On the agenda: Bartow meeting — data center (Aug 3)

CITY OF BARTOW
CITY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
MONDAY, AUGUST 3, 2026 AT 6:00 P.M. (EST)
OR AS SOON THEREAFTER AS POSSIBLE
CITY COMMISSION CHAMBERS, CITY HALL, 450 N. WILSON AVE., BARTOW, FL 33830
AMENDED AGENDA
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. INVOCATION – Pastor Andrew Farley, Mt. Olive Freewill Baptist Church
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
4. PROCLAMATIONS AND SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
a.

Issuance of proclamation recognizing August 2026 as Florida Water Professionals Month.
Being accepted by Water Department Staff.

b.

Issuance of proclamation recognizing August 2026 as Breastfeeding Awareness Month.
Being accepted by Amy Beascoechea, Healthy Start Coalition of Hardee, Highlands &
Polk Counties.

5. GENERAL PUBLIC COMMENT – At this time, the Commission will receive comments from
the public regarding matters not appearing on this agenda.
6. CITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
7. REPORTS OF CHARTER OFFICERS
a.

City Manager Communications
1.

Introduction of Bartow Catch & Trade Card Event – Jason Hargrove, PRCA Director.

2.

Florida City & County Manager Association (FCCMA) Intern Wrap-Up Video – Laurie
Hayes, Communications Director.

3.

Christmas Lighting Project – Jason Hargrove, PRCA Director.

b. City Attorney Communications
c.

Legislative updates

8. AGENDA MODIFICATION/APPROVAL
9. PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS – At this time, the Commission will receive
comments from the public regarding matters that appear on this agenda, not otherwise
scheduled for a separate Public Hearing.

10. HEARINGS – FIRST AND SECOND READINGS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS
a.

Public hearing and final reading of Ordinance No. 2026-05 – AN ORDINANCE OF THE
CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA AMENDING THE CITY OF
BARTOW MUNICIPAL POLICE OFFICERS’ RETIREMENT TRUST FUND, AS
PREVIOUSLY RESALLOW THEDINANCE NO. 2010-09, AS AMENDED BY
ORDINANCES NO. 2013-09, 2020-12, 2021-09 AND 2024-30, BY AMENDING THE
DEFINITION OF CREDITED SERVICE TO ALLOW THE PURCHASE OF PERMISSIVE
SERVICE CREDIT AND SETTING FORTH THE CONDITIONS FOR SAID PURCHASE;
PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS;
REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH AND PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.

b.

Public hearing and final reading of Ordinance No. 2026-06 – AN ORDINANCE OF THE
CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA AMENDING THE CITY OF
BARTOW MUNICIPAL FIREFIGHTERS' RETIREMENT TRUST FUND, AS
PREVIOUSLY RESTATED BY ORDINANCE NO. 2010-08, AS AMENDED BY
ORDINANCES NO. 2013-10, 2020-13, 2023-12 AND 2025-09, BY AMENDING THE
DEFINITION OF CREDITED SERVICE TO ALLOW THE PURCHASE OF PERMISSIVE
SERVICE CREDIT AND SETTING FORTH THE CONDITIONS FOR SAID PURCHASE;
PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS;
REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH AND PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.

11. CONSENT AGENDA
a.

Approval of July 20, 2026 City Commission Regular Meeting minutes.

b.

Approval to reschedule First Regular City Commission Meeting of September 2026 to
Thursday, September 3, 2026.

c.

Approval to reschedule Second Regular City Commission Meeting of September 2026 to
Tuesday, September 15, 2026.

d.

Approval of City Commissioner absence(s) for July 20, 2026 excusal(s): None

12. OTHER COMMISSION BUSINESS
a.

OLD BUSINESS – NONE

b.

NEW BUSINESS
1.

Ranking procedure and appointment of two new members to the Bartow Community
Redevelopment Agency Board.

2.

Discuss Community Development Advisory Committee – Mike Herr, City Manager.

3.

Consideration and Approval of Ingress and Egress Easement and Utility Easement to
the Polk County Water Cooperative (PRWC).

13. RESOLUTIONS
a.

RESOLUTION NO. 26-4271-R – A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA RELATING TO THE DISPOSITION OF SURPLUS REAL
PROPERTY; DECLARING PARCEL 25-30-07-400000-010045 (370 PARKER STREET)
TO BE SURPLUS; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO TAKE ALL STEPS
NECESSARY TO TRANSFER SUCH SURPLUS REAL PROPERTY TO THE BARTOW
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

14. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

GARY BALL
LEO E. LONGWORTH
TRISH PFEIFFER
LAURA SIMPSON
TANYA TUCKER

15. ADJOURNMENT
Please be advised that if you desire to appeal any decisions made because of the above hearing or meeting, you will need a record
of the proceedings and in some cases a verbatim record is required. You must make your own arrangements to produce this
record. (Florida Statute 286.0105). The City Commission may continue the public hearing(s) to other dates and times as it deems
necessary. Any interested party shall be advised that the date, time, and place of any continuation of these or continued public
hearings may be announced during the hearing and that no further notice regarding this matter will be published. If you are a
person with a disability who needs any accommodation to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the
provision of certain assistance. Please contact the City Clerk’s Office at 450 N. Wilson Avenue, P.O. Box 1069, Bartow, Florida
33831-1069 or phone (863) 534-0100 within 2 working days of your receipt of this meeting notification; if you are hearing or voice
impaired, call 1-800-955-8771. Posted at City Hall, Bartow Public Library, the City’s website on July 30 & 31, 2026.

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CITY OF BARTOW
Welcome to the City of Bartow’s City Commission meeting. We are glad you are here, and we
appreciate your interest in our Community. We value your comments and participation.
To assist you in making presentations to the City Commission, please consider the following
procedural guidelines.
❖ We do not generally allow comments during our work session unless the Mayor or
Commission to clarify an item specifically asks for them. If comments are solicited, we
ask you to subject yourself to a maximum three-minute comment. We ask that you be
patient and save your comments for the regular Commission meeting.
❖ Each speaker shall provide his or her name and address to the Clerk on our Speaker’s
Identification form prior to the beginning of the meeting.
❖ We encourage you to speak and become active in your city but please do so at the
appropriate time on the agenda.
❖ Comments on items scheduled for Public Hearing will be allowed only during the
announced Public Hearing period.
❖ In the meeting, section titled “Consideration of Questions from the floor, Petitions
and Communications”, you may comment on any other matters, subject to a maximum
time limit of three minutes to speak. In the event of a large number of speakers in a
particular meeting, your time may be limited in order to allow all an opportunity to speak.
Speakers going over the allotted time limit may be called out of order by the Mayor and
asked to return to their seats.
❖ While speaking, speakers shall refrain from personal attacks, abusive language, issues in
litigation or under investigation, and issues that the Commission deems as not falling
within their area of responsibility.
These guidelines are intended to help us streamline our meeting time so that we may conduct
business in an orderly manner on your behalf. It is not our intent to keep our citizens from
participating in the democratic process.
We are glad you are here and hope you find your experience with your City Government a good
one. Thank you for attending.
Sincerely,
Tanya Tucker
Mayor
450 NORTH WILSON AVENUE ~ P.O. BOX 1069 ~ BARTOW, FLORIDA 33831-1069 ~ 863-534-0100

ORDINANCE ADOPTION PROCEDURE
First Reading of Ordinances
1. After the caption of the Ordinance is read, the motion should be to set the same for public
hearing (or to continue to a time certain - in which event there shall be an immediate vote on
the motion to continue; if that motion fails, the following process would continue):
2. After the motion is seconded, the Mayor announces that this is not a public hearing.
3. The Mayor then may upon call on Staff to explain the Ordinance in a reasonable length of time.
4. The City Commissioners may direct questions to Staff.
5. The Mayor asks the Clerk to call the roll for a vote. Only under extraordinary circumstances
should this vote be negative (and never regarding a quasi-judicial matter, such as zonings, rezonings, plat approvals, etc.).
Second Reading of Ordinances
1. After the caption of the Ordinance is read, the motion should be to adopt or to defeat the
Ordinance (or to continue to a time certain - in which event there shall be an immediate vote on
the motion to continue; if that motion fails, the following process would continue):
2. After the motion is seconded, the Mayor announces that this is a public hearing and announces
the following procedure and that it shall apply to all second readings on the Agenda:
(a) First Staff shall explain the Ordinance.
(b) The Applicant and/or his representatives shall then speak.
(c) Members of the public shall have a maximum of three (3) minutes each to present their
views.
(d) A member of the public who wishes to represent more than two people may at the discretion
of the Mayor or Commissioners be allowed additional time to speak.
(e) City Commissioners may direct questions to any speaker (whose time to speak shall not be
affected by the length of their answers).
(f) Speakers should not be redundant by repeating remarks of previous speakers, although they
are welcome to announce their approval of previous remarks by other speakers.
(g) Addressing the Commissioners without being recognized, clapping, shouting, hooting and the
like from the audience will not be tolerated, nor will personal attacks by speakers.
(h) Within these parameters, everyone who wishes to speak shall be given that opportunity.
3. When all the speakers have been heard, the Mayor closes the public hearing, asks for comments
from the Commissioners and then asks the Clerk to call the roll for a vote.
450 NORTH WILSON AVENUE ~ P.O. BOX 1069 ~ BARTOW, FLORIDA 33831-1069 ~ 863-534-0100

ITEM NO. 4.a

PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, the water and wastewater professionals of the City of Bartow dedicate
themselves every day to producing and distributing safe drinking water, as well as
collecting, treating, reusing, and properly managing wastewater and stormwater; and
WHEREAS, the skilled women and men employed in our local utility commit themselves
completely to protecting the health of Bartow citizens and preserving our local
environment; and
WHEREAS, the City of Bartow actively supports Florida’s statewide goals in water quality
protection, environmental stewardship, and the conservation of precious natural
resources; and
WHEREAS, Senate Bill 712, known as The Clean Waterways Act, continues to guide our
shared mission to protect water quality and minimize nutrient pollution statewide; and
WHEREAS, Section 403.865 of the Florida Statutes rightly designates water and
wastewater professionals as Essential First Responders; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting that the City of Bartow formally honors the local operators,
technicians, and maintenance staff who operate and maintain our drinking water and
utility networks
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Tanya Tucker by virtue of authority vested in me as the Mayor of
the City of Bartow, Florida do hereby proclaim the month of August 2026 as:

FLORIDA WATER PROFESSIONALS’ MONTH
and ask all residents to join us in thanking the dedicated staff of the City of Bartow Water
Department for their hard work, expertise, and continuous service to our community's
health and environment.
DATED at Bartow, Florida, this 3rd day of August 2026.
CITY OF BARTOW
ATTEST WITH SEAL:
By:____________________________
City Clerk Jacqueline Poole

By:_____________________________
Mayor Tanya Tucker

PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

ITEMNO. 4.b

PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, human milk feeding represents the biological standard for infant nourishment and
serves as a proven preventive measure that establishes a foundation for lifelong health and wellbeing; and
WHEREAS, both the American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization
recommend exclusive breastfeeding for approximately the first six months of life, followed by
continued breastfeeding alongside the introduction of complementary foods for up to two years
or as long as mutually desired by mother and child; and
WHEREAS, the well-established health, economic, and environmental advantages of human milk
feeding demonstrate that this practice is a valuable investment, yielding significant and ongoing
benefits for families, employers, and government entities nationwide; and
WHEREAS, persistent policy gaps and insufficient funding for public health programs aimed at
supporting lactating parents and healthcare providers disproportionately affect Black, Indigenous,
and People of Color (BIPOC) communities, contributing to lower breastfeeding rates and
increased risk of adverse health outcomes; and
WHEREAS, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that approximately
82% of infants born in Florida in 2020 were breastfed, yet breastfeeding initiation rates in 2019
reveal a 20 percentage point disparity among racial groups; and
WHEREAS, Florida Health Charts report that in 2022, Polk County’s rate of mothers initiating
breastfeeding was 85.5%, compared to the state average of 86%; and
WHEREAS, National Breastfeeding Month and World Breastfeeding Week offer vital
opportunities to raise awareness and address the challenges families face in human milk feeding
both nationally and globally.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Tanya Tucker by virtue of authority vested in me as the Mayor of the City
of Bartow, Florida do hereby proclaim the month of August 2026 as:

BREASTFEEDING AWARENESS MONTH
DATED at Bartow, Florida, this 3rd day of August 2026.
CITY OF BARTOW

ATTEST WITH SEAL:
By:____________________________
City Clerk Jacqueline Poole

By:_____________________________
Mayor Tanya Tucker

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ITEM NO. 7.a.1

City of Bartow
Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts Department
2250 S. Floral Avenue | P.O. Box 1069 | Bartow, FL 33831-1069
Office: 863-534-0120 | Fax: 863-534-6881 | www.cityofbartow.net
Staff Report/Agenda Item- Parks & Recreation New Event: Bartow Catch & Trade Card Event

Recommendation
City Commission support the hosting of the 1st annual Bartow Catch & Trade Event on Saturday, October 3, in Downtown
Bartow.
Background
The Bartow Catch & Trade event is a new family-friendly special event designed to attract collectors, hobby enthusiasts,
and visitors from throughout Central Florida. The event will provide a unique recreational opportunity while increasing
community engagement and supporting Downtown Bartow businesses.
The event will feature 150 vendor spots offering Pokémon cards, sports cards, collectibles, memorabilia, comics, hobbyrelated merchandise, and buy, sell, and trade opportunities. Additional activities will include a downtown scavenger
hunt with participating businesses, as well as designated trade and game tables for attendees.
Event Information
Date: Saturday, October 3
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Vendor setup begins at 8:00 a.m.)
Location: Downtown Bartow, utilizing East Summerlin Street to Florida Avenue and portions of Central Avenue, Wilson
Avenue, and Florida Avenue
Estimated Attendance: 2,500–5,000 attendees
Parking will be available on Main Street, surrounding side streets not utilized by the event, Fort Blount Park, and the
Oaks Parking Lot.
Fiscal Impact
Revenue will be generated through vendor registration fees and sponsorships to help offset expenses. Any proceeds
brought in from the event will be dedicated to enhancing one of the small pavilions at Mary Holland Park as a Pokémonthemed gathering location. MHP is already an established Pokémon GO destination and regularly hosts community
members who gather to participate in the game.
Community Benefit
Increase visitation to Downtown Bartow and local businesses.
Expand the City's Parks & Recreation special events calendar.
Provide a unique, family-friendly event for participants of all ages.
Attract visitors from outside the community.
Requested Action
Staff requests the City Commission's support to proceed with planning and hosting the inaugural Bartow Catch & Trade
Event

City of Bartow

Catch & Trade
presented by Bartow’s
Parks & Recreation Department

Saturday, October 3
10am - 4pm

Downtown Bartow
Trading Cards, Collectibles,
Memorabilia & more!
Buy, Sell and Trade Opportunities
PLAY | TRADE | COLLECT | CONNECT | TGC EVENT
For more information, contact Parks & Recreation at
[email protected] or call 863.534.0120

ITEM NO. 10.a
CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA

TO:

Honorable Mayor and City Commissioners, City of Bartow City Commission

THROUGH:

Mike Herr, City Manager

FROM:

Sean R. Parker, City Attorney

DATE:

June 30, 2026 and August 3, 2026

SUBJECT:

Police Pension Update Ordinance of 2026
Consider passage upon final reading and public hearing of Ordinance 2026-05
regarding the Bartow Municipal Police Officers’ Retirement Trust Fund amending
the definition of credited service to allow the purchase of permissive service credit.

SUMMARY AND BACKGROUND
The City of Bartow has a Municipal Police Officers’ Retirement Trust Fund pursuant to Florida Law for
the benefit of its police department. This Fund is governed by State law as well as the local Ordinances,
which include restatements in 2010 and amendments in 2013, 2020, 2021 and 2024 to keep the terms of
the Plan up to date.
From time to time, Pension counsel, Ron Cohen, corresponds with the City Attorney and City Manager
regarding proposed changes to the Plan. In this instance, the Police Pension Board met a few months ago
and voted to recommend to the City Commission that the Plan be amended to allow for the purchase of
credited service. This matches the concurrent recommendation from the Fire Pension Board.
STAFF ANALYSIS
The Police Pension Plan currently only allows employees to receive service credit for service as a Bartow
Police Officer, or for military time. This proposed amendment would allow employees to purchase
credited service for service as a police officer in this state, or other federal, other state, or other county
service. The provision requires the member to pay the full cost of the purchase, and the City will not bear
any of the cost. Pension counsel has advised that the proposed amendment meets the requirements of state
and federal law governing such purchases. In the end, the City benefits by improving recruitment as
experienced applicants from other jurisdictions will be able to purchase credited service for the time they
served elsewhere at no cost to the City. The Commission is also presented with a virtually identical update
to the Fire Pension at present.

1

ITEM NO. 10 a
FISCAL IMPACT
As is often the case with updates to the Police and Fire Pension Plans, the Board requested an Actuarial
Impact Statement be prepared by Foster & Foster who serve as consultants to the Board. They found that
the proposed amendment would come at no actuarial cost to the Plan, and prepared a Letter of No Impact
instead of a formal Actuarial Impact Statement.
RECOMMENDATION
City Staff recommends the City Commission pass Ordinance 2026-05.
ATTACHMENTS
Ordinance 2026-05, entitled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA
AMENDING THE CITY OF BARTOW MUNICIPAL POLICE OFFICERS' RETIREMENT
TRUST FUND, AS PREVIOUSLY RESTATED BY ORDINANCE NO. 2010-09, AS
AMENDED BY ORDINANCES NO. 2013-09, 2020-12 AND 2024-30, BY AMENDING THE
DEFINITION OF CREDITED SERVICE TO ALLOW THE PURCHASE OF PERMISSIVE
SERVICE CREDIT AND SETTING FORTH THE CONDITIONS FOR SAID PURCHASE;
PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY OF
PROVISIONS; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH AND
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; along with the Foster and Foster Letter of No Impact.

2

ORDINANCE NO. 2026-05
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA AMENDING
THE CITY OF BARTOW MUNICIPAL POLICE
OFFICERS’ RETIREMENT TRUST FUND,
AS
PREVIOUSLY RESTATED BY ORDINANCE NO.
2010-09, AS AMENDED BY ORDINANCES NO. 201309, 2020-12, 2021-09 AND 2024-30, BY AMENDING
THE DEFINITION OF CREDITED SERVICE TO
ALLOW
THE PURCHASE OF PERMISSIVE
SERVICE CREDIT AND SETTING FORTH THE
CONDITIONS FOR SAID PURCHASE; PROVIDING
FOR
CODIFICATION;
PROVIDING
FOR
SEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS; REPEALING
ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH
AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the City of Bartow Police Officers are presently provided pension and
certain other benefits under Ordinances of the City of Bartow; and
credit;

WHEREAS, the City Commission desires to permit the purchase of permissive service

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA;
SECTION 1: That the City of Bartow Municipal Police Officers’ Retirement Trust Fund,
is hereby amended by amending Section 1, Definitions by amending the definition of “Credited
Service” to read as follows (added language to existing provisions shall be underlined and
deleted language from existing code provisions shall be stricken through):
1. Credited Service means the total number of years and fractional parts of years
of service as a Police Officer with Member contributions, when required, omitting intervening
years or fractional parts of years when such Member was not employed by the City as a Police
Officer. It shall also include, Qualified Military Service and Permissive Service Credit. A
Member may voluntarily leave his Accumulated Contributions in the Fund for a period of five
(5) years after leaving the employ of the Police Department pending the possibility of being
reemployed as a Police Officer, without losing credit for the time that he was a Member of the
System. If a vested Member leaves the employ of the Police Department, his Accumulated
Contributions will be returned only upon his written request. If a Member who is not vested is
not reemployed as a Police Officer with the Police Department within five (5) years, his
Accumulated Contributions, if one-thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or less, shall be returned. Upon
return of a Member's Accumulated Contributions all of his rights and benefits under the System
are forfeited and terminated. If a Member who is not vested is not reemployed within five (5)
years, his Accumulated Contributions, if more than one-thousand dollars ($1,000.00), will be
returned only upon the written request of the Member and upon completion of a written election
to receive a cash lump sum or to rollover the lump sum amount on forms designated by the
Board. Upon return of a Member's Accumulated Contributions all of his rights and benefits under
the System are forfeited and terminated. Upon any reemployment, a Police Officer shall not

receive credit for the years and fractional parts of years of service for which he has withdrawn
his Accumulated Contributions from the Fund, unless the Police Officer repays into the Fund
the contributions he has withdrawn, with interest, as determined by the Board, within ninety (90)
90 days after his reemployment.
The years or fractional parts of years that a Member performs "Qualified Military
Service" consisting of voluntary or involuntary "service in the uniformed services" as defined in
the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) (P.L.103-353),
after separation from employment as a Police Officer with the City to perform training or service,
shall be added to his years of Credited Service for all purposes, including vesting, provided that:
A.
B.

C.
D.

The Member is entitled to reemployment under the provisions of
USERRA.
The Member returns to his employment as a Police Officer within
one (1) year from the earlier of the date of his military discharge or
his release from active service, unless otherwise required by
USERRA.
The Maximum credit for military service pursuant to this paragraph
shall be five (5) years.
This paragraph is intended to satisfy the minimum requirements of
USERRA. To the extent that this paragraph does not meet the
minimum standards of USERRA, as it may be amended from time to
time, the minimum standards shall apply.

In the event a Member dies on or after January 1, 2007, while performing USERRA
Qualified Military Service, the beneficiaries of the Member are entitled to any benefits (other
than benefit accruals relating to the period of qualified military service) as if the Member had
resumed employment and then died while employed.
Beginning January 1, 2009, to the extent required by Section 414(u)(12) of the Code,
an individual receiving differential wage payments (as defined under Section 3401(h)(2) of the
Code) from an employer shall be treated as employed by that employer, and the differential wage
payment shall be treated as compensation for purposes of applying the limits on annual additions
under Section 415(c) of the Code. This provision shall be applied to all similarly situated
individuals in a reasonably equivalent manner.
2.

Purchase of permissive service credit:
A.

Subject to the procedures established by the plan and the
requirements of section 415(n) of the Internal Revenue Code,
and providing there is no actuarial cost to the plan, an active
member who is eligible under the terms of the plan, may
purchase, in accordance with the definitions, terms and
conditions of the plan, permissive service credit for service
credit earned as a fulltime Police Officer as the term Police
Officer is defined in Section 175.02(16), Fla. Stat. Permissive
service credit may be purchased for prior service as a Police
Officer for some other employer as long as a Police Officer is

B.

C.

D.
E.

F.

G.

not entitled to receive a benefit for such prior service. For
purposes of determining credit for prior service, in addition to
service as a police officer in this state, credit may be given for
federal, other state, or county service as long as such service is
recognized by the Criminal Justice Standards and Training
Commission within the Department of Law Enforcement as
provided in chapter 943, or the police officer provides proof to
the board of trustees that such service is equivalent to the
service required to meet the definition of a police officer. The
plan, in accordance with its procedures, shall determine the
eligibility and qualifications of a member to purchase
permissive service credits.
Permissive service credit shall not be counted toward vesting or nonservice-connected disability pension., but shall count for all other
purposes. The total amount of credited service that can be granted
for military time and permissive service credit is five years.
Payment options. With the exception of direct rollover trustee-totrustee transfers permitted under the Internal Revenue Code, or direct
rollovers, as applied to governmental plans, an active member may,
prior to retirement, make only after-tax contributions or payroll
deduction to purchase service credit. Payroll deduction will not
exceed 5 years. All payments must comply with the Internal Revenue
Code and regulations promulgated thereunder.
The election to purchase prior permissive service credit shall be
irrevocable and no refund shall be made to a member for any amount
paid to the plan to purchase service credit.
No member shall receive service credit for any service for which
payment has not been completed pursuant to this provision before the
effective date of the member's termination from employment. No
payment shall be allowed to be made to the plan for a purchase of
service credit following a member's termination from employment.
Cost. A member must elect to pay, and thereafter pay in accordance
with such election, the amount determined by the plan to be the
current actuarial cost of the service credit purchased. The City will
not bear any of the cost. If the cost of the purchase is paid over a
period of time, the interest charged will be the interest assumption
used by the Plan. If the interest assumption changes during the
payment period, the new interest assumption will be used for the
remainder of the payment period.
This Section shall be interpreted and administered in a manner
intended to preserve the Plan's qualified status, and any crediting of
permissive service credit is expressly conditioned on continued
compliance with applicable law. The granting of permissive service
credit (and any related Purchase or transfer/rollover) will not cause
the Plan to fail to satisfy applicable qualification requirements,
including limitations under Code Section 415, as determined by the
Plan Administrator.

SECTION 2: All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict herewith be and the same
are hereby repealed.

