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1126 Country Club Blvd. Cape Coral Florida 33990
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HEADLINES & NEWS THESE ARE THE FACTS, WITHOUT THE HYPE
SEPTEMBER 5TH WHAT CONTINUES TO DRIVE THE REAL ESTATE MARKET? There is a new trend developing all over the United States that could be the driving force behind our strong Real Estate market. Baby Boomers are no longer investing in vacation homes within driving distance. Instead, they are traveling by airplane. It takes the same two hour travel time and they arrive somewhere sunny and tropical. The factors driving the trend are simply time and money. Baby boomers are enjoying double-digit appreciation in places like Florida, Arizona, California and even Mexico. Many of these destinations also offer resort type living with all the amenities and virtually no maintenance. Many of these baby boomers are cash ready having withdrawn from the volatile stock market looking for a sturdier investment. They are buying real estate in Florida site unseen and making out every time. If you talk to anyone who has been here for the past 10 years, they think that the prices for land and housing have become ridiculous. However, baby boomers and young professionals coming from more progressive economies think that this area is a goldmine. As long as they have money, they will keep buying here and prices will continue to rise. The only thing holding them back is a potential Social Security and Medicare benefit cut scheduled to take place over the next ten years. Greenspan says that the country's retirement system has promised more than it can deliver to the baby boomers and they will probably receive less than former generations. 77 million baby boomers are scheduled to retire this decade putting a burden on the economy that must be prepared for.
AUGUST 16th CARRABBA'S IS COMING TO CAPE CORAL Plans were approved Monday for this famous Italian restaurant chain to start building on the corner of Skyline Blvd. and Pine Island Road. Contractors say that it could be ready to open in as little as 6 months. Developers must have done their homework because there is a Walmart going in right down the street and several other restaurants are going to build on Pine Island Rd. This $1.5 million dollar project looks to be a smart move for Carrabba's because of the traffic flow on this busy street and also because of the new development going on in North Cape Coral.
AUGUST 16th THE AFTERMATH OF HURRICANE CHARLEY The local papers are filled with stats and pictures headlining the devastation we are suffering in Southwest Florida. Some Cape Coral residents in the Northwest sections will be without power until Wednesday night. Cape Coral residents can be seen on every corner picking up debris in the sweltering summer heat. I think they are driven by the images being broadcast of Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda. It doesn't seem bad to rebuild your pool cage when you see a mother of three on TV who was rendered homeless by the storm. As of today, 14 people have been confirmed dead in Charlotte County and hundreds of people are unaccounted for. About 80% of the buildings in Charlotte County sustained damage. Closer to home, our barrier islands are in ruins and residents of Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel Island have not been allowed to return home. On the north end of Captiva Island, there is now a 400-yard pass that formed during the storm. It will be some time before life returns to normal here in Southwest Florida and I am sure that some of our favorite places will never be the same.
AUGUST 7th PINE ISLAND MORATORIUM REMAINS ON HOLD Lee County Commissioners are not allowing residential development to be halted on Pine Island. Traffic volumes have exceeded the "910 rule" which regulates high traffic roadways that may cause problems for hurricane evacuation. The rule states that no more than 910 vehicles may pass a certain point on a Roadway at peak times during the day. Currently, there are 920 cars hitting that point on Pine Island Road. Introducing a residential moratorium would have a terrible effect because developers have big plans for high-rises and subdivisions on Pine Island and Bokeelia. At the same time, Pine Island Road has become very congested and their is no feasible way to widen the two lanes. If the moratorium should pass in the future, land owners are hoping to find sanction through the "Bert J. Harris Jr. Private Property Rights Protection Act." This policy was established in 1995 to relieve property owners who are unable to get fair use out of their property because of government action. Their is some question whether land owners will be covered by Bert Harris since it was only implemented in 1995. This may cause some legal battles should the moratorium pass.
AUGUST 2nd NO TAX ON UTILITIES FOR NOW A proposed 7% public service tax on electric was turned down this week. This calls for a revision of the city budget that would have allowed for a $39 increase in taxes on a home with a $100,000 tax value. This extra money is needed for city government operations. Lately, the council is trying everything from raising property taxes to imposing parking fees at city parks and boat ramps. Because our population is soaring, more money is needed for education, roadways, and city employees. Majority vote has kept tax payers happy so far but it is only a matter of time before the bubble bursts. The problem is that property values are going up quickly, but many people are still earning the same dollar amount. It takes $15.21 hourly wage per household to afford a two-bedroom apartment and the average service worker only makes $8.70. Many people in our area will soon be struggling to stay afloat instead of striving for home ownership and trying to pay taxes.
JULY 27th MORE DEVELOPMENT IN CAPE CORAL. IS YOUR PROPERTY AFFECTED? The population survey is in and developers have big plans for Cape Coral. Here are a few projects that have been announced recently:
*BJ's Wholesale Club just east of Pine Island Rd and Del Prado (Unit 47). *Shortcut to the Veterans Memorial Bridge between Everest Pkwy and Veterans Memorial Pkwy (Unit 19). *Scuba Dragons (A scuba diving equipment distributor) building a storage warehouse off of Del Prado between Cape Coral Pkwy and Beach Pkwy (Unit 7). (*SEE NEWS ON JULY 10TH FOR MORE DEVELOPMENT PLANS)
There are several proposed parks such as a skate park near Pine Island Rd and Cultural Park Blvd as well as a Community Park in the Southwest Cape. Plans to connect Rubicon Canal and Bimini Basin are currently delayed due to high cost estimates. This would have dramatically increased the land values in Units 9, 10, 14, & 15. Proposals for parking fees at public boat ramps have also yet to pass with city council.
JULY 17th HEAVIER BURDEN ON TAX PAYERS According to a report published by the City's financial services director, the break even point for paying a "fair tax amount" in our city is a home with an assessed value of $179,826 before the state's Homestead Exemption. In order to afford a house like this you need to make about $60,000 a year and the median family in Cape Coral makes $47,500. This is causing a big problem because developers are catering to affordable housing under $150,000 for the common working family. This allows people to live within their means but studies show that they are not paying their fair share of taxes. Some Cape Coral residents are arguing that the taxes are already too high and that their is not enough burden being placed on commercial property. Officials defend that commercial property owners are pulling their weight while providing jobs and services to the community. The argument continues that building houses below average value causes everyone else to pay. However, growth must pay for itself somehow (Especially if we all stand to benefit!).
JULY 1Oth BIG PLANS ARE UNDERWAY IN NORTH CAPE With the dramatic population growth in Cape Coral, new developments are planned to handle the demand for housing. The north Cape is a prime target for these communities because of the abundance of affordable, vacant land. Right now, construction is underway in the following areas: Del Prado Blvd extension at Kismet Pkwy (Units 32 & 33)
Veterans Pkwy Extension to Pine Island Road (Units 92, 93, 94)
Old Burntstore Road and Tropicana Pkwy (Units 59 & 60)
*Other community projects include the addition of Mariner Middle School next to Mariner High School, North Chiquita Blvd. Also the "Mid-Cape Racquet & Health Club" in its final stage of completion near Pine Island Road and Ceitus Terrace. Country Club Blvd is being repaved with Nicholas Parkway to follow, encouraging many residents to boost curb appeal. ALL OF THESE PROJECTS ARE EFFECTING PRICE AND DEMAND IN SURROUNDING AREAS! JUNE 25th POPULATION GROWS AND CHANGE IS INEVITABLE The population of Cape Coral has grown 5.8% to 131,264 people. Out of these residents, 90,000 cross the bridge to Fort Myers everyday. Cape officials also estimate that, "60% of the city's work force travels outside of Cape Coral to earn a living." In a city that is ranked the 5th fastest growing in the nation, you would think that there would be more jobs to support the community. This is just one of the many obstacles facing Cape Coral planning and development. City engineers have plans ready to widen busy roads like Santa Barbara, Del Prado, and Chiquita Boulevard. Additionally, there are 22 new parks included in city master plans and 17 new public schools. This "population rush" has made commercial real estate a "hot commodity." Business owners are flocking to our city for a chance to capitalize on the increase in demand. Personally, I would like to see more national and global companies take root in Southwest Florida soil. Now that the Southwest Florida airport is expanding to accommodate international flights, big companies should start taking a second look at Lee County. This would give Florida Gulf Coast University graduates the opportunity to find great jobs locally. Young professionals will stay here to enrich our community rather than move to a big city in search of that "dream Job." If the corporate world passes us by, there will always be a bright future in real estate waiting for our local grads. The U.S. housing market ranks Cape Coral number one with 34.1 building permits issued per 1,000 residents. Right now the city is averaging 422 single-family permits issued a month. Weather you are looking for a place to invest, work, or find a home for your new business, you can't go wrong right now in Cape Coral!
MAY 16th DEVELOPERS FOCUS ON DOWNTOWN CAPE Major developers are ready to begin projects to revitalize our downtown. One developer is building a 5 story office building, another is planning on building an old European Village and another a 23,000 square foot building with retail, restaurants and offices. The biggest problem is the lack of parking. The developers are working with the City to resolve the problem. Hold on Baby, we're growing up in a hurry!
BOAT MAKER RETURNS TO CAPE Shamrock Boats was moved to North Carolina, but the business struggled there. The owner decided to move back to the Cape. They will be located in the Mid Cape Industrial Complex. The company will hire 20 technicians.
MAY 14th SANIBEL MARINA DOCKOMINIUMS Another marina is selling docks. A Sanibel Marina is offering docks starting at $97,000. That's just for a dock, what value would you put on a Gulf Access lot in the Cape?
MAY 13th UTILITY EXPANSION City Council is getting ready to vote on the next area of expansion. The Southwest of the City will be affected from Pine Island Road South. Growth is forcing the move.
EXISTING HOMES SALES SIZZLE Sales figures show that the entire State of Florida is setting records. Southwest Florida, including Cape Coral, lead the way with a 32% gain in sales.
LEE COUNTY CRIME RATE DOWN Violent crimes decreased 13% in Lee County last year. Cape Coral's low crime rate helped the County lower their crime rate.
MAY 11th FOUR FREEDOMS PARK One of our oldest parks is being renovated. The park will be changed with new landscaping and the removal of a hill. Trees will line the park.
MAY 10th CAPE CONSIDERS PUBLIC SAFETY COMPLEX The old Public Safety Building is deteriorating and City Council has decided to build a new facility. Sites are being reviewed for the new building. The City has started the search for architects.
LEE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT SAYS NO The School District has been negotiating with Cape Coral over the building of a High School in the proposed Academic Village. Today, the School Board announced that they would NOT build the school. The School Board has not been supportive of Cape projects.
MAY 8th CONCRETE SHORTAGE Lee County's growth is causing a shortage in cement. Florida ports cannot keep up with the shipments coming in. Many major projects are being affected and delays will increase the costs.
NEW PUBLIX SITE APPROVED City Council approved a site at Pine Island Road and Burnt Store Road. The project will include retail stores and other services.
145 HOMES SOLD CORAL LAKES, a new community of homes in the NE, sold 145 homes in two days. Homes range from $180,000- $300,000. Coral Lakes is a 370 acre project that recently opened.
MAY 6th HOME SALES GO THROUGH ROOF Cape Coral home sales jumped 27% in March and and April surpassed that number. New home sales in March were 304, April 368. Interest rates may cool the market.
TUSCANY COURT OPENS SALES OFFICE Luxury condominiums featuring design that resembles the quaint villages of Tuscany opened today. The project in Southwest Cape will have a total of 60 units ranging in price from $192,500-$215,000.
NEW BUSINESSES PICK CAPE Cape Coral business licenses have increased 20% in 2004. With our growth, services will be needed and entrepreneurs are filling the needs of the Cape's residents.
APRIL 26th BRUSH FIRES Brush fires are a threat throughout SW Florida. Our Spring has been very dry. This weekend Cape Coral had a brush fire. Seniors had to be evacuated. The fire was put under control quickly by our Fire Department and there weren't any injuries or loss of property. Thank Cape Coral for having a lawn mowing program, without it the fire would have been much worse.
APRIL 25th FEDS GREEN LIGHT DOCKS GREAT NEWS! The US FISH and WILDLIFE AGENCY started issuing dock permits today. All property owners who were turned down are being asked to reapply. 1000 docks have been approved.
APRIL 24th AIRPORT HITS ALL TIME TRAFFIC RECORD 862,000 passengers in March, it's an all-time record!
April 22nd BUILDER SETS ONE DAY SALES RECORD First Home Builders sold 169 homes in one day in March. Rising interest rates are driving buyers to First Home. The sales numbers were helped by a group of investors who bought for rental investment.
APRIL 18th CITY COSTS RISE Over the past four years the cost of running Cape Coral has jumped from $54 million to $80 million this year. Many citizens are calling for cost cutting measures. Cape Coral has the highest property taxes of any city or county south of Sarasota. Per capita expense has risen from $530 to $635 per person.
APRIL 16th PERMIT OFFICE ASKS FOR MORE HELP Cape Coral's earth shattering number of permits, has the permit department buried and asking for help. The office issued 14,681 permits in March.
APRIL 15th DEL PRADO TRAFFIC PLAN The corner of Del Prado and Cape Coral Parkway has become very dangerous. The County and City are working on a plan to shut down the 47th Terrace ability to cross Del Prado and install a traffic signal one block North. Every morning traffic backs up at this corner which causes the blocking of Del Prado.
APRIL 12th RESTAURANTS CLOSE, OTHERS OPEN Local restaurant owners are really having trouble competing with all of the national chains moving into Cape Coral. Over the past few months, many have failed. There are reports of new restaurant operators stepping in to enter the market. Only the best operators can survive, the chains are tough competitors. Closings: Barclay's, Powell's, Tommy Sinatra Bistro. Openings: Stevie Tomatoe's Sports Bar, a not yet named Italian Restaurant and Nightclub on Cape Coral Parkway and a new Steak House on Del Prado. Moving: Perico's Restaurant to larger quarters in Tiffany Square. Good luck to all!
APRIL 10th CITY PUSHES FOR PINE ISLAND RD WIDENING If the City is to develop a commercial corridor, the widening of Pine Island Road is a must. In the Fall of 2004, 2 more lanes will be added from Santa Barbara to Chiquitta, but the road needs to be extended to Burnt Store Rd before major commercial development can start. The City is proposing that property owners pay for the widening. The State is claiming that there aren't any funds for the project. There is another problem, if PI Road is widened, the dangerous, 2 lane Burnt Store Road would have increased traffic.
APRIL 9th LEE COUNTY THE HOTTEST MARKET Lee County is the hottest home building market in the US. U.S. Housing Markets reported this week. Housing permits were up 37% in 2003. Cape Coral burns hottest in Lee County with 3819 permits in 2003. Move over Las Vegas.
CAPE CORAL WATERFRONT BECOMES HOT SPOT? That's what the headlines read. Gulf Access and Freshwater sites are selling like hot cakes. Prices are increasing from the high demand. If you were a reader of this newsletter, you would have known about the move back in January. Are we good or what?
COUNCILMAN ROSADO Yep, he's in the news again. It seems that he lied on his census application also. Maybe he thinks he does have a degree, I think it's a Bachelors in Lying! I heard his explanation on TV, he's an embarrassment and has got to go.
