals, and a look into the patient journey.

    “Keeping students coming back to our community to then work in our community, especially with growing population rates, programs like this are so important,” Springfield said.

    Thanks to the program, Ficquett says she’s even more certain that a career in medicine is the right path for her.

    “It’s something I definitely want to do when I grow up,” she said — closing in on making her dream a reality.

    Applications for next year’s Discover program will open next spring. The hospital says it will notify schools throughout the county when it’s time to apply.

    [ad_2]

    Alexis Jones

    Source link

  • Polk group calls for action after new data reveals teen gun possession

    [ad_1]

    LAKELAND, Fla. — In a new study, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) reports that 6% of Florida teens have guns — including a significant number of middle schoolers, something that has alarmed local advocacy groups.

    What You Need To Know

    • A national study by the American Academy of Pediatrics reveals that 6% of Florida teens carry guns

    • Gun safety leaders say most teens obtain firearms from their own homes

    • Advocates are calling for state-level accountability and encouraging families to talk openly with kids about gun safety


    Over the past three years, Mike Murray has spent most of his time spreading one message throughout Polk County.

    “Secure your firearms. Just simple as that,” he said.

    In his experience as co-chair of the League of Women Voters’ Gun Violence Prevention Action Team, Murray says he’s learned that youth typically access firearms from within their homes. So when he heard about the AAP study, which analyzed trends in handgun possession among adolescents from 2002 to 2022, he was concerned. What worries him most is how they get the guns.

    “They should never get them,” Murray said. “They should never be able to have them, and that’s what concerns me more. And that’s the thing we have to do — we have to teach parents to keep them locked up.”

    The Army veteran says having unsecured, easily accessible handguns can lead to even more troubling studies. He says the way to combat this is by first asking why youth feel they need a handgun.

    “They may feel it’s cool. They may feel they need it because of where they are — just for self-protection,” he said.

    League of Women Voters volunteer Andy Crossfield says some young people may feel like justice isn’t on their side.

    “If you have a feeling that there is no justice in the world, then it falls on you to protect yourself,” Crossfield said.

    In light of this, both men advise parents to talk with their children, and then take the necessary steps to keep firearms secure. Murray also says action needs to be taken at the state level.

    “They’ve got to do an honest assessment of the whole thing and be transparent with it with the communities. Educate the public, and then educate the students, the kids.”

    He says this is needed before another young life is reduced to a number.

    [ad_2]

    Alexis Jones

    Source link

  • What is a sapodilla? Bok Tower celebrates fruit

    [ad_1]

    Bok Towers is hosting its Fruit Fest on Saturday, July 12 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    The festival offers an opportunity to sample numerous types of fruit, learn about fruits and vegetables, buy plants and listen to live music.

    The Caribbean Crew Steel Drum Band will perform from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

    The food sampling happens from noon until 2 p.m.

    Visitors can try dragon fruit, mangoes, mamey, jackfruit, longans, lynches and sapodilla (a tropical fruit with a sweet flavor often described as a pear soaked in brown sugar).

    Admission to the Fruit Fest is included in your admission to Bok Tower Gardens. Fruit sampling does require additional purchase.

    [ad_2]

    Jeff Butera

    Source link

  • Winter Haven approves plan to redevelop 4 historic buildings

    [ad_1]

    TAMPA, Fla. — Downtown Winter Haven is about to get a makeover.

    The city recently approved plans to redevelop four historic vacant buildings in the heart of downtown.

    What You Need To Know

    • Four historic buildings in downtown Winter Haven will undergo a transformation
    • City officials approved a plan to help redevelop four buildings in the downtown area
    • The plant will include adding a salon, wellness center, workspaces and more
    • Construction will be done in two phases tentatively set to be completed by 2027


    Stepping into Art & Framing On the Park, Sean Greear describes it as an organized chaos.

    He’s been in business for 15 years, helping give every piece of art a new life with a custom frame. 

    “It has an opportunity to bring warmth to a home,” he says.

    It’s that warmth that he hopes will also spread into the downtown area, as the city approved a $20 million plan to renovate four historic buildings in the heart of downtown.

    For Greear, he sees this development as a positive for the city.

    “The ones that sort of are still here, it’s just very comforting, nobody wants to see blight, everybody wants to see somebody filling these store fronts,“ he said.

    The redevelopment would focus on Taylor, Mowery North and South and the Hoffman buildings. The project would include a restaurant, bar, coffee shop, reception area, wellness center and more.

    City manager T. Michael Stavres says this project will help preserve the history of the area while creating a busier downtown.

    “When these four buildings get renovated and activated, you know that’s one more draw in, you may come for a hair appointment at this new salon which causes you to be downtown, walk about and see what else is down here,” says Stavers.

    For business owners like Carissa Hughes, it could mean a new clientele stepping into her bakery. “Definitely makes it more inviting for people outside of our area,” she said.

    Her business, Gourmet Goodies Bake Shop, has been open for 10 years, not too far from where the redevelopment will take place.

    Hughes says she’s seen growth happen over the years. She thinks this project will put Winter Haven on the map as a place where families can live, work and play.