SECTION 3: Specific authority is hereby granted to codify and incorporate this
Ordinance in the existing Code of Ordinances of the City of Bartow.
SECTION 4: If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase of this ordinance, or
the particular application thereof shall be held invalid by any court, administrative agency, or
other body with appropriate jurisdiction, the remaining section, subsection, sentences, clauses, or
phrases under application shall not be affected thereby.
SECTION 5: After passage on first reading, at least three correct copies of this
ordinance in the form in which it has been passed on first reading shall be made available for
public inspection in the office of the City Clerk, and there shall be published in the Polk County
Democrat, a newspaper published and of general circulation in the City of Bartow, a notice
describing this ordinance in brief and general terms and stating that it is available for public
inspection in the office of the City Clerk, together with the time and place and when and where it
will be considered for final passage. Such publication shall be at least ten days prior to the time
advertised.
SECTION 6: After final passage, there shall be published in the (fill in name), a
newspaper published and of general circulation in the City of Bartow, a notice describing this
ordinance in brief and general terms and stating that it is available for public inspection in the
office of the City Clerk, and this ordinance shall take effect upon adoption.
SECTION 7: This Ordinance shall be effective when passed on Second Reading.
PASSED ON FIRST READING, this _______day of July, 2026.
PASSED AND ENACTED ON SECOND READING, this _____ day of July, 2026.

CITY OF BARTOW
By: _________________________
TANYA L. TUCKER, MAYOR
ATTEST WITH SEAL:
By: ________________________________
JACQUELINE POOLE, CITY CLERK

Approved as to correctness and form:

Approved as to substance:

By: _______________________________
SEAN R. PARKER, CITY ATTORNEY

By: __________________________
MIKE HERR, CITY MANAGER

May 4, 2026
VIA EMAIL
Board of Trustees
City of Bartow
Police Officers’ Pension Board
Re:

City of Bartow Municipal Police Officers' Retirement Trust Fund

Dear Board:
We have reviewed the proposed Ordinance, identified as “C:\Users\RonCohen\ND Office Echo\VAULTUUC61JAI\purchase of service credit 4931-5688-0030 v.1.docx”, providing for the following changes. We
have determined that the adoption of the proposed changes will have no impact on the assumptions
used in determining the funding requirements of the program.
The proposed ordinance amends the definition of “Credited Service” to allow for the purchase
of service credit at no actuarial cost to the Plan and to establish conditions for service credit
purchases.
Because the above changes do not result in an immediate change in the valuation results, it is our
opinion that a formal Actuarial Impact Statement is not required in support of its adoption. However,
since the Division of Retirement must be aware of the current provisions of all public pension programs,
it is recommended that you send a copy of this letter and a copy of the fully executed Ordinance to each
of the following offices:
Mr. Keith Brinkman
Bureau of Local Retirement Systems
Division of Retirement
P. O. Box 9000
Tallahassee, FL 32315-9000

Mr. Steve Bardin
Municipal Police and Fire
Pension Trust Funds
Division of Retirement
P.O. Box 3010
Tallahassee, FL 32315-3010

If you have any questions, please let me know.
Sincerely,

Patrick T. Donlan, EA, ASA, MAAA

13420 Parker Commons Blvd., Suite 104 Fort Myers, FL 33912 · (239) 433-5500 · Fax (239) 481-0634 · www.foster-foster.com

PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

ITEM NO. 10.b
CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA

TO:

Honorable Mayor and City Commissioners, City of Bartow City Commission

THROUGH:

Mike Herr, City Manager

FROM:

Sean R. Parker, City Attorney

DATE:

June 30, 2026 and August 3, 2026

SUBJECT:

Firefighter Pension Update Ordinance of 2026
Consider passage upon final reading and public hearing of Ordinance 2026-06
regarding the Bartow Municipal Firefighters’ Retirement Trust Fund amending the
definition of credited service to allow the purchase of permissive service credit.

SUMMARY AND BACKGROUND
The City of Bartow has a Municipal Firefighters’ Retirement Trust Fund pursuant to Florida Law for the
benefit of its fire department. This Fund is governed by State law as well as the local Ordinances, which
include restatements in 2010 and amendments in 2013, 2020, 2021 and 2024 to keep the terms of the Plan
up to date.
From time to time, Pension counsel, Ron Coehn, corresponds with the City Attorney and City Manager
regarding proposed changes to the Plan. In this instance, the Fire Pension Board met a few months ago
and voted to recommend to the City Commission that the Plan be amended to allow for the purchase of
credited service. This matches the concurrent recommendation from the Police Pension Board.
STAFF ANALYSIS
The Fire Pension Plan currently only allows employees to receive service credit for service as a Bartow
Firefighter, or for military time. This proposed amendment would allow employees to purchase credited
service for service as a firefighter in this state, or other federal, other state, or other county service. The
provision requires the member to pay the full cost of the purchase, and the City will not bear any of the
cost. Pension counsel has advised that the proposed amendment meets the requirements of state and federal
law governing such purchases. In the end, the City benefits by improving recruitment as experienced
applicants from other jurisdictions will be able to purchase credited service for the time they served
elsewhere at no cost to the City. The Commission is also presented with a virtually identical update to the
Police Pension at present.

1

ITEM NO. 10 b
FISCAL IMPACT
As is often the case with updates to the Police and Fire Pension Plans, the Board requested an Actuarial
Impact Statement be prepared by Foster & Foster who serve as consultants to the Board. They found that
the proposed amendment would come at no actuarial cost to the Plan, and prepared a Letter of No Impact
instead of a formal Actuarial Impact Statement.
RECOMMENDATION
City Staff recommends the City Commission pass Ordinance 2026-06.
ATTACHMENTS
Ordinance 2026-06, entitled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA
AMENDING THE CITY OF BARTOW MUNICIPAL FIREFIGHTERS' RETIREMENT
TRUST FUND, AS PREVIOUSLY RESTATED BY ORDINANCE NO. 2010-08, AS
AMENDED BY ORDINANCES NO. 2013-10, 2020-13, 2023-12 AND 2025-09, BY
AMENDING THE DEFINITION OF CREDITED SERVICE TO ALLOW THE PURCHASE
OF PERMISSIVE SERVICE CREDIT AND SETTING FORTH THE CONDITIONS FOR
SAID PURCHASE; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT
HEREWITH AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; along with the Foster and Foster
Letter of No Impact.

2

ORDINANCE NO. 2026-06
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA AMENDING
THE
CITY
OF
BARTOW
MUNICIPAL
FIREFIGHTERS' RETIREMENT TRUST FUND, AS
PREVIOUSLY RESTATED BY ORDINANCE NO.
2010-08, AS AMENDED BY ORDINANCES NO. 201310, 2020-13, 2023-12 AND 2025-09, BY AMENDING
THE DEFINITION OF CREDITED SERVICE TO
ALLOW
THE PURCHASE OF PERMISSIVE
SERVICE CREDIT AND SETTING FORTH THE
CONDITIONS FOR SAID PURCHASE; PROVIDING
FOR
CODIFICATION;
PROVIDING
FOR
SEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS; REPEALING
ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH
AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the City of Bartow Firefighters are presently provided pension and certain
other benefits under Ordinances of the City of Bartow; and
credit;

WHEREAS, the City Commission desires to permit the purchase of permissive service

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA;
SECTION 1: That the City of Bartow Municipal Firefighters’ Retirement Trust Fund, is
hereby amended by amending Section 1, Definitions by amending the definition of “Credited
Service” to read as follows (added language to existing provisions shall be underlined and
deleted language from existing code provisions shall be stricken through):
1. Credited Service means the total number of years and fractional parts of years
of service as a Firefighter with the City with Member contributions, when required, omitting
intervening years or fractional parts of years when such Member was not employed by the City
as a Firefighter. I t s h a l l a l s o i n c l u d e , Q u a l i f i e d M i l i t a r y S e r v i c e a n d
P e r m i s s i v e S e r v i c e C r e d i t . A Member may voluntarily leave his Accumulated
Contributions in the Fund for a period of five (5) years after leaving the employ of the Fire
Department pending the possibility of being reemployed as a Firefighter, without losing credit
for the time that he was a Member of the System. If a vested Member leaves the employ of the
Fire Department, his Accumulated Contributions will be returned only upon his written request.
If a Member who is not vested is not reemployed as a Firefighter with the Fire Department within
five (5) years, his Accumulated Contributions, if one-thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or less, shall
be returned. Upon return of a Member's Accumulated Contributions all of his rights and benefits
under the System are forfeited and terminated. If a Member who is not vested is not reemployed
within five (5) years, his Accumulated Contributions, if more than one-thousand dollars
($1,000.00), will be returned only upon the written request of the Member and upon completion
of a written election to receive a cash lump sum or to rollover the lump sum amount on forms
designated by the Board.
Upon any reemployment, a Firefighter shall not receive credit for the years and
fractional parts of years of service for which he has withdrawn his Accumulated Contributions
from the Fund, unless the Firefighter repays into the Fund the contributions he has withdrawn,
1

with interest, as determined by the Board, within ninety (90) days after his reemployment.

The years or fractional parts of a year that a Member performs "Qualified Military
Service" consisting of voluntary or involuntary "service in the uniformed services" as defined in
the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) (P.L.103-353),
after separation from employment as a Firefighter with the City to perform training or service,
shall be added to his years of Credited Service for all purposes, including vesting, provided that:
A.

The Member is entitled to reemployment under the provisions of
USERRA.

B.

The Member returns to his employment as a Firefighter within one
(1) year from the earlier of the date of his military discharge or his
release from active service, unless otherwise required by USERRA.

C.

The Maximum credit for military service pursuant to this paragraph
shall be five (5) years.

D.

This paragraph is intended to satisfy the minimum requirements of
USERRA. To the extent that this paragraph does not meet the
minimum standards of USERRA, as it may be amended from time to
time, the minimum standards shall apply.

In the event a Member dies on or after January 1, 2007, while performing USERRA
Qualified Military Service, the beneficiaries of the Member are entitled to any benefits (other
than benefit accruals relating to the period of qualified military service) as if the Member had
resumed employment and then died while employed.
Beginning January 1, 2009, to the extent required by Section 414(u)(12) of the Code,
an individual receiving differential wage payments (as defined under Section 3401(h)(2) of the
Code) from an employer shall be treated as employed by that employer, and the differential wage
payment shall be treated as compensation for purposes of applying the limits on annual additions
under Section 415(c) of the Code. This provision shall be applied to all similarly situated
individuals in a reasonably equivalent manner.
2.
A.

Purchase of permissive service credit:
Subject to the procedures established by the plan and the
requirements of section 415(n) of the Internal Revenue Code, and
providing there is no actuarial cost to the plan, an active member who
is eligible under the terms of the plan, may purchase, in accordance
with the definitions, terms and conditions of the plan, permissive
service credit for service credit earned as a fulltime firefighter as the
term firefighter is defined in Section 175.032(11)(a), Fla. Stat.
Permissive service credit may be purchased for prior service as a
firefighter for some other employer as long as a firefighter is not
entitled to receive a benefit for such prior service. For purposes of
determining credit for prior service as a firefighter, in addition to
service as a firefighter in this state, credit may be given for federal,
other state, or county service if the prior service is recognized by the
2

Division of State Fire Marshal as provided in chapter 633, or the
firefighter provides proof to the board of trustees that his or her
service is equivalent to the service required to meet the definition of
a firefighter. The plan, in accordance with its procedures, shall
determine the eligibility and qualifications of a member to purchase
permissive service credits.
B.

Permissive service credit shall not be counted toward vesting or nonservice-connected disability pension., but shall count for all other
purposes. The total amount of credited service that can be granted
for military time and permissive service credit is five years.

C.

Payment options. With the exception of direct rollover trustee-totrustee transfers permitted under the Internal Revenue Code, or direct
rollovers, as applied to governmental plans, an active member may,
prior to retirement, make only after-tax contributions or payroll
deduction to purchase service credit. Payroll deduction will not
exceed 5 years. All payments must comply with the Internal Revenue
Code and regulations promulgated thereunder.

D.

The election to purchase prior permissive service credit shall be
irrevocable and no refund shall be made to a member for any amount
paid to the plan to purchase service credit.

E.

No member shall receive service credit for any service for which
payment has not been completed pursuant to this provision before the
effective date of the member's termination from employment. No
payment shall be allowed to be made to the plan for a purchase of
service credit following a member's termination from employment.

F.

Cost. A member must elect to pay, and thereafter pay in accordance
with such election, the amount determined by the plan to be the
current actuarial cost of the service credit purchased. The City will
not bear any of the cost. If the cost of the purchase is paid over a
period of time, the interest charged will be the interest assumption
used by the Plan. If the interest assumption changes during the
payment period, the new interest assumption will be used for the
remainder of the payment period.

G.

This Section shall be interpreted and administered in a manner
intended to preserve the Plan's qualified status, and any crediting of
permissive service credit is expressly conditioned on continued
compliance with applicable law. The granting of permissive service
credit (and any related Purchase or transfer/rollover) will not cause
the Plan to fail to satisfy applicable qualification requirements,
including limitations under Code Section 415, as determined by the
Plan Administrator.

SECTION 2: All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict herewith be and the same
are hereby repealed.
SECTION 3: Specific authority is hereby granted to codify and incorporate this
3

Ordinance in the existing Code of Ordinances of the City of Bartow.
SECTION 4: If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase of this ordinance, or
the particular application thereof shall be held invalid by any court, administrative agency, or
other body with appropriate jurisdiction, the remaining section, subsection, sentences, clauses, or
phrases under application shall not be affected thereby.
SECTION 5: After passage on first reading, at least three correct copies of this
ordinance in the form in which it has been passed on first reading shall be made available for
public inspection in the office of the City Clerk, and there shall be published in the Polk County
Democrat, a newspaper published and of general circulation in the City of Bartow, a notice
describing this ordinance in brief and general terms and stating that it is available for public
inspection in the office of the City Clerk, together with the time and place and when and where it
will be considered for final passage. Such publication shall be at least ten days prior to the time
advertised.
SECTION 6: After final passage, there shall be published in the (fill in name), a
newspaper published and of general circulation in the City of Bartow, a notice describing this
ordinance in brief and general terms and stating that it is available for public inspection in the
office of the City Clerk, and this ordinance shall take effect upon adoption.
SECTION 7: This Ordinance shall be effective when passed on Second Reading.
PASSED ON FIRST READING, this _______day of July, 2026.
PASSED AND ENACTED ON SECOND READING, this _____ day of July, 2026.

CITY OF BARTOW

By: _________________________
TANYA L. TUCKER, MAYOR
ATTEST WITH SEAL:

By: ________________________________
JACQUELINE POOLE, CITY CLERK

Approved as to correctness and form:

Approved as to substance:

By: _______________________________
SEAN R. PARKER, CITY ATTORNEY

By: __________________________
MIKE HERR, CITY MANAGER

4

May 4, 2026
VIA EMAIL
Board of Trustees
City of Bartow
Firefighters’ Pension Board
Re:

City of Bartow Municipal Firefighters' Retirement Trust Fund

Dear Board:
We have reviewed the proposed Ordinance, identified as “C:\Users\RonCohen\ND Office Echo\VAULTUUC61JAI\purchase of Credited Service 4908-1991-5678 v.6.docx”, providing for the following changes.
We have determined that the adoption of the proposed changes will have no impact on the
assumptions used in determining the funding requirements of the program.
The proposed ordinance amends the definition of “Credited Service” to allow for the purchase
of service credit at no actuarial cost to the Plan and to establish conditions for service credit
purchases.
Because the above changes do not result in an immediate change in the valuation results, it is our
opinion that a formal Actuarial Impact Statement is not required in support of its adoption. However,
since the Division of Retirement must be aware of the current provisions of all public pension programs,
it is recommended that you send a copy of this letter and a copy of the fully executed Ordinance to each
of the following offices:
Mr. Keith Brinkman
Bureau of Local Retirement Systems
Division of Retirement
P. O. Box 9000
Tallahassee, FL 32315-9000

Mr. Steve Bardin
Municipal Police and Fire
Pension Trust Funds
Division of Retirement
P.O. Box 3010
Tallahassee, FL 32315-3010

If you have any questions, please let me know.
Sincerely,

Patrick T. Donlan, EA, ASA, MAAA

13420 Parker Commons Blvd., Suite 104 Fort Myers, FL 33912 · (239) 433-5500 · Fax (239) 481-0634 · www.foster-foster.com

PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

ITEM NO. 11.a
CITY OF BARTOW
CITY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
MONDAY, JULY 20, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M. (EST)
BARTOW CITY HALL – COMMISSION CHAMBERS
450 N. WILSON AVE, BARTOW, FL 33830
MINUTES
The City Commission of the City of Bartow met at a Regular Meeting on July 20, 2026, at
6:00 p.m. at Bartow City Hall, Commission Chambers, 450 N. Wilson Avenue, Bartow, FL
33830. Notice of this meeting was posted at City Hall, Bartow Public Library, and on the
City’s website www.cityofbartow.net and Facebook page on July 16, 2026
1. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Tucker called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. She dispensed with the roll call;
attendance was as follows:
Commissioners Present: Commissioner Gary Ball, Commissioner Leo E. Longworth,
Commissioner Trish Pfeiffer, Vice Mayor Laura Simpson and Mayor Tanya Tucker.
Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Members Present: City Manager Mike Herr, City Attorney Sean Parker, Asst.
City Manager Peter Lear, PRCA Director Jason Hargrove, Deputy Fire Chief Byron
Moore, CRA Business & Community Engagement Coordinator Cheryl Baksh,
Communications Director Laurie Hayes, Asst. City Manager John Hall, Asst. City
Manager Tray Towles, Public Works Director Billy Groover, Finance Director Newman
Waters, Management Asst. Angel Ruse, Police Chief Stephen Walker, Solid Waste
Manager Mike Davis, Director of Community Affairs & Special Projects Pam Sams,
Wastewater Plant Manager Wiley Pratt, Director of Electric Utilities Michael Poucher,
Asst. Director of Electric Utilities Tony McDuffie, CRA Director Howard Smith, PRCA
Asst. Director Kyle Lasek, Customer Service Manager Shaun Gelissen, IT Director
Frank Canovaca, Law Clerk Owens Parker, Code Enforcement Officer Laporchia
Hodge, Code Compliance Investigator Aaron Wilson, BPD Officer Ortiz and City Clerk
Jacqueline Poole.
2. INVOCATION
Pastor Jesse Maxwell, Bible Baptist Church gave invocation.
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was recited.

City Commission Regular Meeting
July 20, 2026 @ 6:00 p.m.
Page 2 of 22

4. PROCLAMATIONS AND SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
a.

Presentation of 2026 John Land Years of Service Award to Commissioner
Leo E. Longworth by Eryn Alcorn, Member Services Administrator, Florida
League of Cities, Inc.
Eryn Alcorn, Member Services Administrator with the Florida League of Cities, Inc.
(FLC) provided a brief background on the Florida League of Cities, noting it has
served as the united voice for Florida's 411 cities, towns, and villages since 1922,
with a mission to protect local decision making because we believe local decisions
should be made by those who know their communities best. Ms. Alcorn extended
thanks to the City of Bartow for its dedicated membership and a special thank-you
to Commissioner Longworth for his service on the League's board of directors. Ms.
Alcorn formally read the resolution accompanying the John Land Years of Service
Award, which recognizes elected officials for dedicated service to their
communities. This award pays tribute to Mayor John Land, recognizing his recordbreaking service of more than 60 years in the City of Apopka. She noted one line
in particular: "local government is the government closest to the people,"
emphasizing that through Commissioner Longworth's 30 years of service, he had
touched a countless number of lives in this community. She presented
Commissioner Longworth with the award on behalf of the Florida League of Cities
and offered her congratulations.
The Mayor followed with a lighthearted remark, asking Commissioner Longworth
if he was trying to beat Mayor Land's record of 61 years.

b.

South Polk Pathways to Prosperity Presentation – Beneshea Frazier,
Economic Development Director, Central Florida Regional Planning Council.
Beneshea Frazier, Economic Development Director with the Central Florida
Regional Planning Council (CFRPC) explained that the project originated from a
conversation with a community partner regarding the economic trajectory of South
Polk County. The CFRPC subsequently engaged the cities of Bartow, Winter
Haven, Lake Wales, and Fort Meade around the concept of advancing targeted
economic development in South Polk County. With that partnership in place, the
CFRPC received a grant from the Economic Development Administration (EDA),
and the resulting two-year effort was nearing its conclusion. She noted that the
final document, the South Polk Pathways to Prosperity Strategy, would be made
available to all partners by the end of August.
Blake Drury, Planner with GAI Consultants provided a detailed presentation. He
described the study area as encompassing 848 square miles focused on a twomile corridor on each side of State Road 60, U.S. 17, and U.S. 27, noting that
prospective industrial users would want to be within a mile or two of those major
roadways. He framed the overall goal of finding ways to attract more industrial
development while protecting the things that make this part of the county great and
give this part of the county its character.

2

City Commission Regular Meeting
July 20, 2026 @ 6:00 p.m.
Page 3 of 22

Market Analysis and Key Issues
Mr. Drury reported that the study area contains approximately 16.5 million square
feet of existing industrial space but cautioned that the number is misleading. Only
5 million square feet of that total have been built in the past 20 years and would be
considered "modern" industrial buildings. He described the critical shortage of
sweet spots for industrial users, divisible buildings in the 50,000 to 100,000 squarefoot range, noting that economic development directors get the request that says
we need 50,000 feet and we need to be here in 9 months, which is generally not
enough time to build to suit. Much of the existing stock, he explained, is remnants
of the citrus industry or phosphate and is not positioned the way a modern
industrial building would be. He highlighted that since 2010, all new industrial
development in the study area has been concentrated along State Road 60
between Winter Haven, Lake Wales, Bartow, and Mulberry, placing Bartow at the
center of that corridor. Regarding land preservation, Mr. Drury noted that
approximately 14,000 acres of land are designated for industrial use across
jurisdictions, but roughly 7,000 of those are already in active industrial use.
Infrastructure, Transportation, and Environmental Considerations
Mr. Drury identified infrastructure readiness as perhaps the largest barrier, noting
that zoned sites without water and sewer infrastructure are not ripe for
development. He presented a roadway stress index identifying five of the most
stressed segments as lying along State Road 60, underscoring the urgent need
for alternative east-west connections so that State Road 60 doesn't have to be the
only road that carries that east-west load. On environmental matters, he discussed
the significance of the Peace River Basin, noting flooding, stormwater
management, and resilience as major concerns. He recommended a regional
stormwater approach, describing a potential one big stormwater park or resourcebased park that runs from Lake Wales all the way through Bartow and down to the
Peace River Corridor. He also flagged that the southeastern portion of the study
area has been identified by the Florida Environmental Greenways Network as a
critical habitat linkage gap.
Strategic Recommendations
Mr. Drury outlined the strategy's four pillars: preserving and prepositioning
industrial land; building a connected transportation network; implementing a
regional stormwater and flood resilience network; and building infrastructure
readiness for larger industrial opportunities. Specific land use recommendations
included establishing an industrial protection policy that would restrict or set
conditions on rezoning industrial land to residential. He also recommended
incentivizing the construction of smaller, modern industrial buildings by working
directly with industrial developers, noting that many times cities focus on trying to
find end users. And that's still important. But if there's no building for the end user
to go to, then in some ways it might feel like it's a fool's errand. He presented a
spectrum of public involvement options ranging from incentive programs to a fully
public industrial park model.
3

City Commission Regular Meeting
July 20, 2026 @ 6:00 p.m.
Page 4 of 22

In closing, he noted this document is a strategy, not a capital investment plan or
an infrastructure plan, but rather a directional guide for all partner communities. He
echoed a sentiment shared at a previous RPC presentation from a local leader
that non-residential land will continue to be vitally important to the tax base of any
community, and that growing and developing it needs to be in the forefront for the
city as you think about the coming decades of growth here.
Commission Discussion
Commissioner Pfeiffer said the presentation extremely timely, stating that the
referendum had shifted her thinking about the city's growth strategy and that
Bartow would focus on industry, because the tax base is going to still be there.
She expressed enthusiasm for the State Road 60 corridor, noting, no other city in
Polk County has that but us referring to Bartow's position at the intersection of the
north-south U.S. 98/17 corridor and the east-west State Road 60. She also
observed that industrial development would generate fewer road trips than dense
residential development and expressed strong support for an industrial protection
policy.
Mr. Drury confirmed he would send the commission the full, unabridged version of
the presentation with additional background slides.
c.