APRIL 8th LEE COUNTY #32 The Census Bureau is reporting that Lee County is now #32 in population growth in the U.S. Projections show that 2004 is ahead of 2003, so we'll probably move up more positions in the next report. One official stated "if we were in a race, we'd be way ahead".
APRIL 6th LOT SETS CITY SALES RECORD Tarpon Point Marina has just recorded the sale of a lot in the amount of $1.4 million. A local builder bought the property for his own home. Last week, Cape Harbor announced that a Cape builder was building a $4.5 million home on speculation. Are we strong or what?
LEE JOBLESS RATE CONTINUES SLIDE The MARCH jobless rate has dropped 5000 compared to a year ago. That works out to 7% increase in jobs. Our jobless rate is 3.3%, so if you're not working here, it's because you don't want to.
APRIL 5th SW FLORIDA HOME PRICES SOARING Lee County has placed #2 in the State of Florida in increases of home prices. Median prices have increased 31% to $170,700 in the past year. Comment: These increases could hurt the housing market. If they continue, entry level buyers will not qualify for a mortgage.
APRIL 3rd 11 NEW FIRE STATIONS PLANNED In order to keep up with our growth, the City is buying 6 new sites for fire stations. They already own the property for the other 5. The construction will be spread over the next several years.
LOCAL BUSINESSES OFFER THE CITY SUPPORT Many local businesses have pledged their help and support of the ACADEMIC VILLAGE in NW CAPE CORAL. Landscaping, signs and a miniature model of the planned development are being planned.
LEE COUNTY HITS MILESTONE 500,000 residents, a new record. Cape Coral was a huge part of the growth. County officials were very happy with the numbers, but warned that price increases for Real Estate and congestion may dampen future growth.
APRIL 1st RECORD SETTING TOURISM LEE County reported that the February 2004 tourist count is up 8.9%. 280,000 tourists visited the County, a new record.
MARCH 22nd CELEBRATE CAPE CORAL FESTIVITIES Sounds of Jazz festival at Jaycee Park, model plane show and street parties marked our annual Celebrate Cape Coral Week. All were a success and make us proud to be part of this city.
MARCH 19th CANDIDATE BACKGROUND CHECKS City Council is discussing background checks for future candidates. Duh, what a great idea, why weren't they checked before. Your just asking for "Rosado" type lies if you just take a politician by his word. C'mon!
MARCH 18th HAMPTON INN COMES TO THE CAPE A 70 room Hampton Inn is coming to the corner of SW 47th Terrace and Coronado Parkway. The downtown location should be open by October 2005. The project will cost $5.7 million to build.
SANDOVAL PROJECT APPROVED Approvals for developing a 524 acre site just above Veterans Parkway and west of Surfside. It will be developed by the highly successful Bonita Bay Group. The plan features single family, multifamily and commercial along Pine Island Road. It will cost $100 million to build, adding $7.5 million in taxes per year and one time impact fees of $10.9 million.
MARCH 16th ANOTHER RECORD February housing permits set another record. 383 permits compared to 263 permits in February of 2003. Major builders are the main reason for the increases. They are building their inventories of Spec homes.
MARCH 14th RESEARCHERS LOOK AT TRAFFIC Traffic congestion is costing Lee County residents $40 million in wasted fuel and lost time. It's so bad that we are earning a spot on the nations worst list. US 41 and I-75 are the main areas of concern, but Cape Coral Parkway and Del Prado Blvd can't be far behind. Our traffic is getting worse every year and it really shows during the "Season".
MARCH 12th NO CONTEST City Councilman Mickey Rosado pleaded "no contest" to a misdemeanor charge of making a false academic claim during his run for the office. Rosado claimed to have a Business Degree when he did not. Governor Bush has still not made a decision to remove Rosado. Many residents and prior supporters are calling for Rosado to retire.
CITY MANAGER CALLS FOR INCREASED ROAD IMPACT FEES City Manager Stewart believes that impact fees are not keeping up with our growth. Cape Coral has projects totaling a estimated $82 million, but current impact fees will be $29 million short. City Council is waiting for a completed report before they discuss increasing fees.
MARCH 11th FUTURES CAPE MEETS A meeting of developers speaking to interested citizens took place this week. Cape Coral is being described as "the growth engine of Southwest Florida". The developers laid out their plans for large projects. City Officials spoke to the low commercial vacancy rate and new chain retailers looking into the City.
MARCH 10TH CITY STARTS BUYING LAND FOR FESTIVAL SITE The City of Cape Coral is buying lots at the corner of Kismet and Chiquitta for the planned FESTIVAL PARK. The Mayor is upset that the news was leaked out where the park was to be built and investors purchased the land before the city. Now they are forced to pay as much as 17% above assessed value.
TRAFFIC LOGJAM NEAR BRIDGE DISCUSSED The City is scrambling to find relief of traffic congestion at Del Prado and Cape Coral Parkway leading to the Cape Coral Bridge. Every morning traffic backs up for over a mile and it takes 30 minutes just to get off on the Cape.
MARCH 8th MANATEE NEWS Go to ALERTS SECTION and SCROLL DOWN TO MANATEE ALERTS
MARCH 7th CITY ASKS STATE FOR ENTRY PARK LAND Cape Coral has asked the Governor to give land for an entry park next to at the base of the Cape Coral Bridge. The land is next to the Chamber of Commerce building. There is a good chance for the approval. The City wants to make our entranceway more inviting. The present site does not mirror our image, it's a run down mess. A local developer has donated $50,000 to the construction of a new Chamber building and is challenging other businesses to contribute.
MARCH 6th JOBLESS RATE FALLS AGAIN Lee County's jobless rate fell to 3.3% last month. The County added 5300 new jobs in 2003 and our growth continues to attract younger workers and new businesses.
BURNT STORE ROAD FLOODING RELIEF New culverts and the cleaning of miles of drainage ditches has just been completed. The work was ordered after flooding closed the road down last Summer. Officials believe the work will correct the problems.
MARCH 5th CAPE HIT WITH ETHICS SUIT Cape Coral's City Council members were hit with a ethics lawsuit this week. A group of residents believe that rulings are being discussed and agreed upon behind closed doors. This violates the State's Sunshine Law.
MARCH 1st, 2004 COMMERCIAL BOOM FORECASTED Low vacancy rates in Cape Coral will lead to a BOOM in commercial and industrial development. A recent report from the City, shows that our growth is attracting commercial businesses and industrial companies.
FEBRUARY 29th FRESHWATER PROPERTIES HOT ITEM The high prices of GULF ACCESS lots are driving Freshwater sales. A newspaper report this weekend stated that the demand is very heavy. Hm, where have I heard that before?
BONITA BAY GROUP GETS APPROVAL Last week the BONITA BAY GROUP was given the go ahead to develop a large residential property they purchased back in 1999. They have plans to build 1569 homes. A real plus for the Pine Island Road area.
FEBRUARY 28th CAPE BUCKS HOME SALES TREND U.S. sales of home dropped in January by 5%, but Cape Coral bucked the trend and continues to beat out national sales.
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE REPORTS RECORD The CHAMBER VISITOR CENTER is reporting a record of 5250 visits in January. Last year, January visits totaled 4340.
FEBRUARY 27th CRIME RATE PLUMMETS Cape Coral's crime rate dropped 8.5% last year. Our new Police Chief, Dan Alexander, has started many new and innovative programs to achieve this performance. Cape Coral is one of the safest cities in Florida.
FEBRUARY 25th LEE AND COLLIER COUNTIES MEET ON I-75 CONCERNS Both Counties agree that the widening of I-75 to 10 lanes would alleviate the problems caused by the 70,000 cars using the road daily. They are supporting making the road a TOLL ROAD to help pay for the construction.
PINE ISLAND ROAD RAISES SAFETY FEARS Intersections without signal lights are raising fears as traffic continues to build along the road. The 2 lane section of the road is causing alarm with the increase of accidents being reported. Many believe that signals should be installed immediately and the proposed widening of the road be moved up on the States priority schedule.
FEBRUARY 23rd AIRPORT BREAKS ANOTHER RECORD January marked the 14th month of record passenger counts at the airport. 591,000 passengers , up 9.5% over January of 2003.
CITY GOVERNMENT Controversy continues to swirl over Councilman Rosado's lies on his application for elected office. The State is investigating, while he refuses to step down.
Higher road impacts fees are being considered to help pay for road projects needed for continued growth. If approved fees would add another $300 per home. Fees are presently $1499.
Fire impact fees are going up $63.00. This will add to the impact fees and is being challenged by the building industry.
Academic Village plans were unveiled this week. The initial site plan brought praise from City Planners.
FEDERAL JUDGE DISMISSES UTILITY SUIT A lawsuit filed to stop the City utility project has been dismissed. City residents are unhappy with the $16,000 assessment. They would rather poison themselves by continuing using septic and well systems.
FEBRUARY 21st MORE AGENTS, FEWER CLIENTS The State of Florida has reported record numbers of new real estate licensees. Many of the licensees are part time. The flood of new agents has brought questions of professional behavior. Many are untrained and the State is concerned that the consumer may not be treated correctly. There are not enough State investigators to insure that laws and rules are followed.
FEBRUARY 20th YACHT CLUB TRANSFORMED The City's oldest neighborhood has become the target of investors and developers. Older homes are being torn down because the land under them is worth more than the house. In the near future, newer homes will be built where the tear downs once stood.
NEW HOME PERMITS CONTINUE RECORD PACE Cape Coral is at a pace that will break all previous records. The City issued 438 permits in the month of January.
FEBRUARY 19th CAPE CORAL LANDS ON TOP 25TH LIST INC. Magazine listed Cape Coral #12 on it's "Top Cities for Doing Business". Besides employment growth, the regions diversity makes it economically viable to potential businesses and residents.
FEBRUARY 18th CITRUS CANKER CONTROVERSY Everyone is calling for tree cutting to stop. A newspaper investigation showed crews not disinfecting before going on to new sites. Residents believe that these crews are spreading the Citrus Canker.
FEBRUARY 17th DOCK MORATORIUM Plenty of news on this issue. Go to the ALERTS SECTION and SCROLL down to MANATEE ALERTS.
FEBRUARY 9th 2 BILLION That's right, BILLION. The final numbers are in from the LEE COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU. Visitors spent $2 billion last year and 2004 looks as though it will surpass that number.
HOME RENTALS DRIVE HOUSING MARKET One of our area's largest builders is reporting that they recently sold 85 homes at a price of $12,000,000 to investors groups that are planning to rent them out.
FEBRUARY 7th CITY COUNCIL TURMOIL CONTINUES A letter has been sent to Gov. Bush asking that he remove City Councilman Rosado. Meanwhile the Council keeps bickering with each other. It got so bad that just before a meeting, two Council members walked out, forcing the meeting to be canceled.
FEBRUARY 6th NEW HIGH TECH SOFTWARE COMPANY CallMiner Corporation just opened an office on Del Prado Blvd. The company's move was made because the officers believed that the Cape offers great opportunities for growth. High tech companies bring employment opportunities without any negative influence of manufacturing.
SANTA BARBARA BLVD Ever since Veteran's Parkway was completed, Santa Barbara has been booming. From the Parkway North, commercial developers and national chains are building. This week Reuby Tuesday's Restaurant had it's Grand Opening. Widening of Santa Barbara to six lanes will encourage more development.
WATER RELATED BUSINESSES OPENING A shuttle service from Tarpon Point to Ft Myers Beach started this week and a boat dealership opened at Gulf Harbor. The openings are just a start of new businesses looking fulfill services for waterfront property owners and boaters.
FEBRUARY 5th BUILDERS AND DEVELOPERS PREDICT Cape Coral's building boom should continue according to a group of Builders and Developers. Many are predicting 2004 to be better than the record breaking 2003.
FEBRUARY 4th STATE SEEKS MANATEE RULING CHANGE The lower courts are once again being asked to allow the Florida Fish and Wildlife Agency to enforce MANATEE speed zones. This on again, off again battle is confusing everyone and is effecting Gulf Access property values and sales.
FEBRUARY 2nd MANATEE RULING A County Circuit Court has denied an appeal by Florida's Fish and Wildlife Agency. The Decision makes 4 speed zones unenforceable. Boaters Rights Groups are hailing the decision and calling for all boaters to watch their speeds in Manatee areas. They feel that this will help support the Courts decision. This is very good news for GULF ACCESS property owners.
FEBRUARY 1st LEE COUNTY HOUSING TO AVOID PINCH At a Orlando meeting of real estate agencies in Orlando, an expert predicts that Lee County will continue to grow no matter what the National market does. He sited aging baby boomers, the exodus from the North and affordability as the main reasons for continued growth.
DEVELOPERS START PINE ISLAND ROAD PROJECTS The first of many projects planned for the road are ready to start construction. A restaurant an office building will fit the plan by the City to make Pine Island Road a central business district.
JANUARY 30th CAPE CORAL EXPANDS WEB SITES The City has upgraded it's web site to help residents with information. The sites also help out-of-state surfers to get basic info. The sites are: www.capegov.org and www.capecoralutiliyexpansion.org.
MOTION TO REMOVE MAYOR PULLED Cape Coral's City Council has pulled the request from the agenda. They are trying to work out their differences privately. The Cape Ministerial Association is embarking on a project that "will bring civility back to meetings". Can you say, they don't have a prayer!
NOT IN MY BACK YARD Residents are challenging the City's plan to annex 192 acres of land. Once again our city will be held up by these malcontents who constantly stand in the way of growth. Of course they use the "protected species" ploy to gain support. If they look at prior projects, they'll see that their complaints are groundless.
EXISTING HOME SALES REMAIN HOT Sales of existing home sales shot up in the last two months of 2003. Over 600 homes were sold in those months. A record!
JANUARY 28th GROWTH FORCES THE CAPE TO BUY WATER Our growth is putting a drain on our potable water supply. The County has agreed to sell potable water for 20 years. If the City maintained the freshwater canals leading from the Gator Slough, I do not think we'd have a problem.
CAPE CORAL FINALLY HAS A GATEWAY Thanks to ENTRADA, a residential development on the Del Prado Extension, a beautiful gateway has been built for the Cape. Now maybe the City will work on cleaning up the mess at the Cape Coral Bridge. It's embarrassing!
JANUARY 26th UNEMPLOYMENT DROPS AGAIN Lee County's jobless rate dropped to 3.4% last month. It's the lowest in 2 years and is proof of how strong our areas economy is. The national average stands at 5.9%.
AIRPORT SETS ANOTHER RECORD The airport is reporting that 2003 set a passenger record. 5,891,668 passengers served. No wonder I can't get into a good restaurant these days.
JANUARY 25th BOATERS COMPLAIN ABOUT MANATEE SPEED ZONE SIGNS With more than 130 signs in a 20 mile stretch, boaters are confused on what and which to honor. The County, State and US government have different rules and signs. No one knows which to obey or is enforceable.
DOWNTOWN ALLEYWAYS TO BE WIDENED Downtown leaders are working with our CRA to widen the downtown alleys to 20 feet. They are presently 15 feet. With plans going forward to develop and upgrade the downtown area, wide alleys will be needed for businesses to get supplies.
PROPERTY VALUES SOAR IN 2003 Property values increased 30.2% in 2003. Judging by the sales of January 2004, values may climb even higher in 2004. Many REALTORS are concerned that the market may be getting too far ahead of itself. I agree.