    “It’s definitely something that has been wanted and we’ve been waiting for, and we’re really excited to see that actually come to fruition now,” she said.

    It’s so that more people can enjoy a piece of what the city has to offer.

    The timeline of full restoration is tentatively broken up into two phases. The first phase will be completed in July of 2026, while the second phase will have a completion date of May of 2027.

    [ad_2]

    Lizbeth Gutierrez

    Source link

  • New pilot project turns Lake Bonnet’s algae into biofuel

    [ad_1]

    LAKELAND, Fla. — New cutting-edge technology is helping clean up one of Lakeland’s most polluted lakes.

    What You Need To Know

    • A pilot project in Lakeland is using cutting-edge technology to remove algae from Lake Bonnet and convert it into biofuel

    • The system filters more than 100,000 gallons of water daily, improving water quality in Lake Bonnet

    • Although the system is only scheduled to run through the end of the year, city officials hope to expand the project to more lakes across the area


    The city teamed up with Texas-based company AECOM to take part in a $2.25 million pilot project that removes algae from the water.

    Inside Bonnet Springs Park, large tanks and pumps have been hard at work since February. Cody O’Gorman, lakes and stormwater supervisor for the city of Lakeland, said the heavy machinery filters more than 100,000 gallons of water each day — all from Lake Bonnet.

    “This actual lake and part of this lagoon that it is tied to is impaired for nutrients, so it’s a good step in the right direction for helping with water quality reasons on this water body,” he said.

    For the last 10 years, O’Gorman’s focus has been on improving bodies of water like Lake Bonnet. He said AECOM’s algae harvesting system helps do just that — by removing toxic overgrowth.

    Hydronucleation flotation technology works by pumping large amounts of polluted water into a tank, where it is mixed with a coagulant that clumps the algae together. Microbubbles then lift the algae particles to the surface.

    “And then from there, the equipment will skim that off and separate the clean water from the algae,” O’Gorman said.

    Once the filtering process is complete, the treated water returns to the lake, and the algae slurry is used to make biofuel.

    AECOM provides the harvested algae to a company called Genifuel, which uses it to create aviation fuel. But O’Gorman said it doesn’t stop there.

    “They can use it as fertilizer, and different things like that and simply in your garden or agricultural purposes,” he said.

    In just a short time, he says the pilot project has met several needs — while positively impacting Lake Bonnet and water downstream. Though the system is only scheduled to run through the end of the year, he hopes to bring it back on a larger scale.

    “Especially in the city, it’s going to help us tremendously, and any kind of improvements that we can make, we’re obviously going to chase after those,” O’Gorman said.

    He says he and his team will continue tracking the harvesting system’s success and see what other bodies of water could benefit from it.

    [ad_2]

    Alexis Jones

    Source link

  • Polk State secures $10 million for Haines City-Davenport campus

    [ad_1]

    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — Polk State College is one step closer to making its Haines City-Davenport campus a reality.

    What You Need To Know

    • Polk State College received $10 million from the state budget to help fund construction of its new Haines City-Davenport campus

    • The campus will house health sciences programs, feature an interdisciplinary simulation hospital, and offer general education classes

    • Although construction is underway, the college still needs $7.5 million to complete the project


    The college recently secured $10 million from the state’s budget to help fund construction costs.

    Polk State President Angela Falconetti calls the Haines City-Davenport campus a dream come true. It will house the school’s health sciences programs, offer general education classes and feature an interdisciplinary simulation hospital.

    Beth Luckett, dean of health sciences at Polk State College, said she has witnessed the department grow tremendously — so much so that they’ve outgrown their labs at each of the college’s campuses.

    “So, by having the campus that all of our health science programs could be in at one time is just beyond imagination for all of us,” Luckett said.

    Falconetti said construction is already underway on the nearly $51 million project. Thanks to the recent $10 million from the Florida Legislature, she said they are much closer to completion. She added that this wouldn’t have been possible without the support of her staff.

    “I’m very grateful to the leadership of our health sciences and nursing programs because they are making this very specific need across our country, but more importantly, our state and Polk County come to fruition,” Falconetti said.

    As for Luckett, she credits Falconetti for the project’s success. Now, she s looking forward to continuing her life’s work — preparing the next generation of graduates for success.

    “We’re growing, and we’re ready for them to come in,” she said.

    Falconetti said the school still needs $7.5 million to complete the campus. If approved by the legislature next year, she expects to have it open by fall 2026.

    [ad_2]

    Alexis Jones

    Source link

  • Horace West leads Haines City youth football programs for decades

    [ad_1]

    HAINES CITY, Fla. — Youth league football is a big deal in the Polk County community of Haines City.

    There is one name that is synonymous with that. It is Horace West. The former mayor of Haines City has dedicated decades to making sure young athletes get a chance to play the sport they love.

    West is now affiliated with the Haines City Vipers, a youth football program he started. West got his start in local youth football by starting the Haines City Rattlers in 1991.

    Over the years, he has started about 20 other football programs in other local communities. He also started a youth football conference with dozens of teams.

    These days, West is more of an advisor rather than a coach.

