City Commission Regular Meeting
Regular MeetingLake Wales, FL · February 4, 2025
Minutes
City Commission
Meeting Minutes
February 4, 2025
(APPROVED)
2/4/2025 - Minutes
1. INVOCATION
Rob Quam gave the invocation.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Hilligoss called the meeting to order at approximately 6:00 p.m. after the invocation and the pledge of
allegiance.
4. ROLL CALL
Members Present: Mayor Jack Hilligoss, Robin Gibson, Keith Thompson, Carol Gillespie, Daniel Williams
Staff Present: James Slaton, City Manager; Jennifer Nanek, City Clerk; Albert C. Galloway, Jr.,
5. PROCLAMATIONS AND AWARDS
5.I. PROCLAMATION - Black History Month
Mayor Hilligoss presented a proclamation designating February as Black History Month. Dorothy Scott
Wilson, Leroy Smith, Laverne Gray, and Narvell Peterson accepted the proclamation.
6. COMMENTS AND PETITIONS
Catherine Price, resident, spoke on Resolution 2025-01 Central Polk Parkway East and expressed
concerns about growth and traffic.
Juanita Zwaryczuk, resident, spoke on Resolution 2025-01 Central Polk Parkway East and said this could
negatively affect Bok Tower Gardens.
Cassandra Richards, non-resident, spoke on efforts to get a light at 60 and Lewis Griffin Rd. She shared
other traffic concerns.
Becky Wynkoop, resident, spoke on Resolution 2025-01 Central Polk Parkway East and shared concerns
about Lakeside Landing.
Curtis Gibson, resident, spoke on his candidacy for Mayor.
Charlene Bennett, resident, spoke on Resolution 2025-01 Central Polk Parkway East.
Eric Hinshaw, non-resident, spoke on Resolution 2025-01 Central Polk Parkway East.
Dean Nelson, non-resident, spoke on Resolution 2025-01 Central Polk Parkway East.
7. CONSENT AGENDA
Eric Hinshaw, non-resident, spoke on Resolution 2025-01 Central Polk Parkway East.
Dean Nelson, non-resident, spoke on Resolution 2025-01 Central Polk Parkway East.
7. CONSENT AGENDA
Commissioner Thompson made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda. Commissioner Williams
seconded the motion.
by voice vote:
Commissioner Thompson "YES"
Commissioner Williams "YES"
Commissioner Gillespie "YES"
Deputy Mayor Gibson "YES"
Mayor Hilligoss "YES"
motion passed 5-0.
7.I. Minutes - January 21 & 29, 2025
7.II. Special Event Permit Application - 2025 Lake Wales Mardi Gras Celebration, Revised Parade Route
[Begin Agenda Memo]
RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the City Commission take the following action: •
Approve the alternate proposed parade route
• Approve the temporary street closings on Saturday, March 1, 2025 between the hours of
2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. for the Mardi Gras parade. Lineup will be on First Street north of Park
Avenue. Parade will start on Park Avenue and go to Scenic HWY then South to Stuart Avenue.
Stuart Avenue to First Street, First Street to Central Avenue, Central Avenue east to Lake
Shore Blvd. then to Lake Wailes Park where parade will end.
• Approve the temporary closing of North First Street at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday March 1 for
parade line-up.
BACKGROUND Joshua Curchy, President of the Lake Wales Mardi Gras, has submitted a
revised proposed parade route to include Park Avenue in case the road is open as anticipated
by March 1.
On January 7th the Commission approved the Mardi Gras Special Event permit for February
28- March 1, 2025. This Permit was for the 2024 route that omitted Park Avenue due to the
ongoing closure for construction.
In hopes that Park Avenue will be open by March 1 the Mardi Gras committee is submitting this
alternate route for approval.
On Saturday, March 1, 2025 - the Mardi Gras Parade will begin at 3:00 p.m. which will line up
and start on First Street, North on Orange Avenue and make its way through the downtown
area concluding at Lake Wailes Park at approximately 5:00 p.m. The parade route involves the
following streets: First Street to Orange Avenue, Orange Avenue to Scenic Highway, Scenic
alternate route for approval.
On Saturday, March 1, 2025 - the Mardi Gras Parade will begin at 3:00 p.m. which will line up
and start on First Street, North on Orange Avenue and make its way through the downtown
area concluding at Lake Wailes Park at approximately 5:00 p.m. The parade route involves the
following streets: First Street to Orange Avenue, Orange Avenue to Scenic Highway, Scenic
HWY to Stuart Avenue, Stuart Avenue to First Street, First Street to Central Avenue, Central
Avenue east to Lake Shore Blvd. then to Lake Wailes Park where parade will end.
