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Click for a list of Hurricane Milton Recovery Resources. Residential Hurricane Milton Debris Hotline (833) 843-1920 active 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. For updates on Hurricane Milton debris update or Hurricane Milton Debris Removal Dashboard.

green and orange sprinkler head spinning and spraying water on a green lawn

If your New Year’s resolution is to save money, your lawn might be a great place to start.

In Polk County, irrigation should account for 30% of residential water usage; however, some areas are reporting up to 50%. Some Polk County Utilities (PCU) customers average up to 2,309 gallons of water per day on irrigation alone. That’s about the same amount of water that a Polk County Fire Rescue tanker truck can hold.

High water usage not only impacts Polk County’s water supply but your monthly water bill as well. However, you can reduce your monthly water use for irrigation by taking a few simple steps.

Before looking at ways to conserve water through lawn or landscape irrigation, you must first make sure you are following Polk County’s irrigation guidelines. For residential and commercial customers of PCU, lawn watering is limited to twice per week regardless of water source. Property owners who fail to adhere to these restrictions could face fines. View the lawn and landscape irrigation guidelines to learn more.

Here are five ways to conserve money by conserving water on your lawn:

  1. Check your irrigation timer. Irrigation system timers sometimes reset after a power outage or a heavy storm. If your property experienced a power outage during the last hurricane season, your irrigation timer may have reset to the default setting without your knowledge. If this is the case, your lawn could be receiving water more often than you had intended, which wastes water and increases your monthly bill.
  2. Now that you have checked your irrigation timer settings, are you sure that all areas of your lawn are being watered evenly? If your sprinkler system is set up so that some areas are receiving more water than others, it could be costing you extra money. You can check your irrigation system’s efficiency by conducting a catch-can test. Here’s a step-by-step video from Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD).
  3. Check for leaks. Even a small leak can drip hundreds of gallons of water per month – and leak money out of your wallet. Check all water faucets, hoses and connectors to make sure they are in good, working order. Also make sure that all faucets are completely closed when not in use.
  4. Water less often during the cold season. During the colder months, your lawn does not need as much watering. In fact, if you have received any significant rainfall recently, you can turn off your irrigation system and operate it manually as needed. Here’s how you can tell it’s time to water your lawn:
  • Grass blades fold in half
  • Grass is turning a blue-gray color
  • When you step outside, your footprints remain on the lawn.

If it’s cold outside in Florida, #SkipaWeek of watering and only water your lawn when it’s necessary.

5. Makeover your lawn by planting a Florida-friendly landscape. A Florida-friendly lawn is one that requires minimal water, fertilizers and pesticides to thrive. This type of landscaping is comprised of drought-tolerant plants and trees. In addition to reducing your outdoor water usage, Florida-friendly landscapes provide habitats for birds, butterflies and other wildlife. Don’t know where to start? Contact UF/IFAS Extension Polk County at (863) 519-1041.

Polk County Wants to Help You Save Water

PCU offers a sprinkler system check-up at no cost to high-volume water users who have averaged at least 14,000 gallons of water use per month over a three-month period. The program is available to single and multi-family homes and commercial businesses.

To qualify, customers must meet these requirements:

  • Be a PCU customer connected for at least 12 months.
  • Have a landscape irrigation system already installed.
  • Use an average of 14,000 gallons per month over the last three-month period.

If you qualify, PCU will send a technician to your home to give your sprinkler system a check-up at no cost to you. Each evaluation will include:

  • Irrigation system evaluation with site-specific recommendations. A technician will provide you with personalized irrigation strategies for your landscaping.
  • Assistance with proper irrigation timer settings
  • System functionality check. Are all your spray heads in working order? Do you have a sneaky line leak? The technician will inform you of any issues.
  • Rain sensor evaluation and installation. Rain sensors tell your irrigation system to shut off after significant rainfall so that your landscaping does not receive an excess of water. While the cost of the rain sensor is the responsibility of the property owner, a technician can help with installation as part of the sprinkler system check-up.
  • Smart timer installation. Smart timers can be managed from a phone or a tablet, which is ideal for part-time Polk County residents who need to be able to control their irrigation system remotely. The purchase of the smart timer is also responsibility of the property owner.

To see if you qualify for a no-cost sprinkler system evaluation, contact PCU at (863) 298-4244.

Does your water use not quite reach an average of 14,000 gallons per month? Still, reach out. PCU can give you tips on how to lower your water usage and your monthly bill.

HOAs and housing management companies are also eligible for an irrigation system evaluation.

Watch this video to learn more about the program.

Save Money by Saving Water on Your Lawn

Hand resting on shoulder of elderly person

Betty Frey, 85, faced a devastating loss on Jan. 15, 2024, when a fire in Polk County consumed almost everything she owned, including her beloved cat. Amidst the ashes of that tragic night, a remarkable journey began for Betty, revealing the extraordinary kindness of strangers and importance of community.

Betty Frey, Polk County residentThe Tragic Night

On the night of Jan. 15, Betty walked into the bedroom of her Lakeland home, where she’d lived for more than 30 years. Lying down to rest in the dark room, she noticed an unusual light coming from her closet. Suddenly popping and cracking sounds filled the room and a bright white light blinded Betty, followed by thick black smoke filling the space. The electrical fire quickly engulfed her home.

Betty escaped with just the clothes she was wearing. Her wallet got left behind, as did her prescription glasses and her walker. “My cat, Snow, didn’t even make it out,” cried Betty.