JANUARY 22nd CITY COUNCIL NEWS Yes, they argue, fight and embarrass, but they also do some work, not much, but some! ROAD PROJECTS CAPE CORAL will come up $29 million short on road projects. Now they are reviewing which projects should be delayed. Wish lists are being reviewed. With record revenues from impact fees, they still can't get it right.
JANUARY 19th TWO MAJOR RESTAURANT CHAINS READY TO OPEN Cape Coral's growth is reflected in the openings of two major chains this week. Bob Evan's and Reuby Tuesday's will open soon. The City is expecting a flurry of applications from other major food chains. Maybe now we can eliminate going to Ft. Myers for entertainment.
DECEMBER 2003 PERMITS SET RECORD Cape Coral issued 14 building permits per day in December. This made Cape Coral #9 in the United States and just behind UN-incorporated Lee County.
JANUARY 18th MINORITY GROUPS TO MEET A City Councilman is calling for a meeting of minorities for interactive approaches to city Government. Comment: I've seen this kind of meeting split a city apart. There isn't a problem in Cape Coral and minorities know it. This is a case of an ignorant politician trying to strengthen his political desires. This Councilman is the same person who lied on his resume before his election.
SANIBEL ELITISTS STALL FUNDING Two lawsuits filed by the City of Sanibel have stalled funding for the new bridge. The result will be that County residents may have to pay hundreds more to use the bridge. This reminds us of when Fort Myers fought the building of the Mid-point Bridge for 23 years. It's no secret that Sanibel residents do NOT want anyone on their little island, ignoring the fact that the Beaches are a part of Lee County and are there for all to enjoy.
JANUARY 15th NOVA UNIVERSITY LOOKS AT CAPE AGAIN Nova University was back in Cape Coral again. They are looking for a satellite school and the city is of interest. This is the colleges second visit in three years. Many believe the proposed Academic Village is responsible for their interest.
CITY ANNEXATIONS Cape Coral City Council is contemplating annexing a total of 960 acres. The need for commercial and industrial property has been the major consideration. In order for the city to grow, we need to develop these areas.
JANUARY 14th CRA FUNDING STILL NOT AVAILABLE FOR CLUB SQUARE The Community Redevelopment Agency is waiting for 2 million dollars in promised funding for the beautification of Club Square. The Club Square parking area is known as one of the ugliest parts of downtown. The City is not responding to the CRA requests.
JANUARY 12th CITY CONTEMPLATING PARKING PROBLEMS The City is considering building a parking garage in the downtown area. The present lots are always packed and if there is to be anymore growth, additional parking must be added. Because of land constrictions, only a parking garage could alleviate crowded conditions.
2 MILLIONTH TOURIST AT AIRPORT For the first time ever, 2 million people have arrived at our International Airport in one year. A Ohio family pushed the count over 2 million and were surprised when they were stopped at the airport to join in the celebration.
JANUARY 10th YACHT CLUB MASTER PLAN PROCEEDS City Council has voted to purchase six more homes in the Yacht Club area. A Master Plan for the area is being created. Many believe that there may be a hotel and additional services added to the area. The City is taking home owners to court.
January 9th CITRUS TREES CONTINUE TO BE DOWNED Over 6800 citrus trees have been cut down and now the quarantined area is expected to expand again. A Court has ordered more trees be cut. No one knows when this will stop.
CAPE BUILDERS GET A BREAK City Inspectors will start using laptop computers to speed up inspections. The inspectors will report right from the building site. Builders are praising this development. They no longer will have to wait for time consuming paperwork.
SCHOOL IMPACT FEES A plan has been developed for school impact fees. It seems that the County was collecting the fees and using the money for other projects. Builders sued and the County has decided to change it's ways.
190 ACRE TRACT ANNEXED BY THE CAPE A 190 acre track of land located on Pine Island Road has been annexed by Cape Coral. The owner requested that it be done, but a group of residents from the area complained. The tract is scheduled to be developed soon.
JANUARY 8th LEE CONSTRUCTION PASSES $2 BILLION Construction continued to go unabated. More than $2 BILLION was permitted in 2003. That is a 33% increase over the record set by 2002.
JANUARY 7th MAYOR WARNED BY PROPERTY OWNERS Once again our Mayor has raised the ire of property owners. Property owners that have vacant land next to the 19 dedicated parking lots warned of a lawsuit. The Mayor is trying to either use the lots for other projects or make them private. This is a perfect example of the ignorance of our City Council. You cannot simply change someone's property rights.
JANUARY 4th, 2004 BOATING SPEED LIMITS REINSTATED Just in case you didn't read the home page, a Judge has agreed with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Agency, the speed limits will be in effect until a higher court rules.
JANUARY 2nd, 2004 CAPE'S POPULATION TO TOP 200,000 IN 13 YEARS Experts predict that 25 residents are moving into the Cape daily. I believe that number is low, but only the next census can accurately get a handle on the numbers. City government has plenty to do to keep up with the growth. I still do not think they are up to it. 2004 will tell if they can.
December 29th, 2003 LEE COUNTY IN TOP 10 TRAVEL HOT SPOTS Lee County, Ft. Myers ranked #8 in the most visited hot spots in the USA. In December, our tiny County reached a total of 2 million visitors.
December 28th, 2003 MANATEE DEATHS BLAMED ON RED TIDE The State has reported that a naturally occurring algae is killing Manatees. No, not boats! This year alone 71 deaths have been confirmed to be by Red Tide, while boat related deaths were down to a low of 9.
DECEMBER 21st, 2003 MANATEE SPEED ZONES Lee County boaters that hit the throttle through Manatee slow zones, may not be breaking the law. A Circuit Court Judge ruled that speed zones cannot be enforced. Boaters had sued the Florida Fish and Wildlife Agency saying that the speed zones were unconstitutional and were based on bad science. Boy oh Boy, it looks like we're in for another fight. Merry Christmas boaters!
DOWNTOWN RENAISSANCE Another Ft. Myers Real Estate expert reports that the 20 projects planned for Downtown Cape Coral is a major revitalization effort. Where does he get his information? He is 6 months late with this news. Why is he an expert?
DECEMBER 20th, 2003 LEE COUNTY JOBLESS RATE DROPS IN NOVEMBER The Lee County jobless rate dropped to 3.7%. That's over 2% lower than the National average and a full 1% below the State. Our economy continues to be very strong. OK, imagine this, you're freezing cold, winds are blowing snow drifts across your driveway, there's a thick coating of ice on your windshield and you're out of work. Can you think of any reason to move to Cape Coral? Neither can the 1100 people that move here monthly.
DECEMBER 19th, 2003 ZONING CHANGES UPSET RESIDENTS A 34 acre parcel at the corners of Burnt Store Road and Gulfstream Parkway has been rezoned to Commercial. Residents are upset and I don't blame them. They paid premium prices for their waterfront lots and now will be looking across their canal at the back of a plaza and or stores. Listers Plus warns all buyers to stay far away from corners where this could happen. The Cape is growing and nothing can stop progress. Be careful when purchasing residential lots.
CITY COUNCIL CONTINUES TO EMBARRASS Bickering like children, the City Council meetings have become a joke. Here they are, running one of the fastest growing cities in the nation, and taking personal shots and wise cracks at each other during the meetings. Now we find out that Councilman Mickey Rosado lied during his election campaign about his education. A complaint has been sent to the States Attorney General to see if he broke any laws. If you remember, I reported that there was a Council member that seemed like he couldn't read. WELL?
DECEMBER 17th, 2003 BUILDING BOOM CONTINUES Permits increased to 24,286, that's 34% ahead of last year. We're HOT !
STORMWATER FEES INCREASE Stormwater fees will increase 11% next year. The stormwater fund has over $7.7 million in its account, but the City Council wants more. The truth is that they are not spending as much as they take in, so WHY THE INCREASE?
DECEMBER 14th, 2003 PINE ISLAND FACES MORATORIUM Officials are watching the amount of traffic on Pine Island. If the count continues to increase, as it has been, then a building moratorium may be put on new development. The moratorium will not effect people planning to build on platted lots.
DECEMBER 13th, 2003 SURFSIDE BOULEVARD Years ago SURFSIDE BOULEVARD was used for drag racing, now it's one of the hottest areas of CAPE CORAL. In 1995, you could buy a lot for $15,000, they now start at $150,000 and go up to $400,000. Access of the Gulf, beautiful views of the mangroves and the Spreader and upcoming services have driven it's popularity.
CAPE WAIVES FEES In an attempt to improve life in Cape Coral, the City Council has voted to remove fees associated with special events. Many believe more special events will be planned because of this waiver.
DECEMBER 10th, 2003 STATE DIVERTS FUNDS TO CAPE ROADS State funds have been diverted to two major road projects. Pine Island Road and Burnt Store Road construction dates are being moved up on the state's schedule. Although the projects won't be started immediately, local businessmen are praising the recognition of the importance of these roads.
NO POWER LINES ON VETERAN'S PARKWAY Cape residents are relieved that high power lines will NOT be installed along Veteran's Parkway. The City has promised that they would not allow it.
CAPE CORAL INTRODUCES LANDSCAPING PROGRAM A program has been announced that will allow neighborhoods to landscape medians and build sidewalks. If the neighborhoods agree to assess themselves to pay for the beautification, then the City will not stand in their way.
DECEMBER 5th, 2003 RUMRUNNERS RESTAURANT OPENS A new restaurant has opened in Cape Harbor. It rivals Ft. Myers and Naples in it's design. This is the first of many new restaurants coming to the Cape in the next 12 months.
DECEMBER 3rd, 2003 HOLIHAN'S RESTAURANT PLANS APPROVED City Council has approved the permits for Holihan's Restaurant. Holihan's is a 400 seat casual dinning restaurant and will be located in the Southwest.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2nd, 2003 WAL-MART TO ADD STORES Reacting to the CAPE'S rapid growth, WAL-MART announced they would be building three new stores. One will be a "SUPERSTORE", the others called "neighborhood stores" are smaller. The sites are Pine Island Road, Mohawk Parkway and Skyline Boulevard.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31st, 2003 IMPACT FEES SPUR SPIKE IN APPLICATIONS In a rush to beat the upcoming increase in county road impact fees, Builders are scrambling to get their applications in. The building department is buried with the extra applications. Fees will increase 22% which go into effect December 3rd.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30th, 2003 ECO PARK UPGRADES Recent upgrades to the CAPE'S ECO PARK are paying off. More visitors, more fees. If the popularity of this attraction continues, the Park will ask for more money to expand the boardwalks further."
MONDAY, OCTOBER 27th, 2003 PUBLIC CONCERNS ON WARM WATER DISCHARGES FP&L is trying to renew it's warm water release permit. Area residents are protesting the renewal. There reasons is that the warm water releases from the power plant have attracted Manatees to our area and now the we are paying dearly for Manatee protection and the rules that come with their presence. Without the releases the Manatees would migrate to their normal areas. There is not much of a chance for the renewal to be turned rejected.
DEL PRADO REDESIGN DISCUSSED With the extension of DEL PRADO BOULEVARD inevitable, planning groups are meeting to discuss different plans of it's design. One plan calls for purchasing land on one side, another plan wants to buy both sides, so that there would be room for bike paths, sidewalks and sound barriers.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26th YACHT CLUB POOL PLANS UPGRADE A $200,000 upgrade of our YACHT CLUB swimming pool is in the works. If you've been to the pool, you'd know how badly this is needed. The City is attempting to improve existing facilities around the city.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24th ZONING ON PINE ISLAND ROAD The City has voted to set up two new zoning districts along the road. The zoning combines residential and commercial zones that will be attractive to developers of both.
CAPE COUNTY? As more and more facts are released on how much tax revenue Cape Coral gets from the County, support for the CAPE CORAL COUNTY has increased. The numbers are staggering and Lee County should be negotiating with the City to increase their share of revenues.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23rd MARQUEE CINEMA SET TO OPEN Finally, after months of delays, Cape Coral will once again have a movie theater. The opening is set for October 28th. It was pretty embarrassing that a city of 122,000 didn't have a theater.
NEWS-PRESS UNVEILS NEW CAPE SECTION Cape Coral needed better coverage from the main newspaper of Southwest Florida and it finally came this week. The Cape will now have it's own section in the paper. It's amazing how long it took for them to realize the power of the Cape's growth.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22nd CAPE AND MARRIAGE Cape Coral ranks #4 in the country for the amount married couples per capita. Maybe it's the sunshine or the laid back lifestyle, but whatever it is, the two seem to go together.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 20th COUNTY MOVES FORWARD WITH IMPACT FEE HIKE Back in 2000, the County increased road impact fees, promising that future fees were not being considered. Now they are planning another increase. It's hard for any of us to understand. Taxable property values are way up and still the County wants more money for roads. I'm thinking an audit is needed to see where the extra money is going.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19th CRITICAL RIVER SAFEGUARDS STUDIED For those of you that don't know, the State has been releasing millions of gallons of freshwater into the Caloosahatchee River. The releases are causing weeds to grow and fish are moving out towards the Gulf. Many scientists believe that the releases are hurting our whole areas water quality. Normally I see Dolphins in my bay every day, I have not seen one in 10 weeks. This can't be a good sign.
DEBATE OVER BOAT SPEED ZONES The County and the US government are arguing who will be responsible for enforcement. Just like everything else, laws are made by a Federal Agency, then they expect the local governments to bare the price of enforcement.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17th YACHT CLUB VALUES GOING UP Just when we all thought prices could not go any higher in the Yacht Club area, a new survey shows that prices continue to soar. Buyer are purchasing old homes and taking them down. The homes are being replaced with some of the most beautiful homes in Cape Coral.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16th JOBLESS RATE CONTINUES TO DECLINE Our area is growing in leaps and bounds, which is great news for those looking for work. In September the jobless rate dropped to 4.3%. The national average is over 6%.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14th POOL BUILDER STRUGGLES One of the top pool builders is struggling to finish pools for customers. We do not get involved with recommending builders. This is the reason! It's so busy in Cape Coral that the worst builders and suppliers are busy, right along with the financially strong best builders. If you're planning on building , be very careful.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12th CITRUS CANKER PLAGUES CAPE CORAL If you remember, last year we had an outbreak of citrus canker. Now it has been discovered again. The State has begun cutting citrus trees. By the time this round is over another 1000 trees will be lost. Lawn workers are being blamed for the outbreak.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11th EVEREST PARKWAY GETS ENTRANCEWAY After four years of fighting, 800 residents of the East end of Everest will get their entrance to Veterans Parkway. Many believe that this will cause more problems than it will solve.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10th CAPE CORAL SMASHES RECORD Cape Coral smashed the record set last year for housing permits. Builders pulled 3,819 permits this year, that passes up the 2,783 permits for 2002.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8th CAPE WELCOMES ENTRANCE PLAN If you plan on driving into Cape Coral from US 41 to the Del Prado Extension, you'll be met by a beautiful monument that will span all four lanes. The nearly $750,000 project has been approved by City Council. It will be paid for by a private developer. Now I wish they would do something at Midpoint and Cape Coral Bridges.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5th CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PLANS CHANGED The plans to build a new "Welcome Center" have been changed due to our wonderful Department of Environmental Protection. The plan would have a new center built in conjunction with a local builder. The agency complained to the State. The State agreed with them. Comment: This is typical, the Cape needs to have a impressive "Welcome Center" as visitors enter the City. The present building has been there since the 70's and does not reflect our city's vision.