The Police Department and the Streets Department will coordinate control of vehicular and
pedestrian traffic for the parade. The Streets Department will handle all street closings. Trash
barrels with bags will be placed along the parade route and in the areas of the pre-parade and
after parade activities in Lake Wailes Park.
OTHER OPTIONS Do not approve the additional route or recommend modifications.
FISCAL IMPACT In-Kind services from the City were budgeted in the FY2024/2025 budget in
the amount of $8,722. The Lake Wales Mardi Gras Committee is responsible for 25% or
$2180. Any off-duty officers requested will be paid at 100% by the sponsor.
[End Agenda Memo]
7.III. Lakeside Landings Developer’s Credit Agreement – Utility Line Upsizing
[Begin Agenda Memo]
SUBJECT: Lakeside Landings Developer’s Credit Agreement – Utility Line Upsizing
SYNOPSIS: The PDP Approval for Lakeside Landings permits 193 single family units. The City
has requested that certain utility lines within the Lakeside Landings Project be upsized to
accommodate future growth.
RECOMMENDATION Approve the Lakeside Landings Developers Utility Credit Agreement and
authorize the Mayor to execute the Agreement.
BACKGROUND The City has requested that the water utility lines be stubbed out at the north
and south ends of the Lakeside Landings Project and increased from the standard 8” water
line to a 12” water line (the “Upsizing Improvements”), as reflected in the 12” water main exhibit,
attached to the Agreement as Exhibit “F” (the “Upsizing Exhibit”)
§ 23-770. Developer contribution credit.
a. The city may grant a credit against the impact fees imposed herein for:
1. The donation of land or equipment, or the construction of public facilities made pursuant to
a development agreement approved in accordance with division 2 of this article. Such donation
or construction shall not be site-related improvements and shall be subject to the approval of
the city commission.
Developer has provided an estimate for the cost difference as shown in the Agreement as
Exhibit G. At time of construction, the cost will be reviewed, and a final credit will be
determined, not to exceed $162,322.48.
OTHER OPTIONS Not require upsizing Have city contract the work
Developer has provided an estimate for the cost difference as shown in the Agreement as
Exhibit G. At time of construction, the cost will be reviewed, and a final credit will be
determined, not to exceed $162,322.48.
OTHER OPTIONS Not require upsizing Have city contract the work
FISCAL IMPACT Developer Credit reduces Water Impact fees at time home building permits
are issued, not to exceed a total of $162,322. City will receive same cost benefit from installed
upsizing. The city will collect an additional 308,212 dollars in Water Impact Fees if all homes
are built.
[End Agenda Memo]
7.IV. Agreement To Piggyback For Services With Raftelis Financial Consultants, Inc. To The To Update
Municipal Impact And Utility Connection Fee Study
[Begin Agenda Memo]
SYNOPSIS The Growth Management Department requests consultant services to update the
2020 Utility and Municipal Development Impact Fees Study conducted by Raftelis Financial
Consultants Inc. through the use of an agreement to piggyback a contracted services bid by
another government entity.
RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the City Commission:
1. Approve the Piggyback Agreement for Consultant Services with Raftelis Financial
Consultants Inc.
2. Approve the proposal by Raftelis Financial Consultants Inc. for Municipal Impact and Utility
Connection Fee Study in the amount of $110,000.
3. Authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement and other related documents.
BACKGROUND Impact and connection fees are charged by the City to cover the capital costs
of services to new development. The fees must be updated periodically to reflect the most
recent and localized data as a basis for the fees per Florida Statutes. The current fees were
last revised in 2020 based upon a study by Raftelis Financial Consultants, Inc. Updates at five-
year intervals is considered reasonable in the industry. Professional assistance in updating
fees is recommended because of the complexity of the analysis to withstand legal tests. The
new Multi-Modal Transportation Impact Fees were established in 2022 and will not be included
in this study.
The recommendation to hire Raftelis Financial Consultants, Inc. is based on their preparation
of the previous study, knowledge of the city’s fees and structure, and their overall experience
and expertise in Polk County. Raftelis Financial Consultants, Inc. has provided the City
excellent service in past studies.