 

 

Nowhere to Go

Polk County Fire Rescue firefighters were able to retrieve Betty’s wallet, but everything else was beyond saving. Betty spent that night on a neighbor’s couch. The next day, she received a gift card from the American Red Cross. Betty had just enough cash to get a motel room, but that money ran out quickly.

With no money left and nowhere to go, she left the motel and returned to the fire site. Next to Betty’s burned-down home, there was a mini-camper. Although the camper had no running water or electricity, she would reside there while she figured out what to do next.

Betty Frey's mini-camper on her property surrounded by overgrown grass

Kindness from Strangers

Fortunately, a gentleman by the name of David Lopez visited Betty. He and his family deliver food to elderly people. Lopez saw how Betty was living, and he made a post on Facebook asking people for help.

The community responded generously, paying for additional time at the motel, clearing her property and setting up a GoFundMe, which raised more than $13,000. The money raised was used to pay off the remaining balance of Betty’s mortgage on the burned-down house. This enabled her to be eligible for the Polk County Housing and Neighborhood Development Replacement program.

“I’ve never had people treat me with such decency,” Betty said, tearing up.

A Chance to Rebuild

Polk County Code Enforcement staff learned about Betty’s living conditions. They connected her with Housing and Neighborhood Development. The kindness of the community and local government opened the door for Betty to have a fresh start.

Miles Lenhart, a Housing Rehabilitation Specialist, visited with Betty. He shared information with her about assistance she could apply for, specifically the county’s home replacement program.

The home replacement program helps vulnerable residents by replacing nearly 20 homes per year. To qualify, residents must meet guidelines that demonstrate their need and vulnerability. Funds for the homes come from the State Housing Initiative Partnership (SHIP).

Although Betty was skeptical, she pushed those feelings aside and began the process of applying for a new home with the help of the county. She met with officials, completed paperwork, provided bank statements and proof that her mortgage was paid off.

To Betty’s surprise, she was approved to receive a new house. Upon signing the contract for the construction of her new home, the county will issue a one-time stipend of $3,500. These funds can be used to assist Betty with any needs she may have until the home is completed.

For the time being, Betty is residing in an apartment.

Betty Frey's burned down home after electrical fire in Polk County

Time to Build

Construction should begin on Betty’s three-bedroom, two-bathroom block house by April 2025. The house will have accessibility features, such as lever handles rather than knobs on the doors and grab bars in the roll-in shower, to make life easier for Betty.

After a 15-year lien expires, Betty will own the house outright. She will still need to pay property taxes and homeowner’s insurance, but she won’t be in debt to Polk County.

“I’ve learned to accept the fact that, if Polk County tells me they’re going to do something, they’re going to do it,” Betty said.

On that tragic night less than a year ago, Betty lost so much. With the help from the community and county, Betty can look forward to a bright year ahead. Though it’s uncertain when construction will be complete, Betty has big plans for the day she can move in.

“I want to have a party,” Betty said. “I want to invite everyone who has helped me, and have them fill my house. That would be a great feeling.”

“If Betty’s throwing a party,” said Lenhart, “I would love to be there!”

 

To follow Betty’s story and learn about Polk County news, visit www.Polk-County.net for updates.

 

Community Kindness and Renewed Hope After the Ashes

Two adults and one child taking a photo wearing Christmas hats

Looking for festive fun events this holiday season? Polk County has you covered! Whether you’re a long-time resident or visiting Polk for the first time, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Bring your family to seasonal events hosted by Polk County Parks and Recreation. Experience the magic of the 14th Annual Festival of Wreaths at the Polk County History Center. Don’t miss the dazzling Christmas parades and special events hosted by Polk’s municipalities. Be sure to check their websites for full schedules and details to make the most of your holiday season in Polk County.

Events hosted by Polk County Parks and Recreation

Polk County event Jolly Jamboree with gingerbread man logoJolly Jamboree

Dec. 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. | Mary Norma Campbell Resource Center located at 2226 Karen St., Lake Wales.

Deck the halls at Jolly Jamboree! Join us for a hot chocolate bar, games, prizes and other giveaways! There will also be a Gingerbread House-making contest at 6:30 p.m. with prizes for the winners. Admission is free, but space is limited. Please RSVP by Nov. 25, by emailing to porchiamorris@polk-county.net. For more information, call (863) 679-4335.

 


Polk County event for Christmas Notes with Santa Claus

Christmas Notes

Dec. 14 from 5 to 8 p.m. | Homeland Heritage Park located at 249 Church Ave., Homeland.

Enjoy free family fun featuring photos with Santa, light refreshments, a visit to Santa’s Workshop, cookie decorating, games and prizes! Don’t miss the gift-wrapping competition at 6 p.m.! For more details call (863) 534-6911.

 


Holiday Celebrations at Polk County History Center

Celebrate the holiday season at the Polk County History Center during the 14th Annual Festival of Wreaths, which features an assortment of events, guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit.

14th Annual Festival of Wreaths holiday celebration in Polk County Festival of Wreaths on display and Silent Auction

Nov. 8 to  Dec. 12 |  Polk County History Center located at 100 E. Main St., Bartow.

Visit the History Center and view the festive wreaths decorated by Polk individual residents, organizations and businesses. You can even take part in an online Silent Auction to bring one home. Auction ends on Dec. 12 at 5 p.m.

 


Merry and Bright Polk County holiday event

Merry and Bright

Nov. 23 |  Polk County History Center located at 100 E. Main St., Bartow.

Celebrate the spirit of the season with a specially curated tour of the Festival of Wreaths at the History Center at no cost. The Merry and Bright guided tour explores the wreath designs, their unique meanings and the organizations or individuals they represent. Tours offered at 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.

