A Look at Our Strategic Plan in Action
Every month, the City of Winter Haven provides an update to the City Commission on one of the six pillars of our Strategic Plan.
September’s focus was Responsible Government, showcasing new ways to make City data and services more accessible than ever before.
City Manager T. Michael Stavres, the Public Affairs & Communication team, and the Finance Department introduced two exciting tools now available to residents:
Watch the Full Update Video
Engage with Your City Commission
Your City Commission wants to hear from you! There are now more ways than ever to stay connected and take part in local decision-making:
- Attend in person: ??Share your thoughts or observe how your local government works. Visit our calendar to see all public meeting dates.
- Watch live or later: ??Stream every meeting on the City’s YouTube Channel.
- Listen anytime: ??Catch meetings the next day on your favorite podcast platform — our newest way to stay informed on the go!
Hands On Haven 2025
It’s back! Join us Saturday, October 25, 2025 from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. at the Winter Haven Regional Airport for our hands-on, family-friendly community event.
Meet City staff, explore big trucks and equipment, climb aboard airplanes, enjoy live music, preview new technology, experience story time, learn about career opportunities, and discover the services that keep Winter Haven running.
Wear your costume to help us celebrate Truck-or-Treat! Be sure to stop by the tent at the entry to pick up your passport. Kids 12-and under who complete their passport will receive a prize as they exit the event!
Register for Reminders or Add to Your Calendar
Help Choose the Perfect Quote
The new Winter Haven Recreation & Cultural Center is almost ready!
As a final touch, we’re adding an inspirational quote to the wall as visitors exit the building — and we’d love your input.
Vote for Your Favorite Quote
Beyond the 9-to-5: Inside City Operations
Ever wonder what happens after hours to keep Winter Haven running?
Our Beyond the 9-to-5 series takes you behind the scenes with the dedicated crews who work around the clock — from water plant operators ensuring safe water, to street sweeper teams keeping roads clean, to building services staff maintaining public spaces.
Catch the Latest Videos
Explore Your City Budget
Transparency is a cornerstone of responsible government, and we’re making it easier than ever for residents to see how City resources are invested.
Our new interactive online budget platform gives you a clear, accessible look at how your tax dollars support the services and projects that keep Winter Haven thriving — from public safety and parks to infrastructure and community programs.
Explore by department, view key priorities, and track progress toward our Strategic Plan goals — all in just a few clicks.
Visit the Budget Portal to see your City in action.
Nominate a Local Hero
Winter Haven’s story is shaped by many extraordinary individuals — and during Black History Month, we take time to recognize those whose contributions continue to inspire progress and unity across our community.
We invite all residents to help celebrate this legacy by nominating local Black leaders, past or present, who have made a lasting impact on Winter Haven. A committee of community members will review nominations and select 2026’s four Local Heroes, each of whom exemplifies passion, integrity, and a deep commitment to serving others.
Throughout Black History Month, the City of Winter Haven will highlight each honoree and their story — celebrating not only individual achievement, but also the collective spirit that strengthens our city.
Submit Your Nomination
Introducing Community Connect
Winter Haven Fire Department has launched Community Connect, a secure online portal designed to help first responders better protect your household.
By creating a Household Life Safety Profile, residents can share critical information — such as family details, medical needs, pets, and property information — that may help emergency crews respond more effectively when seconds count.
Participation is voluntary, secure, and takes just minutes to complete. Your information is protected with bank-level encryption and used only during emergencies.
Create Your Profile Today
Water Department Job Fair
The Winter Haven Water Department will be hosting a job fair on Wednesday, October 22nd from 10:00am-2:00pm in the Florida Room at Nora Mayo Hall (500 3rd St NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881).
Come explore the job opportunities the department has to offer and meet our team. We hope to see you there!
Kickball for a Cause
The Winter Haven Police Benevolent Association (PBA) is hosting its 3rd Annual Kickball Tournament on Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Winter Haven Diamondplex.
This fun-filled event isn’t just about friendly competition — it’s a fundraiser that directly supports youth organizations within the City of Winter Haven. Teams representing local businesses, churches, and community groups will take to the field for a great cause.
- Registration is $200 per team and closes October 31.
- All proceeds benefit youth programs right here in our community.
- To register or learn more, email WHPBA@mywinterhaven.com or call Sgt. Cooper at 863-307-2296.