Polk County

A woman was canoeing on Tiger Creek when she encountered an alligator and went into the water.

A survey of more than 2,000 Polk County residents found that 42% needed health care but were unable to receive it last year.

The county does not have a mandatory evacuation policy, and the primary option is to remain in your residence. However, if this is not possible, emergency shelters will open as needed.

Day care for one child costs $1,000 to $1,500 per month in Polk County — if you can get a spot.

Child care center operators share 6 reasons why day care costs almost as much as rent in Polk County.

Expert points to population growth, construction boom, high interest rates and skyrocketing insurance premiums.

Local expert advises, "Pick up the phone. That’ll solve 80% of your problems."

Despite historic raises, the teacher pay gap has widened between Polk and neighboring counties.

Teachers’ union warns of possible ‘staffing crisis’ without a property tax referendum next year.

For months now, one couple has been staying in an RV parked in their front yard.

Police will continue making arrests under a city ordinance prohibiting camping or sleeping on public property.

The State Attorney’s Office gives greater scrutiny before charging juveniles with lying about sex assaults; Polk Sheriff procedures are unchanged.