 


Celebrate the holidays with Selfies with Santa

Selfies with Santa

Dec. 7 and Dec. 21 |  Polk County History Center located at 100 E. Main St., Bartow.

Santa Claus and his elves will be in his study at the History Center for “Selfies with Santa” on Dec. 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and on Dec. 21, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Contact the museum to reserve your space. Call (863) 534-4386 or email jaymejamison@polk-county.net. Reservations are required.

 


Polk County History Center Architectural Tour (Holiday Edition)

Architectural Tour (Holiday Edition)

Dec. 21 |  Polk County History Center located at 100 E. Main St., Bartow.

Enjoy a special holiday edition of the Architectural Tour at the Polk County History Center. Take in the seasonal additions generously provided through the Annual Festival of Wreaths. The free tour will begin at 11 a.m.

 


Polk County holiday event Jingle and Mingle

Jingle and Mingle

Nov. 30 and Dec. 14 |  Polk County History Center located at 100 E. Main St., Bartow.

Celebrate the season with caroling performances by the Frostproof High School Chorus on Nov. 30 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., and the Berkley Charter School Chorus at 11 a.m. on Dec. 14. There is no cost to attend.

 


Polk County Christmas Parades

Auburndale / Winter Haven

Havendale Christmas Parade

Friday, Dec. 6 |  7 p.m.

The cities of Auburndale and Winter Haven will join together for the annual Havendale Christmas Parade. The route begins at the Spring Haven Retirement Center, 1225 Havendale Blvd. NW, and travels west along Havendale Boulevard to the Publix Super Market located at 606 Havendale Blvd.


Bartow

Magical Illumination Christmas Parade 

Friday, Dec. 13 |  6 p.m.

Get into the holiday spirit by attending the City of Bartow’s Magical Illumination Christmas Parade. The route begins at Mosaic Park, 2250 S. Floral Ave., and travels down Main Street, ending at First Avenue.


Davenport

Christmas Parade and Winterfest

Saturday, Dec. 14 |  4 p.m.

The City of Davenport will host its annual Christmas Parade and Winterfest. The parade begins at the Lewis W. Mathews Memorial Sports Complex, 400 E. Palm St., and ends at the Toms Fellows Community Center, 207 North Blvd.


Dundee

Charlie Brown Centennial Christmas Parade

Saturday, Dec. 14 |  6 p.m.

Celebrate the holiday at the Town of Dundee’s Charlie Brown Centennial Christmas Parade. The parade runs along Main Street ending at the Dundee Community Center, 603 Lake Marie Blvd.


Fort Meade

Fort Meade Christmas Parade

Saturday, Dec. 14 |  6 p.m.

The City of Fort Meade and the Fort Meade Chamber of Commerce will host a Christmas Parade with the theme “A Hometown Christmas.” The route will begin on the corner of S. Washington Ave. and E. Broadway Street. and end at Tecumseh Avenue and Fourth Street NW.


Lake Alfred

Light Up Lake Alfred – Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting

Saturday, Dec. 14 |  6:30 p.m.

The City of Lake Alfred’s Christmas Parade will begin at Central Park, 444 E. Cummings St., and end at Frank C. Gardner Park, U.S. 17-92 and Main Street.


Lakeland

43rd Annual Christmas Parade

Thursday, Dec. 5 |  7 p.m.

The City of Lakeland will host its 43rd annual Christmas Parade. The theme will be “Christmas at Swan Lake.” The start of the parade will be signaled by fireworks over Lake Mirror. The parade starts at the RP Funding Center, 701 W. Lime St., and travels east along Lemon Street into downtown Lakeland. The parade then turns at Main Street to Cedar Street and winds around Lake Mirror, travels Orange Street and ends at the RP Funding Center.


Lake Wales

Lake Wales Christmas Parade

Saturday, Dec. 14 | 6 p.m.

Attend Lake Wales Christmas Parade, presented by Rotary on the Ridge. The parade will begin at Polk Avenue Elementary and ends at Crystal Lake Park.


Mulberry

Christmas Parade & Village

Saturday, Dec. 14 |  6 p.m.

Celebrate the holiday season by attending the City of Mulberry’s Christmas Parade. The theme for the parade is “Home for the Holidays.” The Mulberry Christmas Village is an annual event that takes place at Spence Park, 1100 NE 1st St., immediately following the annual Christmas Parade.


Polk City

Christmas Parade

Saturday, Dec. 7 | 2 p.m.

Join in the festive celebration as Polk City hosts their Christmas Parade. The parade route with begin at the corner of Bridges Road and Broadway Boulevard and end at Freedom Park, located at the intersection of SR-33 and Berkley Road.

 

Where to Celebrate Holiday Events In Polk County, Florida

Group of people providing recovery resources to a group in need.

As Polk County embarks on recovering from Hurricane Milton, Polk County Emergency Management is working to connect residents to resources. Below you will find the list of residential and commercial resources, as well as, others. Resources will be added as the come available.

Residential Recovery Resources

FEMA

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance has been extended to Jan. 7, 2025.

(800) 621-3362 (FEMA)
Download the FEMA mobile app or visit DisasterAssistance.gov
Use the checklist below to make sure you aren’t forgetting important steps in the application process.

  • File insurance claim
  • Apply for FEMA assistance
  • Schedule FEMA inspection
  • Read FEMA determination letter
  • Submit SBA loan application
  • Use FEMA grant properly
  • Save receipts and records
  • Stay in touch with FEMA

Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov and visit FloridaDisaster.org/Updates for more recovery resources.

