D R Willson Land Company

05/01/2026

Reason number 6,700 to not rent

04/27/2026

If the road is widened in any way, lawsuit will follow.

FDOT ROADWATCH REPORT
APRIL 26 - MAY 2, 2026
OKEECHOBEE COUNTY

Districtwide Movable Bridges (Okeechobee County): Construction Project: The Florida Department of Transportation is installing Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) at the US 41/US 98 (SR 700) Taylor Creek Bridge in Okeechobee County. Construction began on Sunday, June 22, 2026. This project includes the installation of pedestrian/bicycle detection systems, conduits and electrical components, and connection to bridge tender buildings.

• Testing will begin in early February 2026.

• Motorists are advised that there will be intermittent sidewalk and lane closures throughout the duration of construction.

• Motorists should expect lane closures during the nighttime/overnight hours from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.

• Motorists are advised to use caution in the construction zone.

Variable message signs will be in place to alert drivers that work is underway. Estimated completion of testing is in April 2026, weather permitting.

S.R. 70/700 (U.S. 98) from West of U.S. 98 to East of NW 5th Avenue: Construction project: Crews will begin milling and resurfacing operations on S.R. 70/700 (U.S. 98) from west of U.S. 98 to east of NW 5th Avenue starting in October 2025. Work will include milling, resurfacing, and roadway restoration along the project corridor.

• Shoulder closures and intermittent lane closures may occur during construction. Motorists should expect possible traffic shifts and delays. Access to local driveways and businesses will be maintained at all times.

• Motorists should use caution, reduce speed, and watch for workers and equipment in the construction zone.

The estimated completion is early 2026.

S.R. 15/U.S. 441 at SE 28th Street: Construction project: Crews are performing curb ramp replacements and installing sidewalk, curb, and gutter improvements at the intersection of S.R. 15/U.S. 441 and SE 28th Street.

• Daytime turning-lane closures will occur along U.S. 441 at SE 28th Street from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Motorists should be aware of changing traffic patterns, heavy equipment, and workers present in the construction zone. Use caution when traveling through the area and obey posted signage and flagging operations.

Estimated remaining duration of activities is six weeks.

S.R. 710 from North of SE 48th St to Martin County Line: Construction project: Crews will begin milling and resurfacing operations along the project limits.

• Work will take place throughout the corridor and may include lane closures and traffic shifts as construction progresses.

• Intermittent nighttime flagging operations will occur from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., Sunday through Friday.

• Daytime shoulder closures will occur from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
• Motorists should expect possible delays and changing traffic patterns. Drivers are urged to use caution, follow posted signage, and watch for workers and equipment in the construction zone.

• Estimated completion is summer 2026.

04/27/2026

Family reunion

Yesterday at the BOCC meeting, we proudly celebrated several outstanding employees for their years of dedicated service to Okeechobee County:

-5 Years of Service
Gary Cook II – Park Maintenance Technician I, Facilities Maintenance

-10 Years of Service
Jessica Palmer – Deputy Fire Marshal, Fire Rescue

Javier Navarro Jr. – Heavy Equipment Operator, Road Maintenance

We are grateful for their hard work, dedication, and the valuable contributions they make to our community every single day. Thank you for helping keep Okeechobee County running strong!

04/27/2026

She’s gotten around. Always a govt job, standing next to a felon.

Today in Okeechobee, the Board of County Commissioners proudly presented a proclamation to Ms. Elizabeth Pigman, External Affairs Director of the South Florida Water Management District. The proclamation officially designates May 17–23 as Florida Reuse Week in Okeechobee County.

This recognition highlights the importance of water conservation and the role of water reuse in protecting our environment and sustaining our community’s future. Florida Reuse Week serves as a reminder of how innovative water management practices help preserve our natural resources while supporting growth and resilience.

Congratulations to Ms. Pigman and thank you to the South Florida Water Management District for their continued leadership and commitment to responsible water stewardship.

04/26/2026

Looks like a deputy.
I trust him more than fat Fk.

On April 20, 2026, members of the Okeechobee Narcotics Task Force, in partnership with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), conducted a probable cause search warrant at a residence located at 11555 US Highway 441 SE, Lot 7, in Okeechobee, following an ongoing narcotics investigation.

This investigation began after concerned neighbors reported suspected drug activity in the area. Those tips led to further investigative efforts, which ultimately developed into this case and the subsequent arrest.

The investigation centered on Richard Alton Peacock (41), who was suspected of selling fentanyl from the residence. This activity had a direct impact on the surrounding community. Neighbors reported ongoing drug sales and use, frequent short-term traffic at the home, and the repeated discovery of used syringes in areas where children commonly play.

