Editorials

Our area's being recognized nationally, and it's a good thing

TBO.com
Published: December 23, 2012

Who knows what will result from G. Scott Thomas' column "On Numbers," published in American Business Journals, concerning Sebring being the No. 1 retirement market in the Southeast. All we do know is what's obvious to everyone living here: Living's good and affordable in this neck of the woods.

American Business Journals are published in many cities throughout the United States. They provide local business coverage to their particular markets and are quality publications. There's no doubt that a lot of people who read these publications will take note of Sebring's high honor.

The columnist considered the population of senior citizens living here, the number of people who continue to move here for retirement and many other factors, such as the cost of living.

Highlands County as a whole has a great story to tell outsiders looking for a place to move, regardless of whether they are senior citizens or not. Great weather, uncongested streets and roads, and quiet towns compared to Florida's largest metro areas.

Sure, people complain about U.S. 27 at the height of the snowbird season and crowded restaurants, but all it takes is a drive about 90 miles north to see what real traffic is all about. Hit Orlando traffic at rush hour for a quick reminder.

We're also close to so many of the incredible places Florida has to offer, without the high cost of rentals and housing. It's no wonder so many people on fixed incomes find our area so appealing.

We love that Sebring was rated No. 1 for retirement areas. That said, we want it to be rated high for all age groups to live here. For that to happen we need jobs, and good-paying jobs that support families. We don't have nearly enough of those.

Highlands County has a new economic development director and everyone has high hopes we can begin to draw those kinds of companies that provide good jobs and wages. If we can grow in that area, our county becomes even more attractive.

First it was Lake Placid winning most interesting small town and now Sebring being tapped No. 1. Our cities and towns are being recognized, and no matter how you look at it, it's a good thing. It sure beats the alternative.