News Flash

It’s clean up time! Round up the junk from your garage, back yard, or attic - get it to the curb before 6am on Saturday, March 7th.Here is your chance to place general junk, mattresses/box springs,  furniture, tires (4 per household, without rims), and appliances (White Goods) at your curbside. How to Participate:1) Place materials at your street curb before 6am on Saturday, March 7th.  Do not place materials at the curb two days before the scheduled cleanup day.2) No Hazardous waste items (paint, batteries, chemicals or solvents, no asbestos items, motor oil, or antifreeze).3) No Construction Debris: (fence materials, remodel materials).4) No food waste.5) Please do not attempt to help the cleanup crew load your materials.6) Remember to always take recyclable items to your local community charity organization.

Residents and business owners experiencing a loss of water may have a frozen above-ground backflow preventer. The device will unfreeze as the outdoor temperature rises. Rest assured, the City’s utilities department confirmed water is flowing properly. 

Notice of Commission Election!

There will be a municipal election on Tuesday April 7, 2026 to elect a Commissioner for Seat 3 currently held by Keith Thompson and a Commissioner for Seat 5 currently held by Robin Gibson. Terms are 3 years. Qualifying will be February 16 -20, 2026. Commissioners must have lived in City Limits for 1 year. For more information on running for office click here  https://fl-lakewales.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/14447/2026-Election-Notice-English?bidId=   

The City of Lake Wales is proposing to increase pedestrian accessibility and improve shared-use path connectivity to the Rails to Trails trailhead.

The proposed new shared-use path project begins at the E. Central Avenue parking lot trail head and will follow N. 3^rd Street until connecting to N. 3^rd Street trail at E. Park Avenue. The trail section between E. Park Avenue and Sessoms Avenue is a separate project under design by DCCM. The project will pick up and continue north along N. 3^rd Street just north of E. Sessoms Avenue until turning west at Seminole Avenue. The trail will continue along Seminole Avenue and then meander through the City of Lake Wales Public Works property where it terminates at the existing Rails to Trails trailhead.

An open house for the project will be held at The Women’s Club at 275 E. Park Avenue in Lake Wales on Wednesday, January 7^th, 2026 from 4 to 6pm. 

If you have any further questions or comments regarding the project, please contact me at sglutton@lakewalesfl.gov or (863) 678-4182 Ext. 1336.

City of Lake Wales staff captured two prestigious awards by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA): Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting and Distinguished Budget Presentation.

“Our Finance Department works diligently each year and is proud to consistently receive the GFOA awards, which reflect the high standards, accuracy, and the dedication of our team,” Vanessa Avellaneda, assistant finance director said. 

The City was awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its annual comprehensive financial report for the fiscal year that ended September 30, 2024. The report met the GFOA’s high standards, which includes demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate its financial story. 

The GFOA’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Award was received for meeting fourteen mandatory criteria within four categories: policy document, financial plan, operations guide, and communications device. This marks the sixth consecutive year this award was received by staff. 

Check out the timeline of events prior to the adoption of the 1968 Fair Housing Act. https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/14354/Fair-Housing-For-All_2025

The fair housing guide provided by the Housing Equality Center gives citizens a better understanding of their rights under the Fair Housing Act. Increase your ability to recognize the signs of housing discrimination. For more information and access to the guide, visit https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1615 

The City of Lake Wales Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) was recognized with two awards at the 2025 Florida Redevelopment Association (FRA) Annual Conference and Awards reception earlier this month: Capital Projects/Infrastructure for a Small City for the Park Avenue & Market Plaza Redesign Project and the 2024 CRA Annual Report for a Small City.

“We are honored to receive recognition from the Florida Redevelopment Association, a reflection of our steadfast commitment to revitalizing and enhancing our community. These awards celebrate the dedication of our leadership, staff, and residents in shaping a vibrant future for Lake Wales. Through strategic redevelopment and collaborative innovation, we will continue to transform our city into a place where opportunity flourishes and quality of life thrives,” Deena Drumgo, assistant city manager said.

This year, nineteen awards were presented, celebrating a diverse array of innovative projects and initiatives led by CRAs throughout the state.

The FRA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Florida’s community redevelopment professionals and volunteers, annually presents the Roy F. Kenzie Awards to honor excellence across a range of categories, including rehabilitation, renovation, cultural enrichment, housing, and management programs.

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Republic Services will resume weekly collection services of both yard trash and bulk waste. Your trash and recycle collection days will remain the same.

The Lake Wales Fire Department was recognized in the 46^th Annual Telly Awards for its holiday safety tips video series. Firefighter and video host, AJ Akouka and Communications Department staff earned a silver Telly Award for social video series – health and wellness. 

Two videos were recognized - Safety Tips to Deep Frying a Turkey and Tips to Keep Your Christmas Tree and Holiday Decorations from Catching Fire.

“It’s an honor being recognized internationally with global brands,” Eric Marshall, communications director said. 

The recent win marks the City’s fifth Telly Award in two years.

The 46th Annual Telly Awards, honors excellence in video and television across all screens. This year, the awards received more than 13,000 submissions from around the world. The winners include global brands, respected organizations and independent media companies.

The Lake Wales Public Library plans to construct two multipurpose rooms and one teen resource room, ranging between 260 to 360 square feet.  

“We’re maximizing space to give our library members and visitors more options,” Library Executive Director Belle Reynoso said. 

Both multipurpose rooms may be used for study sessions and are scalable to accommodate training sessions and group meetings. The teen resource room will feature laptop-friendly workspaces and charging stations. 

“Giving our teens a dedicated space to study and collaborate helps build social skills,” Reynoso said. “The room will be monitored by library staff.”

Reynoso anticipates the renovations to be completed this year.  

Famed University of Florida basketball player, Walter Clayton Jr. is scheduled to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony at Albert Kirkland Gymnasium in Lake Wales on Friday, April 18 at 5:15 p.m. 

A small motorcade will begin at the corner of Kissimmee Avenue and 4th Street at 5:00 p.m. and travel to the gymnasium. Citizens are encouraged to line the streets and follow the motorcade.

“It is exciting to see a hometown hero return to the gym he played in for years,” Stephanie Lutton, director of parks and recreation said. 

More than 13,000 square feet of surface area in the gymnasium was restored to be more durable. It accommodates various types of athletic sports, such as basketball, volleyball and pickleball. 

“Many generations of our citizens have frequented the facility, since it was built in the 1930’s,” Lutton added. “We want it to be known as a safe space for the youth to play sports and engage with one another.” 

Following the motorcade, citizens and the media are invited inside the gymnasium to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5:20 p.m. A brief press conference will be held for questions by the media. 

Due to time constraints, Clayton Jr. will depart the event following the press conference. Autographs will not be permitted. 

Following the ceremony, staff in the parks and recreation department invite citizens to stay at the gymnasium and continue the celebration. Music and outdoor activities will be on site. 

CITY COMMISSION MEETING DATE CHANGE

Due to the April 1, 2025 Municipal Election, the first regular City Commission meeting in April has been changed from Tuesday, April 1, 2025 to Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the Commission Chambers. 

CANVASSING BOARD MEETING CANVASSING OF ABSENTEE BALLOTS

The 1st meeting of the Canvassing Board of the City of Lake Wales will convene at 5:00 p.m. at the Elections Operations Center, on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 for the purpose of publicly canvassing Vote by Mail ballots for candidates seeking election to Mayor, Seat 1 at-large in the April 1, 2025 Municipal Election. 

CANVASSING BOARD MEETING CERTIFYING UNOFFICIAL RESULTS

The Canvassing Board will convene again on Tuesday April 1, 2025 at approximately 7:00 p.m. at the Elections Operations Center to approve the unofficial final results of the April 2, 2025 Municipal Election.

