published: Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Miller excited about AP's future

By CHRISTOPHER TUFFLEY

christopher.tuffley@newssun.com

AVON PARK - Paul Miller is running for re-election to the Avon Park City Council.

"Three years ago I just knew Avon Park needed a change. I ran before the people to make a better city for the residents," he said recently.

He is proud of the work the council and city have accomplished in the last three years. He gives City Manager Julian Deleon most of the credit.

"Julian is doing a great job," he said. "He's had to make hard decisions, cutting the deadwood and people who are not working hard for the city. Avon Park is in better shape than it's been in decades. He's running a more efficient city and made it a ton of money.

"We've lowered the city's debt from about $6 million to a little over $1 million. Water and sewer rates are down. Tax millage, too. We want to bring it down again next year, to where we can entice new businesses into the city. Other taxes (in the county) are going up; in Avon Park we're different."

One of the toughest decisions he had to make as a councilor, Miller said, was voting to transfer law enforcement to the Highlands County Sheriff's Office at the start of the new fiscal year on Oct. 1.

"I was originally opposed," he said, "but I now support the change. I think people will see an improvement in service, and we're saving money."

Miller is excited about the city's future.

"We're moving forward," he said. "We've started the new (automatic collection) garbage system at no charge to residents, and started the first recycling program in the county. All the new garbage and recycling containers were paid for in cash by the city."

He also points to the city's aggressive annexation policy, which he says will benefit the city, increasing revenue by selling more water and expanding sewer service. "Hopefully, we'll be debt free in a year or so."

Miller is motivated by a love for the city where he has lived for 32 years. He worked for 18 years at the bombing range. He is now retired, but more active than ever. He volunteers at Meals on Wheels and helps with the football and baseball programs at the high school. He runs the chains during home football games.

Miller also is an active member of Avon Park Lakes Baptist Church.

He believes in open government and is available to residents.

"People in Avon Park can call me at any time, and city hall will take any call."

He feels the best way to keep up with council policies and decisions is to attend the city council meetings, which take place on the second and fourth Monday of each month. "We'd like to see you," he said.

"We've had rough times (over the last three years)," he said, "but we've had a lot of good times too.

"I'm for the people. I want to make Avon Park a place people are proud of."