Hope Florida
Connects residents with resources for food, household losses and home repairs.
(833) 438-4673

American Red Cross 
Temporary shelter, mental health resources and recovery case management
(800) 733-2767

Business Resources

Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program
FloridaJobs.org/EBL
(833) 832-4494
EmergencyBridgeLoan@Commerce.fl.gov

US Small Business Disaster Assistance
Physical Damage and Economic Injury Loans
sba.gov/hurricane-milton
(800) 659-2955
disastercustomerservice@sba.gov

Private Non-Profit Organizations
Low-Interest Disaster Loans
sba.gov/disaster
(800) 659-2955
disastercustomerservice@sba.gov


Additional Resources

Price Gouging
https://legacy.myfloridalegal.com/Contact.nsf/PriceGouging!OpenForm

Disaster Scams
https://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrelease/consumer-alert-attorney-general-moody-warns-floridians-about-disaster-related-scams

Florida Rural Legal Services
https://www.myfloridalegal.com/vicitm-services-providers/florida-rural-legal-services#:~:text=(888)%20532%2D3410,legalserver.org%20(online%20intake)

Florida Disaster Legal Aid Helpline
(833) 514-2940

Hurricane Milton Recovery Resources in Polk

genealogy text book sitting on green table in the second-floor genealogical library of the Polk County History Center

Marilyn Tucker’s journey into learning about her family history began in the 1990s when she received a message from a distant relative whom she had never met. The relative turned out to be the wife of a cousin of her own father. This person had sent Tucker a snapshot of a family book. A family book is a type of record that contains a family’s historical information, including marriages, children, birth dates and deaths.

black and white historical photo of family with man, woman, six daughters and four sons wearing mid-1890s clothing
Photo courtesy of Marilyn Tucker’s personal collection.

Seeing her own name in the book inspired Tucker to dig deeper. However, she was living in Albany, New York, and had no living grandparents she could ask about her family’s history. By searching public records and using tools such as microfilm libraries and family tree sites, Tucker was able to trace her genealogy back to Pierre Curie (1859-1906) who earned a Nobel Prize for Physics in 1903 with his wife, Marie Curie (1867-1934).

Tucker shared a family photo she found while researching her ancestors. The photograph is of the family of Jacob D. Curie, a distant cousin of Pierre Curie, and was taken in Wayne County, Ohio, in the mid-1890s. Emma Pearl Curie, daughter of Jacob Curie and great-grandmother of Tucker, can be seen standing behind with 10 of her siblings.

Tucker now volunteers at the Polk County History Center and Genealogical Library, lending the skills she learned while researching her own genealogy to patrons who visit the library with research questions.

“Who was Margaret?”

In September 2024, a Polk resident contacted the genealogical library. He had been researching his own family history but kept getting stuck on an individual name that would appear in records: “Margaret.” He called the genealogical library and asked for help. Marilyn Tucker was scheduled to work a volunteer shift at the History Center but did not want to drive during Tropical Storm Debbie, so she took the research question home to work on it.

“I love a puzzle, which is what genealogy is,” she said. “And luckily, my electricity stayed on so I could use my computer.”

She began her search with public records, which are the cornerstone of genealogical research. There are many online tools for searching public records, including www.AncestryLibrary.com and www.FamilySearch.org. Through the History Center, patrons have free access to both of these resources, as well as other genealogy sites. The sites work through “tree-mapping,” where users connect information and records they have discovered throughout their genealogical research to “link” family lines together.

After a little bit of research, Tucker was able to put together a file containing information about “Margaret,” whose full name turned out to be Margaret Deyo. This file included records about Deyo’s life, including the certificate of her first marriage in 1900 in Chicago and birth and baptism records for her daughters Bernice and Eleanor.

newspaper clipping from Florence Tribune, social section showing Clyde Deyo with family at theater at Brandeis
The Florence Tribune. Florence, Nebraska. March 3, 1911.

However, Tucker hit a snag when she tried to find information on Margaret Deyo’s second husband, Clyde Deyo Sr. That’s where newspapers came in. Social sections, obituaries and news stories can be “goldmines” of genealogical information, Tucker says.

The Polk County History Center has thousands of newspaper records, including the Lakeland Ledger, Bartow Courier Informant and Polk County Record, some dating back to before World War I. All these resources, including other digitized records, are available to Polk County residents who want to learn about their family history.

Tucker used these resources to locate a 1911 edition of The Florence Tribune, which placed Clyde Deyo at a theater party with his family. (Clyde and Margaret were not yet married at this time.)

Evening World Herald newspaper clipping showing Clyde D. Deyo and Margaret Deyo divorce decree
‘In Divorce Court,” Evening World Herald. Omaha, Nebraska. 1949.

Tucker was also able to locate a 1949 edition of the Evening World Herald announcing the divorce of Margaret and Clyde.

The search for Margaret Deyo ends at Oak Hill Cemetery in Lakeland, Florida, where she was buried in 1968. On the shelves of the second-floor genealogical and historical library of the Polk County History Center, the Imperial Polk Genealogical Society’s (IPGS) collection of cemetery records contains the name of nearly every marked grave in a Polk County, Florida, cemetery, spanning from the mid-1800s to the 1990s. If you want to research your ancestors who lived in Polk County, IPGS cemetery records may be the place to start.

National Family History Month

October is National Family History Month. This month was designated in 2001 by the U.S. Congress to “encourage family history research, education and the sharing of knowledge to renew the commitment to the concept of home and family.” (S. Res. 160)

“It’s like a parlor game,” Tucker says.

What is her advice for those wanting to begin digging into their family history? Start with the digital tools available at the Polk County History Center and Genealogical Library, she says.

