BOCC OKs future Polk State College criminal justice school

Approval was granted by Polk County Commissioners at their July 10 regular meeting for the creation of a police academy that will be located on the campus of the Polk County Sheriff?s Office Operations Center near Winter Haven.

In an interlocal agreement, a total of 10 acres has been authorized by the Board of County Commissioners to be sold to Polk State College for $1. In addition to the police academy, other courses in public safety, such as emergency management services, will also be taught at the new facility.

Upon completion, the facility will have a total of 100,000 square feet, 10 times larger than the site, where classes are now being taught at another campus, also located in Winter Haven.

According to Linda McKinley, deputy county attorney, this was first broached by Sheriff Grady Judd in 2009. However, it was not until this year that the Florida Legislature approved $9.25 million toward the venture.

?This is the latest in a number of very successful partnerships with the sheriff,? McKinley said.

However, that initial funding only covers one-third the estimated cost, which is projected at $30 million, according to Peter Elliott, vice president of administration for PSC.

Response by commissioners following a PowerPoint presentation by Elliot was positive.

?When?s the groundbreaking?? asked Commissioner Todd Dantzler. That was yet to be determined was Elliott?s reply. In addition to raising additional funds, more groundwork needs to be done, including having an architect and engineer design the proposed facility, as well as hiring a contractor. The plans are necessary, said Elliott, to demonstrate to the Legislature that progress is being made, as PSC intends to petition for more funding during the 2012-2013 legislative session.

Elliott later noted that PSC would be applying for a bachelor?s degree in criminal sciences once the facility is up and running.

?How many students do you expect? Are there other facilities in the state?? asked Commissioner Bob English. Taking the second question first, Elliott told English that although he did not have that information with him, there currently are several; he knew of one in Broward County.

As to the number of students, Elliott stated ultimate enrollment had not yet been determined.

?Will we be attracting students from out of the county?? English then asked.

?Absolutely,? said Elliott.

What the current space would be used for was of interest to Commissioner Edwin V. Smith. That space will be refurbished and used for other classrooms, Elliott said.

Source: http://yoursun.net/sunnews/fortmeade/4054950-505/story.csp

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