Polk County's Board of County Commissioners is currently on the hunt for a volunteer, community-minded and keen to make a difference in the infrastructure of their local sidewalks. The Sidewalk Advisory Committee, a group dedicated to the prioritization of new sidewalk construction throughout the county, is one member short and looking to the public for a fresh face. As per a recent announcement, meetings typically take place at 6 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month and are held at the County Administration Building, which can be found at 330 W. Church St. in Bartow.
Joining the committee does come with some commitments; the term lasts for three years, and there's an option to quickly re-up for one additional term, pending approval. Each commissioner has the privilege to appoint a member to the committee, subject to board approval before they can begin to actively serve. "Members appointed by a commissioner must be approved by the board prior to serving," as noted in an announcement by the Polk County government. This board is nothing if not diverse, comprising five members appointed directly by the board, five county staff picked by the county manager, a representative from Polk County Public Schools, and a staff member from the Polk Transportation Planning Organization.
The committee’s work is essential in guiding the commissioners as they decide where the county's next sidewalks will be laid. Such decisions directly influence walkability, safety, and how communities connect, affecting residents and visitors alike. For those ready to step into this role, qualifications include a resume and cover letter—a signal of intent and experience—sent to [email protected] by the deadline of close of business on Sept. 12, 2025.
