Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Winter Haven public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
9 issues in general with high priority
Commercial Rezoning at Millers Landing on Cypress Gardens Boulevard
A parcel currently zoned as a Planned Unit Development could be rezoned to Commercial-Highway, opening the door to highway-commercial uses at the Millers Landing property.
Old Fire Station Number One Renovation
Review of a Guaranteed Maximum Price amendment for remodeling Old Fire Station Number One.
Homelessness Policy
Winter Haven is caught up in a statewide push over how to handle homelessness, with city officials officially responding to the Florida Attorney General about their public camping and support rules. If you care about local parks, public safety, and how our tax dollars handle unhoused neighbors, this policy shift is definitely worth watching.
Homelessness and Public Camping
Winter Haven is facing state pressure over public camping complaints, forcing local leaders to rethink how they handle homelessness. Expect new rules or crackdowns coming down the pipe soon.
Public Camping Ban
Winter Haven is caught in a high-stakes standoff with the state over how it handles homelessness. The Florida Attorney General's office says the city is currently violating the state-wide ban on public camping and sleeping.
Impact Fees
Winter Haven is considering raising impact fees on new developments to help pay for the city's rapid growth. If you are buying a brand-new home, this change could mean higher upfront costs as builders pass those expenses along.
Fluoride Ban
Winter Haven city leaders voted to remove fluoride from the local tap water, meaning changes to your drinking water are on the way. If you like your water treated with cavity-preventing minerals, this is a major shift in what comes out of your faucet.
Theatre Acquisition
Winter Haven is taking over the struggling Historic Ritz Theatre to give the downtown landmark a second life through municipal ownership. This move aims to save the community fixture and breathe new life into the local arts scene.
City Manager Departure
Winter Haven is losing its city manager, Mike Herr, as he packs up to take the exact same gig down the road in Bartow. Now, local leaders are scrambling to kick off a search for his replacement.