Highlands County residents will soon have a chance to learn about affordable housing programs in our area. The Affordable Housing Informational Fair will offer details on the State Housing Initiatives Partnership Program and other local housing options. You can meet with representatives from trusted housing organizations and get your questions answered. Make sure to mark your calendars for July 16th at Avon Park Community Center, July 23rd at the Bert J. Harris Ag Center in Sebring and July 29th at the Lake Placid Government Center. Each event runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more details, visit highlandsfl.gov or call (863) 402-6648.
The City of Sebring has officially purchased the former SunTrust building downtown and plans to move City Hall and its administrative offices there. The three-story building at 126 West Center Avenue has been vacant for about four years and was bought for $1.4 million. In addition, the city has acquired 30 acres near Sunniland Drive and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard for $690,000 to relocate its Public Works and Utilities Departments. City leaders say these moves will help support Sebring’s growth and open up current city-owned land for future private development.
ABC Supply Co. in Avon Park is inviting the community to its grand opening celebration on June 20th. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 229 Hatcher Avenue and will feature food, drinks, raffles, and surprises for attendees. After opening in January 2024 and completing major renovations, the branch now has a brand-new office, expanded parking, and a full staff ready to serve. ABC Supply says the new location will boost local jobs and support area growth by supplying high-quality outdoor products for new construction. For more information, visit abcsupply.com or call 863-201-6110.
Polk State College has been awarded a $2.8 million Florida Job Growth Grant to boost workforce training in Polk County. The funding will help launch a new welding program and expand the college’s CNC Machining Program, aiming to train 300 students over the next three years with a high completion rate. Students will gain certifications in welding and advanced machining, preparing them for in-demand jobs in Florida’s growing manufacturing industry. College leaders say this investment will strengthen local partnerships and help fill critical skilled labor gaps.