The update will recalculate appropriate fees based on the City’s 5-year capital improvements
plan for the parks, police, fire, recreation, and libraries impact fees as well as the water and
wastewater connection fees. Impact fees are a one-time charge used to fund capital facilities
required to serve new development. The fees must reflect the costs to the city for
infrastructure and other hard costs for each service. They cannot be used for operation and
maintenance or for capital costs within a development.
The update will recalculate appropriate fees based on the City’s 5-year capital improvements
plan for the parks, police, fire, recreation, and libraries impact fees as well as the water and
wastewater connection fees. Impact fees are a one-time charge used to fund capital facilities
required to serve new development. The fees must reflect the costs to the city for
infrastructure and other hard costs for each service. They cannot be used for operation and
maintenance or for capital costs within a development.
The process is estimated to take eighteen months and include two meetings with staff to initiate
the study, to obtain data and details of capital projects, and to review the draft study. The final
report will be presented to the City Commission at a workshop and will provide the basis for an
ordinance to adopt the study and new impact fee schedule.
Procurement is recommended through the piggyback process since the City of Bartow recently
underwent a request for qualifications process for the purpose of soliciting qualified
professions under the Consultants Competitive Negotiations Act. Utilization of the piggyback
process eliminates the need for the city to duplicate the request for qualifications process.
Fiscal impact: The study is not a budgeted item, however impact fees that have already been
collected may be used to fund the study.
Other options Delaying the study is not recommended because Florida Statues requires that
impact fees are based on studies using the most recent local data available within four years of
the current impact update. The City’s last study was in 2020. Use of a professional consultant
experienced in impact fee studies is recommended rather than utilizing in-house staff due to
the complex nature of the analysis to ensure the fees meet legal requirements.
[End Agenda Memo]
8. OLD BUSINESS
9. NEW BUSINESS
9.I. Resolution 2025-01 Central Polk Parkway East
[Begin Agenda Memo]
SYNOPSIS Resolution 2025-01 expresses the City Commission's opposition to the proposed
alignments for the Central Polk Parkway East, as presented by the Florida Turnpike Enterprise.
RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends adoption of the resolution expressing the City Commission's
opposition to the proposed alignments for the Central Polk Parkway East.
BACKGROUND The Florida Turnpike Enterprise is currently conducting a feasibility study for the
Central Polk Parkway East. The proposed alignments for the parkway have the potential to significantly
impact the City of Lake Wales, including disruption to existing development, encroachment on
environmentally sensitive areas, and potential conflicts with the City's long-term development plans as
outlined in Lake Wales Envision.
Following the discussion at the recent City Commission work session Resolution 2025-01 was drafted
to convey the sentiments of the Commission to Florida Turnpike Enterprise.
OTHER OPTIONS Do not adopt the Resolution or recommend modification to the Resolution.
FISCAL IMPACT None
[Begin Agenda Memo]
OTHER OPTIONS Do not adopt the Resolution or recommend modification to the Resolution.
FISCAL IMPACT None
[Begin Agenda Memo]
Jennifer Nanek, City Clerk, read Resolution 2025-01 by title only.
RESOLUTION 2025-01
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LAKE WALES, FLORIDA, MAKING
FINDINGS; PROVIDING NOTICE OF THE CITY’S OBJECTION TO THE CENTRAL POLK PARKWAY
EAST FROM SR 60 TO US 17/92 PROJECT, AS PROPOSED, DUE TO PERCEIVED NEGATIVE
IMPACTS ON THE CITY, ITS CITIZENS, AND ITS ADOPTED DEVELOPMENT PLANS AND
PRIORITIES FOR THE CITY AND ITS FUTURE; PROVIDING JUSTIFICATION FOR THE CITY’S
CONCERNS, AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Commissioner Thompson said that we need for careful consideration and a thorough understanding of
the issue before taking a formal position on the Central Polk Parkway East. He highlighted the
importance of maintaining a collaborative approach with the Turnpike Authority and exploring all
available options before adopting a resolution of opposition.
Commissioner Thompson also emphasized the importance of adhering to established city ordinances
and regulations while balancing the needs of the community and the rights of property owners. He
stressed that while the city has the authority to guide development through its land use regulations, it
must also respect the rights of property owners to develop their land within the framework of those
regulations.
He concluded by recommending that the Commission table the resolution until further information and
analysis are available, emphasizing the need for a thoughtful and informed decision-making process.