LAWSUIT OVER WATER RELEASES Freshwater has been released into the Caloosahatchee River most of the summer. The water is high in nutrients and is causing damage to our environment. Lee County is joining other local governments in a lawsuit against these releases. Comment: Where are the environmentalists? They fight and complain about everything else, why are they silent?
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3rd CAPE CORAL PARKWAY EXPANSION After two years, the widening of the Parkway has been completed. This completes the needed EAST-WEST CORRIDOR across the southern tip of the Cape.
WATCHDOGS CALL FOR RECALL A group of residents that disagree with the utilities expansion are calling for a recall of 5 of our council members. These are the same malcontents who complained about the 1991 utilities expansion, the Mid Point Bridge and Veteran's Expressway. The recall doesn't have a chance, but makes us look like a bunch of hayseeds.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 4th AIR QUALITY SURVEY Great news, a national survey of air quality showed Cape Coral/Ft. Myers in 5th place for the United States. I guess the term "breathe easy" pertains to us.
DISABLED HOUSING OPENS Coronado Place opened this week. The new complex is built for people with disabilities. There was so much demand that the entire complex was rented before it was complete.
ANOTHER BUILDER IN TROUBLE Today another builder called it quits, went bankrupt and stuck several clients. This story seems to be repeated every few months. A POOL company also made the news, many home owners are having to pay off liens from sub contractors. Be careful out there!
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26th, 2003 NEW HIGH END RESTAURANT READY TO OPEN Cape Harbor's "RUMRUNNERS" restaurant is ready to open. This will be the Cape's first five star restaurant. Two of the best operators in Southwest Florida are the owner operators. They plan to open by November 1st.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24th, 2003 TERRACES AT ROSA VISTA A local Doctor is proposing a office and business complex in the downtown area. The project would be built at the corners of SE 5th Place and SE 47th Terrace. The beautiful design would really add to the new look that the City wants for downtown redevelopment.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23rd, 2003 BOB EVANS COMES TO CAPE At the corner of Del Prado and Veterans Parkway, Bob Evans Restaurant has started construction. The restaurant plans on being open by January 2004.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21st, 2003 COMMERCIAL CONCEPT GETS NOD The City Council has given approval to move forward with identifying commercial "corridors" that will be needed to supply Cape residents with needed services. When the survey is completed, new commercial zones will be created.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19th, 2003 CAPE COMMITTEE JUMPS INTO ACTION The Committee that is in charge of looking into changing CAPE CORAL into a COUNTY is meeting regularly. I still believe this is a total waste of time. The Cape should use it's voting power to make changes it wants. I do agree that we always get the short straw when it comes to County projects.
COUNTY KEEPS TAX RATE THE SAME Despite a bid to lower the tax rate, the County voted to keep it the same. LEE COUNTY says it needs the money to maintain services. The Cape's growth has helped increase the County's tax base. Now everyone wants to see if the County gives Cape Coral a bigger piece of the pie. Can you say "I don't think so!"
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18th CAPE LOWERS TAX RATE, OKs BUDGET City Council approved the new budget over 100 protests asking for lower taxes. The vote was 6-2. The total budget is $89,868,000. The mileage rate was reduced to 6.1049 per $1000 per assessed value. Most protests were from cry babies that watched their property happily increase in value and now are crying that they have to pay more taxes. You can't have it both ways, more value means more taxes. It's as simple as that. One really stupid protester said that she "would have to sell her sailboat to pay the taxes". Please stop!
ROAD REPAIRS IN NEW BUDGET The new budget has an added $1.5 million for badly needed road repair. If you've seen the conditions of roads in the Northern Sections of the City, you would understand why the funds are justified.
MORE POLICE and FIREHOUSES Our increased budget has 2 new firehouses, more police and higher skilled paramedics in it. These departments have been strained by recent growth.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17th FIXED SPAN FOR SANIBEL The County has voted, over the protests of Sanibel residents, to build a fixed span bridge to Sanibel. The draw bridge will be replaced. The elitists of Sanibel are upset that residents of the County will be able to drive into their island. It's time that they get a wake up call. Sanibel belongs to all of us.
SUNSPLASH PARK PREPARES TO END SEASON Every year as our season starts, Sunsplash Water Park closes. That's right, when our population expands, it closes. Every year we hear how expensive it is to run. Why not keep the park open year round to draw visitors to the Cape?
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16th AREA JOB RATE REMAINS STEADY Lee County 's job base remains at a steady 4.3%. the construction industry can take credit for this rate, but all other categories are contributing. Our economy is in great shape!
AIRPORT PASSENGER TOTALS RISE AGAIN The airport just broke a 20 year record for August. A total of 357,000 passengers went through the airport last month. Four million year to date.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14th, 2003 LEE HISPANIC NUMBERS UP 28% Lee County saw the number of Hispanic residents increase by 28% from 2000-2002. The total as of January 2003 is 61,000.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13th, 2003 QUALITY OF LIFE A recent survey of Cape Coral residents shows that quality of life is their major concern. Police and fire protection came in second, roads and storm drainage came in third and fourth.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6th, 2003 CAPE REVISIONS MAY SPUR GROWTH The Pine Island Road commercial corridor got a lift when the City Council voted to change building restrictions that made it too expensive for developers. If the City remembers that we are not Naples, more revisions will be made. Look for projects to be announced now that these concessions were won by developers.
NEW YOUTH CENTER OPENS After years of fund raising and construction, the YOUTH CENTER has opened. This center was sorely needed. Juvenile crime is increasing at alarming rates. Our wonderful City residents vote down every attempt to build parks and recreation center while complaining about crime. Our kids had no where to go in the Cape, thanks to the private financial supporters the Center has become a reality. No thanks to the whining tightwads.
150 UNIT CONDO BREAKS GROUND "Van Loon Commons" will consist of 10 three story buildings with 150 total units.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5th, 2003 EARLY PLANS OK'd FOR MILLION DOLLAR HOMES A development featuring multi million dollar homes was OK'd today. It will be cal;led "The Estates of Old Burnt Store". I think this project should be called the "Are You On Drugs Estates". There are $150,000 homes close to this project, would you build an one million dollar estate next to a $150,000 house. This story almost made the BLOOPER SECTION.
I-75 WIDENING MEETINGS BEGIN Meetings have started to discuss the I-75 widening. Talks of widening the highway to 6 lanes were interrupted by a group calling for 8 lanes. Their proposal makes sense. By the time the 6 lanes are completed we'll need 8. Another group is recommending an Expressway from Charlotte Harbor, through the Cape and out to I-75.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3rd, 2003 LEE COUNTY TOURISM SETS RECORD FOR JULY Good news for an ailing part of our economy. Totals for July show that visitors are coming back in record numbers.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1st, 2003 REPAIRS ON DEL PRADO EXTENSION Heavy rains shut down a section of Del Prado. The flow of water undermined the road and made it dangerous to travel on. We had 17.48 inches of rain in August, the second most for August ever.
WATERFRONT TOWNHOUSE PROJECT DOWNTOWN Palm View Waters which is located on the Bimini Basin is under construction. The development will feature luxury townhouses starting at $329,000.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 31st, 2003 CONFUSING REPORTS In the News Press today: HOUSING SET FOR DOWNTURN, right next to that article VACATION RESIDENCES TAKE OFF and in another section CAPE HOMES SELLING LIKE HOT CAKES. This is the kind of report that makes me wonder who's writing this stuff. Which is it? Are we doing OK or going under?
FRIDAY, AUGUST 29th CAPE EXISTING HOME VALUES INCREASE 16% Prices of existing home are soaring. In July the moved up another 16%. This is BUBBLE is going to burst soon. Builders can construct a new house for less than the existing home square foot prices.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 26th, 2003 CAPE CORAL OKs LAWSUIT Release of dock permits doesn't allay the Council's fear of future federal action. The Feds have already threatened the City, right after the permits were issued.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 24th, 2003 SIDEWALKS FOR COUNTRY CLUB BLVD. The City fathers must be listening. Work was started on a stretch of Country Club this week. They are adding left hand turn lanes, curbing and sidewalks. Some beautiful old trees had to be taken down but everyone is hopeful the new landscaping will beautify the road.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23rd AIRPORT CONTINUES SETTING RECORDS The pace of traffic at the airport set records again in July. Year to date, 3.8 million have used the facility. Needless to say, the new terminal is going to help handle the traffic.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 17th ALTERNATIVE SITE FOR FESTIVAL PARK Our Mayor is proposing an new site for a Festival Park. The park would host festivals, concerts and other events. Their piecemeal purchases are not going to work and they need to face the realization that they blew a chance to purchase the site before prices tripled.
SATURDAY AUGUST 16th FEDS ADMIT MANATEE SPEED ZONE MISTAKE Not only are the FEDS under pressure to act on dock permits, but this week they announced that they had made a mistake on some of the speed zones. Remember, these same agencies didn't know that the Mid Point Bridge existed. Where are Moe and Curly when you need them?
FRIDAY, AUGUST 15th VACANT PROPERTY VALUES SOAR IN THE CAPE Now here's a bit of old news for you. If you've been reading this newsletter for awhile you'll be amazed that 12 months after I reported that off water lot values were soaring, the local newspaper chose to write this article. Stay informed, you do not need to find out trends a year after they happen.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 14th FLORIDA TOPS IN ATTRACTING RESIDENTS This is one of those conflicting stories. Read TUESDAY'S news, but read carefully. Florida is attracting record numbers of new residents. That's right, they are not retirees, they are younger people looking to set up their businesses or tradespeople looking to take advantage of our low unemployment rate. There is plenty of opportunity here, so why not?
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13th AGENCIES FEEL HEAT OVER CAPE DOCK PERMITS Yes, that's the headline. Federal wildlife agencies are starting to feel the heat from local legislators over the statewide dock moratorium. Florida Marine Contractors are calling on Gov. Bush to join the fray. On may 13th the agencies said they were releasing the area from the "area of inadequate protection" status. Nothing they have promised has been done. Cape Coral is threatening a lawsuit, while others can't believe how they were misled. Comment: To the gentleman that called our office, you'd better get your facts right, dock permits are NOT being issued.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 12th FLORIDA SLIPS AS RETIREES FAVORITE Census figures are showing that retirees are choosing other states over Florida. Gov. Bush has ordered that a new department called "Designation Florida" be formed. He wants to know why Florida is loosing retirees.
MONDAY, AUGUST 11th "DOG DAYS OF SUMMER" Even the News has slowed. Hot, muggy and wet weather has everyone taking a break. Schools open today, other than that, this has been a "no news week".
FRIDAY, AUGUST 8th WATCHDOGS HIRE ATTORNEY A group of citizens upset with the Utilities Project have hired an attorney to fight the City. Every time big utility projects are announced, we get these "concerned citizens" complaining about the cost. I guess they would rather choke on their own sewage, than pay for central sewer and water. Most of them would rather tap our aquifers to water their lawns. They seem to forget that without utilities we would probably be under a building moratorium and property values would decline.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 7th TOURISM REPORT PROMISING Since 9-11 tourism has slowly been recovering. The past season showed increasing strength and it looks like we'll be finally on track to a record amount of tourists next season.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6th BRIDGE TOLL PROPOSAL NIXED Threats from Cape Coral seemed to have been heard. Lee County announced that they will no longer attempt to change our current toll system. The proposed change would have hurt Cape Coral and increased our citizens fees.
PLEASE GROW UP! Our City Council is bickering again. If a council member doesn't get his or her way, they start personal infighting instead of working to manage our City. Shameful behavior!
MONDAY, AUGUST 4th LEE HOUSING MARKET ON FIRE Housing Market magazine ranks LEE COUNTY #1 in the country for housing permits. That's right #1. Better than Las Vegas, better than Collier County Florida. We have been #3 for years and finally past the others up. Cape Coral, Lehigh, Estero and Bonita all contributed to the rating. Naples is running out of land and prices are very high. This is driving buyers to Lee County. Comment: I told you that the news would be confusing. One segment says that sales are down, another sales are up. Let's wait and see what future reports will be for the second half of 2003.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 3rd MORTGAGE APPLICATIONS DOWN 23% Mortgage Companies are reporting that the increase of mortgage rates pushed the amount of applications down 23% over the last four weeks. Lower mortgage rates have helped the housing market, if the rates continue housing will decline.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 1st CAPE CITY COUNCIL OPPOSES NEW TOLL PLAN The City Council came out against the proposed bridge toll plan presented by Lee County. The main reason was that it would cost city residents more money to travel in and out of Cape Coral.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 30th HIGH PRICED SLUMP Builders of high end homes are reporting that sales are flat through the first six months of 2003. Comment: Remember what I told you six months ago. Prices increased to fast, now price resistance has hit all high priced property. It had to end sometime.
TUESDAY, JULY 26th CAPE CORAL SLOWS That's what the headlines read! The "feeding frenzy" has come to an end. High costs of building, high prices for vacant land and the turn of the Stock Market all are contributing to the decline. Comment: My office warned this would happen 10 months ago. This cool down was inevitable, now let's get back to realistic prices and forget the hype. This is another of the confusing reports I warned about.
MONDAY, JULY 25th CAPE COUNCIL PLANS CUTS City Council is planning to cut $3.5 million from it's annual budget. What geniuses, values increased our tax bite 30% in 2003. and they cut the budget, how about lowering our tax rate?
WEDNESDAY, JULY 23rd TWO PROJECTS GET ZONING AND PLANNING OK Above complaints from area residents, a project just west of Nicholas Parkway was approved. The project will be consist of thirteen eight story buildings. It is called "Emerald Village". Comment: The residents were complaining that they thought they were in a R-1 area, not a R-3 Multifamily dwelling area. We warn our clients not to buy next to or across from R-3 for this reason.
The other project "Sunset Lakes" was also approved. This project butts up to the Academic Village city project. It will consist of single family, multifamily and commercial development. 370 acres in the Northeast Section are to be used.
TUESDAY, JULY 22nd AIRPORT TOTALS SET RECORD More than 367,000 passengers used our airport last month. That's a record, up 10.6% in June and ahead of 2002 by 12.5%.
MONDAY, JULY 21st CAPE COUNCIL DEFEATS IMPACT FEES The Cape Coral City Council tried to accelerate road impact fees. The council vote was 4-4, a deadlock. The builders were strongly against the fees. If the impact fees were put in it would add another $1137 to the cost of getting a permit.
CITY COUNCIL GETS LOOK AT BUDGET The initial request calls for $252 million total and a reduced mileage of 6.1049. Residential taxes make up most of the revenue. The City is trying to get more commercial development to take some of the tax burden off residential property owners.
SUNDAY, JULY 20th CAPE CORAL BEACH REMAINS CLOSED The Health Department continued it's warnings NOT to swim in the waters at our only beach. High levels of bacteria will still present as of Thursday. The beach is still open, but officials recommend that no swimming take place. Comment: This kind of problem was inevitable. The explosion of residents is causing the bacteria to seep into our waterways from the septic systems. Poor planning by our City Government. I'm hopeful that the utility expansion that is underway can correct this problem.
THE RACE IS ON The biggest developers on the Cape are predicting a race to start their projects. They are also predicting that others will start new projects sooner than thought.
