Highlands County commissioners this morning voted to go ahead with a $650,000 purchase of property on Heywood Taylor Boulevard. The land, which at one time housed the Phillips Power Plant, would be the site for a fire/rescue station and a first responders’ training facility.
Commissioners are looking toward the state legislature, for a grant that could bring them funds that would be used to help underwrite much of the project.
The commission will have a special meeting later this week. Thursday afternoon they will gather at the Sebring International Raceway, to have a look at a fleet of new fire vehicles including pumpers, medic units, logistic and rehab vehicles along with a number of Chevy Tahoe SUVs.
Traffic was tied up on the northbound lanes of Highway 27 at the Sebring Parkway due to a traffic accident. Reportedly, the force of the impact knocked a sport utility vehicle on its side.
At this point, no names or the extent of injuries has yet been revealed.
Hardee County Sheriff’s officials reportedly are offering a reward for anyone who can aid in their search for a person they say is wanted for two counts of attempted murder.
Paulos Amogne is wanted for two counts of second-degree murder. The 37-year-old Amogne is also facing charges of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Anyone with information as to his whereabouts is asked to call the Hardee County Sheriff’s office or the TIPS Hotline.