Local Municpal Elections

2025 MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS will be held on April 1, 2025. Our local Chamber Member Municipalities having elections are:  Davenport, Dundee, Haines City and Lake Hamilton. At this time, there are Candidate Forums scheduled for Haines City, March 3rd; Dundee, March 6th; and Davenport, March 10th. Please see the Candidate Forum flyers below. Candidate bios and pics coming soon.

Candidate Bios & Pics (In order of date of Candidate Forums, followed by Incumbents first, then alphabetically) All wording and pictures were provided by the Candidates:

City of Haines City Candidate Forum:  Monday, March 3rd

All wording and pictures below provided by Candidates

Incumbent, Anne Huffman -

Thank you, NE Polk Chamber of Commerce, for the invitation and thanks to everyone. I am Commissioner Anne Huffman, and have served you since 2017, making YOUR concerns, MY concerns. I have survived breast cancer twice and recently received a heart transplant, this highlights my fearlessness and fierce determination to represent your voice and make decisions in the best interests of the residents. A vote for me will ensure continued fairness, respect, and a commitment to serve you with humility. 

I will advocate for the business community to be treated fairly and with consideration of their time and resources. There will be more community discussions to address concerns. Immediate solutions will be sought for the overgrowth issue, and I will hold the City Manager and his team accountable for finding innovative ways to update regulations and ordinances.

My selective memberships include the Florida League of Women Voters, NE Polk Chamber, Polk County League of Women Voters, Women In Government, Florida League of Cities Education Committee, Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, LULAC and NAACP -Lakeland Chapter. 

I continue to ask that information is also communicated in Spanish and Creole. Our city faces divisions beyond the physical sense. I aim to address this by supporting the organizers of more community events, youth activities in other sports, arts and downtown gatherings to bring people together. I understand that finding parking downtown is difficult and affects small businesses and I have been asking for the purchase of available land to ensure more parking and larger signs in the downtown area and encouraging commercial and industrial businesses to provide skill training for residents.

Traffic congestion has become a significant issue, making trips that previously took 15 minutes now take an hour. The streets and avenues are deteriorating and require repaving. There are safety concerns due to the lack of traffic lights and turning lanes, particularly with traffic backups on Hinson and Highway 27. I am in favor of increasing the impact fees on developers and builders and finding ways to better manage growth to allow infrastructure to keep pace. However, without receiving their property taxes, the county benefits while our residents cover costs for services like libraries, parks, police, and fire.

Additionally, since 2017, I have asked for lowering the Fire Assessment fee now that more homeowners share the expense. In 2014, this assessment received a favorable vote from my opponent and 10 years later we are still paying.

These topics are among those I look forward to continuing a discussion with the City Manager to include increased impact fees for new commercial and industrial businesses. I support allowing mobile food trucks that follow the state laws and regulations, keeping current licenses and passing State Health inspections.

The future of our city is set to thrive with economic development, parks and recreation facilities, infrastructure repairs, and community redevelopment plans which I advocated to keep $3.4M for residential rehab on their homes through painting, roof replacement, providing HVAC, minor inside electrical and plumbing.

As a city commissioner, I plan to keep in constant contact with our open-minded City Manager. We need quicker response times for permitting and building inspection follow-ups. Unlike us, Winter Haven and Lakeland's libraries are open all day on Saturdays, their recreation facilities are accessible daily and weekends, and their permitting hours suit business owners. I am ready to continue working with our capable City Manager and his team to make these improvements.

My commitment to the residents is that I will only vote to spend tax dollars on necessary infrastructure, technology, and justified operational expenses that benefit residents. The Eastside community still lacks amenities despite recent additions like the Haines City Soccer Complex, which is also designated as a multi-purpose field.

I support the High-Speed Rail stop and the Polk State College campus in our city. I am proud to see my strong efforts come to fruition on the new restrooms and concession stand on Myers-Wiley field. I advocated for a "commercial" HVAC, new flooring and improved acoustics in the Oakland Auditorium. The inclusion of the Families with Special Needs kids is dear to my heart and now Boomerang Park completed with special attention for them and is handicap accessible. I also recommended and participated in two private “pool parties” complete with food and bounce houses for our special residents.

A vote for me ensures transparency, tough questions asked of developers, and quick responsive answers to your concerns. I will continue to promote the fair treatment of businesses and address community concerns at city commission meetings.

I would appreciate your vote on April 1^st or for your convenience you can Vote By Mail by calling the Polk Elections Office at 863-534-5888 by March 30, 2025.