FRIDAY, JULY 18th DREDGING TO AID NORTHWEST BOATERS The Lee County Natural Resources Division and the City of Cape Coral are planning to dredge in and around Matlasha Isles canal system. Boaters are complaining that channels have become too shallow, causing a dangerous condition. The dredging will begin in August.
THURSDAY, JULY 17th LEE COUNTY OUTPACES THE STATE The State of Florida is a very close second to Texas in growth in the US. Lee County is leading the State in growth. Cape Coral is leading them all in percentage. Builders are watching vacant lots dwindle in numbers and feel that the County has about 8 years of inventory left.
CITY MAY LOWER TAX RATE Cape Coral taxpayers may get a slight break on their property taxes next year. Many council members are calling for major tax break. The surge in revenues from growth is the reason.
LEADING BUILDERS TO OFFER MID-PRICE LINE With high end home sales declining, another o leading builder announced that he would be starting a division to fill the demand for lower cost homes. Comment: I predicted this months ago. Hate to say it again, but prices have gone up only on the premise that "if we raise it they will still buy", builders are finding out that's not true any longer.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 16th CAPE CORAL WATER MANAGEMENT While Florida communities scramble to deal with water problems, a system that was started in the mid-70s eliminates water problems, even during a drought. That REVERSE OSMOSIS SYSTEM is now the largest in the world and is constantly being expanded. Thank God someone recognized the need for this system. Without it we'd be under a building moratorium.
COUNTY JOBLESS RATE CLIMBS The county jobless rate climbed to 4.4%. While the US rate is 6.4%, the County is still doing very well. Most believe that the rate will start dropping very soon.
TAX ACTIVISTS WHINING Never mind that your 1995 home has just about doubled in value, let's whine about your taxes increasing. That's right folks, our headlines read "TAX BURDEN". A group of activists are threatening that they are going to move to Charlotte County if there taxes increase. This is a perfect example of why our government can't get parks and sidewalks approved. People move here to retire. They brag about how much their equity has grown, then complain about the increase caused that equity. Can you say IGNORANT!
TUESDAY, JULY 15th NORTHWEST FLOODING CITY CONCERN Last months flooding of Burnt Store Road has the attention of City and County officials. The road is an evacuation route and must be kept passable during a storm. Official are making some emergency repairs and are meeting to find a resolution to the problem.
SUNDAY, JULY 13th CAPE HOME SALES SLIP June sales of homes slipped 7%. 280 homes were sold, down from 302 last year. The experts are blaming rising prices. Gosh, do they really think so? Maybe buyers have finally started to recognize that builders are increasing prices monthly. As in everything, when greed takes over sound business practice, at some point your going to feel the effects. Comment: This is one of those confusing statistics, remember that I just reported that the Cape set a home permit record in June.
SIDEWALK CONSTRUCTION ACCELERATED The City Council is struggling to find the funds to speed up sidewalk construction. In a recent survey this was the No. 1 complaint. Some new median and sidewalk projects have been started close to our office. The Cape cannot be considered a nice place to live when you have to walk in a road with cars whizzing by at 50 MPH. They have been talking about sidewalks for 10 years now. Where are the funds from the tax base increases?
NEW FEDERAL NO CALL LAW HURTS REALTORS HOORAY! The REALTORS who have boiler rooms and call property owners are fighting the NO CALL LAW. They are asking for an exemption. Worse yet the National Association is listening. I have been against this type of solicitation. It's invasive and the boiler room operations were giving our profession a black eye. One office in the Cape has 9 people calling all over the United States between 5-9 PM, 7 days a week.
SATURDAY, JULY 12th WHY YOU WON'T SELL A local consultant in property sales commented on why it could be difficult to sell in this hot market. He blames grossly high asking prices and poorly educated Agents. H'm, where have you heard that before.
FRIDAY, JULY 11th CAPE #9 IN THE UNITED STATES That's right folks, from July 1, 2002-July 1, 2003 CAPE CORAL RANKED 9th in growth for the whole country. The Federal report was released today. The report showed a 4.5% growth rate. Let me tell them something, that number is low, I'll bet it was really 7-8%.
LEE COUNTY MAY INCREASE IMPACT FEES A recent report by LEE COUNTY is asking for an increase in IMPACT FEES. If the City and County continue with these planned increase, it will cost $10,000 in fees before you even pick a house out. This is the kind of event that could kill the Real Estate Market.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 9th NO INCREASE IN COUNTY TAX RATE Lee County Commissioners voted to maintain the mileage rate. Now if we can get a bigger percent of the taxes sent to Cape Coral maybe we can resolve some of our financial problems.
TARPON POINT HOTEL MOVES FORWARD Cape Coral's first luxury hotel completed getting it's financing and is close to begin construction. The hotel site will include 2 waterfront restaurants and 45,000 square feet of retail shops. Wow!
MONDAY, JULY 7th MOVE OVER MANATEES, NOW IT'S OWLS The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission is currently conducting a survey to determine the effects of the Cape's construction is having on the Burrowing Owl. Remember this commission shut down dock permits. In Florida we protect everything except humans.
THURSDAY, JULY 3rd CAPE THEATER READY FOR OPENING After two years, Cape Coral will once again have a movie theater. The new Marquee Theater will open in September. Let's hope that the locals support it this time.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 2nd $8 BILLION That's right, $8 billion increase in property values. Cape Coral lead the County with a 31.3% last year. Are we hot or what?
LOCAL BUSINESSES DONATE The Cape Youth Center, which is scheduled to open soon, received hefty donations from City businesses. The Center was started with local residents supplying the start up capitol.
TUESDAY, JULY 1st AIRPORT CUTS COSTS Southwest International Airport is reducing fees to attract more carriers. The new mid field terminal is 35% complete and officials would like to contract new carriers prior to it's opening.
MONDAY, JUNE 30th CAPE ON PACE TO BREAK RECORD If the new permits continue on the pace of the first 6 months of 2003, Cape Coral will break the record of 2002. In 2002, 2,738 permits were issued for single family homes. So far this years permits total 2,443.
SUNDAY, JUNE 29th CAPE TV? Cape TV, Cape Coral's governmental television channel has new studios in Cape Coral. For years the program was broadcast from Fort Myers. The new location will enable more information to be broadcast and quicker response to important situations.
SATURDAY, JUNE 28th CAPE CORAL STUDIES ANNEXATION A large parcel of County property has become the focal point of the CITY. The 2200 plus acres are just north of the City line in the Northeast Section. The City hopes that if they are successful, the acreage will be used for large residential development.
THURSDAY, JUNE 26th LUXURY HOMES PROJECT STARTED A gated luxury home project near Palmetto Pines Golf Course is under way. There will be 26 home sites located at Veteran's Parkway and Skyline Boulevard. Prices will start at $350,000 and the top end homes $750,000.
LAKE OKEECHOBEE RELEASES MORE WATER To maintain water levels in the Lake, water managers have increased the release of freshwater into the Caloosahatchee River. Many people are upset over the release. The freshwater releases damage the delicate basin by adding phosphates that cause the growth of algae.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25th CITY DEFENDS UTILITY EXPANSION Back in 1991 I remember the same explanations and promises. Once Again concerned residents have formed a group to get answers on the cost of the recent utility expansion. Between utility charges, hook up charges and impact fees, some property owners are looking at a $16,000 bill. Needless to say, they're upset with the way contracts were awarded, remembering the lawsuits following the last expansion in the early 1991.
TUESDAY, JUNE 23rd LOCAL FLOODING Nearly 14 inches of rain in 4 days flooded many areas of Cape Coral. Sections of Burnt Store Road were under 3 ft of water. Luckily the rains stopped this Saturday. Tropical moisture was sucked out of our area when Tropical Storm Bill got organized.
CAPE CORAL DUMPS TREATED WATER Even though we are on "water restrictions", recent rains have home owners not using the dual water irrigation system. So the water treatment plant has dumped 15 million gallons of treated water into the River. Doesn't make sense does it?
SALES TAX INCREASE? In the spring Lee County voters turned away an attempt to fund a Trauma Center. Now a group of citizens reviewing how to fund the center have recommended a 1/2 penny increase. Typical, citizens vote down a tax increase and it's proposed again. Tell you anything about our government?
SUNDAY, JUNE 22nd CAPE COLLECTS $1 MILLION IN DEBTS It was a long time coming, but finally the City government has taken steps to collect back taxes, utility assessments, lawn mowing and storm water fees. About two months ago a private attorney started foreclosure proceedings against property owners who have ignored their obligations. The City has been threatening this action for four years, never followed through on the threat. This non-action only showed property owners that the City was bluffing. Not anymore! Over one million dollars has been collected. The City has put other fees on to the County Tax bills. Now if the fees go unpaid, property owners could loose their land through a tax deed. FINALLY!
SATURDAY, JUNE 21st, SUMMER RACE TEAM PICKS CAPE CORAL A American LeMans race team will be moving all of it's facilities to the Cape next year. This could bring more international exposure. The race cars travel all over the world on the circuit. The teams name will be the American Spirit Racing. They are relocating from California.
THURSDAY, JUNE 19th CAPE POLICE LEARN SPANISH Because of the ever increasing Spanish population, Cape Police are taking classes to be able to say basic police instructions in Spanish. There has been a language gap that is causing some confusing situations to develop. The program was started to ease the process of a routine traffic stop.
CAPE MAKES DEMANDS TO COUNTY The Mayor of Cape Coral is demanding that the LEE COUNTY METRO PLANNING COMMISSION have more Cape Coral representatives. The City is constantly short changed on projects. By increasing our numbers, the Mayor believes that our road projects will receive more consideration.
FIRE STATIONS BEING ADDED The Cape Coral Fire Department is going ahead with plans for three new stations. City Council approved the purchase of a site on Chiquitta Boulevard. The next stations will be on Pine Island Road and a undisclosed location in the Southeast.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18th GOVERNOR BUSH SIGNS BILL Today, Governor Bush signed and created the Office of Boating and Waterways. Many feel that this office will help with the problems caused by MANATEE protection. Now the State will have one voice, instead of splintered support.
TUESDAY, JUNE 17th CITY COUNCIL PROPOSAL NIXED In April, the City residents voted NO to a proposal to have secretaries of the city Manager report and work for the Mayor and Council. With complete disregard for the voters decision, the Mayor once again tried to change the ordinance. The Council voted it down. Comment: Remember my comments back in April, this Mayor has no regard for the residents decisions, if he continues we'll lose another manager.
SUNDAY, JUNE 15th, Father's Day CHANGES AT LISTERS PLUS REALTY After 40 years of being in my own business, I have stepped down as President. My protégé, Sayo Mehmedbasic has replaced me in that capacity. I will remain at the company as a Broker/Vice President of Sales and Marketing. I have always enjoyed the marketing, research and sales end of this business. This change will allow me to give more attention to all three. The REAL ESTATE profession is changing rapidly. Investigating new sales programs, increasing our exposure on the Internet, finding new research tools and writing this newsletter are very important projects that require much of my time. Sayo will take over the general operations and management of the office. I'm very happy about this change and look forward to years of continued success. Sayo's story is quite interesting, go to the ABOUT US section. I'm very proud to have helped him achieve this position and want you to know what he has gone through to get there.
FRIDAY, JUNE 13th CITY CENTRUM PLAN The Centrum plan being discussed for the last 2 years, has gained support and may soon be a reality. At a public meeting last week, only a few residents were present. No one is against this plan. The area around our City Hall should be zoned professional and commercial. Our office is in the borders of the proposal and we are extremely happy that the area will be upgraded. New medical offices are opening all around our office and there is a need for other projects to replace the blighted structures around the Police Station and new City Hall.
THURSDAY, JUNE 12th HOULIHAN'S SLATED FOR THE CAPE Houlihan's Restaurant, a popular franchise, is planning to locate on Cape Coral Parkway. The upscale restaurant will fulfill area residents wish for more restaurants in the Southwest. A early 2004 opening is planned.
LAND IN NORTHEAST GETTING ATTENTION Another project has been proposed in the Northeast area of the Cape. A developer is planning a 700 home project. Combined with other proposals, this would put the planned new homes at 3000 in the Northeast.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11th CAPE PARCELS MAY BE PARKS? Cape Coral can add about 73 acres of prime real estate at no cost top taxpayers. The City already owns the property, but deed restrictions of the previous owner require that the parcels be kept for "parking lots" only. The new owner is investigating the deed restrictions. COMMENT: Once again this City is ignoring a contract and promise to keep this land as parking lots. The reason for this is that around the parking lots are lots sold as "commercial property with dedicated parking". The owners of those lots will be dealt a huge hardship. Many of them own 40x125 lots, that would become unusable if this proposal goes through. Remember 1991 when they rezoned commercial to residential all across the City?
TUESDAY, JUNE 10th CAPE MAY RAISE ROAD IMPACT FEES Impact fees on new construction could be going up. The Mayor has proposed a road impact fee of $1741, up $400! With a expected 3600 home being built in 2003. In December, City Council raised park impact fees to $1115, up $700. Comment: What are they thinking? Earlier this month, the City Council found out that tax revenue is going to increase 23% due to increased property value. Why gouge the only industry in Cape Coral. Let's not take affordability out of the Cape.
SUNDAY, JUNE 8th CAPE NEW HOME SALES DROP 15% May numbers are out. Sales dropped 15% in May. Realtors are quick to point out that they feel that May was slow because many closing were held up due to Tittle Companies not being able to get documents ready. I guess we'll have to wait for Junes report in July. They also reported an increase in requests for permits. Comment: Hm', sales are down, but permits have increased. It sounds like there is going to be a big overbuilt market soon. Rates better stay low or we're going to see a whole lot of builders going bankrupt.
THURSDAY, JUNE 5th YMCA STARTS RAISING FUNDS Finally, the Cape may get a full scale YMCA. The organization is starting to plan fund raisers to fund the project. They are also seeking a donation of land. Comment: There's only one problem, the YMCA has requests to build in South Ft. Myers also. They plan on watching which area donates the most. If that's the case, Ft. Myers will get the new facility. The cheapies on the Cape will not donate anything to improve services. Look how they voted on the PARKS!
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PLANS EXPANSION The CHAMBER of COMMERCE is planning to expand the Cape Coral Parkway location. They plan on adding 1300 square feet. Of course as in everything there is a problem. First they have to get permission from the County and the State. The biggest impediment is that the State owns the land and has it listed for "public road services", whatever that is? Now they are claiming that the Chamber Welcome Center is violation with it's existing building. How crazy is this political mess in Florida. Instead of helping our City, they throw up obstacles at every request.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4th BONITA BAY PLANS DEVELOPMENT I guess when there isn't any new news, old news is brought back. Two years ago, I reported that the prestigious Bonita Bay Group bought 600 acres off Pine Island Road near the Veteran's Expressway. So here's the old-new announcement. Bonita Bay Group is planning a new community. It will be called VETERANS PARKWAY WEST. 1700 homes and condominiums are planned.
SANIBEL WANTS TO OWN CAUSEWAY Everyone who doesn't live on Sanibel knew that the Island wanted to control the causeway. Now they have voted to try to purchase it. I'm sure the County answer will be "FAT CHANCE". Comment: The island elitists are really showing their deep, dark desire to keep "main landers" off their island.