    “I’m old enough to be everybody’s dad or grandfather, so I just give them advice,” said West.

    West has helped to mentor several players who ended up playing in the NFL. That includes Los Angeles Chargers’ safety Derwin James. For West, the goal of football is bigger than just athletics.

    “Because we are trying to teach young boys how to be young men. So that’s the key,” he said.

    West’s coaches put their players through tough practices and hope for success in games. But respect is more important.

    “The coaches talk to them like drill sergeants, but they understand they can’t use profanity, touch them in any harsh way or anything like that,” West said.

    West said he wants to make sure that the football program has longevity. So, he is always looking for new community members to get involved.

    “My philosophy is that you have to recreate yourself. You have to reinvent yourself every so many years,” he said. “Because if you don’t, the program dies with the people who ran it.”

    [ad_2]

    Rick Elmhorst

    Source link

  • New pilot program aims to repair Polk County homes after disasters

    [ad_1]

    LAKELAND, Fla. — Just off of East Main Street, George and Diane Flood have seen their fair share of storms over the last 30 years.

    What You Need To Know

    • A new pilot program is helping repair homes for Polk County’s most vulnerable residents—including low-income, elderly, and disabled homeowners

    • George and Diane Flood benefited from the program after their insurance claim was denied following damage from Hurricane Milton

    • The initiative, led by Rebuilding Together Greater Florida, is currently repairing 12 homes and aims to become a permanent solution for Polk County


    “Charley — that’s the only time that we really had it so bad that we had to use the insurance, but the other times it’s been just tree limbs or something like,” Diane said.

    That was until Hurricane Milton caused significant damage to their roof and ceiling. Diane says their insurance company denied their claim due to the age of the roof. The couple eventually had to take matters into their own hands — which they said was no easy feat.

    “It was the emotion of August happening, and we’re on a fixed income and we only get so much money every month,” Diane said. “Even the roofing companies that we were trying to reach out to, it was like… the cost of it every month, you just can’t add another bill on top what you’re already trying to struggle to pay anyhow.”

    Luckily, Diane says they were referred to Rebuilding Together Greater Florida’s (RTGFL) Disaster Readiness and Recovery Program. The new initiative helps repair and fortify homes for low-income, elderly, and disabled residents at no cost to them.

    “They replaced the whole roof, but that flat roof was where the main issue was at and so they got that taken care of,” George said, pointing at a portion of their roof.

    The Floods’ house is just one of 12 homes included in the pilot project. CEO of RTGFL, Jose Garcia, says his team brought their services to Polk County after local leaders expressed a need.

    “Polk County is one of the counties that is experiencing great growth, which means existing housing needs that need to be resolved to make sure it stays affordable for present generations,” Garcia said. “So, we want to make sure the homeowners are safe and can stay at their home, especially in this growth.”

    As for Diane and George, they’re grateful to have a stable roof over their heads once again.

    “The rainfall sounds a whole lot better when you can sit and enjoy it,” Diane said.

    The pilot program is funded by several foundations, corporations, and municipalities. Rebuilding Together hopes to make it a permanent resource for Polk County residents.

    [ad_2]

    Alexis Jones

    Source link

  • Local church leaders call for justice after incident involving Bartow officer

    [ad_1]

    BARTOW, Fla. — African Methodist Episcopal (AME) churches across the Tampa Bay area are calling for justice after they say one of their leaders was racially profiled and harassed by a Bartow police officer.  

    Pastor Don’Tavius Sanders of St. James AME Church stood beside fellow leaders as they spoke in his defense on Thursday.

    Leaders say Pastor Sanders was driving from the church around 1:37 a.m. Sunday following a memorial service when Bartow police officer Darren Freeman pulled him over for a broken license plate light.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pastor Don’tavius Sanders was pulled over by a Bartow police officer, who leaders say searched his vehicle without cause and called in a K-9 unit

    • AME church leaders from across the Tampa Bay area are calling for justice and demanding changes to the Bartow Police Department’s procedures.

    • Bartow Police Chief Stephen Walker acknowledged the situation could have been handled better, apologized to Pastor Sanders, and said he’s investigating the incident.


    They say Freeman forcefully searched Sanders’ vehicle for narcotics without cause and called in a K-9 unit for backup. Nothing was found, and no citations were issued — leaving Marvin Zanders II, the presiding bishop of the 11th Episcopal District, with questions.

    “What would precipitate in the mind of this officer that a K-9 unit is needed at this venue?” he said. “If you search my name, you see I have no outstanding warrants, no priors dealing with drugs, or any of those other things.”

    Bartow Police Chief Stephen Walker agrees the incident could have been handled differently and believes communication played a role. He says Officer Freeman is new to the job and may have been scared at the time.

    According to a police report, Freeman said he attempted to issue two citations for Sanders’ tag light and window tint, but the option to print the citations was unavailable on E-Cite. While the use of a K-9 unit during the traffic stop was permissible under the law, Chief Walker says he has since modified the department’s policy.

    “To make it more stringent — that there has to be something articulable that you can say, that there’s a nexus to narcotics or paraphernalia, or the subject has it,” he said.

