AP receives more than 50 applications

With the city manager application deadline approaching, Kathy Bennett, Avon Park's human resource specialist, received two more applications Monday morning.

By 11 a.m. there were 51 applicants for the position, including 28 out of state and five locals.

Who's applying? Highlands County residents who have applied include: a real estate legal assistant, business owner, teacher, sales person and a substance abuse counselor.

Since city officials expect more applicants to apply by deadline, with the possibility of others withdrawing, the final count won't be released until Tuesday morning.

The city manager position has been open since November when former manager Sarah Adelt resigned.

Maria Sutherland, project manager, was chosen as the city's interim city manager until the position is filled.

The position was advertised with a starting salary of $68,500 depending on qualifications.

The applicant's resumes and forms will be given to Range Riders, a non-profit organization that provides consulting services to local governments. They will compile a list of the most qualified applicants for city staff and council to review.

During November's city council meeting the council decided to use Range Riders to create a short list with the top 10 and 40 qualified applicants. But the top ranked list may be changed based on the number of applicants.

City council is expected to discuss the city manager position at a Jan. 11 special meeting.