Harrison Havery, David Leidel, and Joshua Stewart have been elected to the Sebring City Council following Tuesday’s municipal election. Stewart and Havery secured second terms, while David Leidel will join the council as a newcomer after finishing among the top three vote-getters. Incumbent Lenard Carlisle Jr. finished fourth, ending his 12-year tenure on the council. Officials report about 743 ballots were cast out of more than 5,500 registered voters. Newly elected members are set to be sworn in on April 1st.
The Florida Manufactured Housing Association has filed a lawsuit against the City of Sebring over its Mobile Home Replacement Ordinance. The rule, adopted in 2022, prohibits replacing mobile homes in certain non-conforming mobile home parks within city limits. The association argues the ordinance violates Florida law and is attempting to force older mobile home parks out of existence. The case was filed in Highlands County’s 10th Judicial Circuit Court, and the city has 20 days to respond.
The Highlands County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a home warranty scam circulating in the area. Officials say some homeowners are receiving letters designed to look official and falsely suggest the service is connected to the Highlands County Board of County Commissioners, which it is not. The letters often imply a homeowner already has coverage that is about to expire in an effort to get people to call and pay for a warranty. Authorities say if you receive one of these notices, the best thing to do is simply throw it away.
The application window is now open for Florida’s Swim Lesson Voucher Program, but families must apply by March 20. The program, offered through the Florida Department of Health as part of its Water Smart initiative, provides eligible families with vouchers for free swim lessons to help improve water safety and prevent drowning. Priority is given to young children, especially those age four and under, as well as certain qualifying families. More information on vouchers is available at FloridaHealth.gov