    Walker says he is also investigating the incident between Officer Freeman and Pastor Sanders. He even spoke with Sanders after Thursday’s press conference to express his dedication to the case.

    “I take it seriously. I want you to know that. And by all means, I apologize to you for how you were treated,” he said. “I do welcome you to the table.”

    Pastor Sanders accepted Walker’s apology and invitation, but says he wants to see more.

    “It’s going to take more than words for me. It’s going to take more than words, so I want to see it in action,” Sanders said.

    He and other AME leaders are urging the chief to implement body and dash cameras. They’re also calling for better sensitivity and de-escalation training to ensure what happened to Pastor Sanders doesn’t happen again.

    Chief Walker says he is looking into making body and dash cams a reality and plans to implement additional changes to the department’s policies.

    [ad_2]

    Alexis Jones

    Source link

  • Guide to 4th of July fireworks, events across Tampa Bay

    [ad_1]

    TAMPA, Fla. — The 4th of July, or Independence Day, is commemorating the Declaration of Independence from Great Britain in 1776 and establishing the United States of America. It is often celebrated with family and friend gatherings, barbeques, parades and fireworks.

    Tampa Bay is ready for the holiday with an array of parades and firework shows for all ages. Here’s a county-by-county list of events that are happening around the area.

    All events take place on July 4 unless otherwise stated.
     

    Citrus County

    • Patriotic Evening
      July 3, 5 p.m. | Liberty Park
      The city of Inverness will be hosting its annual fireworks show over Lake Henderson. The event will feature musical performances by Mock of Ages: The Ultimate Def Leppard Tribute and Smokey Jones and The 3 Dollar Pistols. There will also be vendors and plenty of family-friendly activities.
    • 4th of July Celebration
      4 p.m. | Kings Bay Park
      Join the city of Crystal River for a 4th of July celebration. Enjoy live music, food trucks, vendors, games, kids’ activities and a fireworks show over Kings Bay.

     

    Hernando County

     

    Hillsborough County

    • Boom by the Bay
      4 p.m. | Tampa Riverwalk
      The city of Tampa’s annual 4th of July festivities will encompass The Heights District Fourth of July Celebration at Armature Works, Star Spangled Sparkman Wharf and the Friends of the Tampa Riverwalk July 4th Boat Parade along the Hillsborough River. The event will offer live entertainment, a pickleball tournament and food trucks.
    • July 4th Boat Parade
      5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. | Sparkman Wharf
      Boats will be decorated in red, white and blue and compete for the most patriotic boat. This year’s theme is “Salute to Service,” to celebrate military heroes with a patriotic display on the water. There will also be a water ski show and fireworks.
      VIEW MORE INFORMATION IN OUR BOAT PARADE GUIDE

    • 4th of July Celebration
      July 4 – July 6 | Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
      Enjoy Independence Day festivities at Busch Gardens, featuring complimentary beer samples, live performances and a fireworks show choreographed with an arrangement of music and lights.
    • Catch the Spirit & Celebrate America: July 4th Festival
      1 p.m. – 11 p.m. | Hillsborough County Fairgrounds
      Get ready for an day filled with food, contests and live entertainment, culminating in a patriotic drone show at sunset. There will be an after party until 11 p.m.

     

    Manatee County

     

    Pasco County

    Pinellas County

    • The Fourth
      July 4, 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. | Spa Beach Park & Family Park on the St Pete Pier 
      July 5, 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. | Spa Beach Park & Throughout St Pete Pier
      The city of St. Petersburg’s annual fireworks show returns with live performances, vendors, food trucks and a family fun zone. Fireworks will be visible from the entire downtown waterfront. (Note: activities vary each day)
    • Clearwater Celebrates America 2024
      5 p.m. – 11 p.m. | Coachman Park
      There will be a free, patriotic performance throughout Coachman Park. Guests can enjoy local vendors, food trucks, family-friendly activities and live music.
    • Treasure Island 4th of July Fireworks
      9 p.m. | Treasure Island Beach
      Celebrate America by watching fireworks light up the sky over Treasure Island Beach. The best viewing areas will be near the Gulf Front Park area of the beach located at 10400 Gulf Blvd.
    • 4th of July Parade & Celebration
      10 a.m. | James Ernst Park
      The event, presented by the Town of Kenneth City and the Kenneth City Police Department, features a day of food, live music, vendors and more. The parade starts at Gabe’s 46th Avenue North and 66th Street North, then down 46th Avenue North to James Ernst Park.
    • 4th of July Picnic in Craig Park
      10 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Craig Park
      Bring the family to enjoy live music, a water slide, live music, inflatables, lawn games and more.
    • The city of Gulfport’s 4th of July Celebration
      10 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Tomlinson Park
      Officials stated that due to extensive damage sustained in the downtown area, the annual 4th of July Fireworks Show is canceled. The city will instead host a 4th of July Community Parade and Picnic at Tomlinson Park. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a viewing spot. There will be live music, food, children’s activities and more.

    Polk County

     

    According to our Spectrum Bay News 9 meteorologists, the Bay area will see high rain chances for the 4th of July. Be sure to download our Spectrum News app to stay up-to-date on what’s happening in your area and track the weather with our Klystron 9 radar.
     

