The proposed addition to Veterans Memorial Park, which involved relocating the existing memorial and creating new structures with the existing granite and bricks, was estimated to cost approximately $177,000. The relocation plan led to a debate among council members, residents, and veterans. A council member shared initial sadness about the relocation but eventually expressed excitement about the new plan and the potential for expansion at Veterans Beach.

Public comments were a focus during the meeting. Pamela Y. Harris spoke on behalf of veteran families and citizens of Sebring about the monument’s emotional significance. She questioned the lack of documentation and public records related to the decision. Mary Mcgrael emphasized the downtown Sebring Circle’s importance for events and reflection and expressed doubts about Veterans Beach Park’s suitability as an alternative location. James Dean raised questions about the council’s discussion and authorization related to the decision, pointing to minutes of various meetings and highlighting potential legal implications. He urged the city to admit an ethical mistake and return the monument to its original location.

Other individuals also raised concerns about the decision-making process, particularly regarding the spending of funds and the legality of financial transactions without council approval. The importance of community input and the need for transparency and accountability in local government decisions were emphasized.

One council member, addressing the criticism received, stated, “I get berated a lot sitting in this seat. I was elected to make choices to make decisions not everyone is going to agree with all of them.” Another acknowledged the difficulty in representing veteran issues as a non-veteran and emphasized the need for better communication and transparency. Despite the debate, the council ultimately voted in favor of the proposed additions to Veterans Memorial Park.

Additionally, the meeting included discussions on the city’s comprehensive plan and invited citizens to provide input at an upcoming Community Workshop. Updates on community events and initiatives were shared by council members, including the grand opening of Uveretta Bolton’s new Flash Stars Achievement Academy and the progress of renovations at the golf course.

The Mayor highlighted recent successful events such as the Sipping on the Circle, Pro Water Cross event, and the Fireman Bike Fest, and mentioned upcoming events organized by the Highland County Citizens with Voices. He also solicited donations for supporting high school graduates. Chief Hogan spoke about National Police Week and the Peace Officers Memorial Day ceremony, thanking the council, staff, and citizens for their support. Additionally, the Mayor honored Kathy Haley for her 28 years of service during the 55th annual Professional Municipal Clerks Week.

The meeting progressed to public hearings regarding the vacation of portions of Paleta Avenue and an alleyway, which were approved on second and final readings. An 84-year-old resident shared nostalgia for past changes in Sebring and Highland County while another questioned the impact of vacating the alleyway on emergency services.

The council also held public hearings on an applicant-initiated request to change the land use and zoning designation for four properties totaling approximately 3.67 acres. Marissa Barnby from the Central Florida Regional Planning Council presented the changes, which included altering the land use designation from medium-density residential and conservation to public use and recreational use. The changes were approved on first reading with the second and final reading scheduled for a later date.