Polk County Fire Rescue creating 50 new positions with SAFER grant. Bartow, Fla. (Nov. 19, 2025) - Polk County Fire Rescue was awarded a $16-million federal grant to fund 50 new positions. PCFR was awarded the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for the 50 positions. The program is designed to help fire rescue departments nationwide increase and maintain staffing levels. It also helps with response and operational standards compliance. PCFR Chief Shawn Smith is ready to start recruiting candidates for the new positions. "Polk County Fire Rescue is excited to bring new talent into our organization with the help of the SAFER grant," Smith said. "We are grateful for this new federal funding which will help us reach our staffing goals." The 50 new SAFER grant-supported firefighter positions are part of more than 100 positions PCFR is working to fill. The Polk County Board of County Commissioners recently approved funding for fire personnel positions. PCFR encourages anyone interested in a career in firefighting to reach out to the department or visit https://www.polk-county.net/public-safety/fire-rescue/careers/.

Polk County names new leaders for Health and Human Services Agency. - Robin Elliott was named Polk HHSA Director. POLK COUNTY - Polk County has announced the appointment of Robin Elliott as the new Director of the Polk County Health and Human Services Agency. In addition, Natalie Trachsel has been promoted to serve as Assistant Director of the agency. "Congratulations to both Robin and Natalie as they step into these crucial positions within the Health and Human Services Agency," said Polk County Manager Marche Pittman. "We are confident that their leadership will greatly benefit the Polk community." Pittman also expressed appreciation to the county's Human Resources Officer and the Polk County Health and Human Services Board for their role in the selection process and for helping identify the best candidates for these key positions. Both appointments will take effect on November 17.