While the genealogical library’s team cannot guarantee you any genealogical ties to scientific pioneers or Nobel Prize winners, Tucker emphasizes the friendliness of the History Center staff and their willingness to help patrons answer research questions.

Imperial Polk Genealogical Society cemetery record showing Margaret Deyo listing
Polk County, Florida Cemeteries. Imperial Polk Genealogical Society, Lakeland, Florida. 2013. Page 371.

In addition to access to digital and printed resources, the Polk County History Center and Genealogical Library offers the Genealogy Speaker Series. This series of one-hour webinars takes place on the first of the month, from January to October. Speakers are typically certified in genealogical research and have expert knowledge on a wide variety of topics. Attendees learn about different types of genealogical records, how to glean information from them, how to source them and how to confront common challenges in family research. Attendance to Genealogy Speaker Series program is free. To be added to the distribution list for webinar information, please contact the History Center at (863) 534-4386. You can also register for the History Center’s monthly newsletter here.

Is it worth learning about your family history? Tucker thinks so. The Polk County History Center and Genealogical Library’s resources are available at no cost to Polk County residents.

Reflecting on her experience volunteering at the History Center, Tucker says, “The best part about this is that I never know what’s going to hit me when I walk through the door.”

Polk Resident Traces Genealogy Back to Nobel Prize Winner

Hands holding a glass of water

Blue Heron fishing in water at Polk County parkWater Conservation in Polk County

Polk County Utilities Division (PCU) has been a leader in water conservation. Conserving water is important to Polk County for the following reasons:

• Water conservation helps ensure there will be water for future generations.
• Water conservation helps to keep water affordable for everyone.
• Water conservation keeps our state’s lakes, streams and wetlands healthy.

Polk Utilities helps the community save water. They provide information, rebate opportunities, outreach events, irrigation system audits and hold community presentations.

Using reclaimed water is one conservation effort used by Polk County. Reclaimed water is highly-treated wastewater that is distributed to homes for use as irrigation water. For every gallon of water that is reclaimed, one less gallon of water needs to be taken from the aquifer. This means more water can be used as drinking water and for indoor use.

Despite these efforts, the demand for water is greater than the supply. These water supply challenges are not unique to Polk County. The majority of water providers in Central Florida are looking for ways to provide water from alternative sources. Unfortunately, these alternative supplies are expensive to construct.

Florida is running out of inexpensive water. The problem is real, serious and now.

Did you know that Florida’s freshwater supply primarily comes from the upper Floridan aquifer? The water we drink mostly comes from an aquifer that’s underneath our feet.

But we’re using the upper Floridan aquifer’s resources faster than nature can replenish them. The upper Floridan aquifer is in danger of being over-pumped. Next year, the aquifer will reach its maximum safe level of withdrawals. After that, we will see impacts on lakes, streams and wetlands.
Floridan aquifer diagram

If the upper Floridan aquifer is over-pumped, Polk County’s lakes, rivers and streams may begin to dry up or stop flowing. It also increases the risk of sinkhole formation. Here in Polk County, we cherish our outdoor lifestyle and lakes, streams and wetlands are part of who we are as Floridians.

The solutions to protect Florida’s natural water resources are costly.

The only way to protect our natural water resources is to work now on alternative water supplies. This requires, for example, digging below the upper Floridan aquifer as deep as 2,000 feet to the lower Floridan aquifer for water. This is an expensive process and the water will require treatment to remove salts and minerals that are not pleasant to drink.

Polk County Utilities Projects

In addition to addressing water supply, additional capacity is required at Polk County’s wastewater treatment facilities. Collecting and treating wastewater is a necessity for public health and safety. Wastewater is treated to meet reclaimed water standards, which is then used for irrigation, reducing the need for fresh water supplies. This process is also expensive.

These two growing pressures prompted Polk County to perform a comprehensive rate study to determine the rates and fees necessary to support future capital and operational expenses. Simply put, it was time to reassess what it costs to provide water to Polk County’s residents in a safe and reliable manner.

Polk County Utilities Rate Increases

You’re probably wondering what all of this means to you. To meet the increased demands, Polk County water and wastewater rates will increase by 6% on October 1, 2024. The rates will continue to increase by 6% every year through 2028.

Polk County Utilities Division has not increased water and wastewater rates since 2019.

Similarly, the surcharge assessed on water usage (amount added to bill on top of standard rate, based on use) will increase by $0.25/1,000 gallons each year from October 2024 through October 2028. This will help supplement alternative water supply projects in Polk County. A similar surcharge will be added to reclaimed water usage.

Connection fees are money collected from new residents who are connecting to the utilities system to pay for capacity in the system. Residential water service connection fees will increase from $2,844 to $2,942 on January 1, 2025, and then to $3,038 on October 1, 2025. Residential wastewater connection fees, meanwhile, will increase from $4,195 to $5,182 to $6,168 in the same timeframe.

Additionally, fees for other services will increase based on the cost of providing the services. At the direction of the Polk County Board of County Commissioners, increases based on the Florida Public Service Commission index may be added annually to the rates to adjust for inflation, if needed.

These rate changes will impact all Polk County Utilities customers. For a complete list of rates and fees, visit

www.polk-county.net/services/utilities/rates-and-fees or call (863) 298-4100.

Ways to Save Water and Money

young tomato plant growing with drip irrigation in Polk County, Florida

Even as the Polk Utilities rates increase, there are things you can do to conserve water and positively impact your bills.