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Polk State College trustee raises concerns over enrollment, transparency

    [ad_1]

    POLK COUNTY, Fla. —  Tension between leaders at Polk State College is growing as some criticize the school for a lack of transparency.

    What You Need To Know

    • Polk State College trustee Ashley Bell Barnett raised concerns about a reported 13.6% enrollment decline, saying the college ranked among the lowest in the state

    • The college says recent preliminary data shows a 2% increase in enrollment and that graduation rates have remained steady

    • Tensions rose during a recent board meeting, where Barnett was both praised and criticized for speaking out; she maintains her only goal is transparency


    In May, board trustee Ashley Bell Barnett raised questions about the college’s enrollment and graduation rates. While Polk County’s population continues to grow, Barnett says that growth isn’t being reflected on the college’s campuses.

    “In March, there was FTE enrollment numbers. We were in decline by 13.6%,” she said.

    Barnett says that number put the college among the lowest in the state for enrollment during the 2023–2024 academic year. She says she and other trustees were unaware until a colleague from another school notified her. This prompted her to bring her concerns to the board and Polk State President Dr. Angela Falconetti.

    “May 6 was the first/last time I spoke with her. May 19 was our last board meeting to where I presented these concerns. I haven’t had any answers until now, which has been over a month,” Barnett said.

    According to Polk State, the 13.6% decline came from a report designed to project future fundable full-time equivalent (FTE) students. But preliminary data from the college’s submission to the Florida Department of Education shows the school’s enrollment rose just over 2% in the past year. Officials also say graduation rates have remained consistent.

    In a statement, spokesperson Madison Fantozzi said:

    “Increasing completion rates is a top priority, and efforts are underway across the institution. These include strengthening instructional excellence through ongoing innovation, supporting faculty and staff with meaningful professional development opportunities, enhancing student support services, and implementing a comprehensive, data-informed enrollment management strategy.”

    However, Barnett says progress can’t be made without full transparency — and feels the figure provided by the school isn’t much of an increase.

    “That still puts us flat. That still puts us at an 18% systemic issue of having low FTE and graduation rates and it also still means that we are still 24 out 28 so even if that number is verified, which it won’t be until July 2nd, there’s some tremendous issues within the accountability system of this college and if I didn’t speak up, I would not be doing my fiduciary responsibility,” she said.

    During Monday’s Board of Trustees meeting, some residents and faculty members thanked Barnett for bringing this information to light — while others questioned her motives. But as a donor to the school, Barnett assures she has nothing to gain.

    “I only want to see what’s best for the students,” she said. “This is not about me and the administration. This is about me and what’s best for the college.”

    [ad_2]

    Alexis Jones

    Source link

  • Year-round hurricane supply kit tax exempt status begins today

    [ad_1]

    TAMPA, Fla. — Florida’s new state budget goes in to effect today, but the new budget does not include a sales tax holiday for hurricane supply kit items.

    Instead, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed in to law a new, permanent, year-round tax exempt rule for many items that families would include in hurricane supply kits.

    What You Need To Know

    • New budget does not include a sales tax holiday for hurricane supply kit items

    • Instead, Gov. DeSantis signed in to law a new, permanent, year-round tax exempt rule for hurricane supplies

    • MORE INFORMATION: Rebuilding Together Tampa Bay

    According to Rebuilding Together Tampa Bay, many residents did not include batteries and cell phone power banks in their supply kits last year, causing big problems for some after storms passed.

    “One of the things that we noticed is the lack of communication by many of the homeowners, because they ran out of batteries in their cell phones.,” said Rebuilding Together Greater Florida CEO Jose Garcia.  “And this year we are going to include the additional external batteries so they can charge it and ready to use it in case they run out of batteries because there is now power in their house.”

    Rebuilding Together is currently helping hundreds of homeowners with financial and work assistance that are still making repairs to their homes after Helene and Milton last year.

    At the same time, RTTB is working to stockpile supply kit items, that would be distributed to impacted area’s after any potential storms later this year.

    It says batteries, flashlights and a way to charge your cell phone for at least two days is crucial if you choose to ride a storm out.

    Millions lost power during hurricanes last fall, and it took 2-3 days for relief sites to be setup for residents to visit.

    Florida has now declared the following items tax-exempt year round in order for Floridians to prepare for an incoming storm or other disaster:

    AA-cell, AAA-cell, C-cell, D-cell, 6-volt, or 9-volt batteries

    Smoke detection devices

    Carbon monoxide alarms

    Fire extinguishers

    Portable generators

    Waterproof tarps and other flexible waterproof sheeting (1,000 square feet or less)

    Ground anchor systems and tie-down kits

    Portable gas or diesel fuel cans (5 gallons or less)

    Life jackets

    Bicycle helmets

    Sunscreen

    [ad_2]

    Jason Lanning

    Source link

  • Winter Haven considers significantly raising impact fees on new development

    [ad_1]

    WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — Winter Haven city leaders are considering potential plans to significantly raise impact fees.

