Sebring city leaders are moving ahead with plans to relocate the city’s Public Works and Utilities Departments. City staff recently toured facilities in Mount Dora and Clermont to gather ideas and explore architectural options. The city has issued a request for proposals for architectural services, with a deadline of January 13. Officials say relocating the departments will allow for modernized facilities while freeing up key downtown properties for future development.
A longtime Highlands County kidney specialist is facing additional criminal charges, including a felony battery count involving a 76-year-old patient. Dr. Jorge Zeledon is now charged with 27 counts of battery after multiple women reported inappropriate touching during medical exams. Hospital officials confirm Zeledon’s privileges at HCA Florida Highlands Hospital have been revoked. His next court appearance is scheduled for February 17.
Lakeland, a Publix Pub Sub craving led to court trouble for 46-year-old James Marshall Hullett, Jr., after Polk County deputies say he walked out with four sandwiches valued at about $45 — without paying. Because of his long theft history, that snack score was upgraded to a felony petit theft charge. Law enforcement also arrested 43-year-old Jason LeDaniel Wimberley at the same home on unrelated active warrants. Both men are now booked into the Polk County Sheriff’s Processing Center. Crime might not pay — but it sure cost them lunch (and more).
Florida has started the New Year with a slate of new laws taking effect. State workers will now get full coverage for diagnostic and supplemental breast exams with no cost-sharing. All over-payments to healthcare providers must be refunded within 30 days and violations could bring fines or disciplinary action. A public animal-cruelty database — part of "Dexter’s Law" — goes live, requiring the listing of those convicted of abuse and giving shelters a tool to screen adopters. New rules also require pet-insurance firms to clearly outline claim eligibility, waiting periods, and exclusions to make coverage more transparent.