TUESDAY, JUNE 3rd CAPE LEADS LEE UPSWING The Lee County Property Appraiser has reported that Cape Coral property values increased 22.44% in 2002. This means millions of dollars in extra taxes to the City. Of course tax rates won't increase, but taxes will. Investors are in for a shock, in some cases taxes will increase 100%. I can't wait to hear the Investors scream when the proposed tax bills are sent out in August. Comment: With the extra revenues the City should fund new parks and services that were being held up because of the costs. I hope they are careful with their spending, some values will drop over the next 18 months.
SUNDAY, JUNE 1st COUNTY STUDY ON AGENDA City Council refuses to listen to it's own State Representatives. The Council has been told that there isn't a chance that the State would approve the formation of a new county. Comment: Here we go again! Instead of working to better the City, our Council insists on wasting time and money on a project that is DOA when the State gets it. How about sidewalks, that might be a better project. Our residents have to walk in the streets.
CHIQUITTA BLVD. BECOMES NEW MODEL ROW Chiquitta Blvd. is fast becoming the new model row in Cape Coral. For many years Cape Coral Parkway was the center for model homes. The area is built out and property became too expensive for many builders, so Chiquitta was the next choice. There are presently 53 model homes there. COMMENT: Chiquitta Blvd. will be a major thoroughfare. It doesn't make sense to have homes on this road. This is another Del Prado problem in a few years. Commercial property is needed in Cape Coral. I guess they haven't looked at Del Prado lately.
FRIDAY, MAY 30th SANTA BARBARA WIDENING The widening of Santa Barbara Blvd. is being scheduled as the next major City project. City engineers are planning the widening from 4 lanes to 6 lanes. This is a six mile stretch from Cape Coral Parkway to Pine Island Road. Start date is set for early 2005.
TUESDAY, MAY 27th CITY COUNCIL DISREGARDS MANAGER City building inspectors and plan reviewers got a raise larger than was planned. Our City Manager negotiated a settlement and presented it to the City Council. In another stupid move, they decided to not listen to the recommendations and gave out a raise much higher. Comment: Here's the problem, why hire a Manager if you belittle him in front of the employees under his control. The City Manager is going to be negotiating with other City Unions soon and now his hands have been slapped by our unprofessional avctions of the Council. If this conduct continues, soon, very soon, the City will lose another Manager.
SATURDAY, MAY 24th LEGISLATURE SAVES TRAUMA CENTER In a last minute move the State Legislature has found a way to fund our local Trauma Center. $4.5 million will be sent by the State from other trauma center funds. Lee County has the only trauma center from Tampa to Ft. Lauderdale. Voters turned down a proposition to fund $21million to the center.
CAPE PUTS PARKS AT TOP PRIORITY By increasing user-fees the City is hoping that they will be able to purchase more land for future parks. The City council made this a top project at a five hour meeting. A $35million bond issue was defeated in April.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 21st SANIBEL CAUSEWAY BICKERING CONTINUES The Sanibel residents want one thing, the County wants another. While the Causeway slowly rots and sinks into the Gulf, both sides are not budging on how to build the new bridge. This stubborn attitude has existed for 20 years. The supremacists of Sanibel want to keep the drawbridge, this way they can keep the slow traffic flow off their sacred island. 20 years have gone by, politicians are to blame. Instead of taking a stand against the residents and begin building the much needed bridge, they fear that they would lose support from 4000 residents. This is a perfect example of influence peddling by Sanibel Island. At one time they tried to increase tolls to $10.00 to keep us "townies" of their island. No way, those beaches belong to us, they are why we live here and we paid for the Causeway with our tax dollars.
MONDAY, MAY 19th CAPE CORAL COUNTY? City Council is looking into breaking away from LEE COUNTY. The City is tired of not being consulted on projects. The latest incident was the County picking a site by Mariner High School for a regional library when the City wanted it up North near the proposed Academic Village. Comment: The County doesn't respect the wishes of Cape Coral. We are 25% of the total population of Lee County and are not consulted on many projects. Most government services are in Ft Myers. Remember, it took 20 years of fighting to get the needed Midpoint bridge. It's a great idea to break away, but the City Council is not educated enough to run a County, they can't run the City what would they do with a County?
FRIDAY,MAY 16th STRATEGIC WORKSHOP SET City Council members are ready to meet and discuss future needs of CAPE CORAL. On the Agenda is the widening of Burnt Store Road to Charlotte County, removal of the boat lift in the Northwest and replacing it with a boat lock and the need for more parks.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 14th CAPE CORAL, LEE AND COLLIER COUNTY OFFICIALS MEET County and City officials are meeting to meet with Transportation Officials to discuss and plan the widening of Burnt Store Road. They are concerned that the widening is not on the 2025 list yet. The City wants to start the purchase of lots along the East side of Burnt Store Road and needs to know if the project will be moved up to a better date.
MONDAY, MAY 12th FLORIDA TOURISM RECOVERING After 9/11 Florida tourism took a big hit and has finally stated to recover. The State's No. 1 industry has recovered to 85%.
FRIDAY, MAY 9th NEW SANIBEL BRIDGE URGED Engineers are telling County official that the draw bridge leading to the Sanibel Island should be replaced immediately. County officials have been bickering with Sanibel residents for years over what type of bridge will replace the old one. It's taken so long that the bridges are falling into the Gulf and are unsafe.
TUESDAY, MAY 6TH LIBRARY SITE OK'd Lee County Commissioners approved a site adjacent to Mariner High School for regional library. Land swaps were part of the deal. City officials wanted the library to be built in the Northeast corner of the City.
FRIDAY, MAY 2nd GERMAN AIRLINES BRING FRANKFURT FLIGHTS BACK The strong EURO and renewed interest in CAPE CORAL has made Condor Airlines of Germany start direct flights from Frankfurt this weekend. The flights will be twice a week.
THURSDAY, MAY 1st LARGER GOVERNMENT DISTRICT POSSIBLE City Council and Planners are meeting to discuss the slow moving CITY CENTRUM PROJECT. Months ago the plan was scrapped and is back for review. The CITY wants a large area around City Hall to be rezoned to professional. It makes good sense, I don't know if they have enough support to get this project of the ground.
MONDAY, APRIL 28th NEW TV STATION OPENS IN CAPE In response to an ever-increasing demographic of Hispanics in Cape Coral, a new TV station catering to Spanish speaking residents will open soon. I question the motives of the owner of this channel. He is a noted REAL ESTATE promoter. I hope his ownership of this channel is not used to commercialize his property holdings. My guess it will be.
TUESDAY, APRIL 29th VISITOR NUMBERS DOWN As SW Florida's season winds down, many businesses are bemoaning the second season of lower visitor counts. It was evident all season. Lower bridge tolls, vacant hotel rooms and lower spending. Many believe that the combination of the war and the economy were the culprits.
AIRPORT PLANS AND INCENTIVES CONTINUE Free parking for people dropping off passengers is being continued and incentives for airlines to fly to Ft. Myers are paying off. The free parking is a temporary measure until the new terminal opens. Currently security check points are limiting access to the old terminal. New direct flights from the North are being established.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30th AREA BUILDER REPORTS SLOWER SALES War worries are being blamed for slow sales. WCI Communities reported net income down 37.6%. I believe that PRICE RESISTANCE is the reason with the war contributing to the slow down.
FRIDAY, APRIL 25th TOURISM DOWN FOR FEBRUARY and MARCH Terrorism, War and Economic conditions hurt the travel industry. Florida's economy has been effected more than others. Normal traffic fell 2.1%, spending fell by $2.2 million.
MONDAY, APRIL 21st LEE COUNTY QUANTITY, QUALITY ON COLLISION COURSE The recent population boom and projections of continued growth have many wondering how and what can be done to keep ahead of roads, schools and services. Planners are now working with the County to develop a comprehensive plan. Our growth has been so fast that the most recent plan is obsolete. Projections are 764,000 people by 2020, our present population is 475,000. Pretty impressive numbers and I feel the 2020 number is too conservative.
SUNDAY, APRIL 20TH PARK BOND MAY GET VOTE AGAIN City Council is trying to get the Park Bond back for another vote. City residents turned it down, but many believe lack of promotion and a low voter turn out are the reasons it failed. These voters that turned down the last bond are probably the same people that are the first to complain about juvenile crime. I guess they haven't figured it out yet, no parks and sports leads to kids with nothing to do and nowhere to go.
THURSDAY, APRIL 17th LEE, COLLIER AMONG NATION'S FASTEST GROWING Eleven Florida Counties are in the top 100 for fastest growing in the US. Lee County is 95th, Collier 54th. The rankings should serve as a reminder to the government leaders to solve already snarled traffic, crowded classrooms and water shortages.
REGIONS CRIME RATE DECREASES Southwest Florida fared a little better this year over last year. Lee County's crime rate declined 5.1%. Arrests increased while offenses declined.
SUNDAY, APRIL 13th A-PLUS BOND RATING Another positive bit of news, Cape Coral's Bond Rating was moved up to A-Plus. This will help the City borrow money at lower rates for future projects.
CAPE CORAL GETS TWO GOLF TOURNAMENTS It may not seem like such a big deal, but these tournaments used to be held in Ft. Dyers. It's a source of pride to have them move to Cape Coral.
SATURDAY, APRIL 12th LEE COUNTY JOBLESS RATE FALLS Our jobless rate fell to 3.9% from 4.5% in January. Well below the National average. More proof of how well our local economy id doing.
FRIDAY, APRIL 11th REGULATION MAY HURT CAPE GROWTH A panel of real estate and building experts have cautioned CAPE CORAL government to watch rising costs for impact fees, permits and taxes. Prices for these items are increasing at an alarming rate. Many believe it will hurt our economy which they believe has another 5-10 years of strong growth.
THURSDAY, APRIL 10TH MOVIE THEATER WAITING FOR PERMITS A slow permitting process has held up the company that is reopening our only movie theater. The company is planning on spending 2 million dollars to renovate it. Everyone is anxious to get the the theater open, it has been closed since October of 2001.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9th RED TIDE CONTINUES PLAGUING COAST Red tide has caused the deaths of thousands of fish. Now they are washing up on our beaches creating a smelly mess and a health hazard. Everyone is waiting for some wind changes to drive the Red Tide back out to sea.
TUESDAY, APRIL 8th CITY COUNCIL ELECTIONS EMBARRASSING Our City elections took place today. Only 10% of eligible voters turned out. Very embarrassing! I've tried to bite my lip when it comes to our politics. Every time I hear our City Council candidates speak, I want to go and hide. They are well meaning people, but tend to try to micro-manage the professionals that they pay thousands of dollars to do the job. They are not educated enough to have any idea on the running of a growing City. They should simply let the Managers know their concerns and have the professionals find the way to implement them. The elections brought a real surprise, a 32 year old baker defeated an incumbent. I now know that the voters in this city do not have a clue. That's not saying that the incumbent should have been reelected.
PARKS AND RECREATION BOND FAILS To add insult to injury, the voters turned down a bond issue that would have paid for future park and recreation projects. Everyone in this City knows that this is needed. We are far behind other cities our size in park development. As our City's median age turns younger, parks and recreational programs will be needed to fulfill the needs of teenagers and young adults. Without it, juvenile crime will climb.
COMPENSATION FOR MAYOR AND COUNCIL DEFEATED Our voters also turned down a raise for our Mayor and City Council. Great idea, don't pay the people anything, then complain about the level of government we have. FOOLISH!
FRIDAY, APRIL 4th LISTERS PLUS NEARS IMPORTANT GOAL This week we came closer to an important GOAL. The goal was to have all our staff to have REAL ESTATE LICENSES. After 4 years of training and schooling SAYO MEHMEDBASIC is now a REAL ESTATE BROKER. GINA BONACCI just passed her State Test and has become a LICENSED REAL ESTATE SALESPERSON. I am very proud of our staff and their accomplishments. With everyone being licensed, our office will be able to answer questions about REAL ESTATE. Two other people in our office have passed their School Tests and are awaiting the State Test. Our training program is working to keep knowledgeable agents on call, every day.
SUNDAY, MARCH 30th HOME SALES KEEP UP WITH 2002 PACE Cape homes sales in February matched 2002 with 213 homes sold. Local REALTORS point to this number and are pleased. I believe that this number will drop dramatically over the next 3 months. The WAR, the economy and price resistance will contribute enough negative energy to fuel a BUYERS MARKET. When prices fall far enough, the buying will start again.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26th LOCAL SERVICEMAN DIES IN IRAQ David Fribley, a Marine, was killed in an ambush. Our small community mourns his death and offers our condolences to his family and friends.
SATURDAY, MARCH 22nd RED TIDE LINGERING Lee County beaches are still be plagued with RED TIDE. Many dead fish are washing up on the shore and people that have respiratory problems are being told to stay away from the beach. Winds have kept the Red Tide close to shore. Turtle deaths are being linked to this outbreak.
FRIDAY, MARCH 21st JUDGE RULES AGAINST CITY RESIDENTS A State Judge ruled against residents that were trying to fight the cutting down of their citrus trees. The State will now go ahead with the tree removal. They are trying to contain an outbreak of CITRUS CANKER in CAPE CORAL.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19th FEBRUARY BUILDING PERMITS DECLINE Building permits declined more than the National average in Cape Coral. The WAR and high prices seem to be the reasons. After two very strong years, Buyers are waiting to see if the slow down will cause prices to decline.
SATURDAY, MARCH 15th CITY NO LONGER LILY WHITE Today the News Press reports that the minority populations , especially Hispanics, are beginning to swell. Most of the new residents are from the East Coast. Our low crime rate, schools and peaceful City is a big draw to them. Many minorities are happy that Cape Coral is loosing it's all white image. They believe that diversity will help the economy.
THURSDAY, MARCH 13th ORLANDO'S TOURISM EFFECTS LEE Lee County's tourism may be effected by the low attendance in Orlando. Disney and other theme parks are experiencing very low attendance. The normal pattern for tourists is that they visit Orlando, then head South to our area. The economy and the Iraq War seem to be the main reasons for the slow down.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12th DEL PRADO'S TRAFFIC RISES 5% Del Prado Boulevard is bustling with traffic. Up 5% this year, it's rivaling the very busy US 41 in Ft. Myers. City engineers are concerned because the increase is not from seasonal traffic, but from the increase in population. One section of Del Prado sees 53,800 cars per day.
WAR FEARS AFFECTS REAL ESTATE Another Real Estate "expert" gave this opinion today. In the second such seminar in a week, REAL ESTATE EXPERTS met to discuss the future of our market. They all agreed that the Iraq War has all investors staying on the sidelines. Comment: I agree with that opinion, but these "experts" seem to be forgetting that price resistance is also affecting our market.
TUESDAY, MARCH 11th CAPE PLANS SUIT OVER CUTTING HEALTHY TREES Angry residents appealed to the City for help. The State sent out notices that they were going to cut down all citrus trees in a radius around Canker infected trees. That would affect 4500 citrus trees, all on private property. The City is arguing that many of these tress are perfectly healthy and is planning a lawsuit to stop the trees from being removed.
