There were some scary moments around Lake Placid yesterday as a brush fire there charred more than 25 acres – threatening several homes in the area. A number were evacuated as firefighters worked to stop the flames. Units from Leisure Lakes, Placid Lakes, Sun ‘N Lake south and Lake Placid were joined by Florida Forestry crews in the effort.
The blaze now said to be 90-percent contained and Forestry crews will be out again later this morning to check on it. No injuries were reported. No cause for the fire has yet been released.
Despite recent rains, a burn ban remains in effect for Highlands County.
Highlands County commissioners this morning took action on a couple of traffic issues. They first approved a agreement to improve County Road 64 from South Angelo Lake to East Butler Road – that will cost nearly $1.2 million dollars.
They also voted to widen the Catfish Creek Road bridge Road. That will cost nearly $400,000.
During a special break, commissioners dedicated the new centennial mural, hanging in the foyer of the Government Center.
There’s a new scam that targets the relatives of alleged criminals. According to Highlands County Sheriff’s officials, when an arrest is made, the relatives of the arestee are contacted by somebody claiming to be a bail bondsman.
They’re not. After filling out paperwork and submitting a fee, the scammer runs off with the money and no bail is posted.
Apparently, one red flag is that scammers are using CashAp to get the money. Those dealing with the justice system are urged to only use only actual bail bondsmen for that service.
Local officials say it has not yet occured here in Highlands County – but residents need to be aware of the possibility.
The governor’s recent trip to Asia could pay big dividends for Polk County. While in South Korea last week, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a Memorandum of Understanding with LowCarbon Hydrogen Corporation.
The MoU calls for the company to build a hydrogen plant in Mulberry at Old Highway 37. It’s expected to make rocket fuel and employ 150 people at an average salary of 60-thousand dollars a year. A groundbreaking ceremony is set for next month. County Commissioner George Lindsey says it willadd to the local tax base, employment base, and a better quality of life.
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Highlands County commissioners will take a break from their meeting at 10:00 this morning, to dedicatee the new centennial mural – recently hung in the foyer of the Highlands County Government Center.
Created by internationally-known artist Keith Goodson, it honors citrus & cattle, the racing and aviation history of the county as well as all three communities.
In other action, commissioners will recieve the annual comprehensive financial report for the county.