Edwin Perez -

My name is Edwin Perez, And I am honored to be running for Haines City , Commissioner seat number five, because I believe in new and fresh ideas.

We are all facing challenging times in our daily lives within our city and country. Today we find ourselves asking difficult questions and making even harder decisions.

My life has been dedicated to both the private and business sector both as a parent and a businessman for over twenty-Five years. I have been a Florida resident for over 35 years and a resident of Haines City for the past 3 1/2 years.

I felt truly connected and in love with Haines City, the moment I drove up here from south Florida over three and a half years ago.

I feel I'm a native Floridian "transplant" from New York City so many years ago. I feel I have had lived 2 separate lives, And I am thrilled to say that my second life has been the most enjoyable of all.

I've met my beautiful wife, Carmen and been married for over 28 years bless with 2 wonderful young man God is good. 

I'm running for office because our city deserves FRESH ideas, NEW faces and a city that represents new demographics of what the city is representing today at this moment.

The city needs to move forward, not backwards with a pass, Incompetent who Served for over twenty years and a present incumbent who could easily become stagnant and complacent after two terms in office.

My ideas are to address issues of affordable housing, transportation and small business owners in our community.   Also work hard to resolve issues, Not be the issue. I will work hard to keep our taxes low for all residents and a strategic plan to address city infrastructure, water conservation and more.

Elect me as your new commissioner for seat number 5 and I will promise you a 110% of my time to move this city forward. 

Horace West -

My Name is Horace West.  I am seeking election to seat #5 on the Haines City, City Commission.

I was born in Haines City and have lived in Haines City all my life.

I attended Haines City High where I excelled in Sports and the Arts.

I attended Bethune-Cookman University on a football/track scholarship

I obtained a B.S. Degree in Business Administration.

Soon after college graduation, I returned home hoping to make Haines City a better place to live, work and play.

Shortly after returning to Haines City, I founded "Today's Gentleman Organization". 

Today's Gentlemen was a group of young men who's mission was to enhance all of Haines City by creating and administering social and athletic events.

Under my leadership, Today's Gentlemen created the Haines City Easter Egg Hunt, Painted the bridges, held the first Martin Luther King Jr parade in Polk County.

In addition, they mowed cemeteries and created athletic events for the youth of the city.

Soon after that I began working for Atlantic Bank in Lake Wales.

Three Year's later I was hired by State Farm Insurance Company of Bloomington Il.

I spent 32 years at State Farm working mostly as an Underwriting Team Manager then retiring as a Fire Underwriter.

During those years at State Farm, I turned down many opportunities that would have given me personal financial stability. Choosing to serve the people of Haines City instead..

In 1991 I brought Youth Football to the youth of Haines City by founding the Haines City Rattlers, then later the Northeast Rattlers and Haines City Vipers.

For more than 2 decades I paid for every child to participate in the programs free of charge.

After the success of the Rattlers, I later founded youth football teams in Winter Haven, Auburndale, Davenport, Lakeland and Mulberry.

My intent was to bring joy to the youth of those communities.

In 2001 I ran for City Commission and won the right to serve the citizens of Haines City from seat #2.

During my first term on the commission, I was instrumental in purchasing 32 acres behind Larry Parrish Complex for future expansion of the facility.

I also worked personally with the Polk School Board to acquire the land and Park that is now known as Ben Graham Park.

During my 22 years on the commission, I donated my commission salary back to the Haines City community for 20 straight years, including purchasing state football rings for Haines City High's 1973 undefeated football team, righting a wrong done 47 years earlier when they did not receive rings for their remarkable achievement.

I most recently created the North American Youth Football Championships, which brings thousands of people from all over North America to Haines City for a week.

This tournament has brought tremendous economic impact to our city.

More than 60 people were employed during the tournament with 95% being Haines City residents. 

I continue to believe in economic growth and the education and preparation of the Haines City workforce for the coming job market and changes that lay ahead.

I continue to see my hometown as light of Polk County and beacon of hope for future generations yet to be born.

Town of Dundee Candidate Forum:  Thursday, March 6th

All wording and pictures below provided by Candidates

Annette Wilson - Seat 2

Hello Northeast Polk County.  My name is Annette Wilson, and I am proud to say not only have I been a resident of

the town of Dundee for 51 years, but I am also a proud native Floridian. I still have memories of all the citrus trees that we once could ride along the highway and look at.

