The most significant topic of the meeting was the presentation by Andrew Bennett, the deputy director of the Sebring Airport Authority, regarding the transformative potential of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). Bennett informed the council about the integration of new aircraft types, combining helicopter and airplane capabilities, which have been authorized for flight by the FAA. This development marks the introduction of a new aircraft category for the first time in 80 years. The AAM technology is expected to revolutionize personal and goods transport, projecting a $115 billion annual market by 2035 and creating hundreds of thousands of jobs.

Bennett described the Power Lift aircraft being developed as efficient for urban environments, potentially serving as air taxis, akin to Uber services, thus enhancing connectivity between urban areas and regional airports. This could mean greater convenience for Sebring residents, providing direct flights from Sebring Regional Airport to larger hubs.

Further elaboration included the types of aircraft being developed, specifically eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) and eCTOL (electric conventional takeoff and landing), which have both civilian and military applications. The council was informed about the need for a robust charging network to support these new aircraft, with electric and hybrid technologies leading the charge towards sustainability. Bennett emphasized the strategic importance of preparing Sebring Regional Airport with necessary infrastructure, positioning it as a key player due to its proximity to major hubs like Tampa and Orlando.

The presentation also touched on recent state-level developments, with Florida supporting aviation technology advancements. Sebring Regional Airport’s revised layout plan, submitted to the FAA for review, includes designated areas for charging and takeoff/landing for these aircraft types.

The timeline for operationalizing these new aviation technologies was discussed, with estimates suggesting commercial operations might begin by late 2026 or early 2027. The council expressed interest in the strategic placement of new facilities and infrastructure improvements, which could potentially make Sebring a pioneer in this sector alongside states like California and New York.

In addition to the aviation discussion, the council addressed an emergency infrastructure issue concerning a failing water main that necessitated immediate replacement. A report detailed the frequent failures of a brittle water line and justified treating the replacement as an emergency repair. The estimated repair cost was $84,500, with the total project cost exceeding $98,000 after including materials and directional boring. The proposed new pipe, made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), is expected to last over a century, providing a long-term solution to the recurring problem.

The emergency repair discussion emphasized the overall condition of the city’s infrastructure, with assurances that while breaks occur, such persistent issues are atypical.

The council also entertained a proposed ordinance to amend the city charter regarding the city clerk’s position. The amendment would shift the city clerk from an elected officer to an appointed employee, with responsibilities defined by the council. This proposed change requires both council approval and a majority vote from the electorate in a referendum. The council approved the first reading of the ordinance and scheduled a second reading for December 3, 2024.