Bartow Economic Development Council Update – Elle Withall, President,
BEDC.
Elle Withall, President of the Bartow Economic Development Council (BEDC),
addressed the Commission, opening with a remark that the evening was proving
to be economic development night. She framed her remarks around the theme that
meaningful economic development is slow, and its relationship driven, requiring a
lot of phone calls, site visits, follow-up meetings and a lot of showing up before
anything ever gets announced. She noted that most of this is private capital, not
tax dollars, and that EDC’s role is to make the path easier, not to help write the
check. She gave a slide presentation.
Bartow Business Startup Guide
Ms. Withall described a newly developed Bartow Business Startup Guide,
designed to consolidate information from across all partner organizations into a
single, accessible publication. She noted the guide had already been shared with
community partners and several entrepreneurs, and that it would be posted to the
city's website.
Culver's Restaurant
Ms. Withall announced that Culver's, a nationally recognized restaurant brand, had
chosen Bartow for a new 4,800 square-foot location, with a grand opening
confirmed for August 3rd. She described the deal as entirely privately financed with
no incentives and no cost to the taxpayer, emphasizing that Culver's studied our
market, our traffic counts, our demographics and decided the numbers worked
4

City Commission Regular Meeting
July 20, 2026 @ 6:00 p.m.
Page 5 of 22

here. She gave specific recognition to Asst. City Manager John Hall for his
assistance in navigating a very complicated deal with a lot of moving parts.
Tourism Sustainability Conference
Ms. Withall noted the upcoming Tourism Sustainability Conference. The event is
being held at the History Center in partnership with Polk County and regional
tourism leaders, led by Dr. Brooke Hansen of the School of Hospitality and Sport
Management.
Route 60
Ms. Withall described a developing initiative to brand the State Road 60 east-west
corridor running from Tampa Bay through Bartow, Lake Wales, and to Vero Beach
as a heritage tourism corridor, described as Florida's answer to Route 66. She
expressed personal enthusiasm for the project, calling it one of the most enjoyable
things she has worked on, and crediting project leader Rob Kincart as someone
who's progressive in his thinking. She noted the EDC's letter of intent was being
finalized and would be submitted by the end of the week.
Polk State College Welding Program
Ms. Withall announced that Polk State College's Advanced Technology Center had
launched a new welding program offering 1,050 hours of hands-on instruction in
welding, fabrication, safety, and industrial certification. She noted this program
arose directly from ongoing conversations between the college, the EDC, and local
employers who identified a skills gap they could not fill elsewhere so the college
built a program to answer that specific demand.
Opportunity Zones
Ms. Withall provided an update on opportunity zone submissions previously
presented to the commission. She noted that two tracks were submitted, aligned
with existing CRA priorities and zoning, and that our proposed tracks are currently
under review from the governor's office with a decision expected by September
29th.
Clear Springs Industrial Site
Ms. Withall described Clear Springs as maybe Bartow's biggest industrial
opportunity, citing more than 500 acres zoned for industrial use with access to CSX
rail, high electrical capacity, natural gas, water, fiber, and high and dry topography.
She announced that Clear Springs has been selected for the Invest Ready Polk
regional site readiness initiative, run by the Central Florida Development Council
(CFDC). She described the behind-the-scenes work as the unglamorous work of
economic development, involving due diligence, documentation, and third-party
verification measured against national best practices.

5

City Commission Regular Meeting
July 20, 2026 @ 6:00 p.m.
Page 6 of 22

Thompson Cigar Factory
Ms. Withall described the Thompson Cigar Factory as Bartow's single greatest
redevelopment opportunity, envisioning it as a mixed-use destination with dining,
retail, office space, entertainment, and public gathering. She noted that a proposed
CRA incentive of $2 million toward redevelopment would come from CRA funds
generated within the district and not from the city's general fund, and that those
dollars could serve as seed money to attract historic tax credits and state and
federal grants. The EDC will manage the RFP process, and he plans to meet with
City staff soon to discuss timelines. She noted her experience in managing a
similar RFQ/RFP for the Wells Building, which was placed under contract with a
developer within six months, and expressed the expectation of the same urgency
for the Cigar Factory.
USDA Service Center
Ms. Withall described a proposed new USDA Service Center on U.S. 17,
approximately 4,900 square feet with potential for an additional 2,000 to 3,000
square feet, featuring a 10-to-20-year federal lease commitment. She
characterized the EDC's role as relational, coordinating between the developer,
the federal agency, and local partners. She noted the site is under contract until
August 21st and that the developer is awaiting final USDA feedback by that date.
Bravo Supermarket
Ms. Withall reported that Bravo Supermarket has signed a lease for 18,000 square
feet in the former Sav-A-Lot, planning to open a Bartow location in 2027. The
company's investment is approximately $750,000 in build-out, with an expected 50
to 75 jobs created. She emphasized there was no incentive package attached to
this project, crediting the result to relationships and responsiveness. She walked
Bravo through the Bartow market answering questions quickly and clearing
obstacles out of the way, and their brokers specifically called out how smooth the
process was.
In closing, Ms. Withall connected all the projects under a common thread of
relationship building, stating every project tonight exists because someone in the
EDC picked up the phone, followed up numerous times that kept the door open
until the timing was right. She thanked the Commission for their unending support
and acknowledged that recent months had been difficult, expressing her
determination to turn these opportunities into lasting results for our community.
Mayor Tucker commented that the City is extremely grateful to Ms. Withall’s hard
work with the BEDC. She said Ms. Withall is not invisible to us, that we see the
turnaround and the progress of her work and are humbled that she chose to come
to Bartow.
Vice Mayor Simpson thanked Ms. Withall for not just focusing on business
recruitment, but also on retention and small business development across all
business types.
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July 20, 2026 @ 6:00 p.m.
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Commissioner Longworth acknowledged Ms. Withall's resilience and her role in
advancing the city's economic prospects.
Commissioner Ball echoed appreciation and reiterated that growth being recruited
is growth that pays its own way from day one.
In response to a question from Commissioner Pfeiffer regarding the Hutto
Property, Ms. Withall confirmed that the 16-acre site is in the engineering and
design phase for approximately 189,000 square feet of industrial development.
Commissioner Pfeiffer expressed deep gratitude, noting that Ms. Withall's work
has played a significant role in the city's transformation. She also praised the
Business Startup Guide as a hugely important tool and shared enthusiasm for the
welding program, pointing out that underwater welders at the Port of Tampa are
major employers. She recalled a moment approximately ten years ago when the
CFDC president told city leadership that Bartow was not progressive enough,
calling it a slap in the face that she and other leaders had worked ever since to
overcome it. She said now when I see this packet, I look at us and think we're not
like that anymore.
d.

Presentation of the July 2026 Beautification Awards – Kyle Lasek, PRCA
Asst. Director.
Asst. Director Lasek presented the July 2026 Beautification Awards.
The Residential Award was presented to Carson and Christine Bassett at 595
Jackson Avenue. Mr. Lasek described the property as featuring a layered
hedgerow of Boxwood, Loropetalum, and Indian Hawthorn along the front porch,
Hydrangeas, Crepe Myrtles, and orange Birds of Paradise along the north privacy
fence, and Magnolias and fern ground cover along the south side. The Bassett
family accepted the award.
Commissioner Pfeiffer noted this is a legacy home, and she appreciates the work
they are doing to it.
The Business Award was presented to JMI Construction and Renovations,
recognized for elevating their storefront on First Avenue by adding awnings,
wrought-iron covering, and exterior logo signage. The business was unable to
attend the meeting.
Mr. Lasek announced the upcoming Beautification Advisory Board meeting
scheduled for July 22nd at 5:30 PM in City Chambers and reminded citizens that
nominations can be submitted through the city's website at cityofbartow.net.

e.

Paint Your Heart Out Bartow Community Project Update – Cheryl Baksh,
CRA Business & Community Engagement Coordinator.

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Cheryl Basak, CRA Business and Community Engagement Coordinator, provided
an update on the first annual Paint Your Heart Out Bartow Community Service
Project, held Saturday, July 11th, from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM. The initiative was
developed with community stakeholders as part of the CRA's IMPACT program,
which invests in neighborhood beautification, community engagement, public
safety, and quality of life within the CRA district. She reported that the project
provided free exterior painting to qualifying homeowners, along with smoke
detectors and fire extinguishers installed and inspected by the Bartow Fire
Department. In total, 20 single-family homes and one commercial building were
painted. A short video produced by the city's communications department was
shown to the Commission and audience, capturing highlights of the event. The
video featured remarks from City Manager Mike Herr, CRA Director Howard Smith,
Commissioner Longworth, and participants from the Bartow Fire Department and
community volunteers, including a visibly grateful homeowner, Herbert Dixon. She
noted that the 180+ volunteers contributed an estimated 810 volunteer hours,
representing a donated labor value exceeding $11,300 based on Florida's
minimum wage. Ms. Basak recognized contracted partners in attendance Williamson Painting, Behr Paint and OD Jones Construction
Michael Williamson of Williamson Painting, spoke briefly about his participation,
noting he had done Paint Your Heart Out Lakeland for five straight years and was
eager to join Bartow's effort: He said if you can't help somebody, you shouldn't be
doing it.
Matt Crum of Behr Paint expressed gratitude and noted that seeing everybody just
buying in to the project throughout the entire town was beautiful. He thanked
Howard Smith and Cheryl Baksh for their dedication and described the consistency
he sees in Bartow as the city grows positively.
Ms. Basak also recognized planning committee members Anthony Ghent and
Symone Wilson, and city department contributors including Communications
Director Laurie Hayes, Solid Waste Manager Mike Davis who was on site at 5:30
AM distributing supplies and Bartow Fire Department representative John Young
who conducted safety inspections and installed smoke detectors.
Mayor Tucker offered closing remarks on behalf of the Commission, stating giving
back is one of the most important things we can do as a community. The next Paint
Your Heart Out event is planned for February
Vice Mayor Simpson, who participated in the event, highlighted the Bartow High
School football team as the standout volunteers of the day: She said those players
were knocking out those houses. Their work ethic was phenomenal. They were
fun. They were respectful, and they loved giving back to the community. She noted
the football team painted four houses and one commercial building and expressed
interest in bringing them to a future commission meeting to be formally recognized.
Commissioner Ball agreed and added that the music played on-site made the
event especially lively, asking organizers to ensure it returns for the next event.
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5. GENERAL PUBLIC COMMENT
At this time, the Commission received comments from the public regarding matters
not appearing on this agenda.
City Attorney Parker reminded all speakers addressing the City Commission that while
making comments during any time set aside for public comments or public hearings
to refrain from making any personal attacks, derogatory comments, commenting on
any items in litigation or under investigation, or any other matters that do not fall within
the purview of the City Commission. Public speakers are limited to three minutes.
Yielding of time is not customary during public comments. General public comment is
the public's chance to speak and be heard and is not a time typically for questions and
answers. Refer to the agenda to seek the appropriate time to make comments.
Speaker cards are located on the tables to the left of the room and with the City Clerk.
Fill out the speaker card and give it to the clerk when you come to the podium. Before
you begin your remarks, state your name and address for the record.
Mayor Tucker opened the public comment period.
Gerald J. Cochran, 1615 North St., Bartow. Mr. Cochran had concerns regarding
staffing and service delivery. He expressed concern about what he described as an
expanded number of positions added during City Manager Herr's tenure and
questioned whether multiple supervisory layers across city departments were
necessary given the cost to taxpayers. Additionally, he raised concerns about the city
manager's salary, suggesting that it was high and inquiring about its total, including
benefits. He also raised a specific service complaint, stating he had waited three
weeks for his yard trash to be picked up and observed the collection truck pass his
property that morning while stopping on both sides of his property but not his. He
stated he pays taxes, just like everybody else.
Mayor Tucker responded that City Manager Herr's salary is within reason compared
to other jurisdictions of our size, adding that he has been worth every penny of what
he's brought to the city.
With no further comments, Mayor Tucker closed the public comment period.
6. CITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
Commissioner Pfeiffer read a citizen commendation received on July 8th from Steven
Wheeler, 1950 Wind Meadows Drive, Bartow, praising the Fire, Police, and Electric
departments for their rapid and professional response to a power surge and smoke
smell in his home. The commendation stated that all three city departments deserve
whatever they ask for. She noted she shared the letter with the resident's permission
and offered the occasion as a reminder that positive feedback matters, that sometimes
it's nice to hear the positive and the good that we do instead of being hammered.
Commissioner Pfeiffer also noted the upcoming retirement of Mark Jackson from Polk
County Sports Marketing after 34 years of service, recognizing his contributions to
Bartow's 5/55 Field and other athletic facilities, and expressed regret that the League
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Page 10 of 22

of Cities Conference would prevent commissioners from attending his retirement
party.
Mayor Tucker shared a personal note that her shed had been struck by lightning and
caught fire the previous week. She praised the Bartow Fire Department for their
response time and thoroughness, even though she lives on the outskirts of town. She
said thankfully it was just my shed, no one got hurt.
Commissioner Longworth recognized City Manager Herr for organizing the FaithBased Leaders Luncheon, an inaugural event led by Pam Sams, Director of
Community Affairs and Special Events. He described the event as well attended and
well run and expressed anticipation that future editions would generate even more
community input.
Commissioner Ball gave a shout-out to the Bartow Electric Department and Director
Mike Poucher, noting their recognition at the Florida Municipal Electric Association
(FMEA) conference, where they received four awards for reliability, placing them
among the top utilities in the state for outage duration performance.
Commissioner Pfeiffer and Commissioner Ball discussed insights from the FMEA
conference, including emerging topics such as global energy pricing, heat domes, and
the growing concern of drone warfare as a threat to electrical grid infrastructure.
7. REPORT OF CHARTER OFFICERS
a.

CITY MANAGER COMMUNICATIONS
City Manager Herr distributed a copy of the upcoming City Commission meeting
schedule. Key dates included: July 29th CRA Board meeting; budget workshops
on Wednesday and Friday of that week; the August 3rd and August 17th regular
meetings; a community conversation on property tax relief scheduled for August
25th at the Civic Center; the tentative budget adoption on September 2nd; the final
budget adoption at the September 15th regular meeting; a second community
conversation at the Polk Street Center on September 24th; and a third community
conversation at the Carver Recreation Center on October 15th.
City Manager Herr referenced newly received data from the Revenue Estimating
Conference via the Florida City-County Management Association (FCCMA),
providing local estimates of the projected fiscal impact of Amendment 3 on
property tax revenues. He presented the following projections for the City of
Bartow:
•

FY 2027-28: Projected property tax loss of $2,077,453

•

FY 2028-29: An additional projected loss of approximately $3,400,000 as
the increased exemption takes effect

•

Through FY 2031-32: Cumulative projected loss of $5,082,942
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City Manager Herr noted that current property tax revenue represents
approximately $8.8 million of the general fund and that the projected impact was
larger than he anticipated because he had not looked at those outer years. He
expressed confidence that the city would navigate the challenges.
Commissioner Pfeiffer asked whether the community conversations would be
streamed.
City Manager Herr confirmed the Civic Center event on August 25th is well suited
for web streaming, and that recorded video could be reused at subsequent
community locations.
Commissioner Pfeiffer raised the idea of inviting the Property Appraiser and Tax
Collector to participate, given their direct expertise in calculating assessed and
market values.
City Manager Herr agreed and noted the possibility of providing kiosks at each
community meeting so residents could look up their own property's estimated tax
impact.
Commissioner Pfeiffer offered substantive commentary on the underlying equity
concern driving the amendment, noting that homeowners whose property values
have risen dramatically from $100,000 to $300,000, for example have nothing to
show for that $200,000 difference other than a higher tax bill. She expressed
sympathy for that perspective while also advocating for a more nuanced, better
way to do this if the amendment does not ultimately pass.
City Manager Herr agreed and suggested engaging experts before the Budget and
Tax Reform Commission, which he noted has authority that may not require a
legislative vote.
1.

PRCA Update – Jason Hargrove, PRCA Director
Director Hargrove provided a comprehensive update across the department's
three divisions: Parks and Recreation, the Golf Course, and the Library.\
Golf Course
Director Hargrove reported significant staffing improvements on the golf
course. Grace St. Lassiter has been installed as the new General Manager and
is doing a phenomenal job. A new Maintenance Supervisor, Nathan Comar,
was recently hired with 19 years of golf turf experience from Big Cypress Golf
Course in Lakeland. Spray and irrigation technician George Foreman was set
to begin on July 27th with four years of relevant experience. Director Hargrove
stated the conditions of the course are drastically improving every day. He
described the Legacy Brick Pathway Program, through which patrons can
purchase personalized bricks to be laid behind hole number one. The program
has sold 88 bricks, currently generating approximately $8,200 in revenue,
which already covers the $8,000 installation cost. Sales will continue through
August with installation beginning in October, followed by a second round of
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sales in January. He reported that Golf Pro Reddick has run three youth
summer clinics averaging approximately 45 kids per week, for a total of
approximately 180 youth participants. On revenue, Director Hargrove reported
strong performance: through mid-June 2026 (8.5 months), the course had
already generated $860,867 in green fees at an average of approximately
$101,000 per month, compared to a 2025 full-year total of $892,800 averaging
$74,000 per month. Mulligan’s Restaurant has also improved, averaging
approximately $52,000 per month in food and beverage sales through midJune 2026, compared to $46,700 per month across all of 2025.
Library
Director Hargrove reported that construction has begun on the Story Trail
Project, a quarter-mile walking trail with reading stations and outdoor recreation
equipment adjacent to the library, with completion expected in late November
or early December. He highlighted the library's social media program, Tales of
the Town, produced by city historian Lloyd Harris, which covers historical topics
such as hitching posts, carriage steps, war memorials, manhole covers from
the Peninsula Telephone Company, and upcoming topics including the golf
course and Herbert Dixon, George Pittas baseball history, and the history of
the library itself. The Summer Super Shows at the Civic Center have been well
attended: a Dinosaur Adventure program brought in 450 people, Dinosaur
Theater drew 275, and the most recent show, Gatorland, attracted 475
attendees. Additional summer programs included a Kids Get Cooking program
with 70 participants, an American Trilogy Music program with 41 participants
on July 15th, and a Human Library event in which professionals from various
fields are interviewed by youth and adult participants.
Parks and Recreation
Director Hargrove described the newly installed Perry Weather lightning
detection system, now operational at Mary Holland Park, Bartow Sports
Complex, the Pittas Baseball Complex, the Golf Course, Nye Jordan Park, and
the Tennis Center. The system alerts when lightning is detected within 8 miles,
with a 30-minute all-clear protocol before play can resume. He noted residents
can sign up for alerts by scanning QR codes at the parks or through the city's
website. On capital projects, Director Hargrove reported the following statuses:
Bartow Sports Complex Parking Lights: Piggyback contract complete;
projected completion by end of September 2026.
Pittas Baseball Complex Restroom Renovations: Work underway; projected
completion by end of August.
Skate Park at Mary Holland Park: In design phase; community input meeting
to be scheduled shortly.
Carver Recreation All-Purpose Field Lights (CDBG Project): Currently out to
bid.
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Mosaic Soccer Field: has been closed for approximately six weeks for aeration,
top dressing, and new sod installation in high-wear areas such as goal boxes.
Parks Master Plan: a final community meeting is scheduled for August 6th at
the Bartow Civic Center from 5:30 to 7:30 PM, where the consulting team will
present all feedback gathered to date and solicit final community input before
developing renderings. The Skate Park community input session will be
incorporated into the same meeting.
Security cameras: have been installed at all outdoor restroom facilities and are
live and operational. Installations are currently underway at the Carver
Recreation Center, with subsequent work planned at the Civic Center and Polk
Street facility, covering both interior and exterior locations.
Bartow Youth Baseball – Carver Recreation All-Purpose Field
Director Hargrove introduced Wes Harbin and John King of the Bartow Youth
Baseball League, who were present in the audience. He presented the league's
request to use the Carver Recreation All-Purpose Field to establish a 13-to-15year-old division, which currently has no home field in the city. The problem, as
he described it, is that there is no clear pathway for kids to play baseball after
12 years old. Regulation fields for that age group require 280-foot minimum
fence distances and 90-foot base paths, specifications the Carver field meets,
unlike the existing 200-foot-fence, 60-foot-path fields at the Pittas Complex.
The proposed arrangement is collaborative: the league would purchase and
install removable bases, a portable pitching mound, league-funded dugouts
outside the field of play (to always remain unlocked and available to the public),
a city-approved equipment storage shed, and backstop fencing extensions
behind home plate. The city would continue to provide regular maintenance.
Baseball use would be scheduled approximately two nights per week, leaving
the field available for Parks and Recreation programming and open community
use the remaining time. Field lights are already in the procurement process
through the existing CDBG project. He noted that the arrangement will not
conflict with other city programming, including flag football, which also uses the
facility. He emphasized the urgency, stating right now, we're losing these kids,
because they are going outside of Bartow to play.
Commissioner Longworth included confirmation that no other programming
would be displaced, clarification on scheduling (spring season January through
April/May; fall ball September through November), and assurance that the
removable bases and portable mound would be stored securely in the leagueowned shed on city property.
Commissioner Ball remarked that this development had been long anticipated
given the loss of the older youth baseball fields at the 555 site as it transitioned
to softball. He said it's time to bring them home.

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Vice Mayor Simpson noted it had been two years since she first raised the issue
on her first parks visit with Director Hargrove and expressed appreciation that
the proposal had finally come to fruition.
Commissioner Ball also recognized decades of volunteer contributions by
coaches like Wes Harbin, Mark Brock with soccer, and Garth Washington with
football.
MOTION was made by Commissioner Ball, seconded by Vice Mayor Simpson
to authorize staff to move forward with the league to execute the improvements
and add the 13-to-15-year-old baseball division at the Carver Recreation AllPurpose Field.
VOTE TO THE MOTION WAS AS FOLLOWS:
AYE: Ball, Longworth, Pfeiffer, Simpson, Tucker
NAY: None
Motion carried.
Commissioner Longworth raised a separate matter regarding the vacant lot
adjacent to the MLK Gazebo, asking for an update on whether the city had
made progress in identifying or purchasing that property.
City Attorney Parker acknowledged that outreach to the property owner had
been initiated previously but had encountered an obstacle and committed to
reviewing his notes and providing a follow-up update to the Commission.
Commissioner Longworth expressed concern that without action, the lot could
be developed in a way that would eliminate its current use as overflow space
for park visitors and urged staff to pursue ownership if possible.
2.

SET FY 2026-2027 MILLAGE RATE
Deputy City Manager Lear presented the proposed maximum millage rate for
Fiscal Year 2026-2027. He clarified that this action establishes the maximum
rate, not the adopted rate, and that the commission retains the ability to set a
lower rate during the September budget adoption process but cannot go higher
without restarting the full TRIM process. He proposed maintaining the
maximum millage rate at the same level as last year: 6.1080 mills. He reported
that citywide property values increased by 10.03 percent over the prior year,
representing approximately $165 million in added value. He noted that
approximately $90 million of that increase represents new construction, new
value added to the city's tax base, rather than appreciation of existing
properties.
Commissioner Longworth asked for clarification on the difference between the
proposed rate and the rollback rate.
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Deputy City Manager Lear explained that the rollback rate is the rate designed
to generate the same property tax revenue as the prior year; the 6.1080 rate,
being higher than the rollback, would bring in additional revenue. He further
noted that under newly enacted state law, adopting a millage rate above the
rollback will now require a supermajority (four of five commissioners) rather
than a simple majority. In terms of projected revenue, he indicated the 6.1080
rate would generate approximately $8.5 million for the city's general fund and
approximately $1.4 million for the CRA, for a combined total of approximately
$9.9 million, compared to $9.1 million in the prior year.
Commissioner Ball asked how the 10 percent revenue increase compares to
the Consumer Price Index.
Deputy City Manager Lear noted the latest inflation figure is approximately 4.2
percent, meaning the revenue increase outpaces inflation. He also clarified that
this rate would appear on TRIM notices sent to property owners.
City Manager Herr expressed concerns about projected future property tax
losses due to Amendment 3 but shared confidence that city leadership would
navigate the challenges as they emerge.
MOTION was made by Commissioner Longworth, seconded by Commissioner
Ball to set the maximum millage rate at 6.1080 for FY 2026-2027.
VOTE TO THE MOTION WAS AS FOLLOWS:
AYE: Ball, Longworth, Pfeiffer, Simpson, Tucker
NAY: None
Motion carried.
Additionally, Deputy City Manager Lear shared news that the $4M did get
approved by the Governor for the fire station study.
3.

UPDATE ON ELECTRIC AWARDS - MICHAEL POUCHER, ELECTRIC
UTILITY DIRECTOR (Item was added by the City Manager)
Electric Utility Director Poucher discussed Bartow's recent awards from the
Florida Municipal Power Association (FMPA) during the Florida Municipal
Electric Association (FMEA) conference. He outlined that the City of Bartow
received four reliability awards recognizing achievements such as the lowest
outage duration and most significant annual reduction among medium utilities
in Florida. This accomplishment is thanks to the diligent work of the electric
utility team, highlighting the department's ongoing efforts to maintain efficient
and reliable power service to the community.

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b.