Commissioner Gillespie emphasized the need for greater transparency and public engagement in the
discussion regarding the proposed Central Polk Parkway East. She noted that many residents may not
be aware of the proposed alignments and their potential impacts on the city.
Commissioner Gillespie suggested that a public town hall meeting be held to gather input from
residents and discuss potential alternatives to the proposed parkway routes. She emphasized the
importance of allowing residents to have a voice in this critical decision-making process.
While expressing support for the resolution of opposition, Commissioner Gillespie also acknowledged
the need for further information and a more comprehensive understanding of the issue before making a
final decision.
City Manager James Slaton provided further insight into the resolution and the city's approach to the
Central Polk Parkway East. He acknowledged that the Turnpike Authority is still in the early stages of
the planning process and is receptive to input from local communities. He emphasized that the primary
purpose of the resolution is to formally express the city's opposition to the currently proposed
alignments, which are deemed unacceptable by the City Commission.
Mr. Slaton stressed that the resolution serves as a clear message to the Turnpike Authority that the
city is not supportive of the current proposals and will actively advocate for alternative solutions that
better align with the city's vision and priorities.
He acknowledged that the city may not have the final say in the project's ultimate alignment, but
emphasized the importance of making the city's position known and actively participating in the
decision-making process.
Mayor Hilligoss expressed some concerns about the language used in the resolution and its potential
implications. While acknowledging the City Commission's unified opposition to the currently proposed
alignments, he cautioned against language that might be interpreted as a complete rejection of the
Central Polk Parkway East project altogether.
decision-making process.
Mayor Hilligoss expressed some concerns about the language used in the resolution and its potential
implications. While acknowledging the City Commission's unified opposition to the currently proposed
alignments, he cautioned against language that might be interpreted as a complete rejection of the
Central Polk Parkway East project altogether.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining a collaborative approach with the Turnpike Authority and
remaining open to alternative alignments that could potentially benefit the city. He highlighted the
comments made by Mr. Nelson and Mr. Hinshaw, who both suggested exploring different routes that
might be more acceptable to the city.
Mayor Hilligoss sought clarification on whether the resolution's language accurately reflected the City
Commission's desire to explore alternative options rather than outright opposing the project in its
entirety. He emphasized the importance of clear communication and ensuring that the resolution
conveyed the city's willingness to work with the Turnpike Authority to find a mutually agreeable solution.
Mr. Slaton acknowledged the Mayor's concern that the current language in the resolution might be
interpreted as a complete rejection of the Central Polk Parkway East project. He suggested refining the
language to specifically state that the City Commission objects to the "proposed study area" as it
currently stands, while emphasizing that the city remains open to exploring alternative alignments.
Mayor Hilligoss proposed adding language to the resolution that specifically addresses the potential
negative impacts of the proposed alignments on Bok Tower Gardens and the Ridge Scenic Highway.
He also emphasized the importance of direct communication and opportunities for public input from the
citizens of Lake Wales throughout the planning process.
The discussion concluded with a general consensus that the resolution should be refined to more
accurately reflect the City Commission's concerns and priorities, while maintaining a constructive and
collaborative approach to the ongoing discussions with the Florida Turnpike Enterprise.
Deputy Mayor Gibson emphasized the need for a balanced and nuanced approach to the Central Polk
Parkway East project. He acknowledged the legitimate need for improved transportation infrastructure
and the state's responsibility to address regional transportation needs. He emphasized that the city
should strive to find solutions that balance the needs of regional transportation with the preservation of
the city's unique character and environment.
He highlighted the city's existing efforts to reduce reliance on automobile travel through initiatives such
as "vehicle capture," which encourages development patterns that minimize the need for extensive car
trips. He argued that these efforts align with the broader goal of reducing the overall demand for highway
infrastructure.
Deputy Mayor Gibson strongly advocated for an elevated roadway solution along the existing State
Road 27 corridor. He emphasized that this approach would minimize the need for new right-of-way
acquisition, reduce environmental impacts, and potentially be more cost-effective than other proposed
alignments. He also highlighted the importance of public input and community engagement throughout
the planning process.
Finally, Deputy Mayor Gibson stressed the importance of adhering to the city's existing land use
regulations and development guidelines while ensuring that the city's voice is heard and its interests are
fully considered in the decision-making process regarding the Central Polk Parkway East.
Mayor Hilligoss suggested refining the resolution to include specific concerns about the potential
impacts of the proposed alignments on Bok Tower Gardens, the Ridge Scenic Highway, and the city's
existing development plans. She also emphasized the need for the resolution to include a request for
direct communication and opportunities for public input from the citizens of Lake Wales.