During the search, investigators located fentanyl, along with materials consistent with packaging and distribution, and numerous syringes both inside and outside the residence.

Ammunition was also recovered inside the home. Due to Peacock having eight prior felony convictions, Peacock's possession of ammunition is a violation of Florida law.

As a result, Richard Alton Peacock (41) was arrested and charged with possession of fentanyl with intent to sell, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.

Additional charges are pending as the investigation continues.
This case reflects the continued commitment of the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office and our federal partners to address the dangers associated with fentanyl and to respond to the concerns of our residents.

04/26/2026

Another one that NOW owes me a phone call.-DR

Today, the Okeechobee County Board of County Commissioners confirmed the appointment of Jessica Bezares as our new County Administrator.

Ms. Bezares brings a strong record of leadership, strategic project management, and organizational innovation to her new role. She has served Okeechobee County in a senior leadership capacity, most recently as Special Projects Manager, where she worked closely with Executive Leadership and the Board of County Commissioners to advance key County initiatives, legislative priorities, and cross-departmental operations.

During her tenure, Ms. Bezares has led high-impact efforts to strengthen organizational efficiency, accountability, and transparency. She has overseen a multi-million-dollar grant portfolio exceeding $40 million, implemented countywide policy and procurement improvements, and developed standardized performance and reporting systems that have enhanced service delivery across departments. In addition, she has served as the County’s Legislative Liaison, coordinating intergovernmental affairs and advocating for policies that support local priorities and home rule.

Ms. Bezares holds a Master’s degree from the University of Florida and brings a diverse professional background spanning both public and private sectors, including experience in fiscal management, operational systems development, and executive-level administration. Her well-rounded expertise provides a strong foundation for leading complex governmental operations and driving continuous improvement.

“We are excited to welcome Ms. Bezares as our new County Administrator,” said David Hazellief, Chair of the Okeechobee County Board of County Commissioners. “The Board placed a strong emphasis on selecting an internal candidate who understands our organization and shares our commitment to serving the community. Ms. Bezares has demonstrated dedication to Okeechobee County and brings a strong understanding of our operations and priorities. We are confident in her leadership and look forward to continuing to improve services and enhance the quality of life for our residents.”

As County Administrator, Ms. Bezares will oversee the daily operations of County government, provide strategic leadership across all departments, and continue advancing initiatives that support economic development, public safety, and effective governance. She will work closely with the Board, constitutional officers, staff, and community stakeholders to ensure responsive, transparent, and accountable service delivery.

Ms. Bezares shared, “I am honored to serve Okeechobee County in this capacity and grateful for the trust placed in me by the Board. I look forward to supporting the Board, staff, and community members to build on the progress we have made.”

Please join us in welcoming Ms. Bezares to this important leadership role as she begins the next chapter of service to Okeechobee County. We look forward to her continued dedication to our residents, our organization, and our community.

04/26/2026

F’n pos

Okeechobee County Board of County Commissioners
Public Notice of Committee Evaluation - Tuesday, 4/21/26 at 1PM

NOTICE OF EVALUATION – COMMITTEE MEETING OF PROPOSALS RECEIVED FOR RFP 2026-03 PROFESSIONAL AUDITING SERVICES

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Okeechobee County Board of County Commissioners, by and through an Advisory Committee Review, will evaluate proposals received for Professional Auditing Services.

This Evaluation Phase – Committee Meeting will take place on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, beginning at 1:00 p.m. at Okeechobee County Historical Courthouse, 304 NW 2nd Street, Room 201, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

Any person deciding to appeal any decision made by the Advisory Committee with respect to any matter considered at this meeting will need a record of the proceedings and will need to ensure that a verbatim record of such proceedings is made, which record shall include the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities needing special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the County Administrator's Office prior to the proceeding at 304 NW 2nd Street, Room 123, Okeechobee, Florida 34972, or call 863-763-6441. If you are hearing or voice impaired, call TDD 1-800-222-3448 (voice) or 1-888-447-5620 (TTY).

David Hazellief, Chairman
Board of County Commissioners
Okeechobee, Florida

Publish date: April 16, 2026
Okeechobee County Administration Building
Okeechobee County Public Works/Road Department
Okeechobee County Library
Okeechobee County Website
Okeechobee County page

10/17/2025

Specializing in litigation and expert witness services.

11/21/2024

It is now 11/21/24 and for $300k down, and after 5 years, Bass Pro has still not closed on what was known as Okee-Tantie.