Unlike many of Florida’s newer communities which have sprung up almost overnight as a result of fast-paced growth, Lakeland is a centennial city, offering a sense of place and heritage to counterbalance pressures from growth and sprawl. Located between two major urban areas – Tampa Bay and Orlando – Lakeland enjoys the quality of life characteristics of smaller cities, while affording easy access and the amenities of larger metropolitan areas. Lakeland is a unique blend of business, culture and recreation. Lakeland possesses some of Florida’s most picturesque scenery, with swan-filled lakes, towering oaks and historic architecture, including the world’s largest one-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright-designed buildings at Florida Southern College.   The City of Lakeland developed a new Strategic Planning Initiative in conjunction with the Annual City Commission Retreat in February 2004. The process commenced with a daylong presentation by Futurist Ed Barlow (Creating the Future, Inc.) which involved global, national, regional and local trends. The second day was comprised of a series of panel discussions involving local agency representatives who discussed Economic Development, Workforce Development and Community Development issues, concerns and opportunities. The third day involved revenue and expenditure forecasts and various Departmental presentations. The City Commission and staff regrouped one week later to develop a Vision Statement for the City of Lakeland and several goals that served as the foundation for a comprehensive set of Action Steps to guide the organization’s efforts over the upcoming years. The particular Action Steps are intended to be accomplished in a defined period and categorized as Short Term (ST) from 1-3 years, Intermediate Term (IM) from 3 to 5 years or Long Term (LT) 5+ years. At the 2005 City Commission Retreat the Vision, Mission, Strategic Goals, and Action Steps were revised and added to. Vision “Lakeland - a vibrant, culturally inclusive world-class community.” Mission "A community working together to provide an exceptional quality of life.” Strategic Goals: Economic Opportunity “Create self-sustaining environments to grow, attract and retain a creative, talented, educated and technically qualified workforce.” Communication “Support the on-going development of an informed and engaged citizenry.” Fiscal Management  “Develop and effectively manage financial resources.” Growth Management  “Ensure that Lakeland’s Comprehensive Plan capitalizes on past successes utilizing smart growth principles to foster quality developments and safe, attractive neighborhoods.” Quality of Life “Support the arts, education, wellness and recreation, and provide quality public spaces and superior municipal services.”