MONDAY, MARCH 10th IMMIGRATION AND NATURALIZATION CHANGES PLAN The INS SERVICE has withdrawn plans to change B-2 Visas to one month in stead of six months. Comment: This great news for the REAL ESTATE market, Cape Coral and all of Southwest Florida would have been hurt if the one month rule was past. Many Europeans were worried that they would not be able to use their homes in Florida. Now with the EURO higher and this ruling, we should see more foreign activity.
STATE CRACKS DOWN ON TITLE COMPANIES The Florida Department of Financial Services is investigating title companies that pay for a REAL ESTATE OFFICES advertising as an incentive or an inducement for referrals. Comment: I have questioned this practice right along. Many offices refer to the Title Companies that help pay for general advertising. In essence they are paying for the referral. In best Title Companies do NOT get involved with this type of promotion. It all goes back to my stand that no incentive, other than the highest professional service, should be a consideration. In many cases, the worst offices offer the incentives and if they get the title work, do a disservice to both the BUYER and SELLER.
SATURDAY, MARCH 8th FUTURES CAPE TO MEET On Tuesday a meeting is planned to discuss the future development of the PINE ISLAND CORRIDOR. Community leaders, developers and citizens will be able to listen in and comment on how to make the process of developing the corridor run as smoothly as possible.
THURSDAY, MARCH 6th COUNTY TAX RATE MAY RISE After 5 years of no property tax increases, the County may be forced to increase taxes. Cutbacks from the Federal and State government of funding are being blamed for this increase.
TUESDAY, MARCH 4th CAPE OWNED PARKING LOTS A LIABILITY Cape Coral wants to give away some land for free! But there's a catch. The land can only be used as a parking lot. It seems that the City doesn't want the liability of maintaining designated parking lots in some under developed areas of town. The City is asking the property owners of lots around these parking areas to take over the ownership and maintenance. Comment: This is a poor idea, I'm sure that years from now they will kicking themselves for this idea.
SUNDAY, MARCH 2nd GROUND BREAKING Ground breaking ceremonies were held for the construction of Trafalger Elementary School. It's being built next to Trafalger Middle. Two other schools will be started by May.
BUILDERS REPORT Analysts and Builders report that they believe that Lee Counties BUILDING BOOM has hit it's peak. High priced land and homes are the first to feel the slow down. There is concern that this could trickle down to lower priced property. Inventories are high and demand is low. Comment: Where, when and who told you this would happen?
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28th CAPE HOME SALES DROP For the first time in 2 years, Cape Coral home sales dropped 9% in January of 2003. Local "experts" feel that the BUYERS are concerned about the WAR. Comment: Sure everyone is concerned about the war, but don't forget that price resistance is the main reason.
CITRUS CANKER QUARANTINE ZONES The State of Florida has found more citrus trees with Canker and is expanding the quarantine zones to encompass the areas. Right now only the Southwest section of Cape Coral is involved.
GRAND OPENING The CAPE CORAL Library will host local children and parents to the new Art Gallery located inside the facility. The new art gallery was funded by local charities. Nice job and thanks.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27th LOCAL "EXPERTS" MEET A local meeting costing $25.00 each was attended by hundreds of REALTORS. The "experts" told the participants exactly what I've been saying since last Summer. These so-called "experts" are quoted as saying the "high end market is slowing". No kidding!
AND ON THE SAME DAY.... Builders of those "high-end" properties are saying that they are still busy and expect to have a better year than 2002. Someone better take them to the hospital and have them checked for drugs. One of the builders neglected to say that he had formed a medium to low price division, under another name, to keep his crews busy. The newspaper also quoted another "rocket scientist" REALTOR from Ft. Myers who said that Cape Coral's Waterfront would pull it through. How would he know! This is the same REALTOR that ignored Cape Coral for years.
AREA MARINE FORCES PROPOSE JOINT MEASURES The County, State, Federal and City Marine Patrols are thinking about joining forces to patrol our waterways. They believe by concentrating there efforts as one force, they will be a stronger deterrent to speeders.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26th CRIME RATE JUMPS 4.2% Although the Cape remains one of the safest cities in Florida, our crime rate has jumped 4.2%. Most point to the population increases and that most crime is minor. Still this is alarming to see. The Police Dept. is looking to add 17 new officers and recently increased the base pay to attract better candidates.
COUNTY TO SUBMIT MANATEE DRAFT Better late than never, Lee County submitted a protection plan for MANATEES. Of course, the fanatic Save the Manatee Club called it inadequate.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25th SANIBEL CAUSEWAY As if we didn't know that the causeway was falling apart, today photos were submitted to the State showing the corrosion. Once again the RUSH to fix something that should have been done years ago, will cost plenty. Sad part of all this is that it's all temporary and will be torn done when the new bridge gets the OK. It's a typical waste of money created by the poor government of our area.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20th CITY PURCHASES ACADEMIC VILLAGE LAND Cape Coral City Council has voted to purchase the land for the planned Academic Village. The 171 acre property is the next step in their effort to get a college or university to move to the Cape. Comment: Some believe that the City paid too much. If they would plan better, they could have paid half the price. It's so typical!
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19th SCHOOLS PLANNED Three new schools are being built in Cape Coral. Fifty eight in the County over the next 5 years. Comment: I believe that more schools are needed in Cape Coral. Once again, the Cape gets the short straw.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18th BUILDERS SHOWCASE 2003 OPENS Cape builders stated their yearly showcase of homes. Large crowds are reported at the sites. It seems that interest in new homes is still strong. Comment: High end home sales are flat right now, but midrange homes are still selling. Much like the lot market.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14th CANDIDATES FOR CITY COUNCIL DEBATE This Spring Cape Coral will have elections for City Council. Some old faces are trying to get on the council. Comment: I've watched our council membership change for the better, always hoping that the Cape could keep progressing. Old councils were the worst bunch of boobs I've ever seen. I really thought that new candidates would emerge to challenge the incumbents, but it seems that we will be taking a step backwards if we vote in the collection of losers that are running. That's right, I do not want any of the past members voted back in.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12th CAPE POLICE GET RAISES With increased population a well deserved raise is being given to our police force. Starting pay rose by $7,453. The raise was needed to attract officers to join our force.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 10th GATED COMMUNITY APPROVED West Cape Estates, a gated community was approved by the planning and zoning board. The site is located in the Northwest at Tropicana and Old Burnt Store Road.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8th NO MANATEE NEWS! For what ever the reason, there was NOT any MANATEE news for the whole week. I hope this means that all the controversy is going through a cooling off period. It's been really hectic over the last few weeks. WATER QUALITY IN CANALS DECLINES The water quality in our Gulf Access Canals was rated as poor by a group that voluntarily monitors canal water. Water quality was rated in Freshwater Canals was rated as fair. The quality overall was rated as fair but the group warns that the next reading may show poor for both. Comment: In the alerts section of the newsletter, I warned that the City must keep an eye on water quality. Nobody wants to live around polluted canals.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7th LISTERS PLUS NEARS GOAL For years I wanted an office where all the employees are either Licensed Broker or Licensed Sales Associates. As of this week two more of our assistant have passed their school tests and are waiting for the State tests. I require a minimum of six months training as an assistant. In this way I'm confident that they understand what I want from them and how to treat our clients. We do not hire people from other offices. It's too hard to break the bad habits learned from other offices.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6th LEE TOURISM UP Tourists visiting LEE County are arriving in record numbers. Numbers just out have the count for 2002 at 126,000 visitor spending $75.5 million dollars. Not bad for a area that doesn't have a major draw like a theme park.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 3rd FEDS RECOMMEND PROTECTION PLAN The FEDS were in town to speak to City and County officials about Manatee protection. They are recommending that a protection plan be put into place and promised that restrictions on docks will be eased if a plan is adopted.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2nd CAPE CORAL 2ND SAFEST CITY IN FLORIDA For cities with more than 100,000 residents, Cape Coral came 2 versus the top thirteen cities. Credit our police department for their fine law enforcement.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29th CITY AND DEVELOPERS MEET TO DISCUSS PINE ISLAND ROAD Government and private developers with commercial interests expressed the Councils decision to hold of on the implementation on the corridors master plan. Certain parts of the proposed plan are turning investors away. Stringent guidelines on the size, style and type of construction will be changed.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 28th CITY TAKES OVER YOUTH CENTER CONSTRUCTION Acting on a plea from a key board member for more funds, the City has agreed to take over the final stages of the construction for the youth center. Over $700,000 has been spent, most of the funds were raised by the private community. Additional expenses to complete this very important project will run $650,000.
EURO REACHES 3 YEAR HIGH The news of the EURO being high against our dollar is music to Florida and Cape Coral's ears. For the past few years European investment turned sour when the Dollar was high. 9/11 didn't help and restrictions for foreign travel from the INS added to the down turn.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 26th CORNERS ON VETERANS PKWY HOT AREAS Now that Veteran's Parkway is completed to the Northwest, developers are predicting an explosion in commercial construction, especially at main corners. Many major chains are planning to build large shopping centers to support the expected surge in population.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 24th MULTI COUNTY AGENCIES DISCUSS BURNT STORE CORRIDOR The first of many planned meetings took place today. The Burnt Store Road corridor is very important to Lee and Charlotte Counties. The groups hope to get a plan together so that development will not get ahead of road widening. If you've ever driven on Burnt Store, you can understand how dangerous and antiquated the road is.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 23rd DOWNTOWN MIXED USE APPROVED Cape developers are thrilled with the City's decision to allow mixed use in the downtown district. Retail and professional offices on ground floors and apartments or condos above will guarantee the plans for downtown will go forward.
MONDAY, JANUARY 20th SANIBEL CAUSEWAY CLOSED To allow for emergency repairs to be done, the causeway will be closed until TUESDAY morning. Inspectors found large cracks in the causeway bridges last week. The County has been planning to rebuild the bridges for years. Problem is that SANIBEL residents raise a stink every time new proposals are submitted. Remember these residents do not want traffic on Sanibel, so all proposals are delayed. Maybe after this closing, they'll get something done before a major catastrophe takes place.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 19th LESS SNOWBIRDS The Chamber of Commerce is blaming the economy for the fewer than normal winter residents. Many businesses depend on their yearly visit. The good news is that the amount of money spent will be about the same. So, less Snowbirds, same amount of money!
CLEVELAND INDIANS IN 2005 Another major league baseball team is close to signing a deal with the City of Fort Myers. Everyone is positive that the deal will be made. This would make Lee County the Spring Training home of the Twins, Red Sox and Indians. Match that!
FRIDAY, JANUARY 17th DESPITE PROTESTS EXPANSION OK'd A group of residents had there protests of UTILITY EXPANSION turned back by City Council. They complained that their property values would be affected. Comment: I don't know where these people get their information. Lots with full utilities are selling at a premium and are in demand.
CHANTRY CANAL PROJECT IN LIMBO City Council is deadlocked over the high rise project. The Mayor wants the project because it adds $8 million dollars in tax base. The hold up is that 2 acres of parkland is needed to help the developer meet zoning requirements.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 16th NEW TOOL FOR RED TIDE TESTING Mote Marine laboratory is testing a device to monitor levels of RED TIDE in the Gulf of Mexico. If the device works properly, it's going to make early detection easier. Cities will be able to prepare for fish kills coming up on beaches and for posting warnings in advance. The RED TIDE is a natural phenomenon that appears as an algae bloom that releases powerful toxins that renders shellfish inedible, can kill fish and cause irritations in humans.
COURT UPHOLDS CANKER LAW A Florida appeals court decision opened the door for thousands of citrus trees to be chopped down. Property owners plan an appeal.
MONDAY, JANUARY 13th CAPE CORAL ART FESTIVAL This weekend Cape Coral Parkway was closed for the Art Festival. I attended both days. Everyone involved should be very proud of the fine professional show. In years past, I was disappointed in the show, but this year I walked away highly impressed with the show. Well Done!
SUNDAY, JANUARY 12th HOME SALES JUMP Even though the national trend continues to show a slowing of sales, CAPE CORAL once again showed a jump in home sales at years end. 2002 will go down as a record year, many agree that 2003 will not be as active.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 10th ANOTHER FISH WARNING Newspaper headlines once again contained warnings about consumption of fish caught locally. Mercury levels are climbing, so the health department issued the warning. Comment: In my alerts section, I warned of pollution being a concern. Constant monitoring is needed to find where pollutants are coming from. Simply issuing warnings will not correct the problem. The polluters must be caught and prosecuted.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 9th CAPE YOUTH CENTER NEEDS CASH The Youth Center is nearing completion, but is running low on funds. Organizers say that $500,000 is needed to complete the project. The funds for this project came from donations from local businesses. Residents and civic leaders are being asked to contribute again. The 1.5 million dollar shell is up.
RUBY TUESDAY and MAC DONALD'S TO OPEN Two restaurants have decided to join TARGET and PUBLIX at the Midpoint Shopping Center.
LEE WORKS TO SIMPLIFY BRIDGE TOLLS The County transportation department is reviewing options that will speed up and simplify bridge toll collection. Their goal is to speed up the process and end the bookkeeping needed for the different pay programs now in effect.
RESIDENTS HELP CLEAN CAPE Ahead of the CAPE CORAL ART FESTIVAL this weekend, residents joined with City workers to clean up the downtown area. Nice touch!
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8th HOUSING PERMITS UP Housing permits are still on the rise, but the dollar amount has decreased. Report still shows our market red hot.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 7th COUNCIL OKs TARPON POINT CHANGES City Council approved the request to increase the amount of stories from 18 to 24 on Tarpon Points high rise condos. They requested the increase to eliminate one high rise, making the total three. Estate homes will be taking the place the high rise.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 2nd CAPE CORAL PARKWAY NEAR COMPLETION After years of planning and messed up traffic, completion of the extension and widening is very near completion. The new road will allow easy flow of traffic for the fast growing Southwest.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 28th HOME SALES GAIN The US home builders reported a 5.7% increase, while CAPE CORAL reported a 20% increase.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27th SUBCONTRACTORS and BUYERS LEFT OUT IN THE COLD The bankruptcy hearings for Starlight Homes has not given much hope to 60 home buyers that have partially finished homes. Subcontractors received the same bad news as everyone else. Comment: Be very careful who you pick to build. All builders are NOT the same. Busy does not mean profitable.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24th CITRUS QUARANTINE GOES INTO EFFECT A 4 mile square of CAPE CORAL is being quarantined, so that the citrus canker that has infected trees can be controlled. So far 129 trees have been removed.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 23rd CAPE ANNEXATION DRAWS CONCERN The Planned annexation by CAPE CORAL of an area West of CAPE ROYAL has raised questions from Pine Island residents and their Fire Department. The Cape is attempting to annex many small parcels that should be part of the city.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22nd REAL ESTATE EXPERTS WARN OF TRENDS Recent meetings of leading real estate analysts have brought out the importance of knowing how trends effect sales and prices. With the softening of the high end market, they recommend that if the market starts trending lower investors should curtail purchases.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20th CAPE CORAL PUSHES FOR NEW LIBRARY SITE City Council is trying to get Lee County to change their minds on the location of a regional library. Mariner Middle School is the County's choice, but the City wants the library in the proposed Academic Village.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17th CAPE COUNCIL APPROVES HIGHER IMPACT FEE Against the wishes of builders and some residents, City Council has voted to increase park impact fees from $453 to $1115 per house permit.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 16th GINA BONACCI GRADUATES One of our own, Gina Bonacci graduated from Florida Gulf Coast University yesterday. Gina has been in training for six months at our office. Her major was in business. She also won a business planning and development award from the University. Gina has enrolled in a REAL ESTATE SCHOOL and will become an agent in our office in February. We are thrilled to have her.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14th CORALWOOD PLAZA TO REOPEN THEATER The new owners of CORALWOOD PLAZA are making plans to upgrade the seating and sound system of our only movie theater. They promise it will be a "state of the art" facility.