CANVASSING BOARD MEETING CERTIFYING FINAL ELECTION RESULTS

The meeting of the Canvassing Board of the City of Lake Wales will convene at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 3, 2025 at the Municipal Administration Building for the purpose of certifying the results of ballots received in the April 1, 2025 Municipal Election. 

The Canvassing Board will also randomly select a race and precinct that appears on the Ballot for the purpose of conducting a manual audit of the voting system used in the April 1, 2025 Municipal Election on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.

CANVASSING BOARD MEETING MANUAL AUDIT OF VOTING SYSTEM

The meeting of the Canvassing Board of the City of Lake Wales will convene at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at the Elections Operations Center, to conduct a manual audit of the voting system used in the 2025 Municipal Election which shall include a tally of votes cast of a race that appears on the Ballot on Election Day.

City of Lake Wales                                 Elections Operations Center

Commission Chambers                                   70 Florida Citrus Blvd.

201 W Central Avenue                                   Winter Haven, FL 33880

Lake Wales, Florida 33853 

For the City of Lake Wales Municipal Election on April 1, 2025, your polling location has been changed. 

Voters in precincts 523, 527, 528, 530, 532, 535, 542 and 543 will vote at the Municipal Administration Building, 201 W. Central Avenue, Lake Wales. 

Voters in precincts 519, 524, and 526 will vote at the Lake Ashton Clubhouse, 4141 Ashton Club Dr., Lake Wales, FL 33859

Polk County Precinct Lookup: https://www.polkelections.com/Voter-Services/Where-Do-I-Vote

All registered voters who live inside the city limits are eligible to vote in this election. Polls will be open from 7am to 7pm. For all other elections, vote at the polling location listed on your voter ID card.

Beginning April 1st, the City’s solid waste agreement with Republic Services includes the following services; once per week trash, once per week recycle, every other week yard waste and every other week bulk waste collection. Your trash and recycle collection days will remain the same. Click here for the yard waste and bulk waste collection schedule: https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/7701/Yard-Waste-and-Bulk-Waste-Collection-Schedule

The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination by direct providers of housing whose practices make housing unavailable to citizens because of race/color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status or disability. Click the link below to learn more about the Fair Housing Act. 

NOTICE OF COMMISSION ELECTION CITY OF LAKE WALES, FLORIDA   NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE REGULAR MUNICIPAL ELECTION FOR THE CITY OF LAKE WALES WILL BE HELD ON TUESDAY, APRIL 1, 2025 TO ELECT A MAYOR FOR SEAT 1 (AT-LARGE) ON THE CITY COMMISSION.  

THE REGULAR ELECTION OF CITY COMMISSION MEMBERS SHALL BE HELD IN THE MANNER PROVIDED IN THE CITY CHARTER AND THE LAKE WALES MUNICIPAL ELECTION CODE.  THE PERSON ELECTED FOR SEAT 1 SHALL SERVE A TERM OF THREE (3) YEARS.  QUALIFYING PERIOD  The period to qualify for election to Seat 1 begins at 12:00 noon, Monday, February 10, 2025 and ends at 12:00 noon, Friday, February 14, 2025 in the City Clerk’s Office at the City Administration Building, 201 W. Central Ave, Lake Wales.     Candidate packets will be available in the City Clerk’s Office beginning 9:00 a.m. on Friday, January 31, 2025.   

PROCEDURE FOR QUALIFYING  QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE Members of the City Commission must be registered voters and a resident of the City of Lake Wales for at least one year preceding their date of election. The Mayor elected to Seat 1 must reside within City limits.   

CAMPAIGN FINANCES Any candidate seeking to qualify for election must appoint a campaign treasurer and designate a campaign depository on or before the date obtaining petition signatures. Petition signatures obtained prior to this date will be disqualified.  All Forms will be furnished by the City Clerk.  

PETITIONS Candidates for election to the City Commission must be nominated by petition. Any registered voter of the district shall be nominated for election by petition designating the commission seat to which they seek election.  Each candidate must obtain 25 qualified signatures from registered voters nominating them to the seat. Official petitions are furnished by the City Clerk.  

FILING AND ACCEPTANCE All qualifying documents including nominating petitions must be assembled and filed with the City Clerk as one instrument not before 12:00 noon on Monday, February 10, 2025 nor after 12:00 noon on Friday, February 14, 2025 during the qualifying period.   At the time of filing, persons seeking to qualify as a candidate for a commission seat is required to submit a payment of a twenty-five dollar ($25.00) city qualifying fee and one hundred and thirty-six dollars and eight cents ($136.08) (1% of annual salary) state election assessment for remittance to the Florida Department of State and deposit in the Elections Commission Trust Fund.   For additional information, please contact City Clerk Jennifer Nanek at 863-678-4182, ext. 1254 or in person at 201 West Central Avenue, Lake Wales, FL 33853. Contact the Supervisor of Elections at 863-534-5888 to request a Vote-By-Mail ballot. Voter registration deadline is March 3, 2025. 

Eleven segments of roadways in Lake Wales will be milled and reshaped before applying a new two-inch lift of asphalt. Construction begins on select roadways on Monday, January 6^th. 

The list of roadways: Bryn Mawr Avenue, Bullard Avenue East., Center Street, Cypress Garden Lane, Druid Circle, Fourth Street South, Fifth Street East, Johnson Avenue East, Polk Avenue East, Polk Avenue West and Tillman Avenue East.

Public Works Operations Manager Nancy Hernandez said, “Our City’s program is a six-year plan that includes an inventory of roadways with condition ratings and prescribed treatment methods.”

Upon completion of this next phase of construction, more than 25 segments of roadways will have been resurfaced since 2022. Prescribed treatment methods are based on condition ratings. Roadways classified as “end-of-life” are milled and resurfaced with a two-inch layer of asphalt. Roadways classified as “remaining service life” are treated with a cape seal or a double-micro slurry of liquid asphalt.

““Spending the extra time to closely assess each street allowed us to prescribe pavement treatment methods matched to each street's individual pavement condition index rating, allowing us to cost-effectively improve more streets,” City Manager James Slaton said. 

The City’s pavement management program was funded for the first time in 2021.

Lake Wales was awarded a $282,380 grant by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Recreational Trails Program for the development of a new multiuse trail on Tower Boulevard. 

Plans include the construction of a 12-foot-wide trail to connect Lake Wales Park Trail to Bok Tower Gardens. It is one of several trails in the Parks and Recreation master plan. Five park benches, trash receptacles, bike racks and directional signage will complement the trail.

 Parks and Recreation Director Stephanie Lutton said, “We requested and will receive $282,380 in grant funds, and the city will contribute $70,595.” 

 Lake Wales was one of four communities awarded by the program.

Lake Wales, Fla. (November 25, 2024) – A new 9-month-old Belgian Malinois canine, named Bogey, joins the Lake Wales Police Department’s K-9 unit after being donated by Patriot Canine Services. The donation saves the department approximately $10,000. 

 Bogey is set to partner with newly appointed K-9 handler, Officer Russell Klingler. The team will begin training on December 20th at the Polk County Sheriff’s K-9 Training Facility. 

 “I’m excited to see the new K-9 team grow in their training and look forward to getting them out in the community,” Chief Chris Velasquez stated. 

 Upon completion of training and meeting Florida Department of Law Enforcement standards, the Lake Wales Police Department will have one K-9 on each of the four patrol shifts, providing around-the-clock coverage in Lake Wales. The Lake Wales Police Department established the K-9 unit in 1997.

