News Update for 7/8/25
A busy day of community connection is ahead for Highlands County residents. Sebring Mayor John Shoop kicks things off this morning at 8 a.m. with “What’s Up Downtown Sebring?” — a chance for free coffee and conversation at Highlands Lakeside Theatre, where locals can hear updates and connect with fellow business owners and community leaders. Then tonight, Commissioner Don Elwell will host a Town Hall Meeting at South Florida State College’s University Center Auditorium from 6 to 8:30 p.m. He’ll preview the county’s 2025-26 budget and take questions, with free pizza and beverages served at 5:30.
Highlands County commissioners have approved a new ordinance banning overnight camping on public property, aligning with a statewide outdoor sleeping ban passed by Florida lawmakers last year. The law aims to protect health, safety, and community quality of life. First-time violators will get a warning, but repeat offenses could mean a misdemeanor charge, a $500 fine, or even 30 days in jail. The county is also drafting rules to ban soliciting that blocks traffic. Businesses can sue the county if the ordinance isn’t enforced.
Construction is moving ahead on an expansion of the Highlands County Jail that will add 96 beds to help house the growing inmate population. The new women’s pod will add over 20,000 square feet to the facility, which hasn’t been expanded in more than 20 years. A section of Palmetto Avenue is closed during construction. The $17 million project, led by Ajax Building Company, is expected to wrap up by summer 2026. Plans also allow for a second phase to add even more beds down the road.
The Sun ‘N Lake Improvement District in Sebring is taking steps to secure its future growth. Recently, the Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the purchase of two key parcels of land — one on San Ignacio Drive for future utility needs and another on Pebble Beach Drive as a strategic swap asset. The two properties were acquired for a combined value of $23,000.
Highlands County Sheriff’s Detective Roger St. Laurent, known for his unwavering dedication and remarkable investigative skill, has been named Detective of the Year for 2024. St. Laurent has solved complex cases, including the murder of a fellow deputy and a missing infant, and once narrowly survived being struck by a car at high speed. Despite personal tragedy, including the loss of his wife this year, he remains committed to serving his community. Sheriff Paul Blackman praised St. Laurent’s work ethic and passion for justice.