Polk County Commission Recognizes Martha Santiago for Years of Public Service

Published: November 3, 2026

Bartow, Fla. (Nov. 3, 2026) - The Polk County Board of County Commissioners recognized outgoing Chair Martha Santiago on Tuesday, Nov. 3, for her two terms as commissioner. During the recognition, Commissioner Rick Wilson presented Santiago with a plaque honoring her service and contributions to Polk County.

"We came on this board together, and while I'm staying another four years, you have chosen to get started in the next chapter of your life," Rick Wilson said. "Lord knows it has not always been fun and easy, but you have served this county with a true servant's heart and a desire to do what is best for the residents, the businesspeople and the visitors. You have set a wonderful example of how to lead with class and dignity. It has been my absolute honor to serve with you the past eight years, and I wish you the best."

Following Wilson's comments, Santiago reflected on her experience serving on the Polk County Board of County Commissioners.

"It has been a wonderful experience, and I am honored to have served the county I love," Santiago said. "I close this chapter of my life with a grateful heart, a deep sense of pride and a tremendous faith in Polk County's future," she continued. "Public service has never been just a position to me. I see it as a calling and my career in education taught me that the true measure of leadership is not the title we hold but the difference we make in the lives of others."

Santiago was first elected to the county commission in November 2018 and was reelected in November 2022. Her fellow commissioners selected her to serve as vice chair in 2020 and 2024, and as chair in 2021 and in 2025.

Before joining the county commission, Santiago spent several decades building a career in education. Beginning in 1978, she served as a teacher, school administrator and district administrator in the Polk County school system. She later served as a board trustee, dean of academic affairs and provost at Polk State College.

Santiago is also the owner of Leadership Consultants, LLC.

In 2022, she was recognized by three county organizations: Polk Vision, the Junior League of Greater Lakeland and Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce. Each organization awarded her its highest honors for her significant contributions to the community.

To watch Santiago's recognition visit: https://reflect-polk.cablecast.tv/show/7828.