The Winter Haven City Commission meeting on January 12, 2026 unfolded as more than a procedural transition. It was an emotional, deeply personal evening marked by gratitude, reflection, faith, humor, and a shared love for our city. Winter Haven honored long-serving leadership, welcomed returning and newly seated commissioners, and selected its next Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem.
The full ceremony is captured in the official City Commission meeting video, reflecting a tone of unity, respect, and genuine connection among commissioners, staff, and the community.
Recognizing the Service and Legacy of Mayor Bradley T. Dantzler
After nearly 13 years of service, Commissioner Bradley T. Dantzler concluded his tenure on the Winter Haven City Commission, closing a chapter defined not only by longevity, but by deep institutional knowledge, mentorship, and a passionate belief in Winter Haven’s potential.
First elected in a special election in April 2013, Dantzler served more years as mayor than any other commissioner in the city’s history, serving eight terms in the role. During the meeting, fellow commissioners reflected on his leadership in landmark projects — including the transformation of the Chain of Lakes Complex, the AdventHealth Fieldhouse, and the modernization of the City’s tennis facilities — noting his hands-on involvement, persistence, and advocacy behind the scenes.
In his own remarks, Dantzler spoke candidly about watching Winter Haven grow from a small town into a mid-sized city, challenging the Commission to begin thinking differently about governance, scale, and responsibility. He shared practical suggestions rooted in experience — from improving public understanding during land-use discussions to ensuring accessible elections as the city grows — while reminding his colleagues of the importance of inclusivity and humility in public service.
Dantzler also offered heartfelt appreciation for City staff, faith in the City’s leadership, and encouragement to his successor, expressing gratitude for the rare and meaningful experience of having been able to vote for the individual who would replace him. He closed with a message he said he has carried throughout his tenure: that when everyone “pulls the rope in the same direction,” Winter Haven can move mountains.
In recognition of his enduring contributions, the City Commission previously approved Resolution R-25-56, officially renaming the Winter Haven Tennis Center as the Bradley T. Dantzler Tennis Center, honoring his longtime advocacy for parks, recreation, and quality-of-life investments.
Welcoming Commissioners Chad Davis and Clifton E. Dollison
The meeting also marked the swearing-in of City Commissioners following the November 2025 Municipal Election.
Chad Davis was sworn in to begin his service on the City Commission, continuing a multi-generational legacy of public service in Winter Haven. In deeply personal remarks, Davis shared his family’s roots in the city dating back to the 1920s — from citrus packing houses to classrooms, to his father’s election to the City Commission nearly 50 years ago. He spoke openly about the influence of his parents, crediting his father for instilling ambition and his mother for teaching compassion, perseverance, and faith.
Davis acknowledged the weight of public leadership, describing it as a form of service that carries both responsibility and sacrifice. He expressed appreciation for mentors who modeled integrity under scrutiny and emphasized his intention to serve humbly, focusing on Winter Haven’s strengths while addressing challenges with optimism and grace.
Clifton E. Dollison also formally took the oath of office, beginning his first full term after initially joining the Commission in 2023. In his remarks, Dollison reflected on his journey to Winter Haven, his decades-long marriage, faith, and calling to public service rooted in advocating for those on the margins and giving voice to underserved communities.
Dollison spoke candidly about the perspective he has gained over the past two years — noting the difference between speaking from the podium and serving from the dais — and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue serving with greater understanding and purpose. He highlighted progress made in areas such as housing and homelessness, while reaffirming his commitment to listening, learning, and contributing meaningfully to the City’s future.
Recognizing the Service of Outgoing Mayor Nathaniel J. Birdsong, Jr.
The City Commission also recognized Nathaniel J. Birdsong, Jr. as he concluded his term as Mayor.
During his year in the role, Birdsong emphasized steady leadership and collaboration, offering reflections on the responsibility of guiding meetings, supporting staff, and ensuring continuity across transitions. In his remarks, he expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve as Mayor, noting the honor of working alongside his fellow commissioners and confidence in the leadership stepping forward.
Birdsong’s comments underscored a consistent theme of unity — reinforcing that progress in Winter Haven is built through shared responsibility and mutual respect.
Selection of Brian Yates as Mayor and Tracy Mercer as Mayor Pro Tem
Following the swearing-in ceremonies, the City Commission selected its leadership for the coming year.
The City Commission elected Brian Yates to serve as Mayor of the City of Winter Haven. A graduate of Winter Haven High School, Yates spoke emotionally about the honor of serving as mayor of his hometown, acknowledging family members present and reflecting on the personal significance of the moment.
In his remarks, Mayor Yates emphasized the responsibility of leadership in a growing, mid-sized city, stressing the importance of making thoughtful, forward-looking decisions that consider future generations. He referenced recent progress across Winter Haven — particularly in long-term community investments — and expressed his commitment to building on that foundation with fairness, vision, and balance across all parts of the city.
The City Commission also elected Tracy Mercer to serve as Mayor Pro Tem. In her remarks, Mercer expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her and reaffirmed her deep connection to Winter Haven, where she has lived and served for more than 25 years.
Mercer spoke about her experience in public service across cities of varying sizes, noting that Winter Haven’s growth brings both opportunity and responsibility. She outlined her focus on infrastructure, public safety, environmental stewardship, local businesses, recreation, and open communication, emphasizing her commitment to supporting the Mayor, City staff, and residents in advancing a city the community can be proud of.
A Night Rooted in Service and Shared Purpose
The January 12 meeting captured more than a change in titles — it reflected a shared sense of calling, gratitude, faith, and hope for Winter Haven’s future. From stories of family legacy and mentorship to quiet humor and heartfelt encouragement, the evening reminded residents that the people serving on the City Commission do so not just with experience, but with deep personal connection to the community.
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