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Polk County Hosts Town Hall Meeting for Future Agricultural Center

Published: February 25, 2026

More than 150 residents gathered on Tuesday, Feb. 24 for the unveiling of the conceptual renderings for the future Polk County Agricultural Center. The town hall meeting provided residents and agricultural partners an opportunity to view the master plan and learn more about the project.

The Meeting Recap

Conceptual rendering which displays the master plan layout for the future Polk County Agricultural Center.

Polk County Commissioner Rick Wilson led the meeting, which took place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the W.H. Stuart Center in Bartow. Commissioner Wilson kicked off the meeting by providing a brief background and overview of the project including the purpose of the new facility which is intended to support Polk County’s agricultural industry, youth programs and community events.

Following Commissioner Wilson’s comments, the project design team presented the conceptual renderings for the future Polk County Agricultural Center that will be located north of Homeland-Garfield Road in the Homeland area. Attendees then had the opportunity to view design rendering display boards, ask questions and speak directly with county leaders and project representatives in break out groups.

The Project Vision

The future Polk County Agricultural Center is envisioned as a multi-use facility that will provide expanded space for educational programming, livestock events, meetings and agricultural exhibits. The project aims to strengthen Polk County’s long-standing agricultural heritage and enhance the quality of life for residents across the county.

The Next Steps

Feedback from attendees was gathered during the meeting. Additional project updates including timelines and construction updates will be shared with the public as they become available.

 

Polk County Commissioner Rick Wilson standing on event stage speaking to seated audience members who attended the town hall meeting.Polk County Commissioner Rick Wilson speaking with three individuals standing in front of two design concept renderings during the February 24 town hall meeting.Polk County Facilities Management Director Keith Tate speaks with a Polk County resident to answer questions during the February 24 town hall meeting.


Decorative blue swish decoration at the bottom of the page, serving as a visual element for design purposes