Lake Wales, Florida Development News
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Development News from the latest meeting
Resident Praises Downtown Improvements, Urges Post Office Enhancement
Mr. Lum complimented the city for the excellent job done on downtown improvements near Park and First Street, noting the area now looks like a first-class attraction. He expressed concern about the south-facing part of the post office, suggesting it could be improved to match the city's efforts. He also mentioned difficulties in contacting the post office by phone, regardless of the time of day. Lum requested the city use its influence to encourage the post office to enhance its appearance.
Commissioner Celebrates Community Programs, Future Development, and Citrus Industry Revival
Commissioner Miller shared her excitement about living in Lake Wales and highlighted the success of the B Street Center's summer program graduation. She praised the center's efforts in providing opportunities for children and noted that the community has long desired a laundromat in that area, which is now planned. She also spoke about the city's progress in connecting its historically divided communities and fostering a vision for the future. Miller also shared news about the passage of the Orange Juice Production Act, which will allow Florida citrus to be labeled as orange juice again, offering hope to the struggling citrus industry.
City Authorizes $17.6 Million in Capital Improvement Revenue Notes for Public Safety and Parking
The City Commission authorized the issuance of two capital improvement revenue notes. Resolution 2026-11 authorizes a note of up to $10,607,000 to finance capital improvements including a police annex building and fire stations 2 and 3. Resolution 2026-12 authorizes a note of up to $7,052,000 to finance the acquisition of property at 100 Stewart Avenue for public parking and other improvements related to the hotel project. Both notes are limited obligations payable from non-ad valorem revenues, have a 15-year term, and a 3.9% interest rate. The Finance Director expressed confidence that these issuances, along with existing revenue streams, would not be negatively impacted by potential property tax reform, ensuring the city's financial stability and ability to fund public safety and growth.
Foundation Aims to Support Public Safety Candidates Through Scholarships
Malachi Randolph, founder of Surviving the Standard Foundation, presented his organization's mission to remove financial barriers for candidates entering law enforcement, fire, or EMS. The foundation provides scholarship funds to candidates pursuing higher education and public safety careers, particularly those facing hardship. The foundation hopes to use the Lake Wales venue as its flagship location for a community event and 5K fundraiser aimed at bridging the gap between the community and public safety. Randolph clarified that the foundation covers candidates statewide and is not seeking funding from the commission.
Rezoning Approves Commercial Development East of US Highway 27
The City Commission held a second reading and public hearing for Ordinance 2026-22. This ordinance amends the city's zoning map to rezone approximately 2 acres of land located east of US Highway 27 and along Ridgeway from R-1B Residential to C3 Highway Commercial. No members of the public spoke on this item. The commission approved the ordinance.
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The Lake Wales News archive
City Commission Workshop Meeting 07-15-26
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting 07-14-2026
City Commission Regular Meeting 07-07-2026
City Commission Workshop Meeting 07-01-26
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting 07-01-2026
City Commission Regular Meeting 06-16-2026
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