A “benchmark” study found spending-per-person was slightly lower than the average of seven comparison cities, but the number of employees per capita is on the high side. Also from City Hall: After 15 months of falling fuel rates on electric bills, city commissioners decided to keep rates flat in October. They won’t be able to […]
Category: City Hall / Local Gov’t
Posted inCity Hall / Local Gov't
Next Month: Another Forum on Forms of City Government
A committee recommending changes to Lakeland’s city charter is going to take another look at whether the city should switch from a council-manager form to a strong mayor format.
Posted inCity Hall / Local Gov't
New Site Gives Citizens Access to City Government Details
The Open Gov transparency tool lets residents delve into 10 years of city revenue and spending. Source: Bay News 9
Posted inCity Hall / Local Gov't
City Will Hold Public Workshop on Marijuana Decriminalization
After hearing a report from their police chief today on why marijuana decriminalization is a bad idea, Lakeland city commissioners this morning decided to hold a public workshop to hear from all sides.
Posted inRecreation
City Contribution to Tigertown Renovation Doubles
The $4 million overage will come from capital improvement funds and won’t affect property taxes, officials said. They will pay for things like an enhanced fire suppression system and surprises uncovered during construction. Source: The Ledger
Posted inConsumer
Lakeland Hones Rental Registration Program
Unlike earlier versions, the latest proposal — subject to a public hearing in September — does not include fees for landlords unless violations occur. Source: Bay News 9
Posted inCity Hall / Local Gov't
City Declines to Review Strong Mayor Petition
The group pushing for a strong mayor in Lakeland thought they’d be hearing back from city officials soon after they filed documents last week that said they are ready to begin collecting signatures to put their proposal on an election ballot. They found out today they’ll likely not hear anything from the city until after they […]
Posted inCity Hall / Local Gov't
Catching Up With the City Hall Beat
It was a busy day at City Hall as commissioners spent all day discussing issues affecting next year’s budget. Among other news: TAXES: Next year’s property tax rate will remain at the same level as this year’s CLEVELAND HEIGHTS: In a split described as amicable, Fresco’s will no longer manage the restaurant/bar at the city golf course, […]
Posted inCity Hall / Local Gov't
‘Executive Mayor’ Proponents Set for Ballot Drive
After laying low for months, Citizens for a Strong Lakeland has filed the paperwork needed to begin collecting the 6,038 signatures needed to get a city charter featuring a strong mayor on an election ballot. Source: http://www.theledger.com/article/20160726/news/160729546?p=all&tc=pgall