Lakeland, FL -- The Lakeland City Commission voted to increase the fuel charge for Lakeland Electric customers 15 cents per 1,000 kWh effective for meters read on or after June 30. 

The new fuel charge will be $50.65 per 1,000 kWh.  As of June 30, Lakeland Electric residential customers will pay $110.17 for 1,000 kWh of electricity.

After listening to a staff presentation at the June 20, Utility Committee Meeting, the Lakeland Electric Utility Committee recommended to increase the current fuel charge.  The City Commission reconvened and approved the recommendation. 

Lakeland, FL -- Polk County Sheriff's Robbery detectives have positively identified the man responsible for the Armed Robbery at the Marathon Food Mart Sunday.

The man, identified as 26-year-old Colin Creel, of 3115 Socrum Loop Road in Lakeland, has a warrant out for his arrest and is currently on probation for Petit Theft.

He may be driving a metallic blue/green Toyota Avalon with FL tag 597 5GU. He is to be considered ARMED and DANGEROUS.

Anyone with any information who wishes to remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward is asked to call Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-TIPS or log onto www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com.

School psychologists from the Polk County Public Schools participated in the 2011 Central Florida Autism Institute’s Walk/Run for Autism Awareness at Lakeland’s Lake Hollingsworth.

The psychologists wore their staff shirts and interacted with attendees at the event and visitors to their booth. Their booth included sidewalk chalk, bubbles, a train set, games and puzzles. 

While children were engaged in the activities, the psychologists were able to share with their parents and other community members about the services the psychologists provide to students.