Indoor water efficiency:
• Install low-flow toilets and shower heads.
• Check washing machines, toilets and pipes often for leaks.
• Do not let water run needlessly.
• Turn off the water when you’re brushing your teeth.
• Invest in water-saving appliances.

Outdoor water efficiency:
• Modify landscaping to feature Florida-friendly plants and grass.
• Invest in rain sensors or smart irrigation timers.

Florida’s Water Dilemma Impacts Polk County Utilities Rates

Reduce, reuse, recycle in Polk County, Florida

The Polk County Solid Waste Division will be implementing two new “Green” projects focused on sustainability and renewable energy. The Solid Waste Division is doing its part to focus on “reducing” and “reusing” to pave the way for a cleaner, greener Polk County.

Many people recognize the logo linked to recycling with its triangle of arrows forming a closed loop. Three arrows in that logo represent the three Rs of the waste management hierarchy. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. While recycling is important, all three components are necessary for proper waste management.

Reducing focuses on minimizing the amount of waste that is created. For example, choosing products with less packaging or using items that are durable instead of disposable. Reusing aims to find new uses for products that might otherwise be thrown out. Using plastic containers as planters is a great example of reusing.

Recycling takes used materials and processes them into new products. You can find information about recycling in Polk County, Florida at the Solid Waste Division’s Recyclable Material Collection. This includes details about what materials you can recycle and where to recycle them.

Though recycling gets the lion’s share of attention, the other two should take priority. Reducing waste is the first step, and that is something that can be controlled based on our purchasing decisions. The second step is to reuse any items that can be repurposed. This could be as simple as donating clothes and other items we are no longer using. Then, and only then, when those options are no longer available, does recycling come into play.

Reduce: Leachate Treatment Facility

Leachate Treatment Facility at the North Central LandfillThe Leachate Treatment Facility at the North Central Landfill is set to begin operations on Oct. 11. This facility, built by Thalle – with the help of the University of Florida’s Sustainable Materials Management Research Laboratory – will allow for the treatment of leachate in an environmentally-friendly way.

But what is leachate and why does leachate treatment matter? Leachate happens when rainwater seeps through garbage in landfills. Leachate accumulates on the landfill base liner where it must then be collected and treated.

Right now, Polk County spends about $2.5 million a year to ship its leachate to a wastewater treatment plant. This not only costs the county money, but it also means more carbon emissions from the trucks that deliver the leachate. Having a facility at the Polk County landfill to treat leachate naturally will save money and help the environment.

The facility mimics natural wetlands, taking the leachate through several filtering processes until it ends up in a zero-discharge industrial wastewater pond. This process brings the water to acceptable quality levels.

This facility is expected to pay for itself within five years. Dale Henderson, Director of Polk County’s Solid Waste Division, stated, “Polk County residents should then begin to see decreased landfill operating costs as a result. More importantly, we’re going to have a positive impact on the environment.”

Polk County, Florida Opal Fuels renewable gas plant

Reuse: Renewable Natural Gas Plant

The second project is the Renewable Natural Gas Plant at the North Central Landfill, which will begin operating at the end of September. This facility, owned and operated by Opal Fuels, will take biogas produced by the landfill, process it as renewable natural gas and turn it into compressed natural gas (CNG).

As organic materials decompose in the landfill, they produce biogases, including methane. Right now, by government mandate, biogas is flared into the atmosphere which releases carbon dioxide.

The new plant will collect biogas and remove moisture, sulfur, carbon dioxide and other impurities from it. During this process, the biogas is turned into a usable low-carbon CNG fuel. This will help reduce carbon emissions, turning what used to be a pollutant into a valuable energy resource.

Polk County’s two waste collection service providers, FCC Environmental and GFL Environmental, power their vehicles using CNG. Henderson explained, “This creates an environmentally friendly closed loop. First, landfill trash creates biogas, which Opal Fuels converts into renewable natural gas and then into CNG. FCC and GFL use CNG to fuel the vehicles picking up the county’s garbage. By turning our biogas into CNG, we are helping our service providers avoid using diesel fuel.”

Polk County Leading the Way

These sustainability projects position Polk County as a leader in the waste management industry.

“The Leachate Treatment Facility and the Renewable Gas Plant will have a significant and positive impact on the environment in Polk County,” Henderson emphasized. “These initiatives establish Polk County as a waste industry leader. We’re investing in the well-being of our community.”

As these two facilities begin operations in October, Polk County residents can count on a more environmentally friendly approach to waste management. These projects show that there is more to being “green” than just recycling. By reducing waste and reusing resources as well, we can make a positive impact on our environment.

For more frequently asked questions about recycling, waste disposal and collection schedules, visit Polk County Solid Waste FAQs.

Polk County Solid Waste Division’s New “Green” Projects

aerial-polk-county-school-construction

polk county planning for 2050

Polk County for Life, Work and Play

You’re noticing more housing developments, cars on the road, and the notable change in the 15-minute commute to work that now takes 25 in Polk County, FL. Have you wondered how growth is permitted? Thought about what you would change?

Growth can be good and bad; convenient and frustrating; planned and unpleasant; and unintentional and controlled. As residents of Polk County, you can share your ideas about what you want growth to look like in your community. As the planning team works to update the county’s next comprehensive plan, you are invited to join the process. The team has developed a project website, with the sole purpose of being a space for you to offer your feedback.

Why do we have a Polk County Comprehensive Plan?

Bob Graham was the governor of Florida when the state’s Growth Management Act (GMA) was passed in 1985. The act was a result of state leaders’ efforts to address the negative effects of Florida’s population growth on the state’s economy and quality of life.