CITY ATTORNEY COMMUNICATIONS
Emilie Litigation
City Attorney Parker provided a procedural update on the Emilie litigation matter.
He noted that approximately 90 informational letters were sent to adjacent
landowners and individuals who testified at prior public hearings, as required by
statute. To date, 10-15 individuals have contacted his office requesting
participation in the upcoming special magistrate hearing. He confirmed that
scheduling is being coordinated with opposing counsel but that given the scope,
the hearing is likely to fall in October or November. The hearing, when scheduled,
would be held in Commission Chambers, would be open to the public, and would
likely be an all-day proceeding. Interested parties would receive formal notice at
least 40 days in advance of the hearing date. He also noted he had briefed
Commissioner Pfeiffer on the matter, as she was absent from the prior shade
meeting.
195 South Broadway Property
City Attorney Parker provided an update on the city's due diligence process for the
potential acquisition of 195 South Broadway as a new city office location. He
reported that most due diligence items are nearly complete and that within the
following week, the city would likely notify the seller of its intent to proceed, with
closing expected no later than August 31st (potentially earlier), to facilitate planning
for the physical transition.
Florida Municipal Attorneys Association Conference
City Attorney Parker described the recent FMAA conference as perhaps the most
informative conference he has attended in a while, noting that almost every topic
was pertinent to Bartow's current environment: artificial intelligence, drones, data
centers, building official reform, property tax changes, and industrial land use
dynamics. He offered to share a legislative update document with all
commissioners. He noted that the conference's ethics session focused on how city
attorneys could manage situations involving elected officials who attempt to pit
legal counsel against other commissioners or demand unethical actions. He
expressed gratitude to the Bartow Commission, thanking them for being nice,
rational, normal people and conducting yourselves with professionalism. He added
we got it pretty good here in Bartow compared to other cities.
Commissioner Longworth asked about any progress in investigating the ownership
of Palm Cemetery. He expressed concerns regarding maintaining respect for the
gravesites and ensuring the cemetery's upkeep, given the absence of heirs to
some buried in the cemetery.
City Attorney Parker acknowledged that outreach had been initiated to ascertain
ownership but encountered obstacles and committed to revisiting the matter and
providing a follow-up update to the Commission.
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Commissioner Longworth urged staff to focus attention on the issue and explore
possible actions, like acquisition or improvements, to protect the site. He also
spoke briefly about perpetuity funds for continued maintenance and extending the
fencing from Evergreen Cemetery to Palm Cemetery.
c.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES
City Manager Herr referenced the recent legislative delegation breakfast hosted
by the Chamber, which he described as a well-organized and informative event,
and noted the commission had received useful context on the purpose and scope
of the Budget and Tax Reform, including insights about its potential authority to
enact rules without a legislative vote.
City Manager Herr reported Senate Bill 44, recently signed by the governor,
establishes regulations for data centers but expressly preserves local government
authority over comprehensive planning, zoning, land development regulations, and
permitting decisions. He stated he would like the Commission to direct the City
Attorney and himself to develop a policy statement that would prohibit data centers
within the city limits, citing concerns over power consumption and water usage. He
noted the city's only greenfield industrial site, Clear Springs, would likely be where
any such proposal might emerge and expressed a preference to protect that land
for more traditional industrial uses.
Mayor Tucker expressed support, stating she does not believe there's a place for
data centers in Bartow.
Commissioner Ball strongly agreed and advocated for at least a one-year
moratorium. He emphasized concerns with water and infrastructure strain,
explaining the potential burdens a data center could impose on Bartow's
resources.
Commissioner Pfeiffer also expressed support for a moratorium. She cited
concerns that the current bill may not remain in place under a future governor. She
raised issues related to water availability and expressed skepticism about data
centers' promises to not need local resources, emphasizing potential dependency
after significant investments, which could strain the local population.
Commissioner Longworth indicated his openness to receiving more information,
noting public sentiment and existing data on environmental impacts have generally
not favored data centers. He reminded the Commission that these facilities are
significant users of electricity and water, resources that the city must carefully
manage, given the region's challenges with water availability and the need to
remain agile against future legislative changes that may alter the current regulatory
landscape.
Vice Mayor Simpson agreed to a moratorium and stated she knows data centers
are needed, but they don’t have to be here. Shed indicated her alignment with the
idea of a moratorium. She highlighted a responsible, forward-thinking approach in
city planning, ensuring that Bartow reserves its industrial spaces for economically
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beneficial and environmentally sustainable uses. She emphasized a cautious
approach to considering data centers considering potential risks and liabilities and
voiced strong support for a temporary pause to thoroughly evaluate the potential
repercussions of permitting such developments within Bartow.
The Commission directed City Attorney Parker and City Manager Herr to return
with a formal policy item for consideration at an upcoming meeting.
8. AGENDA MODIFICATION / APPROVAL
MOTION was made by Vice Mayor Simpson, seconded by Commissioner Ball to
approve the agenda as presented.
VOTE TO THE MOTION WAS AS FOLLOWS:
AYE: Ball, Longworth, Pfeiffer, Simpson, Tucker
NAY: None
Motion carried.
9.

PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS
At this time, the Commission received comments from the public regarding matters
appearing on this agenda, not otherwise scheduled for a separate public hearing.
Mayor Tucker opened the public hearing.
With no comments, Mayor Tucker closed the public comment period.

10. HEARINGS – FIRST AND SECOND READINGS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS – NONE
11. CONSENT AGENDA
a.

Approval of July 6, 2026, City Commission Regular Meeting minutes.

b.

Approval of July 6, 2026, City Commission Executive Session minutes.

c.

Approval of June 25, 2026, City Commission Special Meeting minutes.
(funding)

d.

Approval of June 25, 2026, City Commission Special Meeting minutes. (CRA
governance)

e.

Approval authorizing staff to enter into a contract with the Lunz Group, Inc.
for the Fire Rescue Headquarters & Training Facility Feasibility Study.

f.

Approval of City Commissioner absence(s) for July 6, 2026, excusal(s):
Commissioner Pfeiffer.
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MOTION was made by Commissioner Ball, seconded by Vice Mayor Simpson to
approve Consent Agenda as presented.
VOTE TO THE MOTION WAS AS FOLLOWS:
AYE: Ball, Longworth, Pfeiffer, Simpson, Tucker
NAY: None
Motion carried.
12. OTHER COMMISSION BUSINESS
a.

OLD BUSINESS – NONE

b.

NEW BUSINESS – NONE

13. RESOLUTIONS
a.

RESOLUTION NO. 26-4269-R – A RESOLUTION OF CITY OF BARTOW,
FLORIDA, RELATING TO THE STATE REVOLVING FUND LOAN PROGRAM;
CLEAN WATER STATE REVOLVING FUND (CWSRF) PROJECT NO.
WW53024; MAKING FINDINGS; AUTHORIZING THE LOAN APPLICATION;
AUTHORIZING THE LOAN AGREEMENT; ESTABLISHING PLEDGED
REVENUES;
DESIGNATING
AUTHORIZED
REPRESENTATIVES;
PROVIDING ASSURANCES; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS, SEVERABILITY,
AND EFFECTIVE DATE.
City Attorney Parker read the resolution by title only:
“A RESOLUTION OF CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA, RELATING TO THE STATE
REVOLVING FUND LOAN PROGRAM; CLEAN WATER STATE REVOLVING
FUND (CWSRF) PROJECT NO. WW53024; MAKING FINDINGS;
AUTHORIZING THE LOAN APPLICATION; AUTHORIZING THE LOAN
AGREEMENT; ESTABLISHING PLEDGED REVENUES; DESIGNATING
AUTHORIZED
REPRESENTATIVES;
PROVIDING
ASSURANCES;
PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS, SEVERABILITY, AND EFFECTIVE DATE.”
MOTION was made by Commissioner Ball, seconded by Vice Mayor Simpson, to
adopt Resolution No. 26-4269-R, a resolution of City of Bartow, Florida, relating
to the State Revolving Fund Loan Program; Clean Water State Revolving Fund
(CWSRF) project no. WW53024; making findings; authorizing the loan
application; authorizing the loan agreement; establishing pledged revenues;
designating authorized representatives; providing assurances; providing for
conflicts, severability, and effective date.
City Manager Herr provided context, explaining that the resolution relates to a
$19,165,503 funding award through the federal EPA and Florida DEP State
Revolving Loan Program, facilitated by consultant Lee Hale of Hale Innovation.
Despite the term loan, he characterized it as effectively a grant, as it is a loan we
19

City Commission Regular Meeting
July 20, 2026 @ 6:00 p.m.
Page 20 of 22

don't have to pay back. He identified the four wastewater-related projects to be
funded: a concrete flood wall enclosing the wastewater treatment facility; lift
station rehabilitation; a SCADA/telemetry system for monitoring wastewater flows
and minimizing environmental impacts; a vacuum truck unloading station and new
vacuum truck; and a headwaters equalization tank to store peak flows during
storm events and prevent treatment failures or bypasses. He credited Grant
Administrator Jones and staff for securing the funding, noting the city has applied
for approximately $40 million in grant opportunities in total.
ROLL CALL VOTE TO THE MOTION WAS AS FOLLOWS:
AYE: Ball, Longworth, Pfeiffer, Simpson, Tucker
NAY: None
Motion carried
b.

RESOLUTION NO. 26-4270-R – A RESOLUTION OF CITY OF BARTOW,
FLORIDA, RELATING TO THE STATE REVOLVING FUND LOAN PROGRAM;
DRINKING WATER STATE REVOLVING FUND (DWSRF) PROJECT NO.
DW530250; MAKING FINDINGS; AUTHORIZING THE LOAN APPLICATION;
AUTHORIZING THE LOAN AGREEMENT; ESTABLISHING PLEDGED
REVENUES;
DESIGNATING
AUTHORIZED
REPRESENTATIVES;
PROVIDING ASSURANCES; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS, SEVERABILITY,
AND EFFECTIVE DATE.
City Attorney Parker read the resolution by title only:
“A RESOLUTION OF CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA, RELATING TO THE STATE
REVOLVING FUND LOAN PROGRAM; DRINKING WATER STATE
REVOLVING FUND (DWSRF) PROJECT NO. DW530250; MAKING FINDINGS;
AUTHORIZING THE LOAN APPLICATION; AUTHORIZING THE LOAN
AGREEMENT; ESTABLISHING PLEDGED REVENUES; DESIGNATING
AUTHORIZED
REPRESENTATIVES;
PROVIDING
ASSURANCES;
PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS, SEVERABILITY, AND EFFECTIVE DATE.”
MOTION was made by Vice Mayor Simpson, seconded by Commissioner Ball to
adopt Resolution No. 26-4270-R, a resolution of City of Bartow, Florida, relating
to the State Revolving Fund Loan Program; Drinking Water State Revolving Fund
(DWSRF) Project No. DW530250; making findings; authorizing the loan
application; authorizing the loan agreement; establishing pledged revenues;
designating authorized representatives; providing assurances; providing for
conflicts, severability, and effective date.
City Manager Herr noted this resolution draws from the same funding source, with
$5,300,000 designated for three drinking water projects: the Bartow-Lakeland
Interconnect, a water main extension that would allow the city to send or receive
water from Polk County or the City of Lakeland in the event of a significant
emergency; a Potable Water Treatment Plant Generator, providing full-facility
backup power with an automatic transfer switch; and a Standby Well Emergency
20

City Commission Regular Meeting
July 20, 2026 @ 6:00 p.m.
Page 21 of 22

Power Supply for Well No. 5 in Southwest Bartow, used for fire flows and extreme
weather events. He also signaled forthcoming work on a water and wastewater
master plan, noting the city has not had one in approximately 15 to 16 years. He
expressed concern about what the plan may reveal, as he didn’t think it would
have a lot of good news.
ROLL CALL VOTE TO THE MOTION WAS AS FOLLOWS:
AYE: Ball, Longworth, Pfeiffer, Simpson, Tucker
NAY: None
Motion carried.
14. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
a.

GARY BALL
Commissioner Ball expressed brief appreciation for City Manager short but
impactful presentation on the revolving fund resolutions, noting no additional
comments.

b.

LEO E. LONGWORTH
Commissioner Longworth announced that Union Academy, its alma mater, is
hosting a mini-reunion Thursday through Saturday of that week, with close to 200
attendees expected. He expressed enthusiasm for the reunion's contribution to
Bartow's economy through hotel rooms and restaurant visits.

c.

TRISH PFEIFFER
Commissioner Pfeiffer thanked staff for still being here at this late hour and
expressed appreciation for the community members in attendance.

d.

LAURA SIMPSON
Vice Mayor Simpson had no further comments.

e.

TANYA TUCKER
Mayor Tucker had no further comments.

15. ADJOURNMENT
With no further business to discuss, Mayor Tucker adjourned the Regular Meeting at
9:04 p.m.
Mayor Tanya Tucker
21

City Commission Regular Meeting
July 20, 2026 @ 6:00 p.m.
Page 22 of 22

ATTEST:
City Clerk Jacqueline Poole
(City Seal)

22

ITEM NO. 11.a & 11.b
CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA
TO:

City Commission

FROM:

Jacqueline Poole, City Clerk

DATE:

August 3, 2026

SUBJECT:

Request to reschedule September 2026 City Commission Regular Meeting dates

SUMMARY
The request is to reschedule the September 2026 Regular Meeting dates to allow the Polk
County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) and the Polk County School Board (PCSB)
adequate time to hold their 2026-2027 Budget Hearings.
The proposed meeting dates are as follows:
Tuesday, September 8, 2026 rescheduled to Thursday, September 3, 2026.
Monday, September 14, 2026 rescheduled to Tuesday, September 15, 2026.
BACKGROUND
This request is made on an annual basis to accommodate the meeting schedules of the Polk
County Board of County Commissioners and the Polk County School Board. On June 20, 2016,
Section 2-36 of the Code of Ordinances was amended pursuant to Ordinance 2016-10, and
states “a particular regular meeting may be rescheduled to a different time or date, or cancelled
altogether, when circumstances arise that necessitate such a change to the regular schedule by
affirmative majority vote of the Commission during a previously held regular meeting.”
RECOMMENDATION
•

That the Commission approves the request to reschedule the September 2026 Regular
Meeting dates.

ATTACHMENTS
•
•

Section 2-36 of the Code of Ordinances
2026 Board of County Commissioners / School Board Budget Hearing Dates

ITEM NO. 11.a & 11.b
CITY OF BARTOW – CODE OF ORDINANCES
Sec. 2-36. - Time for regular meetings; number thereof; meetings open to the public.

The regular commission meetings of the city commission shall be held in the city commission
chambers in the city hall on the first and third Mondays of each month commencing at 6:00
p.m. However, a particular regular meeting may be rescheduled to a different time or date, or
cancelled altogether, when circumstances arise that necessitate such a change to the regular
schedule by affirmative majority vote of the commission during a previously held regular
meeting. In the event that unexpected circumstances arise between meetings that necessitate
a change to the regular schedule of the next meeting, and those circumstances were not known
at the time of the prior meeting at which a vote of the commission could have been taken, such
meeting may be cancelled or rescheduled by agreement of the city manager, or his or her
designee, and the mayor, or if the mayor is unavailable, the vice mayor. Rescheduled meetings
shall be advertised in the same manner as regularly scheduled meets. Cancellations shall be
made known to the public and media, as soon as reasonably possible when circumstances arise
necessitating such cancellations. When a regularly scheduled commission meeting falls on a
legal holiday, the commission shall meet on the Tuesday immediately following the first or third
Monday unless otherwise changed by affirmative majority vote of the commission as described
above. Additionally, when the city commission chambers are anticipated to be inadequate to
accommodate a large number of citizens expected to be in attendance at a given meeting, the
commission may hold said regular meeting in a location more suitable for public participation
upon prior affirmative vote of the commission and public notice of the location. All meetings of
the city commission shall be open to the public as prescribed by law.
(Code 1955, § 2-1; Ord. No. 2008-22, § 1(Exh. A), 8-4-08; Ord. No. 2010-17, § 1(Exh. A), 10-4-10;
Ord. No. 2016-10, § 1(Exh. A), 6-20-16)

Neil Combee

Polk County Property Appraiser

ADA Compliant
Revised 01/2026

2026 Board of County Commissioners / School Board Budget Hearing Dates
Hearing dates scheduled by the BOCC and the School Board cannot be used by any other taxing
authority within the county for its public hearing. (s. 200.065(2)(e)2., F.S.)

PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

ITEM NO. 12.b.1
CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA
TO:

City Commissioners

FROM:

Jacki Poole, City Clerk

DATE:

August 3, 2026

SUBJECT:

Ranking and Approval to appoint two (2) new members to the Community
Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Board.

SUMMARY
The request is for the Commission to rank applicants to appoint two members to the newly formed
CRA board. The first appointed board member shall initially serve a term of 2 years, and the
second appointed board member shall initially serve a term of 4 years
BACKGROUND
The Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) was established under Chapter 163.370 of the
Florida Statutes and under Section 30 of the City’s Code of Ordinances. (Refer to Ordinance Nos.
1544 (April 16, 1990), 1547 (June 4, 1990) and Resolution No. 2895 (June 4, 1990). The Agency
is established for a 30-year period.
The CRA was created to promote redevelopment of slum and blighted areas as established by
the Community Redevelopment Area and Plan. Its board is tasked with identifying redevelopment
and reinvestment opportunities that will improve the community.
CRA Funds are provided through increases in the valuation of taxable real property in both the
City and County after the establishment of a base year tax value. The Agency has an executive
director who administers the day-to-day operations.
This board consists of seven members, five of which are elected City Commissioners and two that
are citizen members who are appointed by the City Commission and have staggered four-year
terms. There is no formal compensation.
The board generally meets the last Wednesday of each month at 8:30 a.m. except in August when
it meets at 5:30 p.m.; additionally, the November and December meetings are combined into one
meeting that is held on the first Wednesday of December. All meetings take place in the City
Commission Chambers located at City Hall unless otherwise specified.
Pursuant to the Community Redevelopment Act of 1969 (Section 163.356(3)(b) of the Florida
Statutes) you are qualified to serve on the CRA Board if you reside or are engaged in business,
which means owning a business, practicing a profession, or performing a service for
compensation, or serving as an officer or director of a corporation or other business entity so
engaged, within the area of operation of the City of Bartow, Florida. A successful candidate for
appointments to the CRA Board typically both reside in Bartow and are engaged in business in
Bartow.
Members of this Agency must file an annual Statement of Financial Interest and are subject to the
Sunshine Law. There is no special education or training to hold a position on this board, however,
members are encouraged to attend redevelopment-related conferences.

ITEM NO. 12.b.1
STAFF ANALYSIS
At the June 25, 2026, City Commission Special Meeting, the Commission adopted Resolution No.
26-4266-R, declaring itself to be the Bartow Community Redevelopment Agency pursuant to the
Community Redevelopment Act of 1969, terminating the previous agency and terminating the
previous set of appointments and providing the terms of the new Agency’s members. The
members of the Commission shall serve as Agency Members for so long as they remain as
properly sitting members of the Commission. The first appointed board member shall initially serve
a term of 2 years, and the second appointed board member shall initially serve a term of 4 years.
Following those initial appointments, all future appointed board members shall serve terms of 4
years, unless otherwise removed pursuant to Florida law.
The City Commission at its July 6, 2026 Regular Meeting determined that applicants for the
vacancies would be solicited and that the ranking and approval procedure would be included on
the August 3, 2026 Regular Meeting agenda.
The City Clerk’s Office contacted the previous board members and the applicants on file to
resubmit application. Additionally, a public notice of the vacancies was posted on the City’s
website, at city facilities, on social media, advertised in the Lakeland Sun newspaper and emailed
to the email communications subscription list. A total of 12 applications were received, 4 being
from previous CRA board members.
RECOMMENDATION
•

That the Commissioners rank the nominations. The ranking procedure is as follows:
RANKING PROCEDURE: The Commission will rank each applicant using the method of 1
for first choice, 2 for second choice, and so on. The City Attorney will tally the scores; the
City Clerk will confirm the totals. The City Attorney will announce the results.

•

The Commission takes action to appoint two new board members based on the results of
the ranking.

NEXT STEPS
1. The City Clerk’s Office informs the applicants of their appointment and term length, and
provides a board handbook, a copy of the Florida Commission on Ethics Guide to the
Sunshine Amendment & Code of Ethics for Public Officers, financial disclosure instructions
and contact information for the Board Administrator.
2. The Board Administrator and City Attorney conduct an orientation session with the board
members to review Sunshine Law and public records requirements, as well as the
members’ roles, duties, and responsibilities on the board.
ATTACHMENTS
•

Applications for Shana Bennett, Christy Byers, Jerome Corbett, Anthony Ghent, Gordon
Greene, Leroy Joe, Jr., Ashley Knight, Ian Legg, Timothy Sanders, Amber Screen, Alvin
Smith, Jr., Symone Wilson.

Send by Email

•

dtyof~rtow
1'1k°""ltii'<~07ii

CITY OF BARTOW BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

For office use only

APPLICATION

E .EIV D !Y

Thank you for your interest in serving on a Bartow board or committee!

JUN 14 202

Before You Begin.
Please read this form carefully. Fully complete all sections. Applications
remain active for one year from submittal date.

,~~,o~ If{ CLYl'f> • n~E

Print

Return completed application to:
City Clerk's Office, Bartow City Hall, 450 N. Wilson Avenue, Bartow, Florida 33830; or FAX to: 863-534-0409; or email to:
[email protected]
Choice of Board or Committee.
Please review the attached descriptions & qualifications for the board or committee that interested
in joining.
List the name of the board/committee for which you are applying

I CRA

Note: that you may only belong to one board or committee at a time.

~-- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ~,

Contact Information: Please print legibly.
Note: this application, and all information you provide, may be viewed by the public upon request.

Shana Bennett
Name 305 E Main Street
Mailing Address 863 _519 _3333
Home Phone Number

Citv k. .

Stat~ Zio •
coo 1e1arbakes hopan dearery~gma1
1.com

1

1

Cell Phone Number

Email Address

Why are you interested in serving as a member of your selected board or committee?
I am committed to continuing the work of the CRA with experience, institutional knowledge, and a
proven commitment to responsible redevelopment. I believe every decision should reflect transparency,
accountability, the best interests of our community, and I welcome the opportunity to continue serving the citizens of Bartow.

Briefly describe prior board or committee service and/or special qualifications:

Most recent CRA Board Member with proven knowledge of ongoing CRA initiatives, redevelopment planning, and a commitment to accountability and public service.

Section 760.80, Florida Statutes, requires certain reporting of minority representation on statutorily created boards to
be filed on an annual basis. Please complete the following:

Race: D Native American D African American D Hispanic D Asian Iii Caucasian O0ther
Gender:

□ Male

Iii Female

Have you ever been convicted of a crime? OYes li!No
If yes, please explain:

N/A

Physically Disabled :

□ Yes

[iJNo

li]I do hereby acknowledge the following:

1. This application, when complete and filed with the Office of the City Clerk, is a Public Record under Chapter
119, Florida Statutes, and is open to public inspection.
2. I am responsible for keeping the information on this form current and that any changes or updates will be
provided to the Office of the City Clerk
3. I consent to filing the Statement of Financial Interests (FORM 1) if required for this board/committee.
4. If appointed, I acknowledge that it is my obligation and duty to comply with the following:
a. Code of Ethics for Public Officials (F.S. Chapter 112, Part Ill)
b. Florida Sunshine Law (F.S. Chapter 286)
c. Florida Statutes www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/
5. I understand the responsibilities associated with being a board or committee member, and I will have
adequate time to serve on the board or committee I have selected.
Bartow Residency. Bartow residency is a requirement for Bartow boards and committees, unless you are

applying for the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). For the CRA, you must live or work in the city limits.

12:) 1attest that I reside within the incorporated limits of Bartow.
Home Address:

Home address exempt. Work address listed above.
Home Address is required and will be used to verify Bartow residency

Ice

his form is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.

July 14, 2026
Date

Important Public Records Information. Please note that the city receives requests from the public to review
documents, such as this form, provided to the city, and the city is obligated to release these public records,
including all information contained on the form, upon request. Please call the City Clerk at 863-534-0100 if you
have questions or concerns about the disclosure of specific information.

✓

I

Submit by Email

CITY OF BARTOW BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

11

Print Form

For office use only

APPLICATION

EIVED !Y

Thank you for your interest in serving on a Bartow board or committee!

JUN 2 7 2025

Before You Begin.
Please read this form carefully. Fully complete all sections. Applications
remain active for one year from submittal date.

IUi OW . , ~ . f ICE

Return completed application to:
City Clerk's Office, Bartow City Hall, 450 N. Wilson Avenue, Ba rtow, Florida 33830; or FAX to: 863-534-0409; or email to :
[email protected]
Choice of Board or Committee.
Please review the attached descriptions & qualifications for the board or committee that interested
in joining.
List the name of the board/committee for which you are applying
.
.

Note : that you may only belong to one board or committee at a tim e.