Lake Wales, Fla. (October 28, 2024) – Portions of 12 roadways were resurfaced with either a cape seal or a double-micro slurry of liquid asphalt as part of the City of Lake Wales’ Pavement Management Program. Both applications are preservation treatments to extend the life of the roadways for several years.

Eleven segments of roadways are scheduled to be milled in December. The roads will be treated and reshaped before applying a new two-inch lift of asphalt. 

“We appreciate everyone’s patience as we catch up on a backlog of roadways,” City Manager James Slaton said. “The program was funded for the first time in 2021.”

More than three miles of roadways were resurfaced in 2022 and 2023. 

The City’s program is a six-year plan that includes an inventory of roadways with condition ratings and prescribed treatment methods, such as cape seal, double-micro slurry or milling. 

The list of roadways: Bryn Mawr Avenue, Bullard Avenue, Campbell Avenue, Carlton Avenue, Center Street, Circle Drive, Cypress Garden Lane, Druid Circle, Fifth Street, Fourth Street, Johnson Avenue East, Linden Lane, Marietta Street, Polk Avenue West, Polk Avenue East, Steedly Avenue, Sunset Drive, Townsend Avenue, Triangle Drive, Weaver Avenue, Westend Boulevard, 11^th Street and 12^th Street.

Republic Services has informed the City that trash pick-up services will resume.

- Thursday collections will be picked up today, October 11.

- Friday collections will be picked up Saturday, October 12.

Collections will be solely trash, as Republic Services will not be able to process recycling until power is restored in facilities.  

Sign up to receive emergency notifications from the AlertPolk notification system. Click here: https://member.everbridge.net/892807736724723/login

Emergency notifications include:

Tornadoes/Severe Weather

Hurricanes

Hurricane Recovery Information

Mandatory Evacuations

Boil Water Orders

Gas Leaks

Sexual Predator Relocation Notices

Critical Law Enforcement Notifications

In preparation for the hurricane, know the locations of nearby emergency shelters facilitated by Polk County. All shelters are not automatically activated for each possible emergency. Please do not proceed to any shelter until you have confirmed that it is open and operating.

Emergency shelters – Polk County Evacuation Policy:

https://www.polk-county.net/public-safety/emergency-management/emergency-shelters/

Public Shelters Policies

https://www.polk-county.net/public-safety/emergency-management/find-a-shelter/

Please do not cut back trees or do major yard work, as debris left at the curb may not be collected before the hurricane makes landfall. Yard debris may become projectile items during a storm. It's recommended to complete all major trimming of trees prior to June 1, the beginning of hurricane season. The cutting of trees during a storm watch or warning period places a tremendous burden on neighboring citizens and the collection company.

Due to high demand, the City is out of sandbags. Two self-service sandpiles are open. Please bring a shovel. Citizens may use trash bags, burlap bags, pillow cases and other types of makeshift containers to contain sand.  

TWO SANDPILE LOCATIONS: INTERSECTION OF FIRST STREET & TILLMAN AVENUE (DOWNTOWN) 

LAKE WALES FIRE STATION: 600 CHALET SUZANNE ROAD

Public notices may be accessed from Polk County's accessible website.

https://cityoflakewales.column.us/search

You can signup to have email notifications of posted notices. To be added to the mailing list contact the City Clerk at 863-6784182x1254 at jnanek@lakewalesfl.gov  

Area Rotary Clubs are promoting a global initiative to focus their communities on peacebuilding and conflict resolution. More than 250,000 peace poles have been planted throughout the world. Colorful poles covered in award winning children’s artwork will be planted in various high visibility locations throughout the city to start community conversations about not only peace, but also kindness, unity, friendships, tolerance, love and generosity.

To support the three Rotary Clubs meeting locally and to promote better quality of life, the City of Lake Wales is sponsoring the first 10 peace poles. 

Planting will begin on World Peace Day September 21 and continue at least until year’s end as part of the first “100 Days of Kindness.” 

A Fall Friendship Festival is planned for World Tolerance Day Saturday, Nov. 16 at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center. An International peace fellow and world class cellist, Diego Carneiro, will visit to perform concerts and conversations about peace through music.

Mark your calendars and plan to join us on September 21 and November 16. More details about both events will be published on the City’s website, Facebook, Instagram and Nextdoor.

All waste and recycling services will be suspended on Labor Day, Monday, September 2. Read below to see the rescheduled pick-up dates:

- All Monday services will be collected on Tuesday, September 3.

- All Tuesday services will be collected on Wednesday, September 4.

- All Wednesday services will be collected on Thursday, September 5.

- All Thursday services will be collected on Friday, September 6.

- All Friday services will be collected on Saturday, September 7.

Citizens in the Northwest Neighborhood will soon have access to new and enhanced sidewalks with new landscaping on designated streets: Alabama Street, Booker Avenue, Dr. J.A. Wiltshire Avenue, E Street, F Street, Florida Avenue, G Street, Harding Avenue, Jewel Street, W. Jackson Avenue, Lincoln Avenue, Pearl Street and Washington Avenue.

A groundbreaking ceremony is set to take place on August 23 at the Northwest Sports Complex – Fraser Field on Florida Avenue in Lake Wales. The event starts at 9 a.m. 

Construction plans include rehabilitating preexisting sidewalks. New sidewalks will be added along established streets without sidewalks. The project will help improve pedestrian safety. It’s action step number 11 in the City’s Lake Wales Connected Plan.

 “Pedestrian safety is a big priority for the City,” said City Manager James Slaton.

 City staff identified a pedestrian safety concern for residents living in the Northwest Neighborhood. Staff applied for a state grant and was awarded funding to improve the infrastructure in the Northwest Neighborhood. 

 Lake Wales was one of ten Florida communities to receive funding through the Rural Infrastructure Fund and the Community Development Block Grant – CV program, administered by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. 

A pre-construction community meeting is set for August 22 at 6 p.m. at the B Street Community Center. Citizens will get the chance to ask questions and hear from City staff and project consultants. Citizens who live on the designated streets will be contacted by City staff and crews prior to construction.

The Lake Wales Connected Plan comprises more action steps to enhance the City of Lake Wales. For more information, visit: Lake Wales Connected (Project Highlights)

Section 106 is part of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, or NHPA. The term “historic property” is a specific codified term and refers to any prehistoric or historic district, site, building, structure or object included in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. The Section 106 process is designed to help communities find creative, effective ways to accommodate and balance needed development and the benefits of historic preservation through consultations and discussions among affected and interested parties.   Learn more at:  https://files.hudexchange.info/resources/documents/Historic-Preservation-Basics.pdf

Citizens in the northwest neighborhood will soon have access to new sidewalks with new landscape and street trees on select streets. Join us on August 22 at 6pm at the B Street Community Center to learn about the project. Citizens will get the chance to ask questions and hear from City staff and project consultants. Construction plans include rehabilitating preexisting sidewalks. New sidewalks will be added along established streets without sidewalks. The improvements will help improve pedestrian safety. It’s action step number 11 in the City’s Lake Wales Connected Plan.

Map of designated streets: https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/7174/Northewest-Neighborhood-Map-Sidewalk-Improvement-Project

Designated streets: Alabama Street, Booker Avenue, Dr. J.A. Wiltshire Avenue, E Street, F Street, Florida Avenue, G Street, Harding Avenue, Jewel Street, W. Jackson Avenue, Lincoln Avenue, Pearl Street  and Washington Avenue.

Note: Citizens who live on the designated streets will be contacted by City staff and crews prior to construction.

The precautionary boil water notice listed below was rescinded on July 25, 2024. Hand delivered letters have been distributed to residents living in the designated area.

Twenty-two water service residents in the County Oaks area are no longer under a precautionary boil water notice that was distributed on July 23, 2024.  Staff in the City’s Public Works Department fixed a leak in a 10-inch water main pipe.

