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.
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.