!c

.

Rd
A
ommunity e eve Iopment gency

Contact Information: Please print legibly.
Note : thi s application, and all information you provide, may be viewed by the public upon request.

Christy Byers

1Unfiltered Coffee House

Name

Business/Organization Name (if applicable}

1125 Lee Ave.

1160 S. Broadway Ave

1

1

Mailing Address

City

State

Zip

Bartow, FL 33830

I 863-316-7695

I Bartow, FL 33830

Home Phone Number

Cell Phone Number

Email Address

Why are you interested in serving as a member of your selected board or committee?
As a Downtown business owner and also a resident of Bartow I am interested in learning how I can help make my amazing
,_City-a-better place-to-live for all residents~Also, how-to-bring more awareness-to-ou r- Downtown-area so-that we attract newresidents .

Briefly describe prior board or committee service and/or special qualifications:
I currently serve on the Main Street Board . I am also a Downtown business owner

Section 760.80, Florida Statutes, requires certain reporting of minority representation on statutorily created boards to
be filed on an annual basis. Please complete the following:

Race: D Native American D African American D Hispanic D Asian~ Caucasian □ Other
Gender:

□ Male

~ Female

Have you ever been convicted of a crime? OYes ~No
If yes, please explain :

Physically Disabled:

□ Yes

I

[!JI do hereby acknowledge the following:

1. This application, when complete and filed with the Office of the City Clerk, is a Public Record under Chapter
119, Florida Statutes, and is open to public inspection.
2. I am responsible for keeping the information on this form current and that any changes or updates will be
provided to the Office of the City Clerk
3. I consent to filing the Statement of Financial Interests (FORM 1) if required for this board/committee.
4. If appointed, I acknowledge that it is my obligation and duty to comply with the following:
a. Code of Ethics for Public Officials (F.S. Chapter 112, Part Ill}
b. Florida Sunshine Law (F.S. Chapter 286}
c. Florida Statutes www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/
5. I understand the responsibilities associated with being a board or committee member, and I will have
adequate time to serve on the board or committee I have selected.
Bartow Residency. Bartow residency is a requirement for Bartow boards and committees.
[!JI attest that I reside within the incorporated limits of Bartow.

Home Address: 1125 Lee Ave. Bartow, Florida 33830
Home Address is required and will be used to verify Bartow residency
Truth and Accuracy.

I certify that the information contained on this form is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.
Christy Byers

Signature

I 06/11/2025
Date

Important Public Records Information. Please note that the city receives requests from the public to review
documents, such as this form, provided to the city and the city is obligated to release these public records,
including all information contained on the form, upon request. Please call the City Clerk at 863-534-0100, if you
have questions or concerns about the disclosure of specific information.

Send by Email

•

CITY OF BA RTOW BOARDS A ND COMMITTEES

City ofBartow
.Pt,lkO,,,:uOJ:j'l ~

I OT(J

Print

For office use only

APPLICATION

ECEIVED !Y

Thank you for your interest in serving on a Bartow board or committee!

UN ;J O 202~

Before You Begin.
Please read this form carefully. Fully complete all sections. Applications
remain active for one year from submittal date.

Return completed application to:
City Clerk's Office, Bartow City Hall, 450 N. Wilson Avenue, Bartow, Florida 33830; or FAX to: 863 -534-0409; or email to :
[email protected]

Choice of Board or Committee.
Please review the attached descriptions & qualifications for the board or committee that interested
in joining.

C

List the name of the board/committee for which you are applying
1

Note: that you may only belong to one board or committee at a tim e.

Contact Information: Please print legibly.
Note : this application, and all information you provide, may be viewed by the public upon request.

JellomG.
Name
5 flt

,,s

t)(7

6

Mailing Address
1

Home Phone Number

(!
3?I).. (J'?r f I City J• e,orot:17
J
f J ,,
l ip
.6~3..
5 1t1 Ct If . UJ/1')
87 (gJ State
I

Cell Phone Number

Email Address

Why are you interested in serving as a member of your selected board or committee?

I Briefly descri be prior board or committee service and/or special qualifications:
I

Section 760.80, Florida Statutes, requires certain repo rting of minority representation on statutorily created boa rds to
be filed on an annual basis. Please complete the following:

Race: D Native American .f'SI African American D Hispanic D Asian D Caucasian Oother
Gender:

~

Male

D Female

Have you-ever been convicted of a crime? 0Yes ~ No
: If yes, please explain:
1·

Physically Disabled:

□ Yes

□ No

DI do hereby acknowledge the following:
1. This application, when complete and filed with the Office of the City Clerk, is a Public Record under Chapter
119, Florida Statutes, and is open to public inspection.
2. I am responsible for keeping the information on this form current and that any changes or updates will be
provided to the Office of the City Clerk
3. I consent to filing the Statement of Financial Interests (FORM 1) if required for this board/committee.
4. If appointed, I acknowledge that it is my obligation and duty to comply with the following:
a. Code of Ethics for Public Officials (F.S. Chapter 112, Part Ill)
b. Florida Sunshine Law (F.S. Chapter 286)
c. Florida Statutes www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/
5. I understand the responsibilities associated with being a board or committee member, and I will have
adequate time to serve on the board or committee I have selected.

Bartow Residency. Bartow residency is a requirement for Bartow boards and committees, unless you are
applying for the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). For the CRA, you must live or work in the city limits.
IE_1attest that I reside within the incorporated limits of Bartow.

Truth and Accuracy.
this form is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.

?/ I 5
~

I

I

~o:).(.,

Date

Important Public Records Information. Please note that the city receives requests from the public to review
documents, such as this form, provided to the city, and the city is obligated to release these public records,
including all information contained on the form, upon request. Please call the City Clerk at 863-534-0100 if you
have questions or concerns about the disclosure of specific information.

Send by Email

CITY OF BARTOW BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

For office use only

I:: ~ IVE D ~y

APPLICATION

HIN l. G 7011

Thank you for your interest in serving on a Bartow board or committee!

Before You Begin.
Please read this form carefully. Fully complete all sections. Applications
remain active for one year from submittal date.
Return completed application to:
City Clerk's Office, Bartow City Hall, 450 N. Wilson Avenue, Bartow, Florida 33830; or FAX to : 863-534-0409; or email to:
[email protected]
Choice of Board or Committee.
Please review the attached descriptions & qualifications for the board or committee that interested
in joining.
List the name of the board/committee for which you are applying: CRA
Note: that you may only belong to one board or committee at a tim e.

Contact Information: Please print legibly.
Note: this application, and all information you provide, may be viewed by th e public upon request.

Ghent, Anthony D.

Hive & Grove

Name

Business/Organization Name (if a.e_plicable)

1205 W Steward St.

1Bartow

1FL

133830

Mailing Address

Cit

State

Zip

Home Phone Number

1 (863)662-7074

1 [email protected]

Cell Phone Number

Email Address

-Why are you interested in serving as a member of your selected board or committee?
I'm interested in being on the CRA Board to contribute to improvement of the Communities in Bartow. I have pride in Bartow
and would be an asset in the progression of modernizing the City of Bartow.
I've successfully served on Talent Management ana [ean Sigma Six Boaras for the United States Special-Operations
Command managing personnel, millions of dollars in budgets and equipment in countries all over the world at once.
As well as contracting officer for multimillion dollar contracts and acquiring multimillion dollar facilities.-Rebuilding and
starting cities, military bases, and organizations from the ground up and modernizing and digitizing them.
One more FRA class and I'll be tlie only Bo ard member with Florida Redevelopment Association Certificati~

;i

Briefly describe prior board or committee service and/or special qualifications:
Florida Redevelopment Association Academy courses: Infrastructure I, Above the Ground (in which my group had the best
project redesigning an updated Bartow),-Housing-as a RedevelopmentTonl (vital to understand the Cigar ractory details-;ncentives, awesome information about federal grants, Operations and Compacity Building, and CRA 101
~ 've been happy to go door to door in the heat of the day and rain seeing first hand the needs of the community.
I was happy to volunteer my time at time 4:30 a.m. and 9 p.m. getting ready for or cleaning up after events.
Section 760.80, Florida Statutes, requires certain reporting of minority representation on statutorily created boards to
be filed on an annual basis. Please complete the following:
Race: D Native American [j] African American D Hispanic D Asian D Caucasian Oother
Gender:

Iii Male

D Female

Physically Disabled:

ave you ever been convicted of a crime? [aves 0No
f yes, please explain:
_
traffic ticket
~

□Yes

□ No

[ill do hereby acknowledge the following:

1. This application, when complete and filed with the Office of the City Clerk, is a Public Record under Chapter
119, Florida Statutes, and is open to public inspection.
2. I am responsible for keeping the information on this form current and that any changes or updates will be
provided to the Office of the City Clerk
3. I consent to filing the Statement of Financial Interests (FORM 1) if required for this board/committee.
4. If appointed, I acknowledge that it is my obligation and duty to comply with the following:
a. Code of Ethics for Public Officials (F.S. Chapter 112, Part Ill)
b. Florida Sunshine Law (F.S. Chapter 286)
c. Florida Statutes www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/
5. I understand the responsibilities associated with being a board or committee member, and I will have
adequate time to serve on the board or committee I have selected.
Bartow Residency. Bartow residency is a requirement for Bartow boards and committees.
[ill attest that I reside within the incorporated limits of Bartow.

1205 W Steward St, Bartow FL 33830
Home Add ress: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Home Address is required and will be used to verify Bartow residency
Truth and Accuracy.

I certify that th
Signature

ontained on this form is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.
Date

Important Public Records Information. Please note that the city receives requests from the public to review
documents, such as this form, provided to the city and the city is obligated to release these public records,
including all information contained on the form, upon request. Please call the City Clerk at 863-534-0100, if you
have questions or concerns about the disclosure of specific information.

Send by Email

•

CITY OF BARTOW BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

CityofBartow
1'oUCIIWU[i', l"llpild.l o1{j

Print

For office use only

APPLICATION

ECEIVifJ !Y

Thank you for your interest in serving on a Bartow board or committee!

JUN 1 4 202

Before You Begin.

AUOW WY Clill'S tf f/CE

Please read this form carefully. Fully complete all sections. Applications
remain active for one year from submittal date.

Return completed application to:
City Clerk's Office, Bartow City Hall, 450 N. Wilson Avenue, Bartow, Florida 33830; or FAX to: 863-534-0409; or email to:
[email protected]

Choice of Board or Committee.
Please review the attached descriptions & qualifications for the board or committee that interested
in joining.

List the name of the board/committee for which you are applying
.
.

Note : that you may only belong to one board or committee at a time.

leommuni•ty Redeve Iopment A gency

Contact Information: Please print legibly.
Note: this application, and all inform ation you provide, may be viewed by the public upon request.

Gordon Greene

1

Bl3~'i1fc5~Organization Name (if a~icabl~

~1g''E Main Street
N1J.!ling Address

I 863-640-3207

Home Phone Number

Patel, Greene & Associates, LLC

Cell Phone Number

City
1

State

3830

Zip

[email protected]

Email Address

Why are you interested in serving as a member of your selected board or committee?

I have greatly enjoyed serving on the CRA for the last nine years, most of those as chair. I would like to
see the Strategic Plan I helped create become reality.

Briefly describe prior board or committee service and/or special qualifications:

Bartow CRA (9 years), Main Street Bartow (7 years)
Section 760.80, Florida Statutes, requires certain reporting of minority representation on statutorily created boards to
be filed on an annual basis. Please complete the following :

Race: D Native American D African American D Hispanic D Asian Ii] Caucasian Oother
Gender:

Ii] Male

D Female

Have you ever been convicted of a crime? 0Yes li]No
If yes, please explain:

Physically Disabled:

0Yes

□ No

[ill do hereby acknowledge the following:
1. This application, when complete and filed with the Office of the City Clerk, is a Public Record under Chapter
119, Florida Statutes, and is open to public inspection.
2. I am responsible for keeping the information on this form current and that any changes or updates will be
provided to the Office of the City Clerk
3. I consent to filing the Statement of Financial Interests (FORM 1) if required for this board/committee.
4. If appointed, I acknowledge that it is my obligation and duty to comply with the following:
a. Code of Ethics for Public Officials (F.S. Chapter 112, Part Ill)
b. Florida Sunshine Law (F.S. Chapter 286)
c. Florida Statutes www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/
5. I understand the responsibilities associated with being a board or committee member, and I will have
adequate time to serve on the board or committee I have selected.

Bartow Residency. Bartow residency is a requirement for Bartow boards and committees, unless you are
applying for the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). For the CRA, you must live or work in the city limits.

D1 attest that I reside within the incorporated limits of Bartow.
Home Address: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Home Address is required and will be used to verify Bartow residency

Truth and Accuracy.
I certify that the information contained on this form is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.

G0 rdOn M Gree n e
Signature

Digitally slgood b'/ Gordon M Groene
ON:,CN=GordonMGreene,
dnQualifier-A0141000000019AFFEC301600504B28, O=-PATEL
GREENE AND ASSOCIATES PLLC, C=US
Dale: 2026.07.14 21:50:44-04'00'

7/14/26
Date

Important Public Records Information. Please note that the city receives requests from the public to review
documents, such as this form, provided to the city, and the city is obligated to release these public records,
including all information contained on the form, upon request. Please call the City Clerk at 863-534-0100 if you
have questions or concerns about the disclosure of specific information.

Send by Email

•

dtyofBartow
~ o,o,Uf,'\ Csq,JOI Cilii

CITY OF BARTOW BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

Print

For office use only

APPLICATION
EC!IV

Thank you for your interest in serving on a Bartow board or committee!

!Y

JUN 21 202r

Before You Begin.
Please read this form carefully. Fully complete all sections. Applications
remain active for one year from submittal date.

Return completed application to:
City Clerk's Office, Bartow City Hall, 450 N. Wilson Avenue, Bartow, Florida 33830; or FAX to: 863 -534-0409; or email to:
[email protected]
Choice of Board or Committee.
Please review the attached descriptions & qualifications for the board or committee that interested
in joining.
List the name of the board/committee for which you are applying ICRA
.....- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ' I

Note : that you may only belong to one board or committee at a time.

Contact Information: Please print legibly.
Note: this application, and all information you provide, may be viewed by the public upon request.

Business/Organization Name (if applicable}

~gWfy Joe Jr

Cit•

5t

ts'furtow

Home Phone Number

Cell Phone Number

ffa

Zip 33830

Email Address

Why are you interested in serving as a member of your selected board or committee?

As a Bartow residence i would like to become more active in the city as a productive citizen.

Briefly describe prior board or committee service and/or special qualifications:

I previously served on the Historical Review Board
Section 760.80, Florida Statutes, requires certain reporting of minority representation on statutorily created boards to

be filed on an annual basis. Please complete the following:
Race: D Native American [i] African American D Hispanic D Asian D Caucasian Oother
Gender:

[i] Male

D Female

Have you ever been convicted of a crime? Oves [i]No
If yes, please explain:

Physically Disabled:

Oves

0No

[j]I do hereby acknowledge the following:
1. This application, when complete and filed with the Office of the City Clerk, is a Public Record under Chapter
119, Florida Statutes, and is open to public inspection.
2. I am responsible for keeping the information on this form current and that any changes or updates will be
provided to the Office of the City Clerk
3. I consent to filing the Statement of Financial Interests {FORM 1) if required for this board/committee.
4. If appointed, I acknowledge that it is my obligation and duty to comply with the following:
a. Code of Ethics for Public Officials (F.S. Chapter 112, Part Ill)
b. Florida Sunshine Law (F.S. Chapter 286)
c. Florida Statutes www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/
5. I understand the responsibilities associated with being a board or committee member, and I will have
adequate time to serve on the board or committee I have selected.

Bartow Residency. Bartow residency is a requirement for Bartow boards and committees, unless you are
applying for the Community Redevelopment Agency {CRA). For the CRA, you must live or work in the city limits.

[Z] I attest that I reside within the incorporated limits of Bartow.
Home Address: 1310 Austin Street

Bartow Florida 33830

Home Address is required and will be used to verify Bartow residency

Truth and Accuracy.

Important Public Records Information. Please note that the city receives requests from the public to review
documents, such as this form, provided to the city, and the city is obligated to release these public records,
including all information contained on the form, upon request. Please call the City Clerk at 863-534-0100 if you
have questions or concerns about the disclosure of specific information.

Send by Email

CITY OF BARTOW BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

City of Bartow
k O t'ru.A;, \ f N~•J t,t.,

Print

For office use only

APPLICATION

ECEIVED !Y

Thank you for your interest in serving on a Bartow board or committee I

JUN 3 0 2026
Before You Begin.
Please read this form carefully. Fully complete all sections . Applications
remain active for one year from submittal date.

IM.TQW flf.f Will'• -FlCE

Return completed application to:
City Clerk's Office, Bartow City Hall, 450 N. Wilson Avenue, Bartow, Florida 33830; or FAX to: 863-534-0409; or email to:
[email protected]
Choice of Board or Committee.
Please review the attached descriptions & qualifications for the boa rd or committee that interested
in joining.
List the name of the board/committee for which you are applying
.
.
Note: that you may only belong to one board or committee at a time.

le-ommuni•t y Re d eve Iopmen t A gency --~ ,,,.,

-

T) (l

Contact Information: Please print legibly.
Note : thi s application, and all information you provide, may be viewed by the publi c upon request.

Ashley Knight

1

~~ij~ E. Washington Street
Mailing Address
Home Phone Number

Polk Bridge Builders Alliance, Inc.

IB13sJwd~Organization Name (if ~M_!icab/~3830
I 863-378-5622

,c~hight4 706@gmai I. com

Cell Phone Number

Email Address

State

Zip

Why are you interested in serving as a member of your selected board or committee?
I am interested in joining the CRA because I am passionate about serving my community, supporting
positive growth, and helping create opportunities that make a lasting difference for residents and local
businesses .

Briefly describe prior board or committee service and/or special qualifications:

I was the president of my church planning committee for 3 years . I helped a CRA grant project. I'm now the president of a nonprofit organization.

Section 760.80, Florida Statutes, requires certain reporting of minority representation on statutorily created boards to

be filed on an annual basis. Please complete the following:
Race : D Native American Ii] African American D Hispanic D Asian D Caucasian Oother
Gender:

□ Male

[ii Female

Have you ever been convicted of a crime? OYes li]No
If yes, please explain:

Physically Disabled :

