Winter Haven Commissioners Approve Downtown Parking Garage Proposal Despite Public Concerns
by James Coulter
Despite concerns from residents and business owners, Winter Haven city commissioners unanimously approved plans for a four-story parking garage in the downtown area.
At their regular meeting on Mon. Dec. 9, commissioners voted 4-0 to accept an unsolicited proposal for the structure at 3rd Street SW and Ave C SW.
Mayor Pro Tem Brian Yates abstained from voting as the bank he works for may be involved in the private owners’ future financing of these efforts, explained Katrina Hill, Director of Public Affairs & Communication.
The proposed garage, planned for 3rd Street SW and Ave C SW, will add 292 spaces. The proposal came from Six/Ten LLC, which owns half the property, with Urban Action as the majority owner.
Brett Strang, Six/Ten President and CEO, argued the garage is essential to match Winter Haven’s growth. He noted that nearby Lakeland is building its fifth parking garage, while Winter Haven has only one.
“If we think what we will only need is one parking garage, then I would say we have failed,” he said. “I understand this is a difficult decision, but it is an important one if we are to become the city that we all believe we can be.”
Michael Hills, a Six/Ten investor, likewise backed the project, saying more parking is needed to support existing and planned downtown businesses.
“I am the advocate for these people who have taken a risk, opened a business in Winter Haven, and tried to make a profit,” he said. “To get Winter Haven growth, I think we need it [the garage] to make all these other things work.”
However, many residents and business owners spoke out against the proposal, expressing concerns about finances, location, and potential cronyism.
Jessie Scubna, owner of Jessie’s Lounge, argued the city created its own problem by removing downtown parking while approving an expensive garage to replace it.
“We keep finding ourselves in a position where the same people who are creating the problem now have a $10 million solution,” she said.
Grant Piche, who lives three blocks from downtown, challenged the proposal, noting that many residents are moving away from cars in favor of walking, biking, and golf carts.
“The same investors…tell us we need another coffee shop downtown,” he said.
Another concerned citizen, Matthew Crowley, criticized the proposal, warning that it reflects cronyism as it benefits a single company, Six/Ten, at the public’s expense.
“I am not disagreeing with growth for growth: it is about growth and who benefits from that growth and shaping our city,” he said.
Commissioner Clifton E. Dollison acknowledged the concerns but said the garage is necessary to support future development.
“I am proud of the fact that we are a city that is moving forward,” he said. “So, I’m excited and looking forward to seeing what will come to pass as it relates to developments and other things that will encourage other businesses.”
