After months of investigation into the Brickell Building sale, the Avon Park City Council voted 3–0 to send a 73-page report to Governor Ron DeSantis — a move that could lead to the suspension of Mayor Garrett Anderson and his sister, Councilwoman Brittany McGuire, for alleged abuse of power. The report, which has already been sent to the governor’s office, claims the two used their positions for personal gain, failed to disclose conflicts of interest, and bypassed city oversight. The findings were also forwarded to the Florida Ethics Commission and other state agencies. Further discussion on the report’s recommendations is expected at today’s council meeting.
A new Veterans Administration health clinic in Sebring is nearly ready to open its doors. The 14,600-square-foot facility, located behind Aldi on New Life Way, is in its final stages of construction and expected to begin serving patients in December. The Bay Pines VA Healthcare System says the state-of-the-art clinic will offer primary care and mental health services, featuring a modern care model where providers come to the patient. The new location is more than 50% larger than the current VA clinic on U.S. 27 South and aims to give Highlands County veterans the high-quality care they deserve.
The City of Sebring is cracking down on long-standing code violations. City Council has approved hiring lien-clearing attorney Matthew Weidner to handle foreclosures on properties that have been out of compliance for three years or more. Weidner, known for his success in other Florida cities, will manage the foreclosure process to recover city costs and return neglected homes to the market. Officials say the goal isn’t punishment—but accountability. Property owners who cooperate and make repairs can still avoid foreclosure.
It was a birthday to remember for Highlands County resident Bobby Paradise, whose lifelong dream of becoming a crime fighter finally came true. On October 9th, the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office celebrated Bobby’s special day by deputizing him as an honorary Crime Fighter. Major Hood and Lieutenant Tyson praised Bobby for his courage, determination, and positive spirit before presenting him with his badge and gear. Bobby, an active member of the Aktion Club, now proudly serves as an inspiration to our community—proving that with heart and hope, dreams really can come true.