OYes

li]No

~~~~:-:;~~i~~~~~~~:~l~d;:;:~e~:l~or:i~if~d-~~th the Office of the City Clerk, is a Public Record u-;der Chapter
119, Florida Statutes, and is open to public inspection.
2. I am responsible for keeping the information on this form current and that any changes or updates will be
provided to the Office of the City Clerk
3. I consent to filing the Statement of Financial Interests (FORM 1) if required for this board/committee.
4. If appointed, I acknowledge that it is my obligation and duty to comply with the following:
a. Code of Ethics for Public Officials (F.S. Chapter 112, Part Ill)
b. Florida Sunshine Law (F.S. Chapter 286)
c. Florida Statutes www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/
5. I understand the responsibilities associated with being a board or committee member, and I will have
adequate time to serve on the board or committee I have selected.
Bartow Residency. Bartow residency is a requirement for Bartow boards and committees, unless you are
applying for the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). For the CRA, you must live or work in the city limits.

[Z]I attest that I reside within the incorporated limits of Bartow.
Home Address: 2405 E. Washington Street, Bartow, FL 33830
Horne Address is required and will be used to verify Bartow residency

Truth and Accuracy.

n contained on this form is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.
07/30/2026

Date

Important Public Records Information. Please note that the city receives requests from the public to review
documents, such as this form, provided to the city, and the city is obligated to release these public records,
including all information contained on the form, upon request. Please call the City Clerk at 863-534-0100 if you
have questions or concerns about the disclosure of specific information.

I
I

rSend by Email
•

CITY OF BARTOW BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

CityofBartow
Polk c~uriry'\ Olf..eliH Ci1[J

Print

For office use only

ECEIVED !Y

APPLICATION

Jut~ 1 '/ 2026

Thank you for your interest in serving on a Bartow board or committee!

i Oi SY CLHK'S if r1CE

Before You Begin.
Please read this form carefully. Fully complete all sections. Applications
remain active for one year from submittal date.

Return completed application to:
City Clerk's Office, Bartow City Hall, 450 N. Wilson Avenue, Bartow, Florida 33830; or FAX to: 863-534-0409; or email to:
[email protected]

Choice of Board or Committee.
Please review the attached descriptions & qualifications for the board or committee that interested
in joining.

I

List the name of the board/committee for which you are applying
· •
.
.
new CRA Board sea t w CommIsIon

Note : that you may only belong to one board or committee at a time.

Contact Information: Please print legibly.
Note: this application, and all information you provide, may be viewed by the public upon request.

Ian J. Legg

1

Leggacy Group Holdings Llc/ Seet Magnolias Ca[i

~~Pt'Bi0rganization Name (ifaF~icabl~

~ef1Box 160
Mailing Address
Home Phone Number

Citv.

.

Stat~

3830

Zip

I 813-365-2085

[email protected]
1

Cell Phone Number

Email Address

Why are you interested in serving as a member of your selected board or committee?

I am committed to helping strengthen our community with responsible development, economic growth
and thoughtful planning that will help provide a sustainable long term improvement for commercial/
small business owners and all residents of Bartow. While maintaining a focus on the importance of
Keeping Bartow's History and Charm as a "small town" feel.

Briefly describe prior board or committee service and/or special qualifications:

I can p(O\'lde ~ 30 yeilfS of Constructloo, Piarvi!ng, Projod Managemont, leadership and flnancial MMagemenl 5"'.lt. I cunenlly servo co 2 boards fcx the Uational Boaormakrrs Contradofs and fOf lhe Flot1da Pho.shale Cotrmillti

Section 760.80, Florida Statutes, requires certain reporting of minority representation on statutorily created boards to
be filed on an annual basis. Please complete the following:

Race :

D Native American D African American D Hispanic D Asian Ii] Caucasian Oother

Gender:

Ii] Male

D Female

Have you ever been convicted of a crime? OYes li]No
If yes, please explain :

Physica lly Disabled:

OYes

li]No

li]I do hereby acknowledge the following:
1. This application, when complete and filed with the Office of the City Clerk, is a Public Record under Chapter
119, Florida Statutes, and is open to public inspection.
2. I am responsible for keeping the information on this form current and that any changes or updates will be
provided to the Office of the City Clerk
3. I consent to filing the Statement of Financial Interests (FORM 1) if required for this board/committee.
4. If appointed, I acknowledge that it is my obligation and duty to comply with the following:
a. Code of Ethics for Public Officials (F.S. Chapter 112, Part Ill)
b. Florida Sunshine Law (F.S. Chapter 286)
c. Florida Statutes www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/
5. I understand the responsibilities associated with being a board or committee member, and I will have
adequate time to serve on the board or committee I have selected.

Bartow Residency. Bartow residency is a requirement for Bartow boards and committees, unless you are
applying for the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). For the CRA, you must live or work in the city limits.
(Z]l attest that I reside within the incorporated limits of Bartow.

_C_e_n_t_ra_l_A_v_e_._B_a_rt_o_w__________

Home Address:_1_3_5_S_.

Home Address is required and will be used to verify Bartow residency

Truth and Accuracy.
I certify that the information contained on this form is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.

Ian J. Legg
Signature

Digitally signed by Ian J. Legg
Dale: 2026.07.17 10:57:03-04'00'

7-17-26
Date

Important Public Records Information. Please note that the city receives requests from the public to review
documents, such as this form, provided to the city, and the city is obligated to release these public records,
including all information contained on the form, upon request. Please call the City Clerk at 863-534-0100 if you
have questions or concerns about the disclosure of specific information.

Send by Email

CITY OF BARTOW BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

Print

For office use only

APPLICATION
RECEIVED !Y

Thank you for your interest in serving on a Bartow board or committee!

APR l 0 702G

Before You Begin.
Please read this form carefully. Fully complete all sections. Applications
remain active for one year from submittal date.

iOW Irr CL£ «·s OFFICE

Return completed application to:
City Clerk's Office, Bartow City Hall, 450 N. Wilson Avenue, Bartow, Florida 33830; or FAX to : 863-534-0409; or email to:
[email protected]
Choice of Board or Committee.
Please review the attached descriptions & qualifications for the board or committee that interested
in joining.

'D :a

List the name of the board/committee for which you are applying J ,-,
Note: that you may only belong to one board or committee at a time.

_

.....___,.(\_ rl

Contact Information: Please print legibly.
Note: this application, and all information you provide, may be viewed by the public upon request.

~

{,YV)o

wd

N

~zation Name (if a~

1

a

Mailing Address
Home Phone Number

Cell Phone Number

Section 760.80, Florida Statutes, requires certain reporting of minority representation on statutorily created boards to
be filed on an annual basis. Please complete the following:
Race: D Native American [!1African American D Hispanic D Asian D Caucasian □Other
Gender:

[0"Male

D Female

Have you ever been convicted of a crime? OYes [0'No
If yes, please explain :

Physically Disabled :

□ Yes

I

DI do hereby acknowledge the following:
1. This application, when complete and filed with the Office of the City Clerk, is a Public Record under Chapter
119, Florida Statutes, and is open to public inspection.
2. I am responsible for keeping the information on this form current and that any changes or updates will be
provided to the Office of the City Clerk
3. I consent to filing the Statement of Financial Interests (FORM 1) if required for this board/committee.
4. If appointed, I acknowledge that it is my obligation and duty to comply with the following:
a. Code of Ethics for Public Officials (F.S. Chapter 112, Part Ill)
b. Florida Sunshine Law (F.S. Chapter 286)
c. Florida Statutes www. flsenate,gov/Laws/Statutes/
5. I understand the responsibilities associated with being a board or committee member, and I will have
adequate time to serve on the board or committee I have selected,
Bartow
Residency. Bartow residency is a requirement for Bartow boards and committees.
I

[Q]I attest that I reside within the incorporated limits of Bartow.

Truth and Accuracy.

n contained on this form is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.
OY""'IS-~ D
Date
Important Public Records Information. Please note that the city receives requests from the public to review
documents, such as this form, provided to the city and the city is obligated to release these public records,
including all information contained on the form, upon request. Please ca II the City Clerk at 863-534-0100, if you
have questions or concerns about the disclosure of specific information.

r,se_
ncflo,y'Emaill

•

CITY OF BARTOW BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

dWofBartow
"4(>,,,tj\C.,-,.Ur..tv

' - - - ~ ~1

For office use only

APPLICATION

RE !N e !Y
JUN 3 O1026

Thank you for your interest in serving on a Bartow board or committee I

Before You Begin.
Please read this form carefully. Fully complete all sections. Applications
remain active for one year from submittal date.

Return completed application to:
City Clerk's Office, Bartow City Hall, 450 N. Wilson Avenue, Bartow, Florida 33830; or FAX to: 863-534-0409; or email to:
[email protected]

Choice of Board or Committee.
Please review the attached descriptions & qualifications for the board or committee that interested
in joining.

List the name of the board/committee for which you are applying !CRA
Note: that you may only belong to one board or committee at a time.

Contact Information: Please print legibly.
Note: this applfcatlon, and all Information you provide, may be viewed by the public upon request.

Amber Velora Screen
B~mfo¾~rganization Name (if aM!!cab18J 3830

Name 2160 Highland Blvd
Malling Address

I 863-934-4375

Home Phone Number

Cell Phone Number

City [email protected]!Bffi
1
Email Address

Zip

Why are you interested in serving as a member of your selected board or committee?

Please see attatchment due to space constraints.

Briefly describe prior board or committee service and/or special qualifications:

Please see attatchment due to space constraints.
Section 760.80, Florida Statutes, requires certain reporting of minority representation on statutorily created boards to
be filed on an annual basis. Please complete the following:
Race:

D Native American Ii African American D Hispanic D Asian D Caucasian Oother

Gender:

□ Male

Ii Female

Have you ever been convicted of a crime? OYes (i]No

I If yes, please explain:

Physically Disabled:

OYes

ONo

[i]I do hereby acknowledge the following:
1. This application, when complete and filed with the Office of the City Clerk, is a Public Record under Chapter
119, Florida Statutes, and is open to public inspection.
2. I am responsible for keeping the information on this form current and that any changes or updates will be
provided to the Office of the City Clerk
3. I consent to filing the Statement of Financial Interests (FORM 1) if required for this board/committee.
4. If appointed, I acknowledge that it is my obligation and duty to comply with the following:
a. Code of Ethics for Public Officials (F.S. Chapter 112, Part Ill)
b. Florida Sunshine Law (F.S. Chapter 286)
c. Florida Statutes www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/
5. I understand the responsibilities associated with being a board or committee member, and I will have
adequate time to serve on the board or committee I have selected.
Bartow Residency. Bartow residency is a requirement for Bartow boards and committees, unless you are
applying for the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). For the CRA, you must live or work in the city limits.
~I attest that I reside within the incorporated limits of Bartow.

2160 Highland Blvd - Bartow FL 33830

Home Address:,_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Home Address is required and will be used to verify Bartow residency

Truth and Accuracy.
ained on this form is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.

~ x:i, dDd:le
Date

Signature

Important Public Records Information. Please note that the city receives requests from the public to review
documents, such as this form, provided to the city, and the city is obligated to release these public records,
including all information contained on the form, upon request. Please call the City Clerk at 863-534-0100 if you
have questions or concerns about the disclosure of specific information.
'----

--------------

------------------------------------------

Amber Velora Screen
CRA Application Questions

Why are you interested in serving as a member of your selected board or
committee?
I have always believed that strong communities are built by investing in the
people who live there. Through my work as an educator, mental health counselor,
and local business owner, I have seen how thoughtful decisions can strengthen
neighborhoods and create new opportunities. I would be honored to serve on the
CRA Board and use my experience to support responsible growth, local
businesses, and a community where families can thrive.

Briefly describe prior board or committee service and/or special
qualifications:
My executive leadership experience has equipped me to collaborate with diverse
stakeholders, develop strategic initiatives, manage resources responsibly, and
make thoughtful decisions that serve the best interests of an organization and its
community. As an educator, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and local business
owner, I bring a collaborative, solution-oriented perspective and a genuine
commitment to the growth and success of our city.

✓
Send 9y Em11ii .

CITY OF BARTOW BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

Print

For office use only

APPLICATION

RECEIVED !Y

Thank you for your interest in se1ving on a Bartow board or committee!

APRO6 ZOZG
Before You Begin.

UI.TOVr ll'f CLEln tff\C~

Please read t his form carefully. i:ully complete all sections. Applications
remain active for one year from submittal date.

Return completed applioation to:
City Clerk's Office, Bartow City Hall, 450 N. Wilson Avenue, Bartow, Florida 33830; or FAX to: 863-534-0409; or email to:
[email protected]

Choice of Board or Commit tee:
Please review the attached descriptions & qualifications for the board or committee that interested
in joining.

List the name of the board/committee for which you are applying jicRA
Note: that you may only belong to one board or committee at a time.

1

Contact Information: Please print legibly.
Note: this application, and all information you provide, may be viewed by th e public upon request.

Alvin B. Smith Jr.
llusiness/0rganization Name (if ape_licab1~ 3 R n
l:jartow
_.., _ 3 ~
1
1
1

~~D Laurel Street

City [email protected]

(863) 860-4066
Home Phone Number

Cell Phone Number

st ate

Zip

Email Address

-

Why are you interested in serving as a member of your selected board or committee?

To help make the city better.
-

-

Briefly describe prior board or committee service and/or special qualifications:

FHSAA Basketball, Safety, Church Trustee,CRA and City Advisory
Section 760.80, Florida Statutes, requires certain reporting of minority representation on statutorily created boards to
be filed on an annual basis. Please complete the following:

Race: D Native American Ii] African American D Hispanic D Asian D Caucasian □ Other
Gender:

~Ma ie

·D Fema le

Have you ever been·convicted of a c-rime? OYes li!No

If yes, please explain:

Physically Disa bied:

0 Yes

i]I do hereby acknowiedge the foiiowing:
1. This application, when complete and filed with the Office of the City Clerk, is a Public Record under Chapter
119, Florida Statutes, and is open to pubiic inspection.
2. I am responsible for keeping the information on this form current and that any changes or updates will be
provided to the Office of the City Clerk
3. I consent to filing the Stalement of Financiai interests (FORM 1) if required for this board/committee.
4. If appointed, I acknowledge that it is my obligation and duty to comply with the following:

a. Code of Ethics for Public Officials (F.S. Chapter 112, Part Ill)
b. Florida Sunshine Law {F.S. Chapter 286}
c. Florida Statutes www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/
5. I understand the responsibilities associated with being a board or committee member, and I will have
adequate time to serve on the board or committee I have selected.
Bartow Residency. Bartow residency is a requirement for Bartow boards and committees.
~I attest that I reside within the incorporated limits of Bartow.

Home Address: 1720 Laurel Street , Bartow, Fl
Home Address is required and will be used to verify Bartow residency
Truth and Accuracy.

I certify

t~~,:Z:'~~~

Signature

, ; s t is form is true and acc ".l('J~Itg, t~O:l'6"' of my kn owled ge.
1
Date

Important Public Records Information. Please note that the city receives requests from the pub!lc to review
documents, such as this form, provided to the city and the city is obligated to release these public records,
including all information contained on the form, upon request. Please call the City Clerk at 863-534-0100, if you
have questions or concerns about the disdosure of specific information.

Send by Email

CITY OF BARTOW BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

Print ✓

For office use only

APPLICATION

REC IViD !Y

Thank you for your interest in serving on a Bartow board or committee!

PR O8 707.G
Before You Begin.

WjQI Sf W11i tfflCt

Please read this form carefully. Fully complete all sections. Applications
re main active for one year from submitta l date.

Return completed application to:
City Clerk's Office, Bartow City Hall, 450 N. Wil son Avenue, Bartow, Florida 33830; or FAX to: 863-534-0409; or emai l to:
jpoole .cl [email protected]

Choice of Board or Committee.
Please review the attached descriptions & qualifications for the board or committee that interested
in joining.

List the name of the board/committee for which you are applying
Note: that you may only belong to one board or committee at a time .

Icfu ta:o,n:
~
~
.-

~

Contact Information: Please print legibly.
Note: this application, and all information you provide, may be viewed by the public upon request.

s

-

ine~

ganization Name (if a

I

-

Mailing Address

ni State
Zip
1
,~ov'\1-\:. lY14f - a

Home Phone Number

Cell Phone Number

Why are you interested in serving as a member of your selected board or committee?

A~ °'- nMiVv fts{cl4'rt of il\,s ci1'1 \ m~ '"w-cs-r \if\ s--MA~ Df\ 1"Y'v CA2A
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Briefly describe prior board or committee service and/or spe~ial qualificati 't)n s:
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j Section 760.80, Florida Statutes, requires certain reporting of minority representation on statutorily created boards to
be filed on an annual basis. Please complete the following :

Race: D Native American I Dfrican American O Hispanic O Asian O Caucasian Oother
Gender:

OMale

~

ema le

Have you ever been convicted of a crime? OYes cw{o
If yes, please explain:

Physically Disabled:

OYes

ONo

I r:j( do hereby acknowledge the following:
1. This application, when complete and filed with the Office of the City Clerk, is a Public Record under Chapter
•
119, Florida Statutes, and is open to public inspection .
2. I am responsible for keeping the information on this form current and that any changes or updates will be
provided to the Office of the City Clerk
3. I consent to filing the Statement of Financial Interests (FORM 1) if required for this board/committee.
4. If appointed, I acknowledge that it is my obligation and duty to comply with the following:
a. Code of Ethics for Public Officials (F.S. Chapter 112, Part 111)
b. Florida Sunshine Law (F.S. Chapter 286)
c. Florida Statutes www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/
5. I understand the responsibilities associated with being a board or committee member, and I will have
adequate time to serve on the board or committee I have selected.
Bartow Residency. Bartow residency is a requirement for Bartow boards and committees.
attest that I reside within the incorporated limits of Bartow.

IBf'

Home Address:

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·fl-

l}L-{'O WC!ft t:\1\\
'3,S30
1 PAfJ9vJ 1
Home Address is required and will be used to verify Bartow residency

Truth and Accuracy.

I certify that the information contained on this form is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.

,Sr:,iM
ature

!Alli.<;,.....

I 4 ) 8} 2\f
Date

Important Public Records Information. Please note that the city receives requests from the public to review
documents, such as this form, provided to the city and the city is obligated to release these public records,
including all information contained on the form, upon request. Please call the City Clerk at 863-534-0100, if you
have questions or concerns about the disclosure of specific information.

PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

ITEM NO. 12.b.2
CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA
TO:

City of Bartow Commission

FROM:

Mike Herr, City Manager

DATE:

August 3, 2026

SUBJECT:

Consideration of Community Development Advisory Committee and Scope

SUMMARY
Staff is presenting a proposed framework for creation of a nine-member Community Development Advisory
Committee. The committee would provide structured community input on matters affecting neighborhood
conditions, human and social needs, economic opportunities, fiscal and capital priorities, and community-based
initiatives. Seven members would reside within Bartow's municipal limits, and two members would be selected
from Connersville, Gordonville, or Alturas.
The City Commission is being asked to determine whether the committee's formal scope should also include an
advisory role on Community Redevelopment Agency matters. The two options below establish the same general
committee structure and qualifications but differ in whether CRA-related responsibilities are included.

BACKGROUND
The proposed framework organizes the committee's work into five areas. The first is Community
Redevelopment Agency activities and redevelopment planning. The second is human and social conditions,
including code compliance, mental health, healthcare, food security, education, and nonprofit services. The
third is economic opportunity, including strategic growth, small-business support, business attraction and
retention, agritourism, and the State Road 60 corridor. The fourth is fiscal planning, including stormwater,
utilities, capital improvement priorities, and relevant portions of the City budget. The fifth is neighborhood
initiatives, including Community Development Block Grant priorities, Cleaner, Safer Neighborhoods,
beautification, and resident engagement.
The proposed committee would consist of nine members. Seven members would reside within Bartow's
municipal limits, and two members would reside in Connersville, Gordonville, or Alturas. This structure
maintains a clear majority of Bartow residents while providing a limited regional perspective from nearby
communities whose conditions and activities can affect Bartow.
The committee would serve strictly in an advisory capacity. It would not approve expenditures, administer
programs, issue permits, enforce codes, exercise quasi-judicial authority, or replace the authority of the City
Commission, CRA Board, or another legally established board. Its function would be to review information,
gather community perspective, identify needs and impacts, and submit recommendations to the appropriate
governing body or City administration.
Appointments would be made using baseline eligibility requirements and a committee-wide competency
matrix rather than requiring each member to possess a professional credential. Members would be expected to
attend meetings, review materials in advance, complete orientation, participate respectfully, comply with

ITEM NO. 12.b.2
applicable ethics and open-government requirements, disclose conflicts, and evaluate matters from a Citywide
or regional perspective rather than solely from an individual or organizational interest.
Staff recommends each member be at least 18 years of age, reside within the geographic area assigned to the
seat throughout the term, demonstrate an interest in community development, and show an ability to evaluate
issues beyond a single personal or organizational interest. Members should also commit to regular attendance,
advance preparation, respectful participation, orientation, and compliance with applicable ethics and opengovernment requirements.
Staff recommends the City Commission seek a balanced range of experience across the full committee rather
than require every appointee to hold a professional credential. Collectively, the membership should provide
familiarity with neighborhood leadership, redevelopment or housing, business and workforce development,
social services or education, infrastructure and budgeting, code compliance, beautification, and engagement of
populations that may be underrepresented in formal City processes.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Commission select either Option 1 or Option 2 and direct staff and the City
Attorney to return with the corresponding enabling resolution or ordinance and proposed bylaws. Selection of
either option would approve the committee framework and policy direction; final establishment would occur
through adoption of the implementing document.
Option 1 — Establish the Committee with a CRA Advisory Role
Under Option 1, the City Commission would approve establishment of the Community Development Advisory
Committee with all five proposed responsibility areas, including the Community Redevelopment Agency
advisory responsibilities described in the committee plan. The committee would be authorized to review
redevelopment initiatives, provide community perspective during the development and evaluation of the CRA
plan, serve as a liaison among residents, businesses, community organizations, and the CRA Board, identify
priorities and anticipated impacts, and recommend initiatives intended to address slum and blight.
The committee's CRA role would remain advisory. Formal decisions concerning the CRA plan, redevelopment
projects, expenditures, and other matters reserved to the CRA Board, City Commission, local planning agency,
or another legally authorized body would remain with those bodies. The enabling document would need to
clearly define those boundaries and establish how committee recommendations are transmitted to the CRA
Board.
Option 2 — Establish the Committee without a CRA Advisory Role
Under Option 2, the City Commission would approve establishment of the Community Development Advisory
Committee with responsibility for human and social conditions, economic opportunities, fiscal planning, and
neighborhood initiatives, but would exclude CRA activities and redevelopment-plan matters from the
committee's formal scope. The committee would retain a broad community-development mission while CRArelated input, plan review, redevelopment recommendations, and liaison functions would remain within the
existing CRA governance and public-participation structure.
Matters that affect both the committee's work and the CRA could still be coordinated administratively or
referred separately when appropriate. However, the committee would not be designated as an advisory body

ITEM NO. 12.b.2
to the CRA Board and would not be assigned responsibility for developing, evaluating, or recommending
changes to the CRA plan.
FISCAL IMPACT
No direct capital appropriation is requested with this agenda item. Establishing and supporting the committee
would require staff time for agenda preparation, meeting administration, records, research, orientation, and
follow-up. Any project, grant, program, or expenditure recommended by the committee would be presented
separately to the appropriate governing body and remain subject to legal eligibility, available funding,
procurement requirements, and budget approval.

Attachments:
Document - Community Development Advisory Committee Talking Points

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Purpose & Role Overview
Purpose
The purpose of the Community Development Advisory Committee is to provide
community-based guidance and recommendations to the City of Bartow and the
Community Redevelopment Agency on redevelopment activities, neighborhood
initiatives, human and social conditions, economic opportunities, and fiscal priorities that
influence the long-term vitality of Bartow and surrounding communities. The committee
will serve as a liaison among residents, businesses, nonprofit organizations, community
partners, City staff, the City Commission, and the CRA Board; identify needs and impacts;
evaluate proposed initiatives; and recommend practical, equitable, and measurable
actions that improve community conditions and expand opportunity.
Committee Structure and Representation
•
•
•
•

•

Nine total members.
Seven members selected from within Bartow's municipal limits.
Two members selected from Connersville, Gordonville, or Alturas.
Appointments should collectively reflect the committee's five responsibility areas and
the varied geographic, neighborhood, business, institutional, and lived-experience
perspectives affected by its recommendations.
The committee should function in an advisory capacity. Final policy, budget,
redevelopment-plan, and program decisions remain within the City Commission, CRA
Board, or other legally authorized bodies.

Responsibility Areas
A. Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA)
•

•

Provide community input on redevelopment activities and proposed initiatives within
the CRA.
o The committee would review projects from the perspective of the people and
businesses most directly affected and identify potential benefits, concerns, or
unintended consequences before recommendations move forward.
Participate in the development, review, and evaluation of the community
redevelopment plan, consistent with the formal statutory review and approval process.

o Members would help assess whether the plan continues to reflect current
conditions, community priorities, and measurable redevelopment objectives,
while recognizing that formal plan review and approval remain with the legally
authorized bodies.
•

