Lakeland’s Mayor Josh Roman, City Manager Michael Walker, Planning Director Paul Luker, and City Recorder Cheyenne Carter visited the former Relax Inn property. They were there to support local emergency first responders, including the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office and Shelby County Fire Department. The visit was part of a training exercise at the vacant building, which Lakeland acquired on March 7th.
The training exercises involved entry techniques, drone detection, and fire control. No actual fires were started, but the exercises provided practical experience for the first responders. The officials were satisfied to see the building used for training before its demolition next week.
Public safety officers from nearby communities also participated in the training. Their presence underscored the importance of such exercises in preparing first responders for emergencies…