The Highlands County Hospital District Board meets today to discuss the future of the property leased to HCA Florida Highlands Hospital. The board is considering whether to pursue a new long-term lease or potentially sell the hospital property and assets when HCA’s current lease expires in July 2027. Members will review a 93-page consultant’s report comparing HCA with similar Florida hospitals and outlining criteria for potential buyers or future lessees.
Drivers in Avon Park and Sebring should prepare for road work beginning Monday, September 28th. Highlands County crews will temporarily close lanes on North Highlands Boulevard in Avon Park from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., through October first. In Sebring, Home Avenue will be one-way from Monday through November 25th for roadway, sidewalk and curb improvements. Motorists should expect delays, follow detour signs and use alternate routes when possible.
The Florida Manufactured Housing Association is continuing its lawsuit against the City of Sebring, challenging the city’s Mobile Home Replacement Ordinance. The association claims the ordinance, which prohibits replacing mobile homes in certain nonconforming parks, conflicts with Florida law. The group is seeking to have the ordinance declared invalid and to prevent the city from enforcing it.
The Highlands County Sheriff’s Office will host the 23rd annual Region Six SWAT Challenge this Saturday at the H-C-S-O Gun Range on Arbuckle Creek Road in Sebring. SWAT teams from across Southwest Florida will compete in five events, with opening ceremonies at 8 a.m. The free, family-friendly event will include food vendors and a bounce house — but attendees should prepare for loud noise, with live gunfire and explosions planned.