Matthew Crowley

Nonpartisan

I will make sure infrastructure investments support healthy living by incorporating shade trees, gardens, and clean water solutions. I will also publish public infrastructure audits online so the community can track progress and hold leaders accountable.

I will launch a Neighborhood Infrastructure Fund focused on repairing roads, sidewalks, and drainage where the need is greatest. Neglected areas will be prioritized using resident-led planning committees, not political donors.

I will ensure that city safety policies are focused on fairness, community trust, and the well-being of every resident.

I will push to create Community Land Trusts so that neighborhoods—not speculators—control their own land.

This means redirecting law enforcement focus away from minor offenses and towards serious public safety concerns, while ensuring that individuals previously convicted for marijuana-related offenses have opportunities for expungement and reintegration into our community.

To make our city healthier and more inviting, I will expand tree cover, shaded walking areas, and green spaces across working neighborhoods.

I will push for fair funding and staffing for the Parks Department, and I will advocate for a “fix it first” approach—making sure our current parks are repaired, upgraded, and well cared for before the city considers expansion.

I will fight for a city budget that prioritizes essential services—like roads, water quality, and affordable housing—without overtaxing homeowners.

I will launch public education efforts that help residents protect their health while also preserving the beauty that makes Winter Haven such a special place to live.

I will work to convert city-owned and vacant properties into affordable homes and cooperatives. Developers who receive public incentives must be required to include affordable units in their projects, and families facing eviction should have access to expanded emergency rental assistance.

I will advocate for reforms that give cities more power to protect renters from unjust evictions.

We must also restore and protect our natural areas so that every child can grow up with clean air to breathe and safe water to drink.

I will crack down on polluters who dump waste in our lakes and neighborhoods, and I will ensure that our water and sewer systems are upgraded to prevent overflows, bacteria, and lead from reaching families.

I will work to create a dedicated Housing Enforcement Unit to inspect rental properties and respond quickly to tenant complaints. Landlords who violate housing codes must face real consequences, with escalating penalties for repeat offenders.

I will fight to lower costs and cut red tape so affordable housing can be built faster and more efficiently.

I will work with residents and local businesses to restore beloved traditions and create new cultural events that strengthen Winter Haven’s identity and spirit.

I will defend workers’ rights by supporting public unions, fair wages, and strong labor protections on all city-funded projects.

I will also establish a Tenant Hotline and Online Portal for confidential reporting and tracking of housing issues, and I will partner with local legal aid organizations to ensure working families have access to free or low-cost tenant counseling and representation.