Under the GMA amended in 2011 as the Community Planning Act (CPA), comprehensive plans become state-required documents. Florida’s CPA requires each city and county to adopt a local comprehensive plan, which must include growth limits and designate areas for commercial, residential, and employment development while protecting property rights.

What is included in a comprehensive plan?

The plans have a long list of items that must be included and addressed as outlined in Florida’s CPA. At a minimum, plans must include goals, objectives, and rules (policies) that will guide and control future development, address and troubleshoot existing or potential problems that arise, promote public health, as well as preserve and protect human, economic, cultural, recreational, and environmental resources.

Share your feedback with the Polk County Planning Team

Please visit our Prosper 2050 Comprehensive Plan website and let your voice be heard.

Polk County Plannning 2050

Ways to participate in Polk County Planning 2050:

  • Post comments, problems, and solutions to the Idea Wall
  • Take the online survey
  • Leave notes or comments on specific places on the interactive map
  • Participate in person at the live workshops
  • Contact the Polk County Planning team directly

Polk County FL

Why does your voice matter now?

Comprehensive plans are updated every seven years and have a 20 to 25-year planning horizon. Comments and feedback today, inform the plan that will guide and limit growth tomorrow.

The Comprehensive Polk County Plan Update Process

The first step in updating the plan is gathering feedback from you, a resident, in a phase we call public participation.

Polk County Development Phase

Once the public participation phase is completed, the planning team will write new goals, objectives, and policies for the Comprehensive Plan that are based on state law requirements, Board direction, and the feedback collected from residents.

Presentation and Review to Local Governing Bodies

Per Florida law, the Planning Commission is required to review the Comprehensive Plan update and make a recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners that can include policy changes.

Transmittal Hearing

The Board will hold a public meeting often referred to as a Transmittal Hearing, where staff will present the update and the Board will transmit the revised comprehensive plan to the Florida Department of Commerce.

State Review of Plan

The Florida Department of Commerce has 60 days to review the updated plan and provide any comments for final consideration at the adoption hearing of the revised plan.

Adoption Hearing

The Board has 180 days to adopt the updated plan and submit it to the Florida Department of Commerce.

Polk County FL Planning 2025

Timeline for Comprehensive Polk County Plan Update

  • Summer 2024 to Fall 2024 – Public Participation
  • Fall 2024 to Spring 2025 – Plan Development
  • Summer 2025 – Transmittal Hearing
  • Fall 2025 – Adoption Hearing

(Check calendar for dates)

 

 

Visit www.inspire-engagement.com/polk-county-comp-plan to learn more

Prosper 2050: Planning for Polk County’s Future

Polk building inspector signing violation sticker

Imagine this: It’s hurricane season and the storm clouds are rolling in. The wind is ramping up. Forecasters are calling for 80-mile per hour (or faster) gusts.

So, the question is, is your house safe? Will it hold up to the wind?

If you answered “yes,” do you know what’s making it safe? Who is ultimately responsible for keeping your home safe when extreme conditions arrive in Polk County?

“Safety is the biggest goal for our building inspectors,” said Polk County Building Official Ryan Wiggins. “We don’t really evacuate in Polk County, so we have to make sure that, when hurricanes hit, you can stay in your home without worrying that it will be blown away.”

Building inspector conducting a site inspection

How many building inspectors are there?

Wiggins manages a team of 32 inspectors, who perform 850 inspections per day. Think about that for a moment – 32 Polk County Building Division employees inspect 850 sites per day! That’s almost 27 inspections per person per day.

“Not only do our inspectors visit quite a few sites, they often drive more than 100 miles each day,” Wiggins said. “So, they have to hustle.”

What do building inspectors do?

Inspectors examine buildings to assess four elements: structural integrity, mechanical elements, electrical systems and plumbing work. They ensure that the work being done matches the building plans that were submitted to the county and state code. Depending on what’s being inspected, the walkthrough can take just 15 minutes or up to two hours.

Some inspectors review each of the four elements, and some focus on just one. They have all spent at least five years working on what they inspect, and, as they buzz through each work site, they identify any construction defects or issues that need to be addressed before the property is occupied. So, if framing is done incorrectly, or if a toilet leaks, the inspectors will issue a failing report. On new construction, this means buyers or renters cannot become occupants until the work is corrected.

Polk building inspector returning oven to its placePeople cannot move into a new house unless building inspectors deem it 100% safe, for today and for whenever dangerous weather hits Polk County. The inspectors are, in a sense, the final line of protection for the county’s residents.

“Because of their experience, our inspectors are not just telling builders what a code book says,” said Wiggins. “They’ve done it, too. They understand how hard the builders have worked on a project, and they know exactly why something failed and how to fix it.”

Polk County inspectors also conduct inspections in occupied homes, always with a resident and/or contractor present. If inspectors find an issue, occupants can remain in the residence while corrections are made unless the issue is life threatening.

The job doesn’t stop because of bad weatherPolk building inspector filling out paperwork on site

As the old U.S. Postal Service cliché goes, the inspectors are on the job rain or shine. Even in the heat of summer, they’re at construction sites, moving quickly from home to home. They are out post-hurricane, helping residents by doing damage assessments.

“As soon as the wind is below 45 miles per hour, we send out teams of two,” Wiggins said.

Polk County’s building inspectors view every residence in unincorporated Polk County after major weather events. The damage they see gets reported to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and their work helps the county secure disaster assistance.

Building inspectors and builders

Customer service is a point of emphasis for Polk’s building inspectors. They are encouraged to communicate and build relationships with builders and homeowners. The goal is to demonstrate to contractors that the inspectors are looking out for them, as well as future residents.

