Avon Park City Council voted 3–2 Monday night to move interim City Manager Jason Atkinson closer to a permanent role. The decision comes after interviews with three candidates, with council citing Atkinson’s public works background as a key strength. Final approval is pending follow-up with his previous employer. Atkinson says his focus is restoring stability and strengthening collaboration between city staff and council.
Florida transportation officials are planning major highway upgrades across DeSoto, Hardee, and Highlands counties and are asking residents to weigh in before designs begin. The project would improve U.S. 17, U.S. 27, and State Roads 70 and 66, connecting communities like Arcadia, Zolfo Springs, and Lake Placid. Three public meetings are scheduled in each county later this month, with a virtual open house available from January 15 through February 12. Residents can review plans and submit comments in person or online through the state’s project website.
Devane Park in Lake Placid may soon offer more than scenic walks and shaded green space. Town leaders are reviewing a proposal to install an outdoor fitness trail featuring exercise stations for stretching, push-ups, dips, and strength training. The Greater Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce plans to help raise funds for the project, estimated to cost more than eight thousand dollars. Town staff will now develop a detailed plan for placement and maintenance before bringing it back to the council for approval.
Three individuals previously deported from the United States were found in Highlands County and indicted by federal grand juries on charges of illegal reentry. The indictments are part of a larger case involving 15 people across South Florida. Federal officials say the charges carry potential prison sentences, and the cases are being handled by the newly formed Border and Immigration Crimes Enforcement section. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.