The employees of the City of Lake Wales, your public water system, take great care in assuring your water is safe, and we appreciate your cooperation with the precautionary boil water notice to protect public health during this difficult time.

An update on the city’s water demand projections and the Polk Regional Water Cooperative South East Wellfield (SEWF) project will be provided on Tuesday, July 16 at 5:00pm, prior to the regular commission meeting at 6pm. 

City consultant Dave Edson, P.E., with Hoyle Tanner, will provide an update on the City of Lake Wales Water Supply Strategy. Eric DeHaven, PRWC Executive Director and Mary Thomas, P.E., Carollo Engineers will report on the progress of the SEWF Alternative Water Supply project. For information about the Polk Regional Water Cooperative, click here: https://prwcwater.org

Lake Wales, Fla. (June 26, 2024) – The City of Lake Wales was awarded a $22.9 million grant to fund the redevelopment of four road segments in historic downtown Lake Wales. The funding was awarded by the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program. 

First Street, Central Avenue, Lincoln Avenue and A Street will be redeveloped into complete streets according to the City’s award-wining Lake Wales Connected Plan. 

The City’s project plan is one of 148 nationwide projects to be awarded funding by the RAISE program.

“This grant greatly impacts the core of historic Lake Wales, accelerating the revitalization of the downtown district and northwest neighborhood,” City Manager James Slaton said. 

 The plan comprises a road diet, separated cycle track, expanded ADA accessible sidewalks, safety enhancements at sidewalks and railroad crossings, increased shade tree canopy cover and raingardens, lighting, underground high-speed fiber and streetscaping.

“Lake Wales beat out other major cities throughout the nation,” Lee Hale, civil engineer and grant writer with Hale Innovation said.

Other projects within the Lake Wales Connected plan include the recently completed 3,000-foot multiuse Park Avenue Connector Trail that connects Lake Wailes Park to downtown, and the construction of an $18.5 million revitalization project on Park Avenue, scheduled to be completed this fall. 

The RAISE program provides funding to projects of local and regional significance, such as multimodal and multijurisdictional road, rail, transit and port projects. 

City residents may sign up for free swim lessons at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center. Instructors are available to teach kids and adults how to swim. The Red Cross has developed Swim Lessons that allow everyone to learn in a safe environment at their own pace. Parent and Infants and Toddler Aquatics classes are taught by certified, knowledgeable and caring instructors who can help swimmers at every level feel comfortable in the water and progress to the next level. Swim lessons for adults are scheduled at the front desk. For more information, call (863) 678-4192.

This guide was developed to assist you in better understanding your rights under the Fair Housing Act, and to increase your ability to recognize the signs of housing discrimination.

Staff in the City of Lake Wales Communications & Engagement Department and Police Department were awarded four 2024 Telly Awards in four categories for their “Locating a Missing Person – Police K-9 Unit” video – Social Video for People’s Telly Award, Public Relations, Health & Safety for Social Video and Education & Training.

 The video features Sergeant Matthew Rhoden, K-9 Officer Michael Yodonis and K-9 Officer Rhaegar track a missing person from the scent of an article of clothing. Lieutenant Dale Hampton narrates the video, featuring Shay Irvis as the missing person.

“When we return a missing person back to friends and family, there’s no price tag you can put on that,” said Lieutenant Dale Hampton. 

 More K-9 videos are in preproduction to show citizens the onboarding process of a K-9 officer.

 “The whole process fascinates me,” said Eric Marshall, communications and engagement director. “From the selection process to the time spent bonding between the K-9 and the K-9 officer handler to the extensive training program – I know our citizens will be captivated.” 

 The video series will be a resource for schools and organizations to reference before and after an on-site K-9 demonstration by the Lake Wales Police Department.

The Telly Awards honor excellence in video and television across all screens. Founded in 1979 to honor local, regional and cable television commercials, with non-broadcast video and television programming added soon after, the award has evolved with the rise of digital video to include branded content, documentary, social media, immersive video and more. 

Cite: tellyawards.com.  

“Locating a Missing Person – Police K-9 Unit” video link: https://youtu.be/tYBaXdOoq3c

A new microtransit shuttle service powered by the Citrus Connection called "The Squeeze" started service in downtown Lake Wales on Monday, May 13. 

Service runs between 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekdays. It’s a free service for citizens.  

City Manager James Slaton said, “Ronni Wood with Lake Wales Main Street and City staff saw the need to provide another mobility option for citizens to get where they want to go downtown.”

The new service comes at a good time. A multimillion-dollar revitalization project of the city’s downtown historic district is underway.

“The Squeeze is a safe and convenient method to get shoppers from adjacent parking lots to businesses in the historic district,” said Ronni Wood, Main Street director. 

The Squeeze stops every twelve minutes. The stops include 2 South Second Street, 44 West Central Avenue, 53 West Stuart Avenue, 90 North Wetmore Street, 221 North Market Street, 198 North First Street, and 10 North Market Street. 

Lake Wales has the second microtransit golf cart route in Polk County.

“The city’s elected officials and staff have made smart growth a priority, and both our microtransit services, ‘The Squeeze’ and the ‘Lake Wales Circulator’ complement their long-range mobility plan,” said Tom Phillips, General Manager, Citrus Connection.  

The cost for the “The Squeeze” is funded through a partnership between the Lake Wales Community Redevelopment Agency, Lake Wales Main Street and the City of Lake Wales. 

The City of Lake Wales and the Central Florida Regional Planning Council invite the public to attend an open house to discuss key issues and help shape the future of Lake Wales. Join us on Monday, May 20^th anytime between 2pm and 7pm at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center located at 1001 Burns Ave, Lake Wales, FL 33853. We look forward to seeing you in person.

For additional information, please contact Brenda Torres, Central Florida Regional Planning Council at (863) 534-7130, extension 109 or via e-mail at btorres@cfrpc.org.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), anyone who needs a special accommodation to participate in this workshop should notify the City of Lake Wales 863-678-4182, extension 1254 or e-mail at jnanek@lakewalesfl.gov 48 hours in advance of the scheduled meeting.

Panera Bread is headed to the City of Lake Wales. It’s another new restaurant part of the City’s economic development portfolio.

Site development plans for a new Panera Bread restaurant were approved by the City’s Growth Management Department. The restaurant will be located on US HWY 27 across from the Eagle Ridge Mall near Aldi Grocery Store.

Panera Bread is the third restaurant chain attracted to the City of Lake Wales, joining two other restaurants that recently opened – Slim Chickens and Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers – both the first in Polk County.

City Manager James Slaton said, “The added benefits are the positive economic impacts to our local economy, and our citizens no longer have to travel outside of Lake Wales to find dining options they want– they’re spending money locally.”

More than 100 employees were hired at Slim Chickens. Seventy employees were hired at Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers.

“Both Slim Chickens and Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers restaurants booked more than 14 hotel rooms for 10 nights at local hotels for corporate trainers to help prepare employees,” Slaton added.

More retail and restaurants are headed to Lake Wales. The City partnered with the Lake Wales Area Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Council and a national retail recruiting firm to study the market size and analyze reports to help attract new business to the City of Lake Wales.  

Property owners, renters and businesses in flood hazard areas may participate in FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). In preparation for hurricane season, City staff worked diligently with the State’s Division of Emergency Management to ensure the City’s Floodplain Management Program complies with State guidelines.

So, what does this all mean? FEMA’s program helps participants recover faster when floodwaters recede. There is a cost associated with NFIP. For more information, visit: https://www.fema.gov/flood-insurance

Flood zone map: https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/6927/Flood-Zones-2_041924

The main transmission watermain that services the Park Water Service area has been damaged. The repair is causing a water outage for all residents in the Park Water Service area. Boil water notices will be hand delivered to residents with instructions for boiling water. Residents are advised to boil water until further notice. Rescinding notices will be hand delivered once the boil water notice has been lifted.

