News Update for 06/04/25
Highlands County Schools could see 63.5 positions cut in next year’s budget, including 33 from school-level staff, under the superintendent’s second draft plan for 2025-26. Superintendent Brenda Longshore says the district aims to reduce spending by $6 million, despite uncertainty over state funding. Sebring High would lose five teachers, while Woodlawn Elementary gains four due to the Sebring Pre-K closure. Enrollment is projected to drop by 200 students, costing the district nearly $900,000 in state funds. The district is also struggling to recruit certified elementary music teachers.
Lake Placid town officials are seeing an uptick in recreational vehicles parked in vacant lots and commercial areas, prompting plans for a new RV ordinance. Town Administrator Charlette Rodriguez says the town currently lacks clear rules on RV overnight stays. This ordinance will be part of a broader overhaul of local codes, including updates to zoning, signage, stormwater, fertilizer use, and architectural standards. Planning consultant Dana Riddell is leading the effort, which aims to modernize town regulations and support future development—including a revitalized downtown master plan.
Sitework is underway on a 35-acre property off Sebring Parkway and Ben Eastman Road for a new townhome community called Townes of Sebring. The development, previously referred to as Sebring Parkway Townhomes, will feature 200 units with access from Ben Eastman Road. The plan includes a 4.29-acre pond, 1.61 acres of open space, and an 8-foot-wide multi-use trail. The property was purchased for $2.1 million in March 2024 by RR Towns at Sebring, LLC.
The 2025 Hurricane Preparedness Expo is set for this Saturday, June 7th, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Lakeshore Mall in Sebring. Hosted by the Highlands News-Sun and county partners, the free event offers expert presentations from meteorologists, including Bob Harrigan and Val Simpson, plus vendors, emergency prep tips, and live entertainment. With NOAA forecasting up to 19 named storms this season, this is a key opportunity for Highlands County residents to gear up before a storm hits.
The Town of Lake Placid is reconsidering its long-standing practice of waiving fees for special events like the Caladium Festival and Christmas Parade. Town officials say rising costs and financial goals—such as purchasing a street sweeper and offering competitive wages—necessitate a review of fee waivers for police, trash services, signage, and park rentals. Though the council voted to waive $10,000 in fees for this year’s Caladium Festival, future waivers are under review as budget talks begin. The discussion aims to balance community support with financial sustainability.
After 25 years of service, the Highlands County Veterans Services Advisory Board has officially disbanded—but its mission lives on. The board, once appointed by the county commission, helped establish vital veteran programs and even influenced the design of the county’s Veterans Service Office. Its work will now continue under the Highlands County Veterans Council, a nonprofit group made up of local veteran organizations. With greater ability to secure funding and grants, the Council will continue advocating for veterans and advising the county commission.
As hurricane season approaches, Highlands County Emergency Management is urging residents to use public risk shelters only as a last resort. Due to limited shelter space across Southwest Florida, officials recommend staying with friends or family when possible. If you must use a shelter, monitor highlandsfl.gov and county social media for real-time updates, as shelters will open in phases based on demand. Special Needs and Pet-Friendly shelters require pre-registration. Public shelters do not provide food, cots, or comfort items—come prepared. Visit the county website or call 863-402-7600 to learn more.