Serve as a liaison among residents, businesses, community organizations, and the
CRA Board.
o The committee would create a dependable two-way communication channel by
bringing community feedback into the decision-making process and helping
stakeholders understand redevelopment goals, projects, and constraints.

•

Identify community priorities, needs, anticipated impacts, and implementation
concerns.
o This includes elevating issues that may not be readily apparent in project
documents and helping the CRA sequence investments according to urgency,
feasibility, and community benefit.

•

Recommend initiatives that address slum and blight and advance the objectives of the
adopted CRA plan.
o Recommendations would include property rehabilitation, infrastructure
improvements, business assistance, housing strategies, public-space
enhancements, or partnerships that produce visible and sustainable
redevelopment outcomes.

B. Human and Social Conditions
The committee should examine community conditions that affect residents' ability to thrive
and recommend partnerships or coordinated responses involving:
•

Code compliance and property conditions.
o The committee would identify recurring neighborhood conditions, examine the
underlying barriers to voluntary compliance, and recommend coordinated
education, assistance, rehabilitation, or enforcement strategies that improve
properties without losing sight of resident circumstances.

•

Mental health needs and access to services.
o Members would identify service gaps, strengthen referral networks, and
recommend partnerships that make behavioral-health resources easier for
residents to find and use.

•

Healthcare access and community wellness.

o The committee would assess barriers involving transportation, affordability,
information, preventive care, and local service availability, then recommend
outreach or partnerships responsive to documented community needs.
•

Food security.
o Members would examine access to affordable and nutritious food, identify
underserved areas or populations, and support partnerships involving food
pantries, community organizations, schools, local agriculture, and other providers.

•

Education and workforce-readiness connections.
o The committee would help align schools, training providers, employers, and
community organizations so residents have clearer pathways to skills, credentials,
employment, and career advancement.

•

Nonprofit capacity, service gaps, and partnership opportunities.
o The committee would map available services, identify duplication or unmet needs,
and recommend collaborative approaches that make better use of limited public,
philanthropic, and organizational resources.

C. Economic Opportunities
•

Advise on strategic growth priorities and the community impacts of proposed growth.
o The committee would consider whether growth supports Bartow's long-term vision,
infrastructure capacity, housing needs, employment goals, and neighborhood
character, and identify measures needed to manage impacts responsibly.

•

Recommend approaches to support small businesses and local entrepreneurship.
o This may include identifying barriers to starting or expanding a business, improving
awareness of technical or financial assistance, and strengthening connections
among entrepreneurs, property owners, lenders, and economic-development
partners.

•

Identify opportunities for new-business attraction and existing-business retention.
o The committee would help define desirable business sectors, assess the needs of
existing employers, and recommend improvements to sites, infrastructure,
workforce pipelines, permitting information, or business-support programs.

•

Explore agritourism opportunities that complement Bartow's identity and regional
economy.
o Members would identify viable experiences, events, partnerships, and marketing
opportunities that celebrate the area's agricultural heritage while accounting for
land-use compatibility, infrastructure, and neighborhood impacts.

•

Provide community perspective on development and investment opportunities
associated with the State Road 60 corridor.
o The committee would consider corridor appearance, access, mobility,
infrastructure, business mix, redevelopment potential, and the relationship
between corridor investment and nearby neighborhoods.

D. Fiscal Planning
•

Review and provide community perspective on stormwater improvement priorities.
o Members would help identify frequently affected locations, communicate
neighborhood impacts, and consider how drainage projects can be coordinated
with roadways, utility, redevelopment, and beautification investments.

•

Consider utility needs and their effect on residents, businesses, redevelopment, and
future growth.
o The committee would examine service reliability, capacity, affordability, project
timing, and the extent to which utility investments enable or constrain housing,
business development, and neighborhood improvement.

•

Provide input on capital improvement program priorities affecting community
development.
o Members would compare proposed projects using factors such as public benefit,
urgency, geographic equity, readiness, outside funding opportunities, operating
impacts, and consistency with adopted plans.

•

Review relevant portions of the City budget and make advisory recommendations
within the committee's assigned scope.
o The committee's role would be to help connect community priorities to available
resources, explain tradeoffs, and recommend funding sequences—not to
administer funds or replace the City Commission's budget authority.

E. Neighborhood Initiatives
•

Provide input on Community Development Block Grant priorities and eligible
community needs.
o The committee would help document needs, evaluate potential projects against
federal eligibility requirements and local objectives, and recommend activities
likely to produce meaningful benefits for qualifying residents and areas.

•

Support and evaluate initiatives implemented through Cleaner, Safer Neighborhoods.
o Members would provide resident feedback, identify locations or conditions
requiring coordinated attention, review performance information, and recommend
adjustments that strengthen visible neighborhood outcomes.

•

Recommend neighborhood beautification programs and project priorities.
o Recommendations would address gateways, corridors, landscaping, cleanup
efforts, public art, vacant properties, community spaces, and resident-led projects,
with attention to long-term maintenance and equitable distribution of
improvements.

•

Encourage resident participation and help connect neighborhood concerns to
coordinated City or partner responses.
o The committee would use meetings, outreach, surveys, and neighborhood
contacts to bring more residents into the process and ensure concerns are routed
to the appropriate department or organization for follow-up.

How the Committee Adds Value
•
•
•
•
•

Creates one forum where interrelated community-development issues can be
considered together rather than in silos.
Build a reliable feedback loop between the community, City administration, the City
Commission, and the CRA Board.
Improves project prioritization by combining resident experience with financial,
operational, and planning information.
Strengthens transparency by documenting needs, recommendations, implementation
status, and results.
Expands regional awareness by including two representatives from Connersville,
Gordonville, or Alturas while retaining a clear Bartow majority.

Qualifications for Appointment
Baseline Qualifications for Every Member
•
•

•
•
•
•
•

Be at least 18 years of age.
Reside in the geographic area assigned to the seat throughout the term: seven seats
within Bartow's municipal limits and two seats from Connersville, Gordonville, or
Alturas.
Demonstrate an interest in community development and a willingness to consider
Citywide and regional impacts, not solely a single issue or neighborhood.
Be able to attend regular meetings, review agenda materials in advance, participate
constructively, and complete assigned orientation or training.
Be willing to comply with applicable public meetings, public-records, ethics, votingconflict, and disclosure requirements.
Disclose actual or potential conflicts of interest and avoid using the appointment for
personal, organizational, or financial advantage.
Maintain respectful, impartial, and solutions-oriented conduct when evaluating
competing community priorities.

Desired Committee-Wide Experience
The appointing body should seek a balanced mix of the following experience across the
nine-member committee:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Neighborhood leadership, resident advocacy, or direct lived experience with the
communities served.
Redevelopment, housing, planning, real estate, construction, architecture, or
preservation.
Small business, entrepreneurship, finance, workforce development, agriculture, or
economic development.
Healthcare, mental health, education, food security, social services, faith-based
service, or nonprofit leadership.
Utilities, stormwater, engineering, public works, capital planning, budgeting, or grant
administration.
Code compliance, neighborhood stabilization, beautification, or public-safety
partnerships.
Experience engaging populations that are frequently underrepresented in formal City
processes.

Recommended Officer Qualifications
Chair: At least one year of committee service when practicable; demonstrated ability to
run an orderly meeting, remain neutral, build consensus, manage public input, and
coordinate with the staff liaison.
Vice Chair: Ability to perform the chair's duties when needed and assist with agenda
development, work-plan tracking, and follow-up.
Members serving as workgroup leads: Relevant subject-matter experience, the ability to
separate fact-finding from advocacy, and a commitment to report findings to the full
committee.

OPTION 1

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE

9 MEMBER COMMITTEE (7 FROM MUNICIPAL CITY LIMITS, 2 FROM CONNERSVILLE, GORDONVILLE, OR ALTURAS)

COMMUNITY
REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY (CRA)

NEIGHBORHOOD
INITIATIVES

HUMAN SOCIAL
CONDITIONS

ECONOMIC
OPPORTUNITIES

FISCAL
PLANNING

CRA ADVISORY COMMITTEE:

CDBG

CODE COMPLIANCE
MENTAL HEALTH
HEALTHCARE
FOOD SECURITY
EDUCATION
NON-PROFITS

STRATEGIC GROWTH

STORMWATER
IMPROVEMENTS

(F.S.S. 163.360)
INPUT ON REDEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES
DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATIONOF CRA PLAN
LIAISON BETWEEN RESIDENTS, BUSINESSES,
AND CRA BOARD
PROVIDE PERSPECTIVE ON PRIORITIES, NEEDS,
AND IMPACTS
RECOMMEND INITIATIVES TO ELIMINATE SLUM
AND BLIGHT

CLEANER, SAFER
NEIGHBORHOODS
BEAUTIFICATION
PROGRAMS

•

SMALL BUSINESS
SUPPORT
NEW BUSINESS
ATTRACTION
EXISTING BUSINESS
RETENTION
AGRITOURISM
ROUTE 60

UTILITIES
CIP PROJECTS
CITY BUDGET

OPTION 2

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE

9 MEMBER COMMITTEE (7 FROM MUNICIPAL CITY LIMITS, 2 FROM CONNERSVILLE, GORDONVILLE, OR ALTURAS)

NEIGHBORHOOD
INITIATIVES

HUMAN SOCIAL
CONDITIONS

ECONOMIC
OPPORTUNITIES

CDBG

CODE COMPLIANCE
MENTAL HEALTH
HEALTHCARE
FOOD SECURITY
EDUCATION
NON-PROFITS

STRATEGIC GROWTH

CLEANER, SAFER
NEIGHBORHOODS
BEAUTIFICATION
PROGRAMS

•

SMALL BUSINESS
SUPPORT
NEW BUSINESS
ATTRACTION
EXISTING BUSINESS
RETENTION
AGRITOURISM
ROUTE 60

FISCAL
PLANNING
STORMWATER
IMPROVEMENTS
UTILITIES
CIP PROJECTS
CITY BUDGET

PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

ITEM NO. 12.b.3
CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA
TO:
Commission

Honorable Mayor and City Commissioners, City of Bartow City

THROUGH:

Mike Herr, City Manager

FROM:

Sean R. Parker, City Attorney, Owens T. Parker, Law Clerk

DATE:

July 23, 2026

SUBJECT:

Grant of Easements to PRWC on 540A Property
Consider approval of an Ingress and Egress Easement and a Utility
Easement for the PRWC on property located at 4250 E. County Road 540A.

SUMMARY AND BACKGROUND
In April 2025, the City acquired a partial ownership interest in the approximately 2.08-acre piece
of property located at 4250 E. County Road 540-A, resulting in the City of Bartow, City of
Lakeland, and Polk County each holding a 1/3 interest in the property. That site is the location
of the now-constructed interconnect between those 3 entities and was built for the purpose of
providing overall systems reliability, availability of emergency water and pressure, and overall
upgrades to the integrity of the 3 systems.
The property also meets the intent of a reliability interconnect and the future provision of PRWC
water. The parcel can be referred to as having a “north portion” and a “south portion”, with the
Bartow/Lakeland/Polk County interconnect station constructed on the south portion. The
proposed Ingress and Egress Easement would grant the PRWC pedestrian and vehicular
access over the south portion to enter the north portion for purposes of utilizing the Utility
Easement. The Utility Easement grants PRWC the ability to build and continually interact with a
Booster Pump Station on the north portion as part of the much larger pipeline project to provide
PRWC water to its member governments. PRWC will initially provide water to Polk County and
intends to bring water to Bartow and Lakeland in future phases.
STAFF ANALYSIS
The proposed easements have been reviewed by legal counsel for Polk County, Lakeland, and
Bartow, respectively and meet the appropriate legal requirements for such grants of access. The
end result will allow PRWC to build its portion of pipeline and booster infrastructure and will have
the long-term impact of enhancing the overall alternate water supply system for the benefit of
the various member governments.
FISCAL IMPACT
Granting these easements will have no significant fiscal impact on the City. PRWC will be
responsible for any maintenance or repair necessary on the ingress and egress portion and will
utilize the northern portion of the property at its own expense and responsibility long-term.

ITEM NO. 12.b.3
RECOMMENDATION
City Staff recommends the City Commission approve the Ingress and Egress Easement and
Utility Easement for the PRWC on property located at 4250 E. County Road 540A.
ATTACHMENTS
Ingress Egress Easement
Utility Easement
Sketch of Easement Area

Parcel No: 242913-000000-044120

This instrument was prepared by or under the direction of:
Tom Mattiacci
City of Lakeland Water Utilities Department
501 E. Lemon Street
Lakeland, Florida, 33801

Space above this line for recording information

Ingress Egress Easement
THIS EASEMENT is made this _ _ _ day of _ _ _ _ 2026, by the City of Bartow, a
Florida Municipal Corporation, whose address is 450 N. Wilson Avenue, Bartow, FL 33830; the
CITY OF LAKELAND, a Florida municipal cooperation, whose mailing address is 228 S.
Massachusetts Avenue, Lakeland Florida 33801; and Polk County, a political subdivision of the
State of Florida, whose address is P.O. Box 9005, Drawer RE-01, Bartow, Florida 33831,
collectively, the Granter, to the POLK REGIONAL WATER COOPERATIVE, an independent
special district under the laws of the State of Florida, whose address is 330 West Church Street,
Bartow, Florida 33831, Grantee;
WHEREAS, Granter owns certain real property (the "Property") located within Polk
County, Florida, which the Polk County Property Appraiser identifies as Parcel ID 242913000000-044120; and
WHEREAS, a portion of the Property is depicted and described on Exhibit "A" attached
hereto, and identified as 6050-IE ("Parcel 6050-IE"); and
WHEREAS, Grantee desires a non-exclusive, perpetual easement for limited pedestrian
and vehicular ingress and egress in and over those portions (the "Easement Lands") of Parcel
6050-IE which the Granter from time to time reasonably designates by improvements or otherwise
for use as drives, walks, or paths to provide Grantee access to the Grantor's northerly adjoining
portions of the Property solely to install, operate, and maintain facilities upon that land in
accordance with a separate utility easement the Granter is concurrently granting to the Grantee;
and
WHEREAS, Granter agrees to grant the Grantee an easement over the Easement Lands
in accordance with and pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Easement, and subject to
existing easements of record;

Parcel No: 242913-000000-044120

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the sum of One Dollar ($1.00) and other good
and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the parties agree as
follows:

1.Grantor does hereby grant unto Grantee, its successors and assigns, a permanent nonexclusive easement ("Easement") for ingress and egress, in and over the Easement Lands as
stated herein, and subject to existing easements of record, to provide Grantee access to the
Grantor's northerly adjoining portions of the Property solely to install, operate, maintain, inspect,
repair, and replace facilities upon that land in accordance with a separate utility easement the
Granter is concurrently granting to the Grantee.
2.
agreements:

This Easement is granted subject to the following terms, conditions, and

a)
The Grantee shall be responsible for the routine maintenance and repairs
of the Easement Lands as needed from the Grantee's use of those lands so it remains in
a serviceable condition for use by the Granter and the Grantee.
b) If the Grantee damages the Grantor's land, equipment, facilities, or any
improvements when accessing and using the Easement Lands or any other Property area
to the extent such damage results from Grantee's exercise of the rights granted herein,
then, at the Grantor's reasonable election, the Grantee shall either repair or replace the
damaged real property and personal property to the same or substantially similar
conditions which existed prior to such damage with the damaged property being restored
to the same, like, or better quality and at their original locations or as near as is reasonably
practicable thereto, all to the reasonable satisfaction of the Granter.
c) The Granter retains the right to use the Easement Lands subject to
noninterference with the Grantee's easement rights. The Grantee shall have the right to
use the Easement Lands subject to noninterference with the Grantor's rights as the
Property fee owner of the Easement Lands.
d)
Damages to the Easement Lands and any improvements, facilities or
personal property which are caused by the Grantee shall be repaired within a reasonable
time by the Grantee.
e)
Should the Grantee not repair the Easement Lands within a reasonable
time as set forth in Section 2d), the Granter may repair the Easement Lands after providing
the Grantee notice that Granter will undertake the repair because the Grantee has not

2

Parcel No: 242913-000000-044120

timely begun the required repair. If Granter repairs the damage, then the Grantee shall
pay Granter all reasonable costs the Granter incurs to do so.
f)
In the event the Grantee performs emergency-related repairs, unscheduled
facility adjustment activities, or scheduled improvement projects within Easement Lands,
the Grantee shall be responsible for restoring the disturbed portions of Easement Lands
in as good or better condition than existed prior to the disturbance activity by the Grantee,
and to the satisfaction of the Granter.
g)
Nothing herein shall be construed as a waiver of sovereign immunity
enjoyed by any party hereto, as provided in Section 768.28, Florida Statutes, as amended
from time to time, or any other law providing limitations on claims.
h)
Grantee shall indemnify and hold Granter, and its officers, agents,
employees, and invitees harmless from any injuries, liability, loss, or damage suffered as
a result of Grantee's use of the Easement Lands.
i) It is expressly understood and agreed that the Easement granted herein shall
not be construed or used as a public easement or a public right-of-way, but is expressly
limited to use by the Polk Regional Water Cooperative ("PRWC") and any successor
organization thereto, solely to provide Grantee access to the northerly adjoining portions
of the Property so it can install, operate, maintain, inspect, repair, and replace PRWC
facilities upon that land in accordance with a separate utility easement the Granter has
concurrently granted to the Grantee.
j)
The Grantee, in the exercise of its rights hereunder, shall permit no action,
activity, or course of conduct by its contractors, agents, representatives, employees,
guests, invitees, or licensees that would be detrimental, hazardous, or unduly restrictive
to Grantor's joint use of the Easement Lands or to Grantor's use of Parcel 6050-1 E .
Likewise, the Granter, in the exercise of its ownership rights, shall not permit any action,
activity, or course or conduct by its contractors, agents, representatives, employees,
guests, invitees, or licensees that would be detrimental, hazardous, or unduly restrictive
to the rights granted herein to Grantee.
k)
In the event there is a breach of any of the covenants, conditions, or
agreements contained herein, the Granter and Grantee shall first meet and attempt to
resolve the breach. If they are not able to resolve the dispute, then unless it shall be
unreasonable to do so or an emergency situation or necessity dictates otherwise, prior to
commencing any legal action or proceeding they shall submit the dispute to non-binding
mediation conducted by a mutually agreeable mediator, sharing the cost of mediation

3

Parcel No: 242913-000000-044120

equally. Should the mediator declare an impasse and a lawsuit or other action is brought
to remedy, restrain or otherwise seek redress of such breach, reasonable attorneys' fees
and court costs shall be awarded to the prevailing party in addition to any damages that
may be awarded. Among other matters the parties intend this mediation process as an
alternative to the conflict resolution procedure described in the Florida Governmental
Conflict Resolution Act, Florida Statutes, Chapter 164.
I)
This Easement agreement shall be governed under the laws of the State
of Florida, with venue for any action being the Circuit Court for the State of Florida 10 th
Judicial Circuit, Polk County, Florida, or the Federal District Court for the Middle District of
Florida, Tampa Division.
3.
The Grantorwarrants and represents unto the Grantee that the Granter possesses
fee simple title to the Easement Lands and that it is authorized to execute and deliver this
Easement agreement.
4.
This Easement agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the
parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns.

The remainder of this page has been left intentionally blank

4

Parcel No: 242913-000000-044120

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused these presents to be executed
as of the date and year set forth hereinabove.

Attest:

Grantor:
The City of Bartow
a Florida municipal Corporation

By: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Jacqueline Poole, City Clerk

By: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Tanya Tucker, Mayor

WITNESS: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Reviewed as to form and legal sufficiency:

PRINT NAME: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
ADDRESS:

Sean R. Parker, City Attorney
WITNESS: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
PRINTNAME: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
ADDRESS:

STATE OF
FLORIDA
COUNTY OF POLK

The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me by means of LJ physical presence or L]
online notarization this ___ day of ____ 2026, by Tanya Tucker, Mayor, on behalf of the
City of Bartow, who LJ is personally known to me or LJ has produced
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ as identification.

(NOTARIAL SEAL)
Notary Public
PRINT NAME:

COMMISSION EXPIRES:

5

Parcel No: 242913-000000-044120

Attest:

Grantor:
The City of Lakeland
a Florida municipal Corporation

By: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Kelly S. Koos, City Clerk

By:--------------Sara Roberts Mccarley, Mayor

WITNESS: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Reviewed as to form and legal sufficiency:

PRINT NAME:
ADDRESS:

Palmer C. Davis, City Attorney
WITNESS:

-------------

PRINT NAME:
ADDRESS:

STATE OF
FLORIDA
COUNTY OF POLK
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me by means of LJ physical presence or L]
online notarization this ___ day of ____ 2026, by Sara Roberts Mccarley, Mayor, on
behalf of the City of Lakeland who U is personally known to me or LJ has produced
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ as identification.

(NOTARIAL SEAL)
Notary Public
PRINT NAME:

COMMISSION EXPIRES:

6

Parcel No: 242913-000000-044120

Grantor:
Stacy M. Butterfield
Clerk of the Board

Polk County
a political subdivision of the State of Florida

By: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Deputy Clerk

By: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Martha Santiago Ed. D., Chair
Board of County Commissioners

WITNESS: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Reviewed as to form and legal sufficiency:

PRINTNAME: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
ADDRESS:

COUNTY ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
WITNESS: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
PRINTNAME: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
ADDRESS:

STATE OF
FLORIDA
COUNTY OF POLK
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me by means of :J physical presence, or
□ online notarization this _ _ _ _ day of _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ , 2026, by Martha Santiago,
Ed. D., as Chair of the Polk County Board of County Commissioners, on behalf of Polk County, a
political subdivision of the State of Florida, who is □ is personally known to me or □ has produced
- - - - - as identification.
(NOTARIAL SEAL)
Notary Public
PRINT NAME:

COMMISSION EXPIRES: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

7

Parcel No: 242913-000000-044120

Grantee:
Polk Regional Water Cooperative
A Florida Independent Special District

Attest:

By: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Nathaniel J. Birdsong, Jr. Chair

By:--------------Mac Fuller, Secretary
WITNESS: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Reviewed as to for m and legal sufficiency:

PRINT NAME:
ADDRESS:

Edward P. de la Parte Legal Counsel

WITNESS: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
PRINT NAME:
ADDRESS:

STATE OF
FLORIDA
COUNTY OF POLK

The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me by means of LJ physical presence or L]
online notarization this ___ day of ____ , 2026, by Nathaniel J. Birdsong, Jr., Chair of the
Polk Regional Water Cooperative on behalf of the Polk Regional Water Cooperative who LJ is
personally known to me or LJ has produced _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ as
identification.
(NOTARIAL SEAL)
Notary Public
PRINT NAME:
COMMISSION EXPIRES:

8

DESCRIPTION
6050-IE
DESCRIPTION:
A parcel of land being a portion of the parcel described in Official Records Book 13499, Pages 1141 through 1143,
Public Records of Polk County, Florida, located in Section 13, Township 29 South, Range 24 East, being more
particularly described as follows:
COMMENCE at the Southwest corner of said Section 13; thence South 89°59'18" East, along the South line of said
Section 13, a distance of 176.50 feet to the intersection with the East line of the West 176.50 feet of said Section 13;
thence North 00°36'31" West, along said East line, 40.00 feet to the North right-of-way line of County Road 540A
(S-540-A) as depicted in Florida Department of Transportation Section Map 1668-151 for the POINT OF BEGINNING;
thence continue North 00°36'31" West, along said East line, 180.00 feet; thence South 89°59'18" East, 258.29 feet to
the intersection with the East line of said parcel described in Official Records Book 13499, Pages 1141 through 1143;
thence South 00°38'46" East, 180 .00 feet to the intersection with said North right-of-way line of County Road 540A
(S-540-A); thence North 89°59'18 11 West, along said North right-of-way line, 258.40 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING.

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Said parcel containing 46,499.21 square feet, more or less.

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I hereby certify that this Description with Sketch was made under my direction and was made in accordance with (/}'"
Standards of Practice adopted by the State of Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Board of ~
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Professional Surveyors and Mappers, Chapter 5J-17 of the Florida Administrative Code, pursuant to Section 472.027, g
Florida Statutes.
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::JEFFREY P. AMMERMANN, P.S.M.
FLORIDA REGISTRATION PSM 7388
[email protected]
THIS ITEM HAS BEEN DIGITALLY SIGNED AND SEALED BY THE ABOVE
SURVEYOR ON THE DATE ADJACENT TO SEAL. ANY SIGNATURE MUST BE
VERIFIED ON ANY ELECTRONIC COPIES. PRINTED COPIES OF THIS DOCUMENT
ARE NOT CONSIDERED VALID WITHOUT A RAISED SEAL.

PREPARED BY:

CHASTAIN-SKILLMAN, INC. -

205 EAST ORANGE STREET SUITE #110

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SHEET 1 OF 2 ?
SEE SHEET 2 OF 2 FOR .8
DESCRIPTION SKETCH, LEGEND,
AND SURVEYOR'S NOTES

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CS PROJECT: 8825.03

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6050-IE

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LAKELAND. FLORIDA
33801 (863) 646-1402
LB 262
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__________________________
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_D_R_A_W_N_B-Y:_S_._C_H_l_LD_S_ _ _T""IF_J_E_L_D_B_O_O_K:_:_______
P_Ji_GE_:__-_-_--.....
ID_A_T_E_:--0-9/;_1_9_/._2_0-25---1

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SHEET NO.

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§,

LEGEND:

DESCRIPTION SKETCH
6050-JE

= PAGE
= OFFICIAL RECORDS BOOK
= INGRESS/EGRESS EASEMENT
= FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
= IDENTIFICATION

PG.
O.R.
IE
F.D.O.T.
ID

NORTH LINE OF PARCEL\
(O.R. 13499, PG. 1141)
NW CORNER OF PARCEL
(O.R. 13499, PG. 1141)

PARCEL ID: 242913-000000-044121
OWNER:POLK COUNTY
(O.R. 7276, PG. 758)

NE CORNER OF PARCEL
(O.R. 13499, PG. 1141)

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PARCEL ID: 242913-000000-044120
OWNER: POLK COUNTY, CITY OF
LAKELAND, AND CITY OF' BARTOW
(O.R. 13499, PG. 1141)

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PARCEL ID:242913-000000-044080
OWNER: MICHAEL ROBERSON
(O.R. 9326, PG. 1537)

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30' DRAINAGE EASEMENT --~--__,~11
(O.R. 7276, PG. 762)
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EAST LINE OF THE - - - WEST 176.50 FEET OF
SECTION 13

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SUBJECT PARCEL
6050-IE

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CONTAINING 46,499.21 SQUARE FEET,
MORE OR LESS

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PARCEL ID: 242913-000000-044030