We could even get out of the car and pick some from the trees. With the tremendous growth we have witnessed in our state, we know that is no longer possible. The growth in Dundee is no exception. The bad news is the infrastructure has not kept up with the growth. That is one of the things I want to help change. Born and raised in the city of Lake Wales, I am the 4th of 8 siblings. I am the mother of 2 awesome sons and 7 beautiful grandchildren. My parents were hard workers and believed in the power of

Education and they knew it would be very important in a journey that would eventually help to transform life for my siblings and I.

Starting with primary school, the foundation was laid for me. The high school years peaked my interest in continuing my interest to become an Educator and work with children. College brought on a deeper exploration of the educational field, culminating in a degree in Early Childhood Management. My professional journey began with entry

level positions that provided valuable experience and insight into the field that I decided to go into. Moving through the ranks, each role brought new challenges and achievements. In 1993, I became the Director of one of the Migrant HeadStart centers in the Florida Branch. My major duties,  among others were to oversee the day to day operations of the center. This included, but was not limited to, supervision of teaching staff and managing the center budget.

Balancing a demanding career with my personal life sometimes was very challenging but very fulfilling. It broadened my outlook and gave me a deeper appreciation of diverse cultures. In this respect, I have attended many Ridge League of Cities monthly dinners and meetings. While there, I obtained much wisdom as to the function of the League and the part it plays in taking the concerns of the local municipalities to Tallahassee. My hobbies include reading, writing and spending time with family and

friends. Those deep and meaningful relationships are a constant source of support and joy! A guided philosophy centered on integrity, perseverance, honesty and personal growth influenced my decision to run for commission seat #2 in the town

of Dundee. A belief in giving back to the community came about in various ways and the belief that one must be a servant first. With that in mind, I became a member of the planning and zoning board. I also was instrumental in bringing to commission the need

for something to be done about how fast people were driving on the street where there is a children’s park right across the street. We now have speed humps on MLK and Lincoln Avenue.

The value I have placed on self-improvement has inspired me to

ongoing learning and development. I have been very vocal at our local commission meetings on issues such as our latest audit findings and the process in hiring a new Town Manager. I believe this journey will be one of accomplishments and lessons

learned. The legacy I want to leave behind will be one of inspiration and encouragement to others to pursue their dreams with determination.

The future for the Town of Dundee holds great possibilities. I am committed to steadfastly making a difference.

Incumbent Seat 4 - Mary Richardson

Thank you, Northeast Polk Chamber, for the invitation, and thank you to Dundee residents for allowing me to represent you. I am Mary Richardson, Commissioner for seat #4- the people’s seat. I have embraced my personal challenges as opportunities for growth and use this determination in governing Dundee. As a long-time resident, I humbly chose to become an elected official in 2021.

Many people have often labeled me a whistle-blower for raising concerns about our Town's finances and outdated policies. Despite pushbacks from the former Town Manager and other Commissioners, my commitment to integrity and good governance kept me asking questions and pushing for answers.

Following my 2020 – 2023 FLC IEMO training, a requirement as a member of the Florida League of Cities, I requested financial records- which Town management have yet to provide to me. Despite resistance from the Town Manager and colleagues, I contacted other resources for advice which revealed that our Town has not been following state laws which resulted in receiving a grade of “D-“for the Town's FY 2022 – 2023 audit.

To be an effective commissioner, remaining teachable is essential. I have completed the required classes from Florida League of Cities, served on policy committees for 4 years, completed ongoing education in state laws and ethics, and networked with other cities and elected officials. I proposed the establishment of a Community Redevelopment Agency for our Town, which will strategically utilize tax dollars and funds from Polk County.   A CRA in Dundee can assist eligible residents by providing housing rehabilitation services, including roof replacement, exterior painting, HVAC installation, and the replacement of windows and doors.

It has become increasingly clear that the Town urgently requires infrastructure mapping for water lines and shut-off valve locations to support the operational efficiency of the Utility Department. Presently, the whereabouts of many older water lines and valves remain uncertain due to missing maps.

Strategic Growth is extremely important which is why I have consistently advocated for the development of a Town vision and strategic plan that the Town’s budget, decisions, and projects are based on. The Town’s should have a practical and achievable vision at its foundation that I encourage as the Vision Committee liaison.   Additionally, in 2025 I began advocating for the review and revision of the Town of Dundee Charter and continue to communicate the need for transparent, accountable and honest financial reporting.

Commissioner Mary Richardson’s Notable Actions & Efforts During First Term:

1. Advocated for the Town to install benches at school bus stops throughout the Town.

2. Founded Dundee on the Ridge Community Academy providing educational purpose to empower the community for stronger leadership.

