Bartow City Commission Honors Commissioner Leo E. Longworth with John Land Award, Reviews Economic Development

The Bartow City Commission convened on Monday, July 20, 2026. The meeting's agenda included several presentations and updates. These items included the presentation of the 2026 John Land Years of Service Award to Commissioner Leo E. Longworth by Eryn Alcorn of the Florida League of Cities, Inc., and a South Polk Pathways to Prosperity Presentation by Beneshea Frazier, Economic Development Director for the Central Florida Regional Planning Council. Additionally, Elle Withall, President of the Bartow Economic Development Council, provided an update, and Kyle Lasek, PRCA Asst. Director, presented the July 2026 Beautification Awards. Cheryl Basak, CRA Business & Community Engagement Coordinator, also offered an update on the Paint Your Heart Out Bartow Community Project. City Manager Communications included a PRCA Update from Director Jason Hargrove and a discussion to set the FY 2026-2027 Millage Rate. The Commission also addressed City Attorney Communications and legislative updates. The meeting concluded with the approval of the July 6, 2026, City Commission Regular Meeting minutes.