ATTENTION, BURN BAN for all of Polk County, until further notice. Learn more.
ATTENTION, PHASE 3 WATER SHORTAGE declared by Southwest Florida Water Management District. Learn more.
Terry G.Coney
Commissioner (2026 -2027) | District: B Northeast
Terry is a proud son of Lakeland. He attended Polk County Public Schools and graduated from Rochelle High School in 1968. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Florida A&M University and a Master of Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Terry is a 22-year veteran of the United States Air Force, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
In 2014, Terry returned to his hometown of Lakeland. Since his return, he has taken on a leadership role at First Baptist Institutional Church, where he currently serves as Lead Trustee.
Terry has volunteered extensively on boards and committees at both the City and Polk County levels. He is a former President of the NAACP Lakeland Branch. In 2021, he served on the Community Superintendent Search Advisory Committee for Polk County Public Schools, and in 2022, he was appointed to the Polk County Public Schools Book Review Committee. He also served on the Polk County Board of County Commissioners’ Community Relations Advisory Council and was a member of the Platform Art Board of Directors for three years. Terry currently serves as Chairman of the Polk County Public Schools Academic Boundary Committee.
In 2024, Terry served as Vice-Chair of the City of Lakeland Charter Review Board. He also served four years on the City’s Community Redevelopment Advisory Board, including his final two years as Chairman.
Terry’s goal is to improve the quality of life for all citizens of Lakeland. He is married to his high school classmate, Earlene Coney. Together, they have a blended family of seven children, nine grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.