City Commissioners Approve Data Center Moratorium 4-3

The Lakeland City Commission voted 4-3 on Monday, August 3, to adopt a 12-month moratorium that specifically applies to data centers and “Large Load Customers”—defined as facilities with an anticipated monthly peak electrical load of 50 megawatts (MW) or more. Some Commissioners expressed that the temporary moratorium would provide time for the City to evaluate potential impacts, develop clear development standards, and gather community input before considering future applications.

Civic Engagement Begins With You

Did you know that Lakeland City Commission meetings are open to the public? 

Attending a City Commission meeting is one of the best ways to learn how local government works, understand how decisions are made, and stay informed about issues affecting the community. 

City Commissioners establish policies, set priorities, and make decisions that impact city services, infrastructure, public safety, and quality of life. Residents also have opportunities to provide public comment and participate in the process. 

Meetings are held the 1st and 3rd Mondays of the month and can be attended in person or viewed online. 

Civic engagement begins with staying informed, and your local government welcomes your participation. 

The City of Lakeland encourages community members to attend City Commission meetings at City Hall to see their government at work.

You can also watch the City Commission meetings at 9:00 AM LIVE on demand through the LakelandGov Network,

LakelandGov TV | City of Lakeland or on Spectrum Channel 643 and FiOS Channel 43.

Get Connected, Lakeland

Stay informed about the City's Fiscal Year 2027 Budget. Watch the City Commission Budget Workshop and learn more about the proposed budget and priorities for the coming year.

Joe Costine Named Water Utilities Director

Joseph "Joe" Costine is now serving as the City of Lakeland's Water Utilities Director. A Lakeland native with nearly 40 years of experience in the water and wastewater industry, Costine has spent the past two decades serving the City in a variety of leadership roles. He will oversee the delivery of safe, reliable drinking water and wastewater services while leading the department's operations, employees, and long-term initiatives. 

Scott Bishop Named Interim General Manager of Lakeland Electric

Scott Bishop is serving as Interim General Manager of Lakeland Electric, bringing more than 25 years of experience in the electric utility industry. A member of the Lakeland Electric team since 2012, Bishop has held several leadership roles, most recently serving as Assistant General Manager for Energy Delivery. As Interim General Manager, he will lead Florida's third-largest public power utility, ensuring the continued delivery of reliable, affordable, and sustainable electric service while supporting the utility's employees, customers, and long-term priorities.

National Night Out – August 4

Join the Lakeland Police Department for National Night Out, a nationwide community-building event that brings neighbors, public safety personnel and City staff together to strengthen relationships and promote safer neighborhoods. The evening will feature opportunities to meet local officers, connect with community organizations, learn about public safety programs and enjoy family-friendly activities. Whether you're new to your neighborhood or have lived there for years, National Night Out is a great way to get connected and help build a stronger, safer Lakeland.

Your Input Matters: Take the Lakeland PRCA Master Plan Survey

Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts has launched a community survey, and your input is wanted. 

Whether you enjoy our parks, trails, recreation programs, athletic facilities, playgrounds, or special events, your feedback helps shape future improvements and investments. 

The upcoming survey will provide residents with an opportunity to share what they value most, identify areas for improvement, and help guide the future of parks and recreation services throughout Lakeland. 

Take the survey today!

Vote-by-Mail Deadline Approaching

The deadline to request a Vote-by-Mail ballot for the 2026 Primary Election is Thursday, August 6, at 5 PM

or call (863) 534-5888 and select Option 1.

Don't wait until the last minute—make your voting plan today.

Phase III Water Restrictions Extended Through October 

The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) has extended its Modified Phase III Water Shortage Order through October 1, 2026, meaning Phase III water restrictions will remain in effect for Lakeland and the surrounding region. The extension comes as drought conditions persist, with the region continuing to experience significantly below-average rainfall and declining groundwater, lake, and river levels. Public water supplies also remain lower than expected for this time of year.  

Under the current restrictions, most properties are limited to one day of lawn irrigation per week, regardless of whether water comes from the City, a private well, or another source. Irrigation is only permitted during designated overnight hours, while hand watering and micro-irrigation of plants are still allowed during limited morning and evening hours. Residents are encouraged to conserve water whenever possible, as every gallon saved helps protect our shared water resources during this extended period of dry weather. For the latest watering schedule and conservation tips, visit the City’s irrigation webpage below.