Ready to use your voice to make a difference in Lakeland? If your answer to the above question is “yes,” then first thing’s first: Today is the deadline to register to vote in the City’s special election on April 6.
After you’ve taken care of that (or double-checked to make sure you’re already registered), have updated your signature, made sure your information is correct, and have decided whether you’re planning to vote in-person or by-mail — check out the deets on what you need-to-know before voting. ⬇️
FYI — Everyone registered + living within the city limits is allowed to vote in this election.
Here’s what’s at stake: a temporary seat on the City of Lakeland’s City Commission for the Southeast District — which runs from Lake Miriam Dr. to Ingraham Rd. The person elected will replace former Commissioner Scott Franklin (who was recently elected to the U.S. House of Representatives).
- Who’s vying for the seat: Four candidates including, Steven Frankenberger (a manager for Publix Supermarkets), Mike Musick (owner of Musick Construction and Roofing), Ken Post (a project manager) + Shandale Terrell (a special-needs educator) are running for office. Read more about the candidates here
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In-person voting locations: There are 12 locations in Lakeland (located at the bottom of this page), where voters can cast their ballot. Polls will open on April 6 from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Early voting will take place from March 29-April 5 (excluding the weekend) at the Lakeland Government Center (930 E. Parker St.), along with two other locations.
Details on vote-by-mail: March 27 is the last day to request a vote-by-mail ballot to vote in this election. Mail ballots will be sent out, starting March 9. #ProTip: Send your ballot in at least a week before the deadline (April 6) to ensure it’s received on time.
Know your ballot: You can find a sample ballot for this election here.
Think of your neighbor: Other cities holding elections on April 6 include: Bartow, Dundee, Haines City, Lake Alfred + Lake Wales.
- #PlanAhead: The next election in the city takes place in November, where residents will have the chance to vote for candidates seeking a full four-year term on the City Commission.