News Update for 7/19/22

Following a long public hearing, Highlands County commissioners voted to re-zone some 93-acres of property off Highway 70 from Agricultural zoning to Medium Density Residential. The action reportedly could clear the way for an affordable housing project.
Tne property is surrounded by conservation lands. In passing the recommendation, commissioners called it a tough decision – saying the county needs affordable housing.
Commissioners this morning also took a first step in increasing the garbage collection assessment for the upcoming fiscal year. The move from $210 to $216 annually, will produce an additional $242,000 a year. Commissioners said they needed to make the increase to keep up with vendor fees.
A second hearing is planned to take public input on the idea.

Florida State Representative Kaylee Tuck will be making a whistle stop in Highlands County this evening. She’ll be at the Highlands Tea Party to talk about the upcoming legislative session.
Tuck, who was instrumental in getting the Fairness in Women’s Sports act passed in Florida, will give a report and take questions from citizens about the upcoming session.
She was returned to office this year after drawing no opposition.
The Highlands Tea Party meets Tuesday evenings at the Vietnam Veterans Hall 33565 Grand Prix Drive, behind the Sebring Wal-Mart. Meetings start at 6pm.

Lake Wales police say they have arrested a couple in the Crown Jewel of the Ridge, after an investigation into missing funds from the Rural King store. Alberto Quinones and Shantrell Wilkerson have been charged with Grand Theft in connection with the incident.
According to reports, the pair allegedly were pocketing partial payments on layaway items that never were claimed.

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