February 6, 2025

Grateful for readers’ responses

Robert Meyerowitz

Editor

Late last week, we published a detailed and timely account of events that culminated in the resignations of four Lakeland Police officers. The attention it garnered as it circulated was gratifying for us. It showed that our efforts were meeting community needs.

Meeting community needs is the approach we take to everything we do, whether it’s about police, barbecue sauce or our swans. Our work is never complete until it reaches you and you respond to it.

Your responses to the story of the officers’ resignations showed that in this instance, we connected with readers in a meaningful way. Your messages and social media comments give us valuable insight as we keep doing this work, and we are grateful.

Four Lakeland Police Officers Resign Under Cloud

All four were in the street crimes unit, which proactively pursues drug dealers and gang members.

2025: A Year Without Murders in Lakeland — Until Tuesday

In 2024, Lakeland saw six murders; in 2023, there was just one.

Griffin Lofts Is About to Welcome Formerly Homeless Residents

The Lakeland complex is expected to open later this month. Applications are open for 30 affordable housing units.

Lakeland City Manager Aces Job Review

City Manager Shawn Sherrouse received his highest rating to date from city commissioners on Monday.

Police to Replace China-Made Drones with American Gear

The move comes after the Florida Legislature banned drones made in ‘foreign countries of concern.’

South Florida Avenue Road Diet Up for Vote Monday

The city is set to fund the design, while the state has agreed to fund construction — which now could start as soon as 2027 and as late as 2030.

Polk County Opens Applications for Free Preschool Programs

The school district’s programs for 3- and 4-year-olds include Head Start and VPK.

CURATED LAKELAND NEWS

Crystal Lake Elementary gets an additional year to improve to avoid being closed | The Ledger

Fee increase averted: Background checks will remain $25 for most Polk public school volunteers | The Ledger

Dispose hazardous wastes and used electronics | Saturday | 8 a.m. to noon | 605 Evelyn Ave.
Drop off no-longer-used electronics and hazardous wastes: paints, paint thinners, fluorescent light bulbs, motor oil, drain cleaners, pool chemicals, insecticides, household batteries, etc. (See a fuller list.) Biohazard and business waste will not be accepted. Free.

Explore women’s wellness | Saturday | 9-11 a.m. | Bonnet Springs Park
Soul line dancing, free heart health screenings, education sessions and a kid’s activity sponsored by Lakeland Regional Health and Bonnet Springs Park. Free.

Enjoy the museum’s Community Day | Saturday | 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art
Music, tours, a scavenger hunt and art activities take place throughout the museum, formerly known as the Polk Museum of Art, including galleries, the new wing and education suite. Free.

Check our full calendar