City Manager Slaton agreed with the Mayor's suggestions and proposed amending the resolution
accordingly. He also suggested scheduling a special meeting for the following week to allow for further
discussion and a vote on the revised resolution.
Deputy Mayor Gibson made a motion to table RESOLUTION 2025-01. Commissioner Thompson
seconded the motion.
City Manager Slaton agreed with the Mayor's suggestions and proposed amending the resolution
accordingly. He also suggested scheduling a special meeting for the following week to allow for further
discussion and a vote on the revised resolution.
Deputy Mayor Gibson made a motion to table RESOLUTION 2025-01. Commissioner Thompson
seconded the motion.
by roll call vote:
Deputy Mayor Gibson "YES"
Commissioner Thompson "YES"
Commissioner Williams "YES"
Commissioner Gillespie "YES"
Mayor Hilligoss "YES"
motion passed 5-0.
10. CITY CLERK
10.I. 2025 Municipal Election & Canvassing Board Information
[Begin Agenda Memo]
2025 MUNICIPAL ELECTION INFORMATION
The regular Municipal Election of the City of Lake Wales is Tuesday, April 1, 2025. We will
elect a Mayor/Commissioner for Seat 1 for a term of three years beginning May 6, 2025.
Members of the City Commission must be registered voters and residents of the City of Lake
Wales for at least one year preceding their date of election.
The seat up for election is currently held by the following Commission member:
Seat 1(at-large) Mayor Jack Hilligoss
The Mayor elected to Seat 1 is at-large, and candidates can live anywhere in City limits. The
qualifying period for a person to qualify as a candidate is from 12:00 p.m., noon, Monday,
February 10 through 12:00 p.m., noon, Friday, February 14. Candidate packets are available
in the City Clerk’s office beginning 9:00 a.m., Friday, January 31. This packet contains
qualifying papers, nominating petitions, and other necessary information and instructions to
qualify as a candidate.
At the end of qualifying the City Clerk must prepare and submit to the Supervisor of Elections
Office the approved ballot by 3:00 p.m. A special City Commission meeting has been
scheduled for February 14 at 2:30 p.m. for that purpose. The scheduled special meeting date
is also listed on the City Commission Calendar located under the City Manager portion of the
agenda.
The election on April 1st will also include a Charter Amendment concerning run-off elections.
The Municipal Election will be held at the Municipal Administration Building, 201 W. Central
Ave., Lake Wales and at the Lake Ashton Clubhouse, 4141 Ashton Club Drive, Lake Wales on
Tuesday, April 1, 2025, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The City Commission will reschedule its first meeting in
The election on April 1st will also include a Charter Amendment concerning run-off elections.
The Municipal Election will be held at the Municipal Administration Building, 201 W. Central
Ave., Lake Wales and at the Lake Ashton Clubhouse, 4141 Ashton Club Drive, Lake Wales on
Tuesday, April 1, 2025, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The City Commission will reschedule its first meeting in
April from 6:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 2 to 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 2.
Contact the Supervisor of Elections at 863-534-5888 to request a Vote by Mail Ballot. Voter
registration deadline is March 3, 2025.
CANVASSING BOARD INFORMATION While the Supervisor of Elections and the City Clerk may
perform many of the tasks necessary to conduct the election, the City Commission serves as
the Municipal Canvassing Board and has legal responsibilities related to the conduct of the
Municipal Election. It is necessary to review the responsibilities well in advance to prevent
calendar conflicts because a quorum must be present at all Canvassing Board meetings.
The following rules apply to all members of the Canvassing Board:
No member can serve if they are a candidate with opposition in the election being canvassed
or is actively participating in the campaign or the candidacy of any candidate who has
opposition in the election being canvassed. Actively participating means undertaking an
intentional effort to demonstrate or generate public support for a candidate beyond merely
making a campaign contribution. Refer to DE 8-10; 09-07.
If a lack of a quorum is created on the Canvassing Board due to this rule or any other
unavoidable cause, the City Commission may appoint the city manager, city attorney, or
resident/s to serve in the absence of that commission member/s to serve on the Canvassing
Board to avoid a possible lack of quorum (Sec. 8-26, Lake Wales Code of Ordinances). The
City Clerk will prepare an agenda item for the first meeting in March for the City Commission to
appoint additional people to serve on the Canvassing Board.