OWNER: MBS LAKELAND LLC
(O.R. 11218, PG. 224)

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NORTH RIGHT-OF-WAY LINE
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(F.D.O.T. SECTION 1668-151)

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OF COMMENCEMENT

SW CORNER OF' SECTION 13,
TOWNSHIP 29 SOUTH,
RANGE 24 EAST

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This is not a Boundary survey.
The bearings are based on the South
line of Section 13, Township 29
South, Range 24 East, Polk County,
Florida, being South 89°59'18" East.
The parcel identification numbers, and
owner information was obtained from
the Polk County Property Appraiser's
website (www.polkpa.org) and is for
information purposes only.
See sheet 1 for description,
certification, and Surveyor's signature
and seal.

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PREPARED BY: CHASTAIN-SKILLMAN,

INC. -

205 EAST ORANGE STREET SUITE #110

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6050-IE

LAKELAND. FLORIDA 33801 - (863) 646-1402
LB 262
t-------------~
______________________________
.________________________
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- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - r - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -.......
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DRAWN BY:

s. CHILDS

IFJELD BOOK: - - PAGE: - - I DATE:
10

09/19/2025

SHEET NO.

v-

3-

Parcel No: 242913-000000-044120

This instrument was prepared by or under the direction of:
Tom Mattiacci
City of Lakeland Water Utilities Department
501 E. Lemon Street
Lakeland, Florida, 33801

____________________________________________________________________________
Space above this line for recording information

Utility Easement
THIS EASEMENT is made this ________ day of _________ 2026, by the City of Bartow, a Florida
Municipal Corporation, whose address is 450 N. Wilson Avenue, Bartow, FL 33830; the CITY OF
LAKELAND, a Florida municipal cooperation, whose mailing address is 228 S. Massachusetts
Avenue, Lakeland Florida 33801; and Polk County, a political subdivision of the State of Florida,
whose address is P.O. Box 9005, Drawer RE-01, Bartow, Florida 33831, collectively, the Grantor,
to the POLK REGIONAL WATER COOPERATIVE, an independent special district under the
laws of the State of Florida, whose address is 330 West Church Street, Bartow, Florida 33831,
Grantee
WHEREAS, Grantor owns certain real property (the “Property”) located within Polk
County, Florida, which the Polk County Property Appraiser identifies as Parcel ID 242913000000-044120; and
WHEREAS, a portion of the Property is depicted and described on Exhibit “A” attached
hereto, and identified as “6050-UE” (hereinafter “Easement Lands”); and
WHEREAS, Grantee desires a non-exclusive, perpetual utility easement in, on, under,
and over the Easement Lands to construct, improve, operate, inspect, maintain, repair, and
replace a Booster Pump Station and its associated appurtenances necessary for the transmission
of water to Polk Regional Water Cooperative (“PRWC”) member governments in accordance with
a final Site Plan, Paving, Grading, and Stormwater Management Plan approved by the Grantor
(the “Site Plan”); and
WHEREAS, Grantor agrees to grant the Grantee an easement over the Easement Lands
in accordance with and pursuant to the terms and conditions stated herein, and subject to existing
easements of record;

Parcel No: 242913-000000-044120

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the sum of One Dollar ($1.00) and other good
and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the parties agree as
follows:
1.
Grantor does hereby grant unto Grantee, its successors and assigns, a permanent
non-exclusive utility easement (“Easement”) in, on, under, and over the Easement Lands to
construct, improve, operate, inspect, maintain, repair, and replace a Booster Pump Station and
its associated appurtenances necessary for the transmission of water to PRWC member
governments in accordance with the Site Plan and subject to existing easements of record.
2.
This Easement is granted subject to the following terms, conditions, and
agreements:
a)
The Grantee shall at all times, at its own cost and expense, keep and
maintain the Easement Lands and all facilities and improvements thereon in an orderly,
clean, serviceable and well-maintained condition. Additionally, at its own cost and
expense, the Grantee shall keep and maintain all facilities and improvements it constructs
or installs in, on, under, and over the Easement Lands in clean, good working order, repair
and condition, and in accordance with any applicable law and permits.
b) Grantee shall have the right to make alterations and improvements to the
Easement Lands which are necessary for the Grantee to exercise the rights granted herein
upon providing the Grantor prior written notice of any such work. If Grantee proposes any
alterations or improvements which differ from the Grantor approved Site Plan or which
unreasonably interfere with the Grantor’s current operations and development of the
Property existing as of the effective date of this Easement, or as otherwise used
subsequently thereafter if reasonably documented in writing and provided to the Grantee
prior to the date the Grantee proposes such further alterations or improvements to the
Grantor, then the Grantee must obtain the Grantor’s prior written consent for those
alterations and improvements. The Grantor shall not unreasonably withhold, condition, or
delay its consent. The Grantor’s consent to the final Site Plan or to a proposed alteration
or improvement as the grantor of this Easement is an act separate from the Grantor’s role
as a governmental authority responsible for issuing any permit, consent, or approval (any
such action, the “Permit”) necessary for the Grantee to develop and improve the Easement
Lands, to include any future proposed alteration or improvement; provided, however, that
the Grantor’s consent in its capacity as grantor of this Easement, including consent to the
final Site Plan, shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned, or delayed. If any such
Permit is required, then the Grantee must separately apply for each required Permit to the
applicable member of the Grantor having jurisdiction over the same who will evaluate each

2

Parcel No: 242913-000000-044120

application based upon the applicable criteria for the issuance of such Permit and
independent of any consent provided hereunder.
c) The Grantee’s use of the Easement Lands shall not interfere with the Grantor’s rights
as the fee owner of the Easement Lands, or the Grantor’s existing rights and uses of the
adjoining portions of the Property. Likewise, the Grantor’s use of the Easement Lands
and the adjoining portions of the Property shall not interfere with the Grantee’s rights
granted herein.
d)
The Grantor shall not grant easements over the Easement Lands to other
parties without the prior written consent of the Grantee, which the Grantee shall not
withhold unreasonably.
e)
Damages to the Easement Lands and to any improvements, facilities, or
personal property which are caused by the Grantee shall be repaired within a reasonable
time by the Grantee.
f)
Should the Grantee not repair the Easement Lands or any improvements,
facilities, or personal property thereon within a reasonable time (as set forth in Section 2e
above), the Grantor may repair the Easement Lands upon consultation with the Grantee
and at the Grantee’s cost.
g)
In the event the Grantee performs emergency-related repairs, unscheduled
facility adjustment activities, or scheduled improvement projects within Easement Lands,
the Grantee shall be responsible for restoring the disturbed portions of Easement Lands
in as good or better condition than existed prior to the disturbance activity by the Grantee,
and to the satisfaction of the Grantor.
h)
Nothing herein shall be construed as a waiver of sovereign immunity
enjoyed by any party hereto, as provided in Section 768.28, Florida Statutes, as amended
from time to time, or any other law providing limitations on claims.
i)
Grantee shall indemnify and hold Grantor, and its officers, agents,
employees, and invitees harmless from any injuries, liability, loss, or damage suffered as
a result of the Grantee's use of the Easement Lands.
j)
It is expressly understood and agreed that the Easement granted herein
shall not be construed or used as a public easement or a public right-of-way, but is
expressly limited to use by the PRWC and any successor organization thereto, to
construct, improve, operate, inspect, maintain, repair, and replace a Booster Pump Station

3

Parcel No: 242913-000000-044120

and its associated appurtenances necessary for the transmission of water to PRWC
member governments in accordance with the Site Plan.
k)
The Grantee, in the exercise of its rights hereunder, shall permit no action,
activity, or course of conduct by its contractors, agents, representatives, employees,
guests, invitees, or licensees that would be detrimental, hazardous, or unduly restrictive
to Grantor's joint use of the Easement Lands. Likewise, the Grantor, in the exercise of its
ownership rights, shall not permit any action, activity, or course or conduct by its
contractors, agents, representatives, employees, guests, invitees, or licensees that would
be detrimental, hazardous, or unduly restrictive to the rights granted herein to Grantee.
l)
In the event there is a breach of any of the covenants, conditions, or
agreements contained herein, the Grantor and Grantee shall first meet and attempt to
resolve the breach. If they are not able to resolve the dispute, then unless it shall be
unreasonable to do so or an emergency situation or necessity dictates otherwise, prior to
commencing any legal action or proceeding they shall submit the dispute to non-binding
mediation conducted by a mutually agreeable mediator, sharing the cost of mediation
equally. Should the mediator declare an impasse and a lawsuit or other action is brought
to remedy, restrain or otherwise seek redress of such breach, reasonable attorneys’ fees
and court costs shall be awarded to the prevailing party in addition to any damages that
may be awarded. Among other matters the parties intend this mediation process as an
alternative to the conflict resolution procedure described in the Florida Governmental
Conflict Resolution Act, Florida Statutes, Chapter 164.
m)
This Easement agreement shall be governed under the laws of the State
of Florida, with venue for any action being the Circuit Court for the State of Florida’s 10 th
Judicial Circuit, Polk County, Florida, or the Federal District Court for the Middle District of
Florida, Tampa Division.
3.
The Grantor warrants and represents unto Grantee that the Grantor possesses fee
simple title to the Easement Lands and that it is authorized to execute and deliver this Easement
agreement.
4.
This Easement agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the
parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns.
The remainder of this page has been left intentionally blank. The Easement agreement
continues on the following page with the parties’ signatures.

4

Parcel No: 242913-000000-044120

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused these presents to be executed
as of the date and year set forth hereinabove.

Attest:

Grantor:
The City of Bartow
a Florida municipal Corporation

By:

By:
Jacqueline Poole, City Clerk

Tanya Tucker, Mayor

WITNESS:
PRINT NAME:

Reviewed as to form and legal sufficiency:

ADDRESS:
Sean R. Parker, City Attorney
WITNESS:
PRINT NAME:
ADDRESS:

STATE OF
FLORIDA
COUNTY OF POLK
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me by means of [_] physical presence or [_]
online notarization this ______ day of ________ 2026, by Tanya Tucker, Mayor, on behalf of the
City of Bartow, who [_] is personally known to me or [_] has produced
__________________________________ as identification.
(NOTARIAL SEAL)
Notary Public
PRINT NAME:

COMMISSION EXPIRES:

5

Parcel No: 242913-000000-044120

Attest:

Grantor:
The City of Lakeland
a Florida municipal Corporation

By:

By:
Kelly S. Koos, City Clerk

Sara Roberts McCarley, Mayor

WITNESS:
PRINT NAME:

Reviewed as to form and legal sufficiency:

ADDRESS:
Palmer C. Davis, City Attorney
WITNESS:
PRINT NAME:
ADDRESS:

STATE OF
FLORIDA
COUNTY OF POLK
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me by means of [_] physical presence or [_]
online notarization this ______ day of ________ 2026, by Sara Roberts McCarley, Mayor, on
behalf of the City of Lakeland who [_] is personally known to me or [_] has produced
__________________________________ as identification.
(NOTARIAL SEAL)
Notary Public
PRINT NAME:

COMMISSION EXPIRES:

6

Parcel No: 242913-000000-044120

Attest:

Grantor:

Stacy M. Butterfield
Clerk of the Board

Polk County
a political subdivision of the State of Florida

By:

By:
Deputy Clerk

Martha Santiago Ed. D., Chair
Board of County Commissioners

WITNESS:
PRINT NAME:

Reviewed as to form and legal sufficiency:

ADDRESS:
COUNTY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
WITNESS:
PRINT NAME:
ADDRESS:

STATE OF
FLORIDA
COUNTY OF POLK
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me by means of  physical presence, or
 online notarization this
day of
, 2026, by Martha Santiago,
Ed. D., as Chair of the Polk County Board of County Commissioners, on behalf of Polk County, a
political subdivision of the State of Florida, who is □ is personally known to me or □ has produced
____________ as identification.
(NOTARIAL SEAL)
Notary Public
PRINT NAME:

COMMISSION EXPIRES:

7

Parcel No: 242913-000000-044120

Attest:

Grantee:
Polk Regional Water Cooperative
A Florida Independent Special District

By:

By:
Mac Fuller, Secretary

Nathaniel J. Birdsong, Jr. Chair

WITNESS:
PRINT NAME:

Reviewed as to for m and legal sufficiency:

ADDRESS:
________

Edward P. de la Parte Legal Counsel

WITNESS:
PRINT NAME:
ADDRESS:

STATE OF
FLORIDA
COUNTY OF POLK
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me by means of [_] physical presence or [_]
online notarization this ______ day of ________, 2026, by Nathaniel J. Birdsong, Jr., Chair of the
Polk Regional Water Cooperative on behalf of the Polk Regional Water Cooperative who [_] is
personally known to me or [_] has produced __________________________________ as
identification.
(NOTARIAL SEAL)
Notary Public
PRINT NAME:

COMMISSION EXPIRES:

8

A parcel of land being a portion of the parcel described in Official Records Book 13499, Pages 1141 through 1143,
Public Records of Polk County, Florida, located in Section 13, Township 29 South, Range 24 East, being more
particularly described as follows:
COMMENCE at the Southwest corner of said Section 13; thence South 89°59'18" East, along the South line of said
Section 13, a distance of 176.50 feet to the intersection with the East line of the West 176.50 feet of said Section 13;
thence North 00°36'31" West, along said East line, 40.00 feet to the North right-of-way line of County Road 540A
(S-540-A) as depicted in Florida Department of Transportation Section Map 1668-151; thence continue North
00°36'31" West, along said East line, 180.00 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING; thence continue North 00°36'31"
West, along said East line, 141.03 feet to the Northwest corner of said parcel described in Official Records Book
13499, Pages 1141 through 1143; thence North 89°20'17" East, along the North line of said parcel, 348.17 feet to the
Northeast corner of said parcel; thence South 00°38'46" East, along the East line of said parcel, 78.11 feet; thence
North 89°59'18" West, 90.00 feet; thence South 00°38'46" East, along the East line of said parcel, 67.02 feet; thence
North 89°59'18" West, 258.29 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING.
Said parcel containing 43,792.07 square feet, more or less.

I hereby certify that this Description with Sketch was made under my direction and was made in accordance with
Standards of Practice adopted by the State of Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Board of
Professional Surveyors and Mappers, Chapter 5J-17 of the Florida Administrative Code, pursuant to Section 472.027,
Florida Statutes.

JEFFREY P. AMMERMANN, P.S.M.
FLORIDA REGISTRATION PSM 7388
[email protected]
THIS ITEM HAS BEEN DIGITALLY SIGNED AND SEALED BY THE ABOVE
SURVEYOR ON THE DATE ADJACENT TO SEAL. ANY SIGNATURE MUST BE
VERIFIED ON ANY ELECTRONIC COPIES. PRINTED COPIES OF THIS DOCUMENT
ARE NOT CONSIDERED VALID WITHOUT A RAISED SEAL.

9

SEE SHEET 2 OF 2 FOR
DESCRIPTION SKETCH, LEGEND,
AND SURVEYOR'S NOTES

1)
2)

3)

4)

10

This is not a Boundary survey.
The bearings are based on the South
line of Section 13, Township 29
South, Range 24 East, Polk County,
Florida, being South 89°59'18" East.
The parcel identification numbers, and
owner information was obtained from
the Polk County Property Appraiser's
website (www.polkpa.org) and is for
information purposes only.
See sheet 1 for description,
certification, and Surveyor's signature
and seal.

EXHIBIT

CS PROJECT NUMBER:

8825.03

DESCRIPTION

DATE

NUMBER

POLK REGIONAL WATER COOPERATIVE
CHASTAIN-SKILLMAN
205 EAST ORANGE STREET
SUITE #110
LAKELAND, FL 33801-4611
(863) 646-1402
c 2023 CHASTAIN SKILLMAN

C.A. NO. 262

FIELD BY:

DATE:
09/19/2025
FIELD BOOK & PAGE:

POLK COUNTY, CITY OF LAKELAND,
AND CITY OF BARTOW EXHIBIT

PARCEL NUMBER:

N/A

N/A

6050
SHEET NUMBER:
V-01

PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

ITEM NO. 13.a
CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA
TO:

City of Bartow City Commission

FROM:

Sean R. Parker, City Attorney; Owens T. Parker, Law Clerk

DATE:

August 3, 2026

SUBJECT:

Bartow Community Redevelopment Agency Request by Executive Director of Bartow
CRA for Donation of One (1) City-owned parcel of real estate – 370 Parker Street, Parcel
ID Number 25-30-07-400000-010045. RESOLUTION NO. 26-4271-R - A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BARTOW, FLORIDA RELATING TO
THE DISPOSITION OF SURPLUS REAL PROPERTY; DECLARING PARCEL 25-3007-400000-010045 (370 PARKER STREET) TO BE SURPLUS; AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER TO TAKE ALL STEPS NECESSARY TO TRANSFER SUCH
SURPLUS REAL PROPERTY TO THE BARTOW COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

SUMMARY & BACKGOUND
The Bartow Community Redevelopment Agency ("CRA") is charged with
rehabilitating blighted commercial and residential areas in the City of Bartow. To
accomplish its goals, CRA staff works with landowners and private developers to
churn vacant properties, repair existing structures and build new structures in the
City of Bartow's designated community redevelopment area.
CRA Staff has targeted one (1) vacant parcel of residential real estate in the
community redevelopment area for redevelopment activity. The parcel is currently
owned by the City of Bartow. The parcel, parcel number 25-30-07-400000-010045,
is located on Parker Street, in the CRA Core Improvement Area, near Mill Avenue
East.
Habitat for Humanity has expressed interest in building a new Habitat home on the
targeted vacant parcel.
In Ordinance 2016-04, the City of Bartow determined:
" ... [I]f the United States, or any department or agency thereof, the state or
any political subdivision or
agency
thereof, any municipality of this
state, any independent or dependent special
district incorporated within
this state or corporation or other organization not for profit which may be
organized for the purposes of promoting community interest and welfare,
should desire any real property that may be owned by the city for public or
community interest and welfare, including but not limited to the provision
affordable housing and redevelopment activity within an active community
redevelopment area created pursuant to Part III of F.S. Chapter 163, then the
United States, or any department or agency thereof, state or such political

ITEM NO. 13.a
subdivision, agency, municipality, district, corporation or organization may
apply to the city commission for a conveyance or lease of such property. The
city commission, if satisfied that such property is required for such use and is
not needed for municipal purposes, may thereupon sell, convey or lease the
same at private sale to the applicant for such price, whether nominal or
otherwise, as the commission may fix, regardless of the actual value of such
property. The fact of such application being made, the purpose for which such
property is to be used, and the price or rent therefor shall be set out in a
resolution duly adopted by such board. In case of a lease, the term of such
lease shall be recited in such resolution. No advertisement shall be required."
The City of Bartow has received a request from the CRA for transfer of the identified
parcel for redevelopment activity, at a nominal price to facilitate the redevelopment
of the property in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity for a new single-family
residence.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommend that the City Commission adopt Resolution 26-4271-R and
authorize the City Manager to take all steps necessary to transfer City-owned parcel
25-30-07-400000-010045 to Bartow CRA for redevelopment activity.
ATTACHMENTS
RESOLUTION NO. 26-4271-R
PROPERTY INFORMATIN SHEET

RESOLUTION NO. 26-4271-R
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
BARTOW, FLORIDA RELATING TO THE DISPOSITION OF SURPLUS
REAL PROPERTY; DECLARING PARCEL 25-30-07-400000-010045
(370 PARKER STREET) TO BE SURPLUS; AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO TAKE ALL STEPS NECESSARY TO TRANSFER SUCH
SURPLUS REAL PROPERTY TO THE BARTOW COMMUNITY
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE
WHEREAS, the City of Bartow owns a parcel of vacant residentially zoned real property
located at 370 Parker Street (Parcel 25-30-07-400000-010045); and
WHEREAS, the City has received a request from the Executive Director of the Bartow
Community Redevelopment Agency for transfer of the referenced parcel for redevelopment
activity;
WHEREAS, Section 2-356 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Bartow, Florida, as
amended by Ordinance 2016-04, states, in pertinent part:
“ … [I]f the United States, or any department or agency thereof, the state or any
political subdivision or agency thereof, any municipality of this state, any
independent or dependent special district incorporated within this state or
corporation or other organization not for profit which may be organized for the
purposes of promoting community interest and welfare, should desire any real
property that may be owned by the city for public or community interest and welfare,
including but not limited to the provision affordable housing and redevelopment
activity within an active community redevelopment area created pursuant to Part III
of F.S. Chapter 163, then the United States, or any department or agency thereof,
state or such political subdivision, agency, municipality, district, corporation or
organization may apply to the city commission for a conveyance or lease of such
property. The city commission, if satisfied that such property is required for such use
and is not needed for municipal purposes, may thereupon sell, convey or lease the
same at private sale to the applicant for such price, whether nominal or otherwise,
as the commission may fix, regardless of the actual value of such property. The fact
of such application being made, the purpose for which such property is to be used,
and the price or rent therefor shall be set out in a resolution duly adopted by such
board. In case of a lease, the term of such lease shall be recited in such resolution.
No advertisement shall be required.”
and
WHEREAS, the City Commission is satisfied that the referenced parcel is not needed for
municipal purposes, and is thus surplus, and that the best use of such parcel is for
redevelopment activity to be coordinated by the Bartow Community Redevelopment Agency;
and

1

WHEREAS, the City Commission finds that the transfer should be effected at a nominal
value so as to maximize the redevelopment options available to the Bartow Community
Redevelopment Agency; NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE PEOPLE OF THE CITY OF BARTOW:
SECTION 1. Incorporation of Recitals.

The foregoing recitals are incorporated

herein and found by the City Commission to be true and correct statements of fact.
SECTION 2. Property Declared Surplus. The City of Bartow formally declares real
property located at 370 Parker Street (Parcel 25-30-07-400000-010045) to be surplus.
SECTION 3. City Manager to Transfer Surplus Property to Bartow Community
Redevelopment Agency. The City Commission directs the City Manager to transfer the real
property located at 370 Parker Street (Parcel 25-30-07-400000-010045) to the Bartow
Community Redevelopment Agency for nominal consideration. The City Manager is directed to
and authorized to take all steps necessary to effectuate such transfer.
SECTION 4. Effective Date. This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its
adoption.
PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BARTOW
THIS 3RD DAY OF AUGUST, 2026.
ATTEST:

CITY OF BARTOW:

City Clerk Jacqueline Poole

Mayor Tanya Tucker

(seal)
Approved as to correctness and form:

Approved as to substance:

City Attorney Sean R. Parker

City Manager Mike Herr

2

Parcel Details: 25-30-07-400000-010045
Owners Recently purchased this property? Click here.

Property Desc

BARTOW CITY OF

DISCLAIMER: The property description provided is a summary

100%

of the original legal description and should not be used for
conveying property, as it may render the deed invalid.

Mailing Address (Address Change form)
450 N WILSON AVE

Area Map

BARTOW FL 33830-3954

N

Physical Street Address Why postal city and
municipality? Click here.

370 PARKER ST

Postal City and Zip
BARTOW FL 33830
E

W

Parcel Information
Municipality

BARTOW (Code: 90310)

Neighborhood

6666.40
Search Recent Sales in this
Neighborhood

Subdivision

CARPENTERS 2ND ADD PB 1
PG 1

Property (DOR)
Use Code

Vacant Municipal - vac land or
misc impr of some value
(Code: 8089)

Acreage

0.12

Recorded Plat

Community
Redevelopment
Area

City of Bartow CRA - Area
I (Code: 321)

Recorded Plat for this parcel

S

Section Maps for 253007
HTML (opens in new tab)
Printable PDF

Sales History
Important Notice: If you wish to obtain a copy of a deed for this parcel, click on the blue OR Book/Page number. If the Book/Page
number does not have a blue link or if the document is restricted, it may not be available online. Please contact the Polk County Clerk
Indexing Department at 863-534-4516. If the Type Inst is an “R”, please contact the Property Appraiser at 863-534-4765 to order “R”
type instruments.

Type Inst

Vacant/
Improved

08/2015

M

V

BARTOW CITY OF

09/2014

T

V

POLK COUNTY

OR Book/Page

Date

09599/00605
09351/01091

Grantee

Sales Price
$100
$0

4101/1207

08/1998

W

I

$38,300

2549/0692

07/1987

Q

I

$100

2549/0691

07/1987

W

I

$29,000

Exemptions
Note: The drop down menus below provide information on the amount of exemption applied to each taxing district. The HX—first
$25,000 homestead exemption may be allocated to one or more owners. The HB second amended homestead exemption reflects the
name of the first owner only.

Bld.
Code #

Description

%
Ownership

027

027-LOCAL GOVT MUNICIPALFS196.199(1)(C)

Renew
Cd Year Name

100%

2016

Note

BARTOW
CITY OF

Value
$4,708

Total Exemption Value (County)

$4,708

PERMITS

Please contact the appropriate permit issuing agency to obtain
information. This property is located in the BARTOW taxing district.
Land Lines
LN Land Description

Ag/GreenBelt

Land Unit Type

Front

Depth

Units

N

SQUARE FOOT

0

0

5,231.00

1 * COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL

* For Zoning/Future Land Use contact Polk County or the Municipality the parcel is located in.
NOTICE: All information ABOVE this notice is current (as of Thursday, July 30, 2026 at 2:10:25
AM). All information BELOW this notice is from the 2025 Tax Roll, except where
otherwise noted.

Value Summary (2025)
Desc

Value

LAND VALUE

$4,708

BUILDING VALUE

$0

EXTRA FEATURES VALUE

$0

JUST MARKET VALUE

$4,708

AG CLASSIFIED LAND VALUE

$0

AGRICULTURE CLASSIFICATION SAVINGS

$0

*HOMESTEAD CAP AND SOH PORTABILITY SAVINGS

$0

ASSESSED VALUE

$4,708

EXEMPTION VALUE (COUNTY)

$4,708

TAXABLE VALUE (COUNTY)

$0

*This property contains a Non Homestead Cap with a differential of $0.

Values by District (2025)
District
Description
BOARD OF
COUNTY

Just
Market
Value
$4,708

Assessed
Value Exemption
$4,708

$4,708

Final
Tax
Savings

Taxable
Value

Final
Tax Rate

Final
Taxes

$31.24

$0

6.634800

$0.00

COMMISSIO
NERS
POLK
COUNTY
SCHOOL
BOARD STATE

$4,708

$4,708

$4,708

$14.32

$0

3.042000

$0.00

POLK
COUNTY
SCHOOL
BOARD LOCAL

$4,708

$4,708

$4,708

$10.58

$0

2.248000

$0.00

CITY OF
BARTOW

$4,708

$4,708

$4,708

$28.76

$0

6.108000

$0.00

SOUTHWES
T FLA
WATER
MGMT DIST

$4,708

$4,708

$4,708

$0.86

$0

0.183100

$0.00

Tax
Savings:

$85.76

Total
Taxes:

$0.00

Taxes
Desc

Last Year (2024)

2025 Final

BARTOW/SWFWMD (Code: 90310)

BARTOW/SWFWMD (Code: 90310)

18.2297

18.2159

Ad Valorem Assessments

$0.00

$0.00

Non-Ad Valorem Assessments

$0.00

$0.00

Total Taxes

$0.00

$0.00

Taxing District
Millage Rate

Your final tax bill may contain Non-Ad Valorem assessments which may not be reflected on this
page, such as assessments for roads, drainage, garbage, fire, lighting, water, sewer, or other
governmental services and facilities which may be levied by your county, city or any other
special district. Visit the Polk County Tax Collector's site for Tax Bill information related to this
account. Use"Property Tax Estimator to estimate taxes for this account.

Prior Year Final Values
The Final Tax Roll is the 1st certification of the tax rolls by the Value Adjustment Board, per Florida Statute 193.122(2), F.S. This is the
date all taxable property and tax rolls are certified for collection to the Tax Collector. Corrections made after this date are not reflected
in the Final Tax Roll Values.

DESCRIPTION

2024

2023

2022

2021

$4,708.00

$4,708.00

$4,708.00

$4,708.00

BUILDING VALUE

$0.00

$0.00

$0.00

$0.00

EXTRA FEATURES VALUE

$0.00

$0.00

$0.00

$0.00

$4,708.00

$4,708.00

$4,708.00

$4,708.00

$0.00

$0.00

$0.00

$0.00

ASSESSED VALUE

$4,708.00

$4,708.00

$4,708.00

$4,708.00

EXEMPTION VALUE (COUNTY)

$4,708.00

$4,708.00

$4,708.00

$4,708.00

$0.00

$0.00

$0.00

$0.00

LAND VALUE

JUST MARKET VALUE
HOMESTEAD CAP AND
SOH PORTABILITY SAVINGS

TAXABLE VALUE (COUNTY)

DISCLAIMER:
The Polk County Property Appraiser makes no representations or warranties regarding the completeness and
accuracy of the data herein, its use or interpretation, the fee or beneficial/equitable title ownership or

encumbrances of the property, and assumes no liability associated with its use or misuse. See the posted
Site Notice.
Last Updated: Thursday, July 30, 2026 at 2:10:25 AM