Columbia County Meth Lab Bust

Deputies say see an increase in smaller "back-pack" labs in Columbia County.  What they call a "shake and bake" method of making meth... small containers that are easily hidden, but just as dangerous if they explode.

Adam Dicks and David Ritch are behind bars after officers found a small methamphetamine lab inside this house on Monday.

Their next door neighbor is "Busy Bee Daycare" and parents say they're shocked over what's been going on right next to their kids.

Columbia County Resident Shelley Roberts said, "My 3 year old is here all day and no one knew that that was going on."

Deputies say the meth lab was not active, but enough materials were present to easily restart production.

The lab was discovered by detectives serving a search warrant Monday afternoon.  Day care employees wouldn't go on camera but say they're grateful the lab was busted because the baby room is closest to the lab.

Marion County School Board Makes Major Decisions

Two major decisions were made Tuesday night by the Marion County School Board.

They formally rejected a 4 day school calendar and the school board filed a temporary injunction against the City of Ocala to keep the water and lights on.

Although utility bills are current, City of Ocala leaders are demanding $724 thousand in utility deposits, threatening to turn off water, sewer, and electricity by the end of this month if the board doesn't pay the deposits.

The board filed the temporary injunction in circuit court to guarantee utility services.  No deposits have been paid in the past, and the board doesn't believe it's necessary now... based on its 98 year customer status with the city.