Locals express concerns over proposed 2,000+ housing development in Bartow

Some Bartow residents are raising concerns about a proposed housing development called Emilie Springs, which would include more than 2,000 homes and be built off US Highway 60.

Florida DEP, Mosaic meet with neighbors over proposed underground wastewater wells

At a community meeting Tuesday night, neighbors could learn more about Mosaic’s proposal to drill two test wells that could eventually be used to inject treated wastewater deep underground.

Polk County elementary teacher accused of hitting student

A Polk County elementary school teacher was arrested for hitting a student, according to officials with the school district. 

Sheriff Grady Judd dons $50K in ‘drip’ seized during illegal drug trafficking bust that nabbed 32

On Friday, Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd wore a thick gold chain around his neck, a matching bracelet and waved around a gun during a press conference to make a point about the dangers of drug trafficking.

Sheriff Grady Judd: 'Violent death' at group home prompts murder investigation

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd says that his office is helping the Bartow Police Department investigate what they are calling a “violent death."

Bartow commission votes to keep fluoride in drinking water

Cities across Florida are divided over whether fluoride should remain in public drinking water, as Bartow commissioners voted 3-2 Monday to keep it. 

Petition calls for rejection of proposed 2,000+ home community in Bartow

A new large-scale neighborhood is being proposed off State Road 60, but some residents believe the project will not benefit an already growing county.

Bartow air traffic controller academy will work towards filling nationwide vacancies

The D.C. plane crash this week highlighted the desperate need for more air traffic controllers across the country. In Polk County, a new control tower operator academy is working towards fixing that shortfall.