Tempers flared last night during a discussion about the lease of the Brickell Building and the overall development of Avon Park’s downtown area. Councilwoman Bernice Taylor exchanged heated remarks with both Mayor Garrett Anderson and Councilwoman Brittany McIntyre over proposed restrictions for the building.
In the end, the council voted to lease the property to Dan Sauls Realty, who say they have plans for development for the much-troubled Main Street building. Set at a half million dollars, they say they’re ready to get started as soon as possible.
Highlands County commissioners reportedly are holding a special strategic planning meeting today.
They’re hearing presentations by nine different department heads where the county’s strengths. weaknesses, opportunities and threats are being analyzed.
Also on the agenda is a discussion of impact fees, a preliminary budget outlook and possible tax cut plan.
The day-long retreat-style session is being held at the Champion for Children’s Circle Theater in downtown Sebring.
A toddler yesterday reportedly was hit by a car near Lake Wales. Polk County Sheriff’s officials say the youngster, reportedly 4-years-old, was struck near the corner of Betsy Lane & Friedlander Rd. in the Highland Park Manor.
There’s no word on how the youngster got into the road. The child was transported via helicopter, with injuries that appear to be non-life threatening.
It’s a foggy morning in Highlands County, with the mist very dense in some places – especially in the north end. Motorists are urged to slow down and use their low beam headlights.
There were some tense moments yesterday morning, when Highlands County Sheriff’s officials were called about an incident involving the Avon Park Senior High School. The facility was put on what is termed a "controlled campus."
The Manatee Sheriff’s Office bomb squad was called in to investigate what witnesses said was a car in the school’s parking lot. Apparently, they found nothing. School classrooms in the area were cleared out in an abundance of caution.
Highlands County Sheriff’s officials say they are continuing to invesitgate the incident.