    What You Need To Know

    • Winter Haven is proposing a 139% increase in impact fees on new development — the first proposed increase in nearly 20 years

    • The fee for a single-family home would rise from just over $2,400 to $5,820, based on a study the city conducted in response to significant population growth

    • City leaders say residents are supportive of the increase, viewing it as a way for growth to pay for itself


    If approved, it would be the first increase in nearly 20 years.

    As more people move to Winter Haven, city leaders say raising impact fees will help meet growing infrastructure demands — including funding for libraries, fire services, and parks and recreation. Helping to preserve and enhance the city’s outdoor spaces has been Marian Ryan’s life’s work. Before becoming president of the nonprofit Friends of the Parks, Ryan says her fondest childhood memories were made in green spaces.

    “The places that I hung out was what is now Rotary Park in Lake Martha, also down at Lake Albert, here at Lake Silver where I learned how to swim,” Ryan said.

    Ryan says each park has grown over the years, but there’s still more work to be done.

    “You really should have a certain number of parks or actually open space acres per resident, and so that number is hard to keep up with, especially when you have really rapid development like we’ve been experiencing. So it’s really neat to have it come to fruition now… hopefully.”

    Winter Haven city leaders are looking to raise impact fees on new development by 139%. City Manager Michael Stavres says the fee for a single-family home would increase from just over $2,400 to $5,820. He says the proposed hike follows an “extraordinary circumstances” study conducted by the city.

    “When we look at what it costs to expand infrastructure in 2025 and over the next 10 years, and how we’re expected to grow over that same 10 years, it’s a very different scenario than it was in 2006,” he said. “It’s a community that grew from about 26,000 people in 2006 to over 60,000 people today. And we anticipate close to 10,000 new single-family homes in the next 10 years.”

    So far, Stavres says city leaders haven’t heard from developers about the potential fees. However, he says residents he’s spoken to are on board with the idea of what he calls “growth paying for growth.”

    As for Ryan, she’s looking forward to seeing funding go toward expanding the city’s parks.

    “I always like to see open trails and space first,” she said — just one more way to help preserve the quality of life for those who call the city home.

    If approved, the fees will take effect on Oct. 1.

    [ad_2]

    Alexis Jones

    Source link

  • Golden Ridge Grove shares impact of innovative approach to growing citrus

    [ad_1]

    ALTURAS, Fla. — While the citrus industry has faced challenges over the last decade, the USDA reports production from the past two years is up by 12%.

    Golden Ridge Groves in Alturas is hoping to continue to be part of that growth as they find new methods to help combat greening in the citrus industry.

    What You Need To Know

    • Golden Ridge Grove harvests citrus under a Citrus Under Protective Screening system (CUPS)
    • CUPS helps to keep the citrus trees free from greening

    • This fall, the owners will establish a farmers’ market to teach people about the system


    The entrance to this citrus grove looks a bit different. That’s because Shane and Katie Bevilacqua said it’s a growing technique unlike any other.

    “Citrus greening has really devastated the citrus industry in Florida, and a cup structure is an innovative new way to be able to grow that quality, world-known fresh Florida citrus,” Shane said.

    The couple co-owns Golden Ridge Groves a new agritourism business inspired by Katies father and uncle who have been growing citrus under cups for nearly 10 years.

    This method of growing was first researched by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences at Lake Alfred.

    (Spectrum News/Lizbeth Gutierrez)

    Katie’s family owns more than 500 acres of citrus trees under CUPS, or Citrus Under Protective Screening systems.

    “What’s so special about it is being grown in this CUPS structure. It gives a tree a chance to grow up and be strong and healthy, just like Florida citrus has always been known for,” said Shane.

    (Spectrum News/Lizbeth Gutierrez)

    Right now, the red grapefruit is in its blooming season.

    The crop starts with a flower in early spring. By summer, the fruit will start to mature, and by fall, it will be ready to pick.

    This CUPS technique has allowed the family to plant more trees per acre, and Katie said production has been good.

    “We’ve just been able to see incredible benefits to the CUPS structure not only in tree health but also in the fruit that it’s producing,” she said.

    Fruit, they hope to share with even more people as they prepare to open a market right across from one of their citrus groves.

    (Spectrum News/Lizbeth Gutierrez)

    “We’d really like to show people a lot of the benefits of not only buying local but buying fruit fresh off the tree off the bush, whatever they’re picking,” Katie said.

    While the market is in its early stages, they want it to be a space families can experience fresh Florida produce through its u-pick and store offerings.

    The couple hopes they’re planting the seed for future farmers to keep the citrus legacy alive.

    Golden Ridge groves will offer tours in addition to its U-pick and market which will open this fall.

    Editor’s Note: A previous version of this stated Golden Ridge Groves has a partnership with the University of Florida. This has since been changed.

    [ad_2]

    Lizbeth Gutierrez

    Source link

  • Haines City commissioner encourages more Hispanics to get involved in government

    [ad_1]

    HAINES CITY, Fla. — One Haines City Commissioner is being recognized with one of Mexico’s highest honors, the Mexicano Distinguido award, which is presented by the government of Mexico to a Mexican national living abroad.