LEE COUNTY TRIES TO LURE CLEVELAND INDIANS County government is working with builders and developers to propose a plan to the Baseball Cleveland Indians. They are proposing an area close to the RED SOX training camp. If this deal is made, Lee County will be home to three teams for Spring Training and help the ailing Ft. Myers economy.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7th CANKER QUEST SET TO RESUME Citrus officials start knocking on Cape Coral doors, Monday. The are armed with 778 search and seizure warrants. The warrants were issued to residents that were not home when inspectors came to their door or refused to let inspectors on their property. Citrus canker is a very serious threat to our citrus industry.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6th BURNT STORE ROAD TASK FORCE FORMED A task force from LEE and CHARLOTTE counties was formed to plan and discuss the eventual widening of BURNT STORE ROAD. With traffic increasing in the NW, the time frame will certainly be moved up.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 2nd AVA MARIA UNIVERSITY CHOOSES COLLIER COUNTY SITE Ava Maria University has picked a site in Collier county to build a school and academic village. Thomas Monaghan, the founder of Domino's Pizza is endowing the new school with $200 million. A town will be built around the complex.
CANADIANS COOL TO DOLLAR EXCHANGE RATE Some Canadian snowbirds have delayed or canceled their yearly trek to SW Florida. There dollar is worth 60 cents and many cannot afford to travel and live here for the Winter.
FARMER'S MARKET OPENED FOR THE SEASON The popular Farmer's Market opened at a new location, SE 11th Place. All kinds of produce and flowers are presented in a open market.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27th MARINER SITE OK'd FOR LIBRARY County Commissioners voted to proceed with plans to establish a regional library alongside Mariner High School. City officials were hoping that they would wait and or consider a location in the Northeast.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20th ACADEMIC VILLAGE PROPOSED City Council wants to buy vacant land in the Northwest Cape and transform the parcel into a ACADEMIC VILLAGE featuring a HIGH SCHOOL, LIBRARY and a UNIVERSITY. The biggest problem right now is where do they find the funds to purchase the property. The property is located next to a proposed 400 acre park and would be a perfect fit for the area.
CAPE MUST WAIT The Redevelopment Agency got some bad news Tuesday. It will take at least a year before new building regulations can go into effect. The City Planner is buried in new projects and cannot get to the project.
ANOTHER BUILDER TROUBLED The City Building Department has been receiving complaints about another builder. Risley Construction has been taking deposits and draws from consumers and then not starting construction. I warned everyone that builders from the EAST COAST would cause problems and they have. Be careful!
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19th CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT RE-ACCREDITED Our POLICE Department has fulfilled 443 requirements and has been re-acredited by a monitoring agency. I believe we have one of the finest forces around. Look at our low crime rate.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11th, Veteran's Day MANATEE PROTECTION Vs PROPERTY RIGHTS There has been a "call to arms" this past week. We are all waiting to see and hear what is going to be done about the proposed seawall moratorium.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 6th JEB BUSH WINS BY LANDSLIDE The President's Brother Jeb BUSH won easily over Bill McBride and will be our Governor for a second term. Now we can watch TV without seeing 20 political ads. I'm glad Jeb won, he's shown interest in Cape Coral over his first term and understands our concerns.
BAD NEWS, Our US SENATOR is from the EAST COAST The race was very close, but a EAST COAST resident won. Everyone fears that our coast will be lost and forgotten by this new SENATOR. The EAST COAST'S problems are exactly the reverse from the WEST COAST.
HALF CENT SALES TAX AMENDMENT WAS DEFEATED An attempt to increase our sales tax to support our trauma centers was defeated. The reason was simple, the trauma centers needed 5 million dollars, the tax would have raised 30 million dollars. Voters couldn't figure out where the rest of the funds were going, so they voted the amendment down.
CLEAN AIR AMENDMENT PASSED An amendment to prohibit smoking in all public areas and restaurants passed.
PREGNANT PIG AMENDMENT PASSES Yes Folks, we needed a State Amendment to protect pregnant pigs.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5th, ELECTION DAY CITY COUNCIL APPROVES NEW CRA DISTRICT The fate of the blighted industrial park got a needed boost when the City Council voted to allow neighborhood improvement districts within the City. This is a welcome change that will help the industrial park property owners to fix up their properties with direction and help from the city.
SUNDAY, November 3rd RESIDENTS COMPLAIN ABOUT MODEL HOME Residents along Ceitus Parkway in the Northwest Section of the Cape are fighting a proposed Model Home being built on their street. Standard complaints, traffic, crime and lowering their property values. Comment: Once again, legal uses of property bring out the "not in my back yard" residents. It's so predictable, where would they like a model home to be built, on a busy commercial highway?
VA EXPECTED IN CAPE CORAL The Veterans Affairs Department is opening an office in Cape Coral. It will be located in our new City Hall. The office will open in January of 2003. Cape Coral Veterans will meet with the Director to discuss other services needed in the Cape.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26th VERY QUITE WEEK No real news, residents still complaining about the CRA development of downtown, citrus canker battle continues, the weather continues to be hot and humid.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23rd LISTERS PLUS POSTS RECORD SALES It's FACT! Our accountants have just compiled our sales since January 1st, 2002 up to October 20th, 2002. LISTERS PLUS REALTY was involved in 607 lot sales, totaling $10,867,224. Comment: I'm very proud of my office and staff, so please, excuse me for adding this into the news.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12th OVERPRICED HOMES AND REAL ESTATE? Real estate prices are outpacing income levels in Cape Coral. An analyst says that in a survey he found that prices were 31-48% overpriced. Putting us in the company of Boston, New York City and Fort Lauderdale. Comment: Remember what I've been telling you all for months. Rising prices are great until they make everything unaffordable. That's when price resistance will step in and buyers will negotiate harder or simply walk away.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9th THE CAPE AND COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT PROPOSE PARTNERSHIP The Cape's desire to add more parks may get a boost if they can come to terms with the school district. By joining together a high school will be built and the land next to it designated a park. This would allow the District and City to share the upkeep, saving both money.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8th POLICE ADDED TO CAPE'S FORCE This morning, 13 new police officers were sworn in at City Hall. The police were added because of the fast growth of our population.
NEW SCHOOLS, STUDENTS TO START IN PORTABLES In an attempt to ease overcrowding in our schools, the School is proposing "portable" classrooms. Three new Cape schools could be opened next August. Comment: Poor planning punishes the kids while the District argues over money. Go into one of those portable "boxes", it will make you sick.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5th WHERE ARE UTILITIES GOING NEXT This week City Council decided to extend utilities into Unit 93. That seems OK, except if you live there and were told that it would be 2-3 years before that expansion. Now residents that just built homes will be required to hook up. Cost to them $28,000. This is the kind of indecision on the Cape that makes us look silly and stupid. The answer is to set a schedule and stick to it.
UNIT 63 PROPERTY OWNERS WANT ANSWERS Unit 63 residents are upset with the Cape. They have been promised utilities and are still being skipped over. Water and sewer were supposed to be installed by 2003-2004. Currently Unit 63 is scheduled for 2005. Residents are concerned about the cost rising and want utilities now.
DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT CHALLENGED Some residents and property owners on the fringe of proposed boundaries are concerned with noise, traffic and commercial development. I live in the proposed area. I support this development. Yes, there will be noise and traffic, but how exciting to live close to restaurants and stores that you can walk to. All that they are doing is stalling the inevitable. Our City is growing up, let it.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4th UNITED STATES UP 4%, CAPE CORAL 42% Cape Coral reported that housing permits were up 42%. There isn't any question that current low interest rates are fueling the growth. Any wonder why lots are selling so well.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3rd VETERAN'S MEMORIAL PARKWAY TO OPEN OCTOBER 16TH The county will officially open the long awaited extension to Burnt Store Road. Residents will shave 20 minutes off a trip to Fort Myers. Look for commercial construction to start right after the opening.
SEXUALLY ORIENTED BUSINESS REJECTED Planning and Zoning took a stand and turned down a Video VIEWING Store featuring Sex toys, booths and videos. Parking was the way they stopped this business, but the City should take a stand against this type of business. Who needs the kind of clientele it would bring.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27th RECORD HOME SALES IN THE US The US home market is strong. If that is true, then we are super strong. Low mortgage rates has pushed home construction further than anyone can believe. The only fear is that the US economy goes into a deep recession and many home owners will not be able to pay for their homes.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26th DELINQUENT FEE FORECLOSURES The CAPE will begin foreclosing on properties, including homes, that have not paid their assessment payments. As soon as that is complete, then storm water will be addressed.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25th CLAY TENNIS COURTS ON THE CAPE A developer has purchased a 9 acre sit at Chiquita and Pine Island Road. He plans on building 10 clay courts and a health facility. Zoning has been approved and construction will start immediately. The tennis courts should be ready within 4 months. Comment: It was embarrassing that a City in FLORIDA did not have tennis courts. I believable that this project will save the City plenty and they should subsidizes this project.
INTEREST BUILDS IN DOWNTOWN CAPE New rules on construction are being considered. The reason is that many developers have interest in building there. Underground utilities, relaxed on site parking restrictions and allowing and encouraging multiple storied construction are a few ideas.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22nd OLDER HOMES BEING REPLACED Many riverfront and gulf access homes are being purchased and then torn down. In their place new homes worth millions of dollars are being built. There was some activity like this back in 1991, but nothing like now. CITY ELECTION SET FOR THE SPRING City elections for 4 out of 5 council seats will be in the spring of 2003. Many are looking for some new faces to gain council seats. The City needs some fresh ideas to government.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24th WARRANTS ORDERED TO CUT TREES The State is issuing warrants to get home owners to let the state cut down citrus canker trees on their property. Many residents refused to allow the removal voluntarily. Citrus canker has been found on 85 properties so far. SELF MAGAZINE Self magazine proclaimed that Cape Coral-Ft. Myers is the "fittest city in the US". I question there the thinking behind the report, but we will take the notoriety.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21st HURRICANE ISADORE This is our big story for the week. Presently it's going West and will not threaten us, but once it gets into the Gulf, look out. Hurricanes have a history of going exactly in the opposite direction that the experts predict. We'll be watching! LEE COUNTY JOBLESS RATE JUMPS TO 4.2% Last year at this time the jobless rate was 3.5%, well below the National average. I'm not concerned by the increase, most of the jobs are associated with the travel and leisure segment. I'm sure that Cape Coral's jobless rate is less than 3%. NATIONAL HOME BUILDING SLOWING This week the housing industry announced a 2% drop in new home sales. CAPE CORAL has not reported yet, I'll bet they report increased sales once again. When it comes to home building we cannot be matched.
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 19th CAPE 2003 PROPERTY TAX RATE UNCHANGED City Council voted to hold the line on taxes by leaving our rate at $5.8033 per $1,000. Of course, property taxes are increasing because of the increase in assessments. This follows the COUNTY announcement that the property taxes will stay the same. FLORIDA'S GOAL TO STAY GRAY A group called DESTINATION FLORIDA is pushing for a more aggressive advertising campaign to keep retired persons coming to the State. Great reason, they don't cost us anything and don't fill our schools. COMMENT: This mentality is sickening, how about bringing light industry to help with the tax burden, stop looking to use retired for an income.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18th COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD WANTS LAND FOR SCHOOLS This week word came out that the School Board is looking for sites in CAPE CORAL. It seems that they waited too long to make land purchase decisions and the properties were sold to someone else. LISTERS PLUS has been hired to find new sites.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14th CAPE COUNCIL DEBATES PARK PLAN City Council argued over how to pay for new city parks. They couldn't agree on when to start an already approved $70 plan for land purchases. COMMENT: As the city grows, our City government must start giving the people a place to enjoy life's simple pleasures. They must stop arguing on who will pay for services that are expected by it's citizens i.e.: parks, tennis courts, boat launches, swimming pools, public meeting facilities. Do something with all that extra cash from increased property values.
CAPE'S GROWTH SHIFTS INTO HIGH GEAR A recent article in our daily news, estimates that 1100 people move to CAPE CORAL every month. That's why so many new projects are being proposed. The article mentions that BJ'S WAREHOUSE, A RESORT HOTEL and WALMART have committed to build.
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 7th CITRUS CANKER PROBLEMS INCREASE 2000 citrus trees may have to be destroyed. As the investigation widens, more and more trees are being found with the disease. Many residents do not want there trees destroyed and are looking for alternatives.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5th NEW GATED COMMUNITY GETS OK Heatherwood Lakes homes are expected to range from $175,000-$350,000. It will be located just below Trafalger Middle School. The project will have 149 homes and feature a lake view from most homes according to the developer.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4th FEW COMMENTS MADE AT BUDGET HEARING Residents had a chance to offer input and make comments on the proposed budget for the new fiscal year, but only a handful chose to do so. City Council tentatively approved the mileage rate of 6.3745, $209 million total budget.
CAPE GEARS UP FOR NEXT UTILITY EXPANSION City Council will be asked to approve the design budget for the Southwest section of CAPE CORAL. With this approval the fastest growing areas will have water, sewer and irrigation.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 31st CITRUS CANKER IN THE CAPE The dreaded citrus canker was discovered in CAPE CORAL last week. It was thought to be a isolated case, but this week more trees were discovered and the investigation may encompass the whole city. All trees with the disease will be destroyed, stripping some homes of the beloved fruit trees.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 30th MANATEE TRAIL DEFENDANTS QUESTION STATE MAPS Attorneys representing themselves have challenged the recent MANATEE RULINGS believe that maps used for tracking and locating the animals are flawed. SEE ALERTS SECTION!
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28th NEW FIRE CHIEF NAMED CAPE CORAL has picked one of it's own to Fire Chief. Bill Van Helden has been acting fire chief since January. Congratulation to the new chief and to the City Father's who picked someone from within.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 27th CAPE GIVES ENTRADA COMPLEX APPROVAL The largest subdivision in CAPE CORAL'S history got a boost when the CITY COUNCIL gave approval for the 670 acre parcel. ENTRADA will feature European design, 1400-1700 residences, a walk over of Del Prado Blvd, commercial and all professional services. CAPE CORAL BECOMES 12TH LARGEST CITY IN FLORIDA Our 113,253 residents pushed us passed CLEARWATER. Our population has grown 10.7% since 2000. Right now the City is experiencing it's largest growth rate in our short history.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 24th RETAILER, RESTAURANT OPENINGS SET RECORDS Connie Barron, a city spokesperson, reports that the new "chain stores" and restaurants that opened recently, all set National records. Good news for the CAPE, other "chains" watch this activity and will want to be part of this area. This goes to show how "hard-up" we have been. It's nice to be able to stay in the CAPE for shopping and entertainment.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 21st $2 MILLION DOLLAR YOUTH FOOTBALL COMPLEX TO OPEN Lee County is getting ready to open this beautiful youth complex in North Ft. Myers. Kids from CAPE CORAL will be able to play