The Citrus Connection is moving ahead with a new program to connect Florida Southern College with downtown Lakeland. They also have a survey open until November 30 to get input to help the mass transit system move forward with services the community desires. New Services The Squeeze is a free golf cart shuttle service that […]
The 2023-24 fiscal year was a record-setting one for the Central Florida Development Council. This translates into positive outcomes for Polk County, its cities and its residents. “Last year was another banner year for the CFDC with $800M in new capital investments by existing and new businesses to Polk County, adding 1,000 new jobs that […]
Polk State College is going nationwide as part of the XploreFLEd pilot program. They will offer online courses in high-demand careers at an inexpensive price. The college is one of three in Florida to offer select online courses for out-of-state students at a reduced cost. Alongside Miami Dade and Tallahassee State colleges, students will have […]
David Shepp has served on the Central Florida Development Council’s Board of Directors for five years, chairing a committee and moving up the ranks. In October, he became Chair of the Board. During his term he plans to further collaborative efforts, tap into relationships to continue the CFDC’s mission and continue the work of his […]
Approaching its 55th anniversary in 2025, the GrayRobinson law firm in Lakeland continues to be successful by focusing its energies on building relationships and serving its clients and the communities it operates in. “GrayRobinson was built on our founder and chairman emeritus’ vision. ‘When you build your community, you build your firm,’” said shareholder Sandy […]
Lakeland law firm Peterson & Myers has been a long-time supporter of the Central Florida Development Council. One of its attorneys, Bart Allen, recently served a year as chairman of the board, using his legal mind to navigate land use, environmental and other complex issues. “Bart is very approachable, and he has an incredible legal […]
When Maggie Mariucci started working at Florida Polytechnic University before it’s official opening, she knew it must connect with the community. It was important to her that Florida Poly, the state’s only all-STEM university, become part of the region’s economic landscape. “We joined the CFDC as a university in 2013 when we were working on […]
Pete Frantzis has served as the Chair for CFDC’s Investor Relations Committee for many years now. He has impacted positive change during his time. As he now cycles out of this leadership role, he leaves behind a great legacy, and takes with him memories and relationships to cherish. Frantzis answered quickly when asked what he’s […]
The Central Florida Development Council awarded its two highest honors at its Oct. 23 Annual Meeting. Camp Margaritaville was presented with the George W. Harris Jr. Economic Development Award for Success in Large Business, and Straughn Trout Architects with the Jim Brantley Economic Development Award – Success in Small Business. “These companies, along with all […]
Gene Conrad has served in various leadership roles with the Central Florida Development Council for 6 years now. He led the CFDC Board as the 2023|2024 Chair this past year. Conrad’s impeccable leadership and commitment to the organization is more than deserving of celebration and recognition. In his time with the CFDC, Conrad has helped […]