Lake Hamilton

Life in Lake Hamilton is changing as a result of increased growth and a subsequent push by town leaders to operate the government more efficiently.

While the town's population continues to hover at about 1,400, recent annexation of land into the town limits has doubled the town's size from 2 square miles to 4 square miles. A population increase is in the future as eight subdivisions representing 553 lots are in various stages of development. The Town Council is committed to allowing controlled growth while working to maintain the town's charm.

A new water plant is under construction and is expected to be completed by the end of 2007. The $3 million project will include a one-million-gallon ground storage tank, administrative offices and a public works garage.

Also in the works is a 3,000-square-foot Senior Center at an estimated cost of $671,000.

Incorporated: 1925

Size: 4 square miles

Population: 1,405

Government: A mayor and a five-member Town Council, who manage the town. The mayor serves a one-year term. Council members serve two-year terms. The mayor is paid $600 annually. Council members are paid $420 annually. The council meets at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month.

Town Council: Mayor Marlene Wagner, 863-438-0023; Council members Ryan O'Leary, 863-439-8790; Richard Swanson, 863-439-1332; Emmett Wilkinson, 863-439-1684; Jacquelyn Henderson, 863-439-1341; and Kathi Latimer, 863-439-2182.

Budget: $2.7 million

Property tax rate: $7.148 per $1,000 of taxable value

Town Hall: 100 Smith Ave., 863-439-1910

Police Department: 863-439-1561

Fire Department: 863-439-9362

Water Department: 863-439-4800. No sewer service provided.

Garbage: Florida Refuse Service, Inc., 863-421-9854.

Electricity: Progress Energy, 800-700-8744.

Recreation: Two Little League fields, two playgrounds, picnic areas and a boat ramp. Fourth of July Celebration.

Schools: None inside the town limits. Students attend Haines City High School, Boone Middle School, Jenkins Middle School, Alta Vista Elementary School and Dundee Elementary School.