Public Affairs Documents Strong Mayor Press Release

For Immediate Release:
May 24, 2017
Contact: Cory Skeates
[phone] Ext. 234
Lakeland Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Votes to Oppose
“Strong Mayor”
Lakeland, FL – The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors voted unanimously to oppose
the proposed change to Lakeland’s current form of government, popularly known as “Strong Mayor.” The
vote occurred at the board’s regularly scheduled monthly meeting held on May 24, 2017.
“The Chamber has been doing its due diligence for months regarding this issue. This included hosting a
community forum and guest speakers at our Advocacy Committee during which both sides of the issue
were given equal opportunities to state their case while also surveying our membership which resulted in
greater than 75% opposition to the proposal from respondents,” stated Janice Tedder Jones, Chair of the
Lakeland Chamber.
“As the voice of the business community, no issue will have a greater impact on the way we do business
in Lakeland than a proposal to change the entire form of government. Although the board appreciates the
frustrations experienced in the past by those supporting the initiative, we have been encouraged with the
changes we have seen under the leadership of City Manager Tony Delgado working in concert with the
commission and do not feel that there is sufficient justification to take such dramatic action at this time.”
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The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce represents 1,400 member businesses in the Greater Lakeland area and
provides opportunities for networking, professional development and advocacy for companies of all sizes. Five-Star
Accredited by the US Chamber of Commerce, the Chamber upholds the following vision and mission statements:
Vision Statement
The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce will be the premier catalyst for the advancement of Lakeland’s economic
growth and enhancement of quality of life – creating Florida’s community of choice.
Mission Statement
The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce is the leading organization dedicated to creating a climate where business can
prosper.