The City was awarded the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for the fiscal year 2022 audit. This is the tenth time the finance department won the award. The City also received the GFOA's Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its fiscal year 2023 budget – fourth consecutive win. Both awards represent a significant achievement by staff and demonstrates the highest principals of governmental budgeting. For more information about the GFOA, visit: https://www.gfoa.org/

Grab a corkscrew and your favorite bottle of wine! Join us for the inaugural Paint n’ Sip meetup event at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center on April 20 between 4:30 to 6pm. The event is hosted through a partnership with the Lake Wales Arts Council. The theme of the painting session is garden/outdoors/Florida pines/sunset. Painting supplies will be provided. Registration is required via the weblink, or you may register in-person at the recreation center one day prior to the event. $35 per person – ages 21 and older. Bring Your Own Bottle (wine and non-alcoholic beverages only; NO LIQUOR). For more information or group reservations, please call (863) 678-4192. 

https://secure.rec1.com/FL/lake-wales-fl/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTMwNTE3MTU=

Parents, ready for some downtime? We now host “Parent’s Night Out” at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center. Simply drop off your kid(s) every 2nd & 4th Friday of the month, between 6pm to 9pm. Kids will have access to various activities, board games and food and beverages. The program is facilitated by designated City staff members. $15 for the first child. $8 for each additional sibling. Kids ages kindergarten to 5th grade. Registration is required at the front desk on day prior to the event. For more information, call  (863) 678-4192.

Looking to express your creative talents? Mixed-media Drawing & Painting Classes are now available. Join us every second Wednesday between 10:30am to 11:30am at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center. Locally know artist, Toni Doku will introduce participants to techniques in mixed-media painting and textiles. The class is for adults 18 and up – $10 per person. KidWatch is available to parents with children ages two to 12 years old – free service.  For more information, call (863) 678-4192

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Blockbuster fun at the City pool starts this May. Flick & Float returns with a series of popular movies that may be viewed from the pool or pool deck at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center. Kids will get the chance to participate in activities and win prizes. Tickets are $3/per person and must be purchased in advance at the weblink. Space is limited. Food will be available for purchase. Movie listings below.https://secure.rec1.com/FL/lake-wales-fl/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTMwNjE0NDg= May 25, 7pm  Movie: Migration June 22, 7pm  Movie: Elemental  July 27, 7pm  Movie: Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom  August 24, 7pm  Movie: Will be announced on social media September 14, 7pm  Movie: Will be announced on social media

Final results were 943 votes for Daniel Williams, 939 for Brandon Alvarado and 347 for Crystal Higbee. The Lake Wales Canvassing Board certified the final results. Commissioner Williams has won re-election.

If it is determined per Florida Statute 102.141(7) that a recount is necessary for the City Commission Seat 2 race in the 2024 Lake Wales Municipal Election, the Lake Wales Canvassing Board will meet for the purpose of conducting a machine recount, which will be held at the Election Operations Center, at 70 Florida Citrus Blvd., Winter Haven, Florida on Friday, April 5, 2024 at 11:00 am.

Prior to commencement of the machine recount, the testing for the automatic tabulating equipment to be used for the 2024 Lake Wales Municipal Election Recount will be held, pursuant to Section 101.5612 Florida Statutes.

Following the machine recount, the Lake Wales Canvassing Board will order and conduct a manual recount if required, per Florida Statute 102.166. All meeting times are subject to change and are open to the public. 

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Si se determina, según el Estatuto de la Florida 102.141 (7), que es necesario un recuento para la carrera del Asiento 2 de la Comisión Municipal en la Elección Municipal de Lake Wales 2024, la Junta de Escrutinio de la Ciudad de Lake Wales se reunirá con el propósito de realizar un recuento de máquinas, que será llevada a cabo en el Centro de Operaciones Electorales, en 70 Florida Citrus Blvd, Winter Haven, Florida, el viernes 5 de abril de 2024 a las 11:00 am.

Antes del comienzo del recuento por máquina, la prueba del equipo de tabulación automático que se utilizará para el Recuento de Elecciones Municipales de la Ciudad de Lake Wales 2024, conforme a la sección 101.5612 del Estatuto de Florida.

Después de dicho recuento por máquina, la Junta de Escrutinio de la Ciudad de Lake Wales ordenará y realizará un recuento manual si es necesario, según el Estatuto de Florida 102.166. Todos los horarios de las reuniones están sujetos a cambio y están abiertas al público. 

The City of Lake Wales had a 25% turnout which is an improvement over the 17% turnout in 2023. In the Seat 4 race Carol Gillespie won with 57% of the vote. Incumbent Commissioner Danny Krueger received 43% of the vote. In the Seat 2 race Incumbent Commissioner Daniel Williams is in the lead with 42.22% of the vote, Brandon Alvarado received 42.18% of the vote, and Crystal Higbee received 16% of the vote. As the Canvassing board reviews the results at its next meeting on Thursday afternoon a recount may be required if the result is ½ of 1%. 

On Monday, February 26, 2024 at 12:00pm, the City of Lake Wales will host a public information meeting at the City Administration Building in the City Commission Chambers for the sole purpose of discussing the grant application to the State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection Recreation Trails Program.  The grant application is for $282,380 and will be used towards a new trail at Kiwanis Park along Tower Boulevard. There will be a match of $70,595 from the City. This public information meeting will present the details of the grant application and staff will answer any concerns the public might have.  For further information contact Jennifer Nanek at the City of Lake Wales at 863-678-4182x1254or jnanek@lakewalesfl.gov

It’s cleanup time! Round up the junk from your garage, backyard or attic and take it to the curb for the Spring Curbside Cleanup!

This free service takes place on Saturday, March 23. Items must be at the curb before 6 a.m.

Place general junk at the street in front of your residence. Republic Services will pick up a variety of items, such as mattress/box springs, furniture, appliances and tires (without rims).

DO NOT place hazardous waste items, such as paint, batteries, chemicals, motor oil, antifreeze or asbestos materials.

DO NOT place construction debris, such as fences and remodel materials.

DO NOT place food waste on the street.

DO NOT attempt to help the Curbside Cleanup crew.

Good news! Appliances (drained with no compressors), construction debris and furniture may be disposed of on Saturday, March 23 ONLY between 10am to 2pm at 450 Scenic HWY. The City is hosting a Dump Your Junk event at this location.

City staff received the Government Finance Officers Association’s (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its annual budget. The award represents a significant achievement by City staff. It reflects the commitment of the governing body and staff to meeting the highest principles of governmental budgeting. In order to receive the budget award, the City satisfied nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation. This is the fourth consecutive year staff received the award. 

Lake Wales City Manager James Slaton, MS recently received the International City/County Management Association’s (ICMA) Credentialed Manager designation.  

Mr. Slaton is one of more than 1,400 local government management professionals who participates in the ICMA Voluntary Credentialing Program. To be credentialed by ICMA, a member must have significant experience as a senior management executive in local government; have earned a degree, preferably in public administration or a related field; and demonstrated a commitment to high standards of integrity, lifelong learning and professional development. Slaton is the first city manager in the history of Lake Wales to become a credentialed manager. 

Interested in running for office? The period to qualify for election to Seat 2 and Seat 4 begins at 12:00 noon, Monday, February 12, 2024 and ends at 12:00 noon, Friday, February 16, 2024 in the City Clerk’s Office at the City Administration Building, 201 W. Central Ave, Lake Wales. Candidate packets will be available in the City Clerk’s Office beginning 9:00 a.m. on Friday, February 2, 2024. The general election will take place on Tuesday, April 2.