Per Florida Statute, Canvassing Board members are required to attend the following
meetings.
-Pre-election Logic and Accuracy Testing of Tabulating Equipment (L&A) Tuesday, March 25,
2025; 11:30 p.m. Elections Operations Center, 70 Florida Citrus Blvd. Winter Haven, FL 33880
(behind the Auburndale Speedway). -At least one member of the Canvassing Board must
attend the L&A Testing.
-Election Night Canvassing of Ballots Tuesday, April 1, 2025, time to be scheduled by SOE
(5:00 p.m. or later) Elections Operations Center, 70 Florida Citrus Blvd. Winter Haven, FL
33880 -A quorum must be present and must remain until all ballots are tabulated.
-Certification of Election City of Lake Wales Municipal Administration Building Thursday, April
3, 2025; 5:00 p.m. -A Quorum must be present.
- Post-Election Manual Audit Tuesday April 8, 2025 with Time to be determined. Elections
Operations Center, 70 Florida Citrus Blvd. Winter Haven, FL 33880 -A quorum must be
present.
[End Agenda Memo]
Operations Center, 70 Florida Citrus Blvd. Winter Haven, FL 33880 -A quorum must be
present.
[End Agenda Memo]
Jennifer Nanek, City Clerk, reviewed this item.
Deputy Mayor Gibson, Commissioner Thompson, Commissioner Williams, and Commissioner
Gillespie agreed to serve on the canvassing board.
Ms. Nanek said she will bring an item to appoint two alternate canvassing board members at a
later date.
11. CITY ATTORNEY
Albert Galloway, Jr., City Attorney, said he has made note of the recommended changes to the Resolution
and will work on it.
12. CITY MANAGER
James Slaton, City Manager, said the work on Park Avenue is nearing completion. A ribbon cutting is
scheduled for March 11.
12.I. Commission Meeting Calendar
13. CITY COMMISSION COMMENTS
Commissioner Gillespie thanked those who came out to accept the Black History Month proclamation. She
was glad that it was on the agenda. She said she has been learning a lot about local trailblazers.
Commissioner Gillespie said she agreed with tabling the Resolution and amending it.
Commissioner Williams expressed his appreciation for the input received from the community regarding the
Central Polk Parkway East. He emphasized the importance of a strategic and collaborative approach to
addressing this issue, recognizing that the city may not have complete control over the final project
alignment.
He highlighted the importance of working with the Turnpike Authority to find mutually agreeable solutions
that best serve the interests of the city and its residents. He acknowledged that the city's staff has
consistently opposed the proposed alignments and has been actively working to explore alternative options.
Commissioner Williams expressed confidence in the city's ability to navigate this complex issue and find a
solution that protects the city's interests while recognizing the need for regional transportation
improvements. He emphasized that the city will continue to advocate for its priorities and work
collaboratively with the Turnpike Authority to achieve the best possible outcome for the community.
Commissioner Thompson expressed his appreciation for the Mayor's reading of the Black History Month
proclamation and highlighted the importance of recognizing local heroes. He specifically commended
Mickey Ivey for her initiative in using her Facebook page to spotlight local figures who have made significant
contributions to the Lake Wales community. Commissioner Thompson expressed his admiration for Ms.
Ivey's efforts and encouraged others to follow her example in recognizing and celebrating the contributions
of local heroes.
James Slaton, City Manager, said they will do a parking study and explore options once Park Avenue is
open.
14. MAYOR COMMENTS
Mayor Hilligoss expressed his enthusiasm for the ongoing revitalization of downtown Lake Wales. He noted
open.
14. MAYOR COMMENTS
Mayor Hilligoss expressed his enthusiasm for the ongoing revitalization of downtown Lake Wales. He noted
that the city's downtown area is becoming increasingly attractive and is drawing interest from businesses
and developers. He shared an anecdote about a business developer from Lakeland who expressed strong
interest in expanding their business in Lake Wales after visiting several downtowns in Polk County.
Mayor Hilligoss also highlighted the success of the city's Legacy Housing program, noting that the recent
ceremony marked the completion of the 35th Legacy House. He emphasized the importance of this
program in providing affordable housing options for city residents.
Overall, Mayor Hilligoss conveyed a positive and optimistic outlook for the future of downtown Lake Wales,
emphasizing the city's ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of life for its residents.
15. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 7:22 p.m.
_______________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________
City Clerk
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