The LakelandGov Podcast

What does it really take to connect talented people with meaningful careers in today's workforce? In this episode of Listen Lakeland, hosts Trinity Laurino and James Phillips welcome Dianne Kaplan, co-owner and Marketing Director of First Priority Staffing, to explore the opportunities and challenges shaping Lakeland's job market. From the growing demand for skilled trades and the importance of networking to navigating the "hidden job market" and creating résumés that highlight transferable skills, the conversation offers valuable insights for both job seekers and employers. Whether you're entering the workforce, changing careers, returning after time away, or looking to hire, this episode provides practical takeaways for strengthening Lakeland's workforce and supporting a vibrant local economy.
🌐 Listen now and stay connected with your community! Visit lakelandvision.org for more episodes and to participate in our survey.
🎧 Listen Lakeland is a collaborative project by Lakeland Vision, the City of Lakeland, and Marc Radio Lakeland, dedicated to providing an exceptional quality of life for all residents.

A proposed year-long pause on new data center development draws a packed house and hours of public debate at the July 20th City Commission meeting, as commissioners take their first look at how to regulate large-scale power users like the proposed Project Swan. Commissioners also weigh a letter of support for the Lakeland Housing Authority's plan to convert public housing units to Section 8 and approve new rezonings on Hallam Drive and Laurel Road. The meeting also features a Public Works overview of Solid Waste and Fleet operations and the promotion of Joe Costine to lead the city's Water Utilities department. Watch the latest episode of Meeting Minutes for a full rundown of what was discussed and decided.
 
WATCH MEETING MINUTES
Watch the City Commission Meeting
Read the Meeting Agenda
Check out LakelandGov.net

Data centers in Lakeland? The debate is just getting started, and residents packed the room to weigh in. Also on the agenda: a major redesign for Memorial Boulevard, new funding for affordable housing across the city, a push to preserve a piece of the historic Moorhead community, and a fresh look coming to the Dixieland corridor. Listen to the latest episode of Meeting Minutes for a full rundown of what was discussed and decided. 
WATCH MEETING MINUTES
Watch the City Commission Meeting
Read the Meeting Agenda
Check out LakelandGov.net

What does it take to build a stronger community? Host James Phillips sits down with former Lakeland City Commissioner Don Selvage to explore the people, partnerships, and public service shaping Lakeland's future. From the America 250 celebration and the Mary Katherine Goddard monument to civic engagement, local leadership, and the value of having your voice heard, this inspiring conversation highlights why getting involved matters—especially as our community looks ahead to the next generation.
🌐 Listen now and stay connected with your community! Visit lakelandvision.org for more episodes and to participate in our survey.
🎧 Listen Lakeland is a collaborative project by Lakeland Vision, the City of Lakeland, and Hall Communications, dedicated to providing an exceptional quality of life for all residents.

The Lakeland City Commission moves forward with a proposed moratorium on large data centers, setting public hearings for July 6th and July 20th. The meeting also features conduit financing for Lakeland Regional Health Systems, trail improvements connecting neighborhoods around Lake Hunter to Bonnet Springs Park, and two federal grants supporting traffic safety and the historic Lake Mirror Promenade. Watch the latest episode of Meeting Minutes for a full rundown of what was discussed and decided.
 
WATCH MEETING MINUTES
Watch the City Commission Meeting
Read the Meeting Agenda
Check out LakelandGov.net

What makes a city feel connected?
In this episode of Listen Lakeland, host Tiffany Van Weiren is joined by James Phillips (City of Lakeland), Josh Henderson (Bonnet Springs Park), and Christopher Torres (Union Hall) to explore the spaces and experiences that bring people together. From parks and cultural events to live music and nightlife, the conversation highlights how Lakeland is creating opportunities for connection, belonging, and community across generations and interests.
Discover why "third spaces" matter, how local organizations are fostering meaningful engagement, and what makes Lakeland a place where people can truly connect.
🌐 Listen now and stay connected with your community! Visit lakelandvision.org for more episodes and to participate in our survey.
🎧 Listen Lakeland is a collaborative project by Lakeland Vision, the City of Lakeland, and Hall Communications, dedicated to providing an exceptional quality of life for all residents.

​The June 1 City Commission meeting features a packed house as Lakeland residents show up in force to weigh in on a proposed hyperscale data center, plus action on a Green Swamp annexation, fleet vehicles, public safety upgrades, and a split vote on a Veterans Park monument. Watch the latest episode of Meeting Minutes for a full rundown of what was discussed and decided.
WATCH MEETING MINUTES
Watch the City Commission Meeting
Read the Meeting Agenda
Check out LakelandGov.net

A major development agreement for the former Wedgewood Golf Course, a wage adjustment for Lakeland police officers, and several land use decisions were all on the agenda at the May 18th City Commission meeting. The Commission also receives an exciting update from the America 250 Committee on a life-size bronze statue headed to Veterans Memorial Park — and discusses whether the city should help get the project across the finish line. Watch the latest episode of Meeting Minutes for a full rundown of what was discussed and decided.
WATCH MEETING MINUTES
Watch the City Commission Meeting
Read the Meeting Agenda
Check out LakelandGov.net