Election notice: https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/6640/English-2024-Election-Notice?bidId

Ready to get fit in 2024! Stop by and checkout the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center. City residents receive a 50% discount. There’s no annual contract. We’ve got unique service the other gyms don’t offer. We’ve got “KidWatch,” While You Work Out service, Peloton bikes and our lap pool comes to mind. Joiner fees are waived through January 2024. 

Membership plans: https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/6344/Lake-Wales-Family-Recreation-Center---Membership-Rates-?fbclid=IwAR1LpFDA3jcTRPzWJpr-CgdTypSDgEWkiHhH4T4DgPid1Htelvi0h2rnpfQ

Fitness schedule: https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/6568/lwfrc-fitness-schedule_11-17?fbclid=IwAR0u5U6AXO2ztHCWM5rYyrVce5ICR8N59bt5PBZCjt5SnVxiNXmtVWSKRco

Congratulations to City Manager James Slaton for becoming one of ICMA’s newest credentialed managers. ICMA was formed as the City Managers' Association in December 1914 to recognize the efficiency of city managers and municipal work in general. To be credentialed by ICMA, a member must have significant experience as a senior management executive in local government, have earned a degree, preferably in public administration or a related field, and demonstrated a commitment to high standards of integrity and to lifelong learning and professional development. The credentialing program is based on the ICMA Practices for Effective Local Government Leadership.  For more information visit: 

 (Source: ICMA Constitution adopted at the second annual conference in Dayton, Ohio, November 1915).

Interested in learning how to grow your sales and customer traffic, even during construction? Join us on Monday, Feb. 5th between 8am to 1:30pm at the Lake Wales Art Center. Lake Wales Main Street is hosting the free workshop with business expert Jon Schallert. He’s going to share strategies to attract more customers, increase sales & profits, and lower marketing expenses? Registration is required: www.lwmainstreet.com

Schedule: 8am - 11:15am: Workshop

11:30am – 12:30 pm: Lunch on your own 

12:30pm – 1:30pm: Meeting roundtable

Click here: https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/6572/Fair-Housing-Learn-the-Facts-2023

HUD’s Mission Statement

HUD’s mission is to increase homeownership, support community development, and increase access to affordable housing free from discrimination.

Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) Mission

FHEO’s mission is to create equal housing opportunities for all persons living in America by enforcing and administering laws that prohibit discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and familial status.

Fair Housing Act

Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 (Fair Housing Act), as amended,42U.S.Code3601etseq.,prohibitsdiscrimination in the sale, rental, and financing of residential dwellings, and in other residential real estate related transactions, based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status (defined as families with children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women, or people in the process of securing the custody of children under the age of 18), and disability.

Businesses are open on Park Avenue during the streetscape project and redesign of the area. Check out the construction site and visit the restaurants and shops that help make Lake Wales unique. Portions of Park Avenue & First Street will be temporarily closed, beginning Monday, Nov. 20. Follow marked detour routes. The sidewalks along Park Avenue & First Street will be accessible to access the post office. Parking is available on First Street  & Orange Avenue. Park Avenue between Wetmore Street & First Street will reopen soon.

Portions of the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center are temporarily closed for renovations. The pool is still open to members until October 31. The center will tentatively reopen on November 13. We appreciate everyone’s patience as crews install new flooring, new gym equipment and freshen up the interior paint.

Let’s get your membership started today: https://app.smartsheetgov.com/b/form/368a35561eba43578fa2487de4ce7b1f

FAQs: https://lakewalesfl.gov/recreation

Certified horticulturist Kevin Polk is the new landscape designer and arborist for the City’s parks & recreation department. 

Polk will oversee the current plans to revive the landscapes in the city’s historic core – paying homage to the town’s original 1930s landscape architects, Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. and the Olmsted Brothers, commissioned by Edward Bok.

“Kevin’s skillsets and experience will help us restore the once legendary landscapes in Central Florida,” City Manager James Slaton said.

Polk spent part of his career supervising the landscape design plans at the City of Lakeland’s Hollis Gardens – reviving a landscape vision dating to 1928. Polk was later promoted to oversee the landscape initiatives for Lakeland’s parks and streetscapes. 

“The history of landscape architecture in Lake Wales is unique,” Polk said. “I plan to make each landscape unique and aesthetically beautiful while keeping the historical charm of Lake Wales.”

Polk will serve a significant role in the City’s ‘Lake Wales Connected’ plan, a community-based vision to revitalize the downtown area and northwest neighborhood. 

“We’re creating a ‘City in a Garden’, and Kevin will help us fulfill that goal,” Parks & Recreation Manager Stephanie Lutton said. “Our long-range parks & recreation master plan includes new trails, enhanced parks and botanical-rich environments.”

Polk holds a B.A. in business management from the University of South Florida and a certification in public administration from Florida State University. He’s also a certified horticulture professional by the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association. 

In accordance with the new provision in Florida State Statute 166.041(4) requiring business impact statements, starting On October 1, 2023 business impact statements for all Ordinances on the City Commission Agenda can be found at this link. https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/DocumentCenter/Index/433  

A ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the new bus service in the city’s historic core is scheduled for Friday, October 13 at 10 a.m. The event will occur at the James P. Austin Community Center, 315 Dr. MLK Blvd., Lake Wales. 

City staff is partnering with local area transit provider Citrus Connection to connect people to food distribution points and health services. 

A recent study conducted by the Department of Health-Polk (DOH-Polk) determined the northwest area to include high rates of food insecurity, behavioral health concerns and health inequity.

Walmart, Publix and the Polk County Health Department in Lake Wales are part of the bus route advancements. 

“The new bus service amplifies the City’s efforts to get residents the healthy resources they need,” City Manager James Slaton said. 

The ceremony is set to take place at the Grove Community Garden's new site, where fresh produce will be grown and distributed to resource centers and area residents. The development of the garden is through a partnership between the Lake Wales Community Redevelopment Agency and DOH-Polk.

DOH-Polk plans to work with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County and neighborhood residents over the summer to decide how the garden will look and function.

Invitees for the groundbreaking ceremony include Lake Wales Mayor Jack Hilligoss, the Lake Wales City Commission and representatives from Citrus Connection.

Based on community input, we've simplified the membership plans for families. The Family Plus membership plan includes up to 2 adults under age 64 living in the same household, plus any legal dependents up to age 18: $28 for city residents/$56 for non-city residents. The Two Senior membership plan includes two adults over  65 living in the same household: $23 for city residents/$46 for non-city residents. Start your membership today; the joiner fee is waived until January 31, 2023. Register here. 

Additional membership plans: Click here.

Join us for a screening of a 30-minute documentary showcasing the community voices and ideas behind the significant planning efforts of Lake Wales Envisioned. The event takes place this Thursday, October 5th, at 7pm at the Lake Wales Women's Club. Engage in a follow-up discussion with members of the community and subject matter experts. Lake Wales Heritage and Bok Tower Gardens host the event. For more information about Lake Wales Envisioned, visit: LakeWalesEnvisioned.com

It’s clean up time!  Round up the junk from your garage, back yard or attic, and get it to the curb for the City of Lake Wales Fall Curbside Clean-up.  Place general junk, mattresses/box springs, unusable furniture, such as desk a couch, chairs, tables, lamps, tires (4 per household, without rims) and appliances (“White Goods”) at your curbside, and Republic Services will pick up the items.

