Highlands County Fire Department discusses Lake Placid fire station project timeline

In the heart of Lake Placid, the Town Council convened for a pivotal meeting on April 14, 2025, where the future of local fire services took center stage. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as Highlands County Fire Chief Kelly Dufenthaler and Deputy Chief Dustin Fitch stepped forward to present a comprehensive overview of the proposed new fire station, a project that has been years in the making.

Chief Dufenthaler opened the discussion with gratitude for the warm reception, emphasizing the importance of clear communication amidst a backdrop of confusion surrounding the fire station's development. "There has been misinformation," he noted, attributing it to the many voices involved over the years. The chiefs aimed to clarify the timeline and progress of the project, which has seen its fair share of challenges and changes.

Deputy Chief Fitch took the reins with a PowerPoint presentation, detailing the historical context of the fire station initiative. He outlined key milestones, starting from an interlocal agreement in 1999 to the formation of a fire consolidation committee in 2016, which was prompted by concerns over response times and service coverage. The committee's efforts culminated in a plan approved in 2018, aimed at enhancing fire rescue operations across Highlands County.

Fitch highlighted the evolution of the fire department's structure, noting the consolidation of volunteer fire districts under Highlands County Fire Rescue. This shift was designed to improve efficiency and response capabilities, but it also revealed the pressing need for updated facilities. Currently, the Lake Placid Fire Department operates from two separate buildings, which has posed logistical challenges.

As the presentation progressed, Fitch discussed the search for suitable land for the new fire station. The team explored various properties, including a site donated by Advent Health, but faced significant costs and logistical hurdles. The search continued, with the department considering multiple locations, each presenting its own set of challenges, from traffic patterns to construction costs.

The discussion underscored the urgency of the project, as Fitch explained the necessity of a modern facility that meets National Fire Protection Association standards. The proposed station aims to provide a clean and efficient environment for firefighters, addressing critical issues such as occupational health and safety.

As the meeting drew to a close, the council members were left with a clearer understanding of the complexities involved in establishing a new fire station. The commitment from the Highlands County Fire Department to enhance community safety and service was evident, setting the stage for future discussions on funding and site selection.

With the fire station project now firmly back on the agenda, Lake Placid residents can look forward to a revitalized fire service that promises to better meet the needs of the community. The journey ahead may be long, but the dedication of the fire department leadership signals a hopeful future for fire safety in the region.