Local News

Deleon makes his pick to head public safety

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Marc Valero | Highlands Today
Published: December 10, 2012

AVON PARK - Avon Park Police Cmdr. Jason Lister has been recommended by City Manager Julian Deleon to the fill the city's public safety director position.

The position oversees community policing, code enforcement, fire operations and airport operations.

Deleon noted that the city advertised internally to fill the vacancy, and Lister has worked with the police department for more than 16 years.

The City Council is scheduled to vote on the recommendation and a contract with a base salary of $65,000 at its meeting at 6 p.m. today.

Deleon also noted on the council meeting agenda that the city is currently advertising to fill the vacant public works director position.

The position has been vacant since Deleon, who previously served in the position, became city manager in August 2011.

Also, council will consider annexation contracts for property along the Sebring Parkway Phase III project.

City staff has identified the opportunity to install water transmission facilities, starting at the Crystal Lake water treatment plant aligned along the proposed Sebring Parkway Phase III project, according to council's agenda.

This work would improve the utility system's redundancy and provide the needed utility infrastructure to develop this service area.

City council will review annexation agreements with four landowners: Crews Groves, Lake Ridge Groves, Ben Hill Griffin and Avon Gardens.

The city would need to acquire some easements from these property owners for either future expansion or the construction of the project, city staff notes.

The total estimated cost for the city is $276,650, which includes system construction, engineering, surveying and easement acquisition costs.

mvalero@highlandstoday.com (863) 386-5826