News Update for 12/6/22
Has your rent gone up? A new study by Construction Coverage shows that the fair market rent in the Sebring-Avon Park metro area has increased almost 17-percent since the onset of the coronavirus.
The good news is, that’s below the national average of a 24-percent rental increase. The numbers show that locally, studio apartments are going for just over $700 a month, while a 4-bedroom home is renting at $1500 a month on average.
Experts say it’s all about supply and demand.
Highlands County School Board members will look at hiring a new attorney when they meet tonight in regular session. Nominee Shannon Nash is slated to bring a contract agreement to the board. Nash would succeed longtime board attorney John McClure, who is stepping down at the end of the year.
The board also is slated to look at a proposed heath and sex education curriculum. A committee has been working on a recommendation – however, nearly half the members dropped off before making a suggestion on which program to put before students.
Ivan James Sanders has been convicted of first-degree murder and aggravated child abuse. The verdict came down yesterday. Sanders was charged in connection with the October 2014 death of 4-year-old Mercedes Blair.
He reportedly will be spending the rest of his life in prison.
A couple of bad accidents in the area. Two cars collided last night at the intersection of Olivia Drive and State Road 64 east of Avon Park. Authorities say they have no information on that one.
There was a crash with injuries yesterday at State Road 60 and Buckmoore Road. Lake Wales police say that one involved a crane truck and a sport utility vehicle. One person was transported from that mishap.
NEWS 12/6/22 BF
FOUND BULL
Hardee County Sheriff’s Animal Services Unit has impounded a small framed, solid black bull. The aninmal was found at large on County Road 664a between Heardbridge Rd and Lake Branch Rd. east of Wauchula.
They say there are no brands or other ID markings identified. Deputies say if that’s your bull, you can call them at the Hardee Sheriff’s office.