Lake Wales City Commission approves historic hotel settlement agreement

The City of Lake Wales took a significant step forward in its redevelopment efforts during the Community Redevelopment Agency meeting on April 15, 2025, by approving a settlement agreement aimed at revitalizing a historic hotel in downtown. The motion to approve the agreement was met with unanimous support from the commissioners, highlighting a collective commitment to preserving the building rather than tearing it down.

Commissioner Thompson emphasized the importance of the hotel, stating, "It's too historic. It's too important for downtown." This sentiment was echoed by other officials, who expressed a strong desire to restore the hotel to its former glory, dismissing any opinions suggesting demolition. The hotel is seen as a crucial element in completing the vision for the downtown area, and the CRA is determined to communicate this message clearly to the community.

The settlement agreement, praised for its clarity and thoroughness, was the result of extensive negotiations. One commissioner commended the legal staff for their excellent work, stating, "The document you came up with was very good, and the deal that you came up with I think also was good." This approval marks a pivotal moment in the city's redevelopment strategy, as officials look forward to the positive changes the hotel restoration will bring.

Looking ahead, the commissioners acknowledged the lessons learned from past redevelopment efforts, vowing to approach this project with careful consideration and a focus on positivity. The meeting concluded with a commitment to foster a collaborative environment, free from negative comments, as the city embarks on this new chapter of revitalization. The excitement among the commissioners was palpable, with one remarking, "Just another great day in the city of Lake Wales, and I'm excited to be a part of it."