LkldNow
@lkldnow.bsky.social
Local, independent news for Lakeland, Fl
2025 Lakeland Christmas Parade: Know Before You Go
Thousands will converge on downtown Lakeland Thursday evening for the annual Christmas parade.
Thousands will converge on downtown Lakeland Thursday evening for the annual Christmas parade.
2025 Lakeland Christmas Parade: Know Before You Go
Thousands will converge on downtown Lakeland Thursday evening for the annual Christmas parade.
www.lkldnow.com
November 28, 2025 at 1:01 PM
2025 Lakeland Christmas Parade: Know Before You Go
Thousands will converge on downtown Lakeland Thursday evening for the annual Christmas parade.
Thousands will converge on downtown Lakeland Thursday evening for the annual Christmas parade.
Remembering Gary the Turkey
In the fall of 2020, a wild turkey named Gary won hearts and brightened spirits in Lakeland.
In the fall of 2020, a wild turkey named Gary won hearts and brightened spirits in Lakeland.
Remembering Gary the Turkey
In the fall of 2020, a wild turkey named Gary won hearts and brightened spirits in Lakeland.
www.lkldnow.com
November 27, 2025 at 1:01 PM
Remembering Gary the Turkey
In the fall of 2020, a wild turkey named Gary won hearts and brightened spirits in Lakeland.
In the fall of 2020, a wild turkey named Gary won hearts and brightened spirits in Lakeland.
College Ave-News Delivers Neighborhood News by Kids
In one Lakeland neighborhood, two siblings are creating community through the power of local news.
In one Lakeland neighborhood, two siblings are creating community through the power of local news.
College Ave-News Delivers Neighborhood News by Kids
In one Lakeland neighborhood, two siblings are creating community through the power of local news.
www.lkldnow.com
November 26, 2025 at 1:00 PM
College Ave-News Delivers Neighborhood News by Kids
In one Lakeland neighborhood, two siblings are creating community through the power of local news.
In one Lakeland neighborhood, two siblings are creating community through the power of local news.
Nearly three months after Lakeland City Commissioner Guy LaLonde Jr. publicly called for an independent third-party investigation into complaints about the Lakeland Housing Authority, the dispute between him and LHA Executive Director Ben Stevenson shows no signs of cooling.
No Discussion, No Vote: LaLonde Questions How Housing Authority Board Rejected Audit
Stevenson says annual HUD reviews are sufficient; LaLonde says they don’t examine retaliation, wait lists or transparency.
www.lkldnow.com
November 25, 2025 at 2:43 PM
Nearly three months after Lakeland City Commissioner Guy LaLonde Jr. publicly called for an independent third-party investigation into complaints about the Lakeland Housing Authority, the dispute between him and LHA Executive Director Ben Stevenson shows no signs of cooling.
Florida Poly Opens New Wendt Engineering Center to Boost Innovation
The 40,000-square-foot center expands Florida Poly’s engineering labs, adding room for future AI and cybersecurity learning.
The 40,000-square-foot center expands Florida Poly’s engineering labs, adding room for future AI and cybersecurity learning.
Florida Poly Opens New Wendt Engineering Center to Boost Innovation
The 40,000-square-foot center expands Florida Poly’s engineering labs, adding room for future AI and cybersecurity learning.
www.lkldnow.com
November 21, 2025 at 11:00 AM
Florida Poly Opens New Wendt Engineering Center to Boost Innovation
The 40,000-square-foot center expands Florida Poly’s engineering labs, adding room for future AI and cybersecurity learning.
The 40,000-square-foot center expands Florida Poly’s engineering labs, adding room for future AI and cybersecurity learning.
Shop Pink, Shop Lakeland
The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce encourages shoppers to choose local this holiday season.
The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce encourages shoppers to choose local this holiday season.
Shop Pink, Shop Lakeland
The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce encourages shoppers to choose local this holiday season.
www.lkldnow.com
November 20, 2025 at 9:30 PM
Shop Pink, Shop Lakeland
The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce encourages shoppers to choose local this holiday season.
The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce encourages shoppers to choose local this holiday season.
The 34-foot-tall artificial Majestic Mountain Pine was delivered this week.
Lakeland’s Munn Park Gets Its First Large Christmas Tree
The 34-foot-tall artificial Majestic Mountain Pine was delivered this week.
www.lkldnow.com
November 20, 2025 at 5:10 PM
The 34-foot-tall artificial Majestic Mountain Pine was delivered this week.
New data shows more Polk students scoring at lower proficiency levels, while district officials point to multi-year growth in reading, math, science and social studies.
Polk Test Scores Show Statewide Lag But District-wide Gains
New data shows more Polk students scoring at lower proficiency levels, while district officials point to multi-year growth in reading, math, science and social studies.
www.lkldnow.com
November 20, 2025 at 11:01 AM
New data shows more Polk students scoring at lower proficiency levels, while district officials point to multi-year growth in reading, math, science and social studies.
Talbot House Ministries has revised its proposal for a new shelter and social-services campus on East Memorial Boulevard, but nearby residents are still opposed.