How to Participate:

• Place materials at the curb before 6 a.m. on October 7, 2023.
• Do not place materials at the curb two days before the scheduled clean-up day.
• No Construction Debris: (fence materials, remodel materials)                                                                                                 
• Please do not attempt to help the cleanup crew load your material.
• No Hazardous waste items (paint, batteries, chemicals or solvents, no asbestos items, motor oil, or antifreeze).
• No food waste

REMEMBER TO ALWAYS TAKE ITEMS THAT CAN BE RECYCLED TO YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY CHARITY ORGANIZATION.

Beginning September 26 at 9pm crews will be installing an overhead truss on US 27 just north of SR 60.  This will be for one night only and should be complete by 5am on Wednesday morning, September 27.  Detours will be in place.  Motorists traveling northbound on US 27 will be directed to SR 60 to bypass the area.  Motorist traveling southbound US 27 will be directed to Central Avenue to bypass the area.  Signage will be posted to direct motorists.  Detour routes available. 

City of Lake Wales Mayor Jack Hilligoss attended the 13^th Annual 2023 Polk Vision Mayor’s Roundtable event at Polk State College. Mayor Hilligoss joined other mayors from municipalities throughout the County.  During the event, officials collaborated and discussed various topics impacting all of Polk County. Catch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMZSh0MUH5w

Beginning mid-September 2023, citizens in the historic core of Lake Wales will have access to more transportation. City staff is partnering with local area transit provider Citrus Connection to connect people to food distribution points and health services. 

Walmart, Publix and the Polk County Health Department in Lake Wales are part of the bus route advancements. 

“Easy access to safe transportation enables mobility. The new bus routes will promote a higher quality and standard of life,” City Manager James Slaton said. 

A recent study conducted by DOH-Polk determined the northwest area to include high rates of food insecurity, behavioral health concerns and health inequity.

“Residents living in the northwest neighborhood will have access to the new bus service at pre-existing bus stops,” Erin Killebrew-Kinlaw, Director of External Affairs at Citrus Connection said. 

An added benefit to citizens with disabilities is Flex Service. The Lake Wales Circulator will flex off-route to pick up qualified citizens at their residence. 

“Citizens now have more options for employment opportunities, social and recreation activities,” Slaton added.      

The Lake Wales Circulator is partially funded by the City of Lake Wales and the Polk County Board of County Commissioners.

Visit the link below to view a map of the new bus routes:

https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/6421/Lake-Wales-Circulator-Bus-Service

Join the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center. Let’s get your membership started by selecting this weblink: https://app.smartsheetgov.com/b/form/368a35561eba43578fa2487de4ce7b1f

FAQs

When may I start using my membership? New members may start using their memberships on November 1, after the YMCA departs the center on October 31. Existing paid members may continue to use the facility. Note: New flooring and new gym equipment will be installed soon. The gym may be closed for a short period of time during renovations.

Will my current membership automatically migrate to the City's membership database? Existing members must start the sign-up process beginning September 12.

After I register, what’s next? Beginning November 1, members will be asked to provide identification and proof of residency. New photos of members will be taken and new membership cards will be available to members upon entry. City staff was not granted permission to access the membership data from the YMCA.

Will the cost of my membership stay the same? Yes. All citizens are welcome to join the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center. Joiner’s fees will be waived for all members beginning September 12 through January 31. There are two membership rates, City residents and non-city residents. The residential address on a City utility bill or electric bill validates city residents. The residential address will be verified on the property appraiser's website to confirm the address is within the city limits. Please alert staff if there is a discrepancy with your current membership rate. Membership rates: https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/6344/Lake-Wales-Family-Recreation-Center---Membership-Rates-

Will my SilverSneakers membership apply to the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center membership? We're working towards continuing the service of the SilverSneakers Program. We’re also exploring adding Active&Fit memberships.

A celebration ceremony and pool party-themed fall festival are scheduled to take place at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center. Details will be available on the City’s website and social media.

Parks & Recreation Webpage: https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/310/Recreation

Good news! LesMills fitness classes will be offered at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center. Existing members may also migrate their memberships to the City’s new membership database. City staff will be available to assist members who need assistance with the sign up and membership migration process. An Internet registration link will be provided on the City's webpage and social media platforms on September 12.

Membership rates: https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/6344/Lake-Wales-Family-Recreation-Center---Membership-Rates-

FAQs

How do I register for a membership? Citizens may register for a membership starting September 12. Select membership joiner’s fees will be waived for all members beginning September 12 through January 31. An Internet registration link will be provided on the City's webpage and social media platforms on September 12.

Will my current membership automatically migrate to the City's membership database? Existing members must reregister in the City's membership database beginning September 12.

 Will the cost of membership stay the same? Yes. All citizens are welcome to join the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center. There are two membership rates, City residents and non-city residents. The residential address on a City utility bill or electric bill validates city residents. The residential address will be verified on the property appraiser's website to confirm the address is within the city limit.

 Will my SilverSneakers membership apply to the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center membership? We're working towards continuing the service of the SilverSneakers Program. We’re also exploring adding Active&Fit memberships.

 Will the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center offer LesMills fitness classes? Yes, LesMills classes will part of the programming offered at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center.

 A celebration ceremony and pool party-themed fall festival are scheduled to take place at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center. Details will be available on the City’s website and social media.

 Parks & Recreation Webpage: https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/310/Recreation

Black-and-white Warblers are popular songbirds, but they often play hard to get. The shy birds tend to forage along tree limbs or near shrubs and remain out of sight. They usually build nests on the ground but choose hidden areas, such as fallen logs, tree stumps, or under shrubbery. Warblers mostly eat insects and spiders, and they typically turn their beaks up at traditional bird seed. You might want to try bark butter on a tree, berry and nut suet, or sunflower chips if you want to attract these high-pitched singers to your yard.  

Check out the decorative new planter bollards along Park Avenue. Trees and various plants are now being selected for planting. In addition to being decorative, other benefits of planter bollards are providing a protective perimeter and helping drivers perceive distance and space more accurately. 

City staff is moving quickly. Citizens may register for a membership at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center beginning September 12. Existing members may also migrate their memberships to the City’s new membership database. City staff will be available to assist members who need assistance with the sign up and membership migration process. An Internet registration link will be provided on the City's webpage and social media platforms on September 12.

Membership rates: https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/6344/Lake-Wales-Family-Recreation-Center---Membership-Rates-

FAQs

How do I register for a membership? Citizens may register for a membership starting September 12. Select membership joiner’s fees will be waived for all members beginning September 12 through January 31. An Internet registration link will be provided on the City's webpage and social media platforms on September 12.

Will my current membership automatically migrate to the City's membership database? Existing members must reregister in the City's membership database beginning September 12.

Will the cost of membership stay the same? Yes. All citizens are welcome to join the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center. There are two membership rates, City residents and non-city residents. The residential address on a City utility bill or electric bill validates city residents. The residential address will be verified on the property appraiser's website to confirm the address is within the city limit.

Will my SilverSneakers membership apply to the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center membership? We're working towards continuing the service of the SilverSneakers Program. We’re also exploring adding Active&Fit memberships.

Will the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center offer Les Mills fitness classes? We're working towards continuing the service of Les Mills fitness classes.

A celebration ceremony and pool party-themed fall festival are scheduled to take place at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center. Details will be available on the City’s website and social media.

https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/310/Recreation

In preparation for Hurricane Idalia, City administration offices and facilities will be closed Wed., August 30.

All waste and recycling services will be suspended on Labor Day, Monday, September 4. Read below to see the rescheduled pick-up dates:

- All Monday services will be collected on Tuesday, September 5.

- All Tuesday services will be collected on Wednesday, September 6.

- All Wednesday services will be collected on Thursday, September 7.

- All Thursday services will be collected on Friday, September 8.

- All Friday services will be collected on Saturday, September 9.