“The builders obviously have deadlines to meet,” Wiggins said, “so they’re working to get as much done as they can as quickly as possible. But things also have to be done safely. There’s no substitute for life safety. We strive to make sure the builders know we have their best interests in mind. That way, no one gets upset when something gets failed. The work simply gets corrected, and we’re all able to move on with our day.”

“What would happen if the county passed an inspection that should have not been passed and then a hurricane comes? The last thing anyone wants is for someone’s Polk building inspector with contractorhome to have a structural issue, especially if or when a hurricane comes. As a builder, contractor and building inspector, part of the reputation you want is knowing that, when homes are built in Polk County, they are built to a quality standard meeting Florida Building Code requirements. This is why we see our working relationship with the construction industry as a partnership that is good for the community,” said Wiggins.

Building Inspectors Help Keep Polk County Homes Safe

Legacies in Polk Government Leadership exhibit wall in Polk County History Center

The Board of County Commissioners Then…

The size and makeup of the Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) has evolved since Polk County’s establishment in 1861. Did you know that the first ever BoCC only had four commissioners? William S. Harris, Isaac Waters, James Hamilton and Joseph Mizell were elected by residents in three voting districts: Fort Fraser, Fort Meade and Socrum. They convened at Mud Lake in the Lakeland Highlands area, which had been chosen by voters as the county seat in the same April 1861 election. The BoCC has since expanded in accordance to changes to the Florida Constitution in 1885, 1900 and 1944.

The Polk County History Center has unveiled a new exhibit exploring the establishment of the Polk County Government. “Legacies in Polk Government Leadership” honors the men and women in county government whose service marked a turning point in the county’s history. The inaugural inductees included the county’s first female commissioner and the county’s first Black commissioner. Their legacies were recognized on March 28, 2024, in a special ceremony at the Polk County History Center.

Brenda Taylor (1943-2024)

Brenda Taylor, District 1 commissioner, sitting at her desk in her officeThe first honoree inducted into the “Legacies in Polk Government Leadership” exhibit was Brenda Taylor, the first woman to be elected to the Polk County BoCC. Did she have any political experience? No. Her professional experience included working as an office manager for a large department store chain and as a secretary and account ant for her husband’s firm, Taylor Engineering and Surveying in Lakeland.

Taylor was the last candidate to submit her application to enter the commission race that year. The only campaign financial contribution that she reported was the $1608 she had paid out of her own pocket to satisfy the qualifying fee.

In September 1976, she beat incumbent District 1 Commissioner Floyd Woods, earning 21,918 votes to his 16,269 votes.

During her eight years as commissioner, Taylor focused on economic development and improved the quality of life in the county. Her impact included the implementation of an animal control ordinance, which upgraded the Animal Control Department. She was also involved in shortening the process for zoning cases and building relationships which led to the donation of Christina Park to the county.

Brenda Taylor posing next to her 1968 Jaguar XKE sports car, Tampa Tribune photo by Larry AlspaughTaylor said she “didn’t go into office making big promises. I offered (voters) my full-time service. I said that I would serve with honesty and integrity, and I’ve given them what they asked for.”

After her time on the commission, Taylor continued to serve Polk County as a part-time employee, supporting the development of road projects by negotiating with property owners for right-of-way . In 1985, she was hired by the first director of the Economic Development Council of Polk County, now the Central Florida Development Council. For 21 years, she successfully built relationships with businesses and employers to attract them to Polk County.

Taylor passed away in January 2024. Read the full story of her successes in Polk County, including her early years, her time on the commission and her retirement, as told through photos and historical newspaper articles, by visiting the Polk County History Center’s digital archive.

Charles Richardson

Charles Richardson Sr. (1949-2003)

Charles Richardson Sr., the first Black Polk County resident to be elected to the BoCC, was also honored on March 28 and inducted into the “Legacies in Polk Government Leadership” exhibit.

But Richardson’s impact on Polk County began before his historic election to the BoCC.

Before he was a county commissioner, Richardson served on the City of Winter Haven commission. He only entered the race for city commissioner after Ann Darby, the first Black woman elected to serve, stepped down and encouraged Richardson to take an interest. She wanted to see representation from the African American community in local government.

Richardson was also the first director of the Talent Search Program established at at Polk Community College (now Polk State College) in 1998. As the director, Richardson helped economically disadvantaged high school students discover opportunities to improve their lives through college education.

When it came time to run for county commissioner, he did so on a platform of growth management and education. In September 2002, he defeated incumbent Commissioner Bruce Parker to win the District 4 seat, earning 53% of the vote.

Richardson was known among his fellow commissioners as a bridge-builder and always prioritized the quality of life of his residents.

Unfortunately, Richardson was not able to complete his four-year term on the county commission. He passed away from cancer in October 2003, only 11 months into his term. Upon his death, Richardson’s sister, Gloria Washington, told the Orlando Sentinel, “He opened avenues for people of all backgrounds.”

Learn more about Richardson Sr.’s life and accomplishments, as well as his early years as one of the first students to transfer to the Summerlin Institute upon desegregation of the public schools in 1965, at the Polk County History Center’s digital archive.

Charles Richardson campaigning for district four county commissioner

Want to nominate a Polk County legacy?

Like Richardson and Taylor, there are many other individuals who have had an impact in Polk County Government. The Polk County History Center wants to celebrate those legacies.

Recognitions to “Legacies in Polk Government Leadership” happen through nomination from the public with approval by the Polk County Historical Commission.

To begin the process of nominating a legacy honoree, contact the Polk County History Center at (863) 534-4386.

Legacies in Polk Government Leadership

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