Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Winter Haven public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
13 issues in development with high priority
Commercial Improvement Grant Program Revisions
The program helps Florence Villa businesses pay for property improvements. Staff will update the committee on its status and a proposed revision to the governing resolution.
Assisted Living Facility Development on Lucerne Park Road
Pentecostal Church of God requested special use approval for a 60- to 100-bed assisted living facility on 17.5 acres off Lucerne Park Road.
Bowen Yard West Commercial Redevelopment
Six/Ten LLC is proposing a $2.6 million renovation of four vacant buildings into retail, food, and beverage spaces along 5th Street SW. The project includes a 10-year Tax Increment Financing (TIF) rebate and up to $151,200 in reimbursements for constructing 17 new public parking spaces.
Transitional Affordable Housing Grant for Heart for Winter Haven
Heart for Winter Haven presented its ongoing homelessness prevention efforts and requested a $350,000 city match from the affordable housing trust fund for a 13-unit townhome project.
South Polk Economic Development & Industrial Land Study
The city approved state infrastructure grant agreements, cooperation agreements, and construction awards to build a new rail spur supporting local industrial growth.
Workforce Housing Agreement - Gault Construction, LLC
The city approved a workforce housing agreement with Gault Construction to build eight new affordable rental units, supported by trust fund fee reimbursements.
Dewdney Plaza 2 Development Incentives
Property owner Terry Dewdney is seeking commercial improvement grants and intermittent draw agreements for multiple Florence Villa properties, including a restaurant conversion and car wash at 1650 1st Street North, and a mixed-use building with retail, apartments, and a bakery.
Parking Garage Development
Winter Haven is dropping $10.2 million on a brand new downtown parking garage. Get ready for major parking upgrades, but also expect some serious construction headaches if you hang out downtown.
Airport Commerce Park Phase I Construction
A grant agreement with FDOT was scheduled for approval to fund construction of the Airport Commerce Park Phase 1 Project.
Spring Lake Apartments Traffic & Development Concerns
Residents near 6th Street Northwest voiced strong concerns over traffic congestion and safety hazards posed by the upcoming 168-unit apartment complex. Staff explained that entitlements were established years ago and state law prevents the city from blocking the project or forcing developers to fix failing state road intersections.
Intermodal Logistics Center Infrastructure & Stormwater
The city is moving forward with a rail spur and a regional stormwater pond to make industrial parcels in the Intermodal Logistics Center more attractive and ready for development. These projects help manage drainage and support regional economic growth.
Comprehensive Plan Capital Improvements Update
An update to the city's 5-year capital improvements schedule and interlocal agreements for transportation and school facilities.
Rail Spur Infrastructure Grant and Construction Awards
The commission reviewed state grant funding, multi-party cooperation agreements, and construction contract awards for a local rail spur project to support intermodal logistics.