In November, a constitutional amendment will appear on ballots statewide that would reduce — and potentially eliminate — property taxes on homesteaded properties.
Tag: Ron DeSantis
Posted inPolitics
New Congressional Districts Shift Boundaries in Lakeland and Surrounding Areas
The new map puts the majority of Lakeland and Polk County within District 18, represented by Congressman Scott Franklin.
Posted inPolitics
Florida’s 2026 Legislative Session Ends: What Passed, What Failed, and What’s Next?
The session has ended — without a budget. From DEI bans to new voter verification requirements, here are some of the bigger bills that passed and failed, and what lawmakers will tackle in special sessions.
Posted inEducation
Florida Poly’s New President Aims To Double Enrollment and Boost Economic Impact
Devin Stephenson wants to add science and medicine programs to the university’s offerings.
Posted inArts & Culture
Philanthropists Step In to Help Polk Arts Groups After Governor’s Veto
Local benefactors have contributed $200,000, but it won’t make up the $1.27 million shortfall countywide.
Posted inPolitics
Polk Arts Groups Scramble After DeSantis Cuts $32 Million in Grants
Lakeland organizations including the Florida Children’s Museum and Polk Theatre lost more than $618,000 in funding.
Posted inPolitics
DeSantis Signs Budget, But Nixes Several Polk County Projects
The second time was the charm for many projects vetoed last year. Florida Poly will get $5.7 million for a student achievement center.
Posted inPolitics
DeSantis: Expect Action Soon on Bill to Make Sleeping in Public Illegal
Cities could be sued if they don’t eliminate visible signs of homelessness like encampments under highways.
Posted inEducation
DeSantis Appoints Four Conservative Trustees to Florida Poly’s Board
At least two of the Lakeland-based university’s new board members are outspoken critics of campus diversity programs.