Lake Wales residents are encouraged to sign up for Alert Polk online: https://member.everbridge.net/index/892807736724723#/overview

It’s a great resource that communicates emergency notifications, such as tornadoes, hurricanes, mandatory evacuations, boil water orders, gas leaks, sexual predator, relocation notices and critical law enforcement notifications.

Prior to Hurricane Idalia, it's important to keep yards and streets free of excess tree limbs, branches and yard debris. These items may become projectiles during the storm. Please do not cut back trees or do major yard work prior to the hurricane; it's a burden on the collection company.

A portion of First Street between Stuart Avenue and Orange Avenue will be closed beginning August 28. The sidewalks along First Street will be accessible to access the post office. The adjacent parking lot located at the corner of Park Avenue and First Street will be accessible from Park Avenue only. Motorists may exit the parking lot and head north on First Avenue. First Street will reopen in mid-November once crews have finished constructing the roadway. The construction is part of the City’s “A City in a Garden” concept geared to create a hospitable environment for residents and visitors to frequent area establishments in a botanical-rich environment.   

Along with the School Zone Speed Camera Enforcement Program, the City of Lake Wales will be launching a Red Light Enforcement program in Fall 2025. This safety initiative is designed to reduce speed-related incidents caused by running red lights and promote safer driving habits. 

Intersections to be enforced: Westbound State Road 60 and 1st StreetWestbound State Road 60 and 3rd StreetWestbound State Road 60 and 11th Street

Once the technology is installed, a promotion campaign with the start date will be published in advanced on social media and the City of Lake Wales website. A 30-day warning period will commence on the start date of the enforcement program, during which violators will receive a written warning instead of a citation. Following this period, full enforcement will begin and citations will be issued. Each red light violation will result in a $158 fine with no points being assessed to the driver's license. 

When a violation occurs the system will record the date, time, location, vehicle speed and license plate number. A citation will be mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle and will include images of the violation and documented speed. All citations will be reviewed and approved by a member of the Lake Wales Police Department before being issued.  

The City of Lake Wales will launch its School Zone Speed Camera Enforcement program on January 14. The program will begin at Hillcrest Elementary, with cameras monitoring traffic eastbound and westbound on State Road 60. 

A 30-day grace period will commence on Wednesday, January 14. During this time, violators will receive a written warning instead of a citation. The grace period consists of 30 active school days, including half-days. After the grace period concludes, full enforcement will begin and citations will be issued. Each violation will result in a $100 fine with no points being assessed to the driver's license. Money from the fines will be distributed to school crossing guard programs, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, State of Florida, and the City of Lake Wales. 

Enforcement will begin approximately 15 minutes before school starts and will run throughout the school day until 15 minutes after school ends. After the school day is over, the cameras will no longer be active. Motorists are encouraged to follow the posted speed limits when school zone lights are flashing. Cameras will also enforce the normal posted speed limit during the school day while the flashing lights are off.Cameras will not be recording during school holidays or after early release times. 

When a violation occurs, the system records the date, time, location, vehicle speed and license plate number. A citation will be mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle and will include images of the violation and documented speed. All citations will be reviewed and approved by an enforcement officer at the Lake Wales Police Department before being issued.

School zones to be enforced: - Hillcrest Elementary - Eastbound and Westbound on State Road 60- Lake Wales High School - Eastbound and Westbound on Burns Avenue- McLaughlin School of Excellence - Northbound and Southbound on Scenic Highway between Domaris Avenue and Winston Avenue

School zone times: - Hillcrest Elementary: 7:15am - 8:45am | 2:45pm - 3:45pmEarly Release: 12:15pm - 1:15pm - Lake Wales High School: 6:15am - 8:00am | 2:45pm - 3:45pmEarly Release: 12:25pm - 1:30pm- McLaughlin School of Excellence: 6:15am - 7:30am | 1:30pm - 2:30pmEarly Release: 11am - 12pm

30-Day Warning Periods: - Hillcrest Elementary: Began January 14Last day of warnings will be Thursday, February 26, with citations going live on Friday, February 27. - Lake Wales High School: Began February 4Last day of warnings will be Friday, March 13, with citations going live on Monday, March 23, due to spring break.  

Start dates for additional school zones will be announced once permitting and system installations are complete.    

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Lieutenant Dale Hampton, Investigations Commander dhampton@lakewalesfl.gov (863) 678-4223 ext. 2018 | Cell: (863) 632-6303 

Former GrowHealthy employee arrested after stealing over 20 pounds of Marijuana

Lake Wales, Fla. (July 18, 2025) – On July 9,2025 former employee, Kadeem Jones, was reported to have entered the GrowHealthy facility before his scheduled shift and stole approximately 21.52 pounds of cannabis. The value of the cannabis was valued at $132,833. 

Detectives attempted to obtain the surveillance video footage but after eight days of no action taken, the Lake Wales Police Department executed a search warrant at the GrowHealthy facility located at 309 South Acuff Road. After reviewing footage of the incident, he was seen gathering white tubes containing cannabis into a plastic container and putting the container on top of a black tub also containing cannabis. Surveillance footage shows Jones walking out of the building with the tub, placing it into a vehicle and proceeding to drive away from the facility. 

Upon the report, Jones was initially identified by the Director of Compliance and Security, Michael Schower, through electronic logs that show where Jones scanned his badge to enter. His identity was later confirmed by his supervisor, Wyatt Grooms, after reviewing the surveillance footage. 

On Thursday, July 17, detectives visited his residence in Dundee and 33-year-old Kadeem Jones was arrested for Possession of Cannabis with Intent to Sale, Grand Theft greater than $100,000 and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. The missing cannabis has not been located and the investigation is ongoing. The Lake Wales Police Department will be forwarding the investigation to the Department of Health who is responsible for licensing businesses to cultivate, process, and dispense medical marijuana to qualified patients.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Lieutenant Dale Hampton, Investigations Commander dhampton@lakewalesfl.gov (863) 678-4223 ext. 2018 | Cell: (863) 632-6303 

UniVista Arson and Vandalism suspect identified and arrested 

Lake Wales, Fla. (July 17, 2025) – The Criminal Investigations Division has identified Jason Roberts as the suspect responsible for vandalizing the UniVista Insurance business on March 20, 2025. Roberts has been discovered to be the brother of Regina Waldrop, co-owner of Logical Insurance, a competing insurance company in the same plaza as UniVista. 

On Thursday, March 20, 2025, 2 bottles with flammable liquid, commonly referred to as “Molotov cocktails,” were thrown through the front lobby glass of the UniVista business and the words “Civil War Trump” were spray painted on the window. Upon arrival, detectives discovered a bullet hole in the wall directly opposite of the front door. It was determined the projectile traveled through the glass, two rooms and three walls, before getting lodged in the third wall. Using video surveillance, it was discovered that a light-colored Toyota Prius may have been involved in the incident.

During the course of the investigation, the Toyota Prius involved in the incident belonged to Sarasota Pathology, a company in which Jason Roberts was the Courier Supervisor for their subsidiary, SaraPath Diagnostics. He resigned on March 24, 2025 after being a no-call-no-show beginning March 20, 2025. Human Resources Director Nancy Day informed detectives there would be no reason why a SaraPath vehicle would be in Lake Wales at the time of the incident and Roberts would have no legitimate work-related business at that time. 

On July 17^th through investigative means, detectives managed to locate Roberts in Jasper, Georgia. Lake Wales Detectives requested the assistance of Pickens County Sherriff’s Office in Georgia and took him into custody without incident. He is being charged with one count of Armed Burglary of an Unoccupied Structure, two counts of Possession of Fire Bombs, one count of Arson, one count of Shooting into a Dwelling, Public or Private Building, one count of Felony Criminal Mischief and one count of Discharging a Firearm in Public.