 3. Dundee Elementary Academy & Dundee Ridge Academy SAC committee member.

 4. Serve as the Liaison to the Dundee Library.

 5. Advocated for sidewalks on Lincoln Avenue.

 6. Provided a Thanksgiving dinner for residents in 2024.

 7. Coordinated a free bicycle giveaway in 2024.

 8. Advocated for “Free Book Box Library” at MLK Park and Lake Marie Park.

9. Graduate of Leadership Polk Class XVII and Florida League of Cities IEMO.

10. Recent Member of the Florida Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials (FBC-LEO).

11. Served on the FBC-LEO Education Committee.

12. Successfully advocated for the development of a Town Vision and Strategic Plan and Chair the Committee to be involved in its development.

Julia Hunt - Seat 4

My name is Julia Hunt. I am a wife, mother, and grandmother who believes in treating others with

kindness and respect. I met my husband in 2003, and we married in 2005. Shortly after, I began working at Dana's Daycare, now known as Stay and Play, where I furthered my education in early childhood education.

Due to unforeseen medical issues with my daughter, I resigned to become a stay-at-home mother and wife, focusing on caring for our children and seeking the help my daughter needed. This experience taught me to ask questions until I fully understood the pros and cons of the options we

were given. During this time, my husband became our sole provider, and I learned to manage our

household on a single income.

About seven years ago, we started our family pest control business, which I have managed ever since. We later acquired Water Pest Control and have continued to grow.

I am passionate about our community and look forward to learning, contributing, and helping Dundee retain the charm that makes it so special.

City of Davenport Candidate Forum:  Monday, March 10th

All wording and pictures below provided by Candidates

Tom Fellows -

I have been a resident of Davenport for more than 60 years. My wife and I raised our three children here, and it is the community where many of our five grandchildren and two great grandchildren grew up as well. 

For 25 years, we started and operated our small business in Davenport, providing jobs for Davenport residents. I started riding with my father and uncle, both of whom were truck drivers, learning the trade even before I was old enough to drive. As soon as I could drive, I did, eventually working for Davenport's Citrus Enterprises, and then Alterman Transport Lines, before founding Fellows Trucking Group with my wife, Sue.

God has blessed our family over the years, and most of those blessings are tied to this wonderful community that I love in one way or another.

I was humbled to have won election as a city commissioner in 2004, and continued to be humbled every time I won re-election. I was proud to serve as Davenport's commissioner and never took that responsibility lightly or for granted. I was honored to have been afforded the residents' trust to act as their representative for 20 years. Now I’m asking for that trust again.

God. Family. America. Davenport. Those words guide me daily and are always close to my heart. I humbly ask that Davenport residents prayerfully consider casting their vote for me on April 1.

Thank you, Davenport residents, for your consideration and God bless. 

Timothy "Scott" Woodlee -

With over 48 years of combined experience in military service, law enforcement, and private investigations, Timothy "Scott" Woodlee is a results-driven professional with a steadfast commitment to serving others. A retired U.S. Army Paratrooper and former law enforcement officer, Scott brings leadership, strategic insight, and a strong work ethic to everything he does.

During his 20-year career in the U.S. Army, Scott served with the elite 82nd Airborne Division, specializing in tactical, strategic, and special operations intelligence. His service refined his ability to lead under pressure and think critically in high-stakes situations.

Scott’s law enforcement career spanned 15 years, including key roles at the local, state, and federal levels. As a Narcotics Detective/Task Force Officer, he led and contributed to over 10 major investigations, including high-risk narcotics operations. He retired as a Detective with the Oviedo Police Department, where he also served as a DEA Task Force Officer.

In addition to his law enforcement background, Scott spent 13 years as a Senior Private Investigator, earning recognition as Investigator of the Year in 2014 for his work in the Northeast. His expertise extends to surveillance operations and Special Investigative Unit (SIU) cases, with particular experience in wiretap operations at local, state, and federal levels.

Since moving to Davenport, Scott has been a dedicated community member, serving on the Forest Lake HOA and CDD Boards, the City of Davenport Parks and Recreation Board, the Board of Adjustments, a regular attendee of City of Davenport Commission Meetings and as the City’s Veterans Event Coordinator. He has also completed the Davenport Citizens Academy and the Polk County Public Service Leadership Course.

As a candidate for City Commissioner, Scott is committed to leveraging his extensive background to enhance public safety, foster community well-being, and ensure transparent, accountable local government. His leadership and strategic approach will be invaluable in tackling the challenges facing Davenport today.