Talbot House Revises Its Memorial Boulevard Plan — Neighbors Say It’s Not Enough
The new plan would move the building one lot over to face Ingraham instead of Memorial.
www.lkldnow.com
November 19, 2025 at 7:52 PM
Talbot House Ministries has revised its proposal for a new shelter and social-services campus on East Memorial Boulevard, but nearby residents are still opposed.
At Lakeland Forum, Panelists Say Fear Is Increasing in Immigrant Communities
More than 50 people gathered to discuss challenges faced by immigrants in Polk County
More than 50 people gathered to discuss challenges faced by immigrants in Polk County
At Lakeland Forum, Panelists Say Fear Is Increasing in Immigrant Communities
More than 50 people gathered to discuss challenges faced by immigrants in Polk County
www.lkldnow.com
November 18, 2025 at 9:57 PM
At Lakeland Forum, Panelists Say Fear Is Increasing in Immigrant Communities
More than 50 people gathered to discuss challenges faced by immigrants in Polk County
More than 50 people gathered to discuss challenges faced by immigrants in Polk County
Lakeland city commissioners spent nearly two hours Monday wrestling with how much of a discount — if any — should be offered to three businesses hoping to buy the Midtown properties they currently lease from the city’s Community Redevelopment Agency.
Lakeland Commission Splits Over Mass Market Property Discounts
City staff asked to revise property deal for Dec. 1 meeting as debate reveals wide divide on incentives.
www.lkldnow.com
November 18, 2025 at 1:24 PM
Lakeland city commissioners spent nearly two hours Monday wrestling with how much of a discount — if any — should be offered to three businesses hoping to buy the Midtown properties they currently lease from the city’s Community Redevelopment Agency.
Lakeland commissioners are considering selling three CRA-owned properties valued between $1.3 million and $1.9 million to longtime tenants at less than half the appraised value, in two cases.
Lakeland Commission to Consider Selling Mass Market Properties at Steep Discounts
Proposed deal would give Haus 820, DOU Bakehouse and Market Loft Apartments six-figure credits for past rent and improvements
www.lkldnow.com
November 17, 2025 at 11:00 AM
Lakeland commissioners are considering selling three CRA-owned properties valued between $1.3 million and $1.9 million to longtime tenants at less than half the appraised value, in two cases.
Your utility bill is likely to go up by about $4.20 in January. Lakeland Electric is poised to raise the fuel rate it passes on to customers.
Lakeland Electric Seeks Slight Increase in Fuel Charge
If approved, the average bill will go up by about $4.20 on Jan. 1 to cover changes in the price of liquid natural gas.
www.lkldnow.com
November 14, 2025 at 10:44 PM
Your utility bill is likely to go up by about $4.20 in January. Lakeland Electric is poised to raise the fuel rate it passes on to customers.
Downtown Drivers: Expect a Detour as North Florida Avenue Closes for Rail Work
If you’re traveling downtown via Florida Ave this weekend, expect a detour.
If you’re traveling downtown via Florida Ave this weekend, expect a detour.
Downtown Drivers: Expect a Detour as North Florida Avenue Closes for Rail Work
If you’re traveling downtown via Florida Ave this weekend, expect a detour.
www.lkldnow.com
November 14, 2025 at 6:45 PM
Downtown Drivers: Expect a Detour as North Florida Avenue Closes for Rail Work
If you’re traveling downtown via Florida Ave this weekend, expect a detour.
If you’re traveling downtown via Florida Ave this weekend, expect a detour.
The Lakeland store returns with a fresh new look, expanded food options, and a nod to its 48-year legacy.
Lake Miriam Publix Reopens After 16-Month Rebuild
The Lakeland store returns with a fresh new look, expanded food options, and a nod to its 48-year legacy.
www.lkldnow.com
November 13, 2025 at 7:01 PM
The Lakeland store returns with a fresh new look, expanded food options, and a nod to its 48-year legacy.
The Polk County Tax Collector’s Office has reported recent postal service issues that could cause delays for residents mailing property tax payments, registration renewals, and other important documents through the United States Postal Service.
Return to Sender: Postal Error Sends Tax Payments Back to Polk Residents
USPS says the issue has been resolved, but slight delays may remain.
www.lkldnow.com
November 13, 2025 at 4:28 PM
The Polk County Tax Collector’s Office has reported recent postal service issues that could cause delays for residents mailing property tax payments, registration renewals, and other important documents through the United States Postal Service.
Bonnet Springs Park has canceled its popular "Light Up BSP" event for 2025 because of traffic and parking issues. But brighter days are ahead once construction of 375 new parking spaces is complete.
Bonnet Springs Park Cancels ‘Light Up BSP’ in 2025 to Address Traffic Impact
A $1.5 million grant from the Legislature will help create 375 new parking spaces at the privately funded Lakeland park.
www.lkldnow.com
November 10, 2025 at 1:07 PM
Bonnet Springs Park has canceled its popular "Light Up BSP" event for 2025 because of traffic and parking issues. But brighter days are ahead once construction of 375 new parking spaces is complete.