    What You Need To Know

    • Haines City Commissioner Omar Arroyo was recognized recently with the Mexicano Distinguido award.

    • Since 2022, Arroyo has served as commissioner, vice mayor and mayor

    • Arroyo became the first Mexican mayor in the state of Florida, and the first Hispanic to hold a seat in Haines City


    Commissioner Omar Arroyo was this year’s recipient. 

    From a very young age, Arroyo says he was taught the value of hard work.

    He immigrated to the U.S. at 15 and went straight to working in construction, which eventually turned into owning his own business.

    “Everything I do is possible thanks to this,” he said.

    His construction business helped him build connections that led him to run for the Haines City Commission in 2021. Although he lost, he didn’t give up and eventually secured a seat the following year, becoming the first Mexican elected to the City Commission.

    “I wanted to get involved in it,” he said. “I didn’t know much about it, but I saw the need and I saw that I could help because of what I do.”

    He said his goal is to bring representation to the Hispanic community that is rooted in the city.

    “The more you learn about government, the more you get involved,” Arroyo said. “It’s just so big that there is so much need everywhere.”

    The past few years he has served as a commissioner, vice mayor and mayor, getting involved at schools and helping construct more parks in the city.

    But he said there’s still a lot to be done, and he is hoping other members of the Hispanic community will join the effort.

    “After I ran, every year there has been at least one Hispanic running,” Arroyo said. “They haven’t won yet, but they will, eventually they will — especially if they keep going.”

    Arroyo said his path to get to where he is wasn’t easy, but that is what makes it so rewarding.

    “I thank God every day for putting me where he put me, because I found a real passion,” he said.

    AIt is a passion that he hopes won’t end with him, but will open the doors for more Hispanics to get involved in local government.

    Arroyo has one more year left in his term with Haines City, but said he plans to continue to be involved in government affairs in the future.

    [ad_2]

    Lizbeth Gutierrez

    Source link

  • Emergency Operations Center nears completion in Haines City

    [ad_1]

    HAINES CITY, Fla. — Haines City’s new emergency operations center is nearing completion and is set to open in September.

    What You Need To Know

    • The center will house a new fire station and an office for the police department



    • Chief Codi Donahoe says the call volume has increased, and development in the northern part of the city is why the center is needed



    • The fire department is also looking for more firefighters to staff the new station, with an application process open until July 5




    The center will include the city’s third fire station, as well as a space for the city’s police department.

    Every morning starts with preparation for the day. Fire Chief Codi Donahoe said it’s part of getting the team ready for a call.

    “Each engineer, they come out, they run their truck, their pump, they check every piece of equipment,” Donahoe said.

    It’s a process that hasn’t changed since he started his journey with the fire department in 2006.  

    He was hired as the Haines City Fire Chief four months ago. He said returning to the city was a full circle moment for him, and it’s a position that allows him to serve in a different way.

    “I’m glad to be here in this moment to see the development of the fire department and the city as a whole,” he said.

    He is leading the way while the city grows and is part of the team that advocated for a new fire station.

    “With the growth comes that added call volume, so we want to make sure with fire station three that area will be better covered than it already is now.”

    Located off Highway 27, the building will help residents who live in the northern part of Haines City.

    It will be a central hub for emergency response efforts, not only for the fire department but for local law enforcement as well.

    Last year, the fire department had over 7,000 calls for service. This year, it is on track to receive over 8,000 calls.

    Donahoe anticipates that number growing with an additional station. “We just want to provide the best service possible,” he said.

    The fire department is also looking for more firefighters to staff the new station, with an application process open until July 5.

    [ad_2]

    Lizbeth Gutierrez

    Source link

  • Tampa Bay’s weekend digest for June 21 and 22

    [ad_1]

    Your weekend is here, Tampa Bay, and here’s a look and the news and what events are going on in the area.

    This weekend will feature storms forming later in the day that will move west each night toward the Gulf.

    Saturday will start with sunny skies followed by building clouds in the afternoon and a 40% chance of scattered storms late in the afternoon to evening.

    Any storms that form will all have a westward movement toward the Gulf.  Highs will reach the low to mid 90s.

    Sunday will be similar with PM storms moving westward toward the Gulf. 

    Your Hour-by-Hour Forecast | Check Klystron 9 Radar | Latest on the Tropics | Tropical Weather Graphics

    Juneteenth Events

    There are still some Juneteenth events going on this weekend around the Tampa Bay area. Take a look at our Juneteeth guide for more information…

    Pinellas

    Hillsborough

    Polk

    Pasco

    Hernando

    Manatee

    Citrus

     

    For more events going on in your area, check out our Community Calendar >>

    1. Trump says he’ll make decision about whether to strike Iran within next 2 weeks

    2. Rays in advanced talks for $1.7 billion sale with North Florida businessman

    3. FDOT, FHP address increase in crashes on new Howard Frankland Bridge

    4. Rescue flight from Israel lands in Tampa

    5. New Roof, New Hope: Nonprofit helps Bay area families prepare for storm season

    6. Medicare and Social Security go-broke dates pushed up due to rising health care costs, new SSA law

    Tap/Click here for more headlines >>

    Sunrise after a night of much needed rain. | Location: Walden Lake (Courtesy: Les Cole)

    Sunrise after a night of much needed rain. | Location: Walden Lake (Courtesy: Les Cole)

    Share your weather photos with us! | Join our Florida Cloud Watchers Facebook Group

     

    [ad_2]

    Spectrum News Staff

    Source link

  • Frostproof farmer sees avocado grove thrive after switching from citrus

    [ad_1]

    FROSTPROOF, Fla. — Florida has more than 200 thousand acres of citrus groves, but one crop has faced challenges in recent years, including greening and the impact of hurricanes.

