Government Team

The Government Advisory Team’s mission is to bring together all levels of local government to create more awareness, cooperation and support of the long term Vision for Polk County. This includes providing review and guidance on both foreseen and unforeseen opportunities that potentially impact the organization’s objectives and the work of its various LEAD Teams as established by the Polk Vision Board of Directors

The Government Team also works to effectively engage citizens by producing the Leadership Exchange Series which includes educational offerings such as the Mayors Roundtable, State of the County, Legislative Warm-Up, and other topically relevant workshops.

 

2018 MAYORS ROUNTABLE 

For the 8^th consecutive year, the Polk Vision Government Team hosted a half-day roundtable for the Mayors of Polk County. This unique event allows local elected leaders to discuss topics critical to their communities and the county as a whole.

Mayors from across Polk County together with the Polk County BoCC Chair sat down on September 12, 2018 for a wide ranging discussion. Topics included transportation, infrastructure, broadband, affordable housing, water issues, public safety, fire rescue.  Also discussed was how to improve coordination among city and county leaders when addressing state legislators regarding shared concerns.

 

2018 BALLOT READY

In October 2018, Polk Vision conducted a voter education forum in partnership with the Polk County.  The event featured speakers who explained the numerous ballot amendments and referendums that appeared on the 2018 General Election Ballot. Topics included Constitution Revision Commission, Florida Legislative and Citizens Initiatives, the Half-Cent Sales Tax, Homestead Exception, and Polk County Charter Amendments.

 

2019 LEGISLATIVE WARM-UP  

On January 18, 2019 renowned author, political scientist, and University of South Florida professor Dr. Susan MacManus moderated a panel discussion with members of the Polk County Legislative Delegation.

With the 2019 Legislative Session bringing changes in key leadership positions in both the House and Senate, the discussion included an overview of how these changes may impact the state as well as other important issues likely to be addressed during the 2019 Legislative Session. 

 

2019 STATE OF THE COUNTY UPDATE

The State of the County Update held on April 23, 2019, brought together residents from across Polk County to hear from Board of County Commissioners’ Chair, George Lindsey, and County Manager, Jim Freeman.

Topics addressed included county investments in election equipment and a new fire station; the Florida Poly Corridor; the Polk County Water Cooperative; and an update on infrastructure projects being forecast to keep pace with Polk County’s growing population.

                                     

The 2018-2019 Leadership Exchange Series was made possible through funding by AT&T, Citizens Bank & Trust, and Duke Energy.