The city of Lakeland currently has 27 automatic license plate reader cameras. Here’s what that means for you, LPD and privacy in public spaces.
Understanding Flock Automatic License Plate Readers and Public Safety
The city of Lakeland currently has 27 stationary automatic license plate reader cameras. Here’s what that means for you, LPD and privacy in public spaces.
www.lkldnow.com
November 7, 2025 at 6:51 PM
The city of Lakeland currently has 27 automatic license plate reader cameras. Here’s what that means for you, LPD and privacy in public spaces.
Starting tomorrow, Lakeland residents have several ways to show appreciation for those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces during Veterans Day weekend. Find out more below.
Ways to Honor Veterans in Lakeland This Weekend
Parade, ceremonies and family events are planned to honor those who have served.
www.lkldnow.com
November 6, 2025 at 9:57 PM
Starting tomorrow, Lakeland residents have several ways to show appreciation for those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces during Veterans Day weekend. Find out more below.
In addition to electing a new mayor and two commissioners, Lakeland voters opted to raise the maximum number of years city commissioners can serve from 12 to 20. About 19% of eligible voters cast ballots, despite a new state law that made it harder to vote by mail.
Lakeland Voters Narrowly Approve Raising Term Limits to 20 Years
Turnout exceeds expectations, but still falls short of typical mayoral election years.
www.lkldnow.com
November 5, 2025 at 3:53 AM
In addition to electing a new mayor and two commissioners, Lakeland voters opted to raise the maximum number of years city commissioners can serve from 12 to 20. About 19% of eligible voters cast ballots, despite a new state law that made it harder to vote by mail.
Political newcomer Ashley Troutman easily bested rival Dennis Odisho to win a seat on the City Commission with 70.2% of the vote. Incumbent Commissioner Mike Musick fended off a challenge from musician Kim-Marie Noble to clinch another term.
City Commission: Troutman Sails to Victory, Musick Wins Re-Election
Strong fundraising and deep community ties helped Troutman clinch 70.2% of the vote.
www.lkldnow.com
November 5, 2025 at 2:13 AM
Political newcomer Ashley Troutman easily bested rival Dennis Odisho to win a seat on the City Commission with 70.2% of the vote. Incumbent Commissioner Mike Musick fended off a challenge from musician Kim-Marie Noble to clinch another term.
Madam Mayor: McCarley Captures Decisive Win in Four-Way Race
Armed with record fundraising and broad support, McCarley becomes the first woman elected mayor in Lakeland’s history.
Armed with record fundraising and broad support, McCarley becomes the first woman elected mayor in Lakeland’s history.
Madam Mayor: McCarley Captures Decisive Win in Four-Way Race
Armed with record fundraising and broad support, McCarley becomes the first woman elected mayor in Lakeland’s history.
www.lkldnow.com
November 5, 2025 at 1:47 AM
Madam Mayor: McCarley Captures Decisive Win in Four-Way Race
Armed with record fundraising and broad support, McCarley becomes the first woman elected mayor in Lakeland’s history.
Armed with record fundraising and broad support, McCarley becomes the first woman elected mayor in Lakeland’s history.
Lakeland voters head to the polls tomorrow — Tuesday, Nov. 4 — to choose a mayor and two city commissioners. But some observers are afraid turnout won't crack 15% based on low mail-in ballot returns this year.
Can Lakeland beat 15% voter turnout this year?
Mail-in votes — which are typically half of the total — are significantly lower than usual.
www.lkldnow.com
November 3, 2025 at 10:06 PM
Lakeland voters head to the polls tomorrow — Tuesday, Nov. 4 — to choose a mayor and two city commissioners. But some observers are afraid turnout won't crack 15% based on low mail-in ballot returns this year.
Lakeland’s November beautification awards went to two properties in the Lake Morton area. The city's chief horticulturalist complimented a giant staghorn fern, fiddle-leaf figs and black diamond crape myrtle trees.
Two Lake Morton-area Properties Win November Beautification Awards
The city's chief horticulturalist complimented a giant staghorn fern, fiddle-leaf figs and black diamond crape myrtle trees.
www.lkldnow.com
November 3, 2025 at 7:00 PM
Lakeland’s November beautification awards went to two properties in the Lake Morton area. The city's chief horticulturalist complimented a giant staghorn fern, fiddle-leaf figs and black diamond crape myrtle trees.
What is NewsMatch?: A Letter from the Executive Director
The nationwide program that aims to prevent the collapse of local news began on Nov. 1
The nationwide program that aims to prevent the collapse of local news began on Nov. 1
What is NewsMatch?: A Letter from the Executive Director
The nationwide program that aims to prevent the collapse of local news began on Nov. 1
www.lkldnow.com
November 3, 2025 at 1:40 PM
What is NewsMatch?: A Letter from the Executive Director
The nationwide program that aims to prevent the collapse of local news began on Nov. 1
The nationwide program that aims to prevent the collapse of local news began on Nov. 1