Community

Sure, we say that Lakeland is a place where small-town values mix with big-city amenities. But what does that really mean?

As a community we place tremendous value on arts and culture, from museums and symphonies to galleries and theater. It means an ongoing commitment to education – at all levels. In fact, the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce reports that 30,000 volunteers devote their service to the city's primary and secondary schools each year. Local businesses are a valued educational partner, too, providing much-needed support for programs and projects.

We believe in the importance of locally owned retail stores and restaurants and the unique flavor they add to our city. We embrace our history, whether we're refurbishing a southern-style residential bungalow or going to see a movie at the Silvermoon Drive-in, which opened in 1948 and is the only remaining drive-in in Polk County. Yet we're also progressive, forging ahead with plans for a strong future, including the ongoing renovation and expansion of Lakeland's downtown.