Sebring City Council Races Heat Up

SEBRING - Three candidates are challenging incumbents for Sebring City Council.

Dan Andrews, president of the Greater Sebring Chamber of Commerce, and Ken Melvin, consultant for recycling and demolition, and Robert Horne, a contractor, have turned in their paperwork for the March 11 election. Incumbents Margie Rhoades and Bud Whitlock are also running for their positions.

Qualifying for the election closed at 5 p.m. Friday.

Jeff Carlson, an incumbent who was expected to run, pulled his name from consideration shortly before Friday's deadline and announced that he intends to run for a seat with the Highlands County Commission.

Andrews, a lifelong resident of Sebring, said his previous experience owning a business and his work with the chamber will give him important insight.

"I think I can bring valuable experience and look at issues from the businessman's perspective," Andrews said. "Running a city is a lot like running a business, and I think I can provide insight there as well."

He also wants to help manage the growth he says is inevitable.

"I can work with the city on how to best grow," Andrews said. "The growth is coming and we need to plan for it and make sure we, as a city, enable growth to be where we want it to be."

Andrews said he has discussed his plans with the chamber's Board of Directors and the state attorney's office, and has determined holding public office in addition to his affiliation with the chamber is not a conflict of interest.

"There are several other people around the state who have my position or something similar and also hold a public office," Andrews said. "I think my involvement and employment with the chamber will be an enhancement to the City Council."

Melvin said he plans to run for office to "shake things up."

"I think people deserve a chance for change," Melvin said. "I think the council we have now is very comfortable and resistant to change. We could use some new blood."

City Council member Bud Whitlock, a lifelong resident, said he agrees new faces on City Council may be a positive change.

"I'm glad we have more than three people running for three positions because it keeps everyone on their toes," Whitlock said. "It shows that people are taking interest in the city and things that are happening. It may be time for some fresh ideas."

Whitlock, who serves as the liaison to the code enforcement board, said his most significant accomplishment is cleaning up the city.

"I am proud of the proactive approach the city has taken to code enforcement," said Whitlock, owner of Whitlock Land Surveying.

Jeff Carlson, Margie Rhoades and Robert Horne did not return phone calls seeking comment before press time.

The following candidates qualified for the election:
Mayor
George Hensley (incumbent)

City Council
Margie Rhoades (incumbent)
Bud Whitlock (incumbent)
Ken Melvin
Dan Andrews
Robert Horne

City Clerk
Kathy Haley (incumbent)