    What You Need To Know

    • Mitchell Mclellan owns an avocado farm in Frostproof, one that he started two years ago
    • The farm is made up of 7 acres of 700 trees that produce more than 100,000 pounds of avocados
    • Mclellan made the venture after over 70 percent of his citrus grove got destroyed by Hurricane Ian in Fall 2022
    • Mclellan’s farm is one of the few in Central Florida, as avocado crops are usually grown in southern parts of Florida


    One avocado grove in Frostproof produces more than 100 thousand pounds of avocados per year, but the like the owners say, it’s a labor of love to keep the place thriving.

    They produce one specific type of avocado.

    “A Choquette is a smooth-skin avocado,” said Polk County farmer Mitchell Mclellan.

    Two years ago, Mclellan would’ve never predicted that he’d be known as “The Avocado Man.” That’s because he used to be a citrus farmer, before he made the switch to the green crop.

    “These trees are right at 2 years old. They were a foot-and-a-half tall when we planted them and they’ll get 20 feet to 30 feet tall if I let them,” he said.

    The venture began after over 70% of his citrus grove was destroyed by Hurricane Ian in Fall 2022.

    “Here is a ditch that came down through here and it blew all that soil up around the roots of the citrus tree, which if you bury roots of the citrus tree, it kills it,” Mclellan said.

    He said there is a high demand for avocados in the U.S.

    The crop is usually grown in southern parts of Florida, making Mclellan’s farm one of the few in Central Florida.

    He’s proud of his efforts so far, but also still learning.

    “We have to be diligent,” he said. “We have to stay on top of it and make sure when the product is ready to harvest, we have to harvest it and not labor around.”

    While it means more work, he sees a booming future for his farm.

    “They’re a beautiful tree, they give a good shade, and they produce something that you can eat, and that’s the best part about it,” he said.

    Mclellan took a chance on something new, but he says the roots he’s planted are already paying off.

    [ad_2]

    Lizbeth Gutierrez

    Source link

  • FDOT hosts workshop to discuss SunRail extension to Polk County

    [ad_1]

    POLK COUNTY, Fla. — As the Sunshine State continues to grow, so does demand for public transportation.

    The SunRail commuter rail service could make its way into Polk County sooner rather than later.

    The Florida Department of Transportation is hosting a special workshop to discuss what a possible extension would mean for local leaders and residents in Haines City.

    What You Need To Know

    • FDOT staff host a special workshop to discuss plans to extend SunRail commuter service to Polk County

    • Polk County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the country, with a projected population growth of over 1.2 million people by 2050

    • FDOT says an extension of the commuter service is necessary “to support this growth”

    • The 16-mile extension would extend service to Haines City, with stations in the Loughman and Davenport areas
    • A Project Development and Environmental (PD&E) study is currently underway to assess costs, benefits and environmental factors


    Polk County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the country, with a projected population growth of nearly 1.2 million people by 2050.

    According to FDOT, more than half of this growth is projected to take place in the northeastern portion of the county.

    To account for this growth, it’s seeking to expand the SunRail commuter service to Haines City, with two additional stations in Loughman and Davenport.

    FDOT staff discussed what it calls Transit Oriented Development (TOD) concepts with elected officials and local planners.

    This concept focuses on a variety of factors, including “designing areas that are within a quarter- to half-mile of transit stations to promote transit use” and how it could benefit those who choose to walk or bike.

    “For communities investing in transit like SunRail, growth must align with TOD principles to maximize ridership,” says FDOT Communications Specialist Patricia Pichette.

    Factors like the design of streets, development, parking, housing, and jobs within walking distance of stations strongly influence the use of public transit like SunRail, according to FDOT.

    The workshop also provided the public an opportunity to engage in an open discussion with FDOT staff and ask questions.

    Right now, SunRail operates over 61 miles, with 17 stations connecting the Greater Orlando region, from Volusia County down to Osceola County.

    Some of those service areas include DeLand, Winter Park, Orlando, Kissimmee and Poinciana.

    Poinciana is currently the southernmost point of the station.

    A first public meeting to discuss the SunRail extension Project Development and Environmental Study (PD&E) is scheduled for late September.

    The study, which is still in its early stages, will look at expansion benefits, environmental factors, preliminary conceptual costs and funding strategies.

    It will also serve as a way for FDOT staff to examine economic development opportunities and ways by which it could help improve mobility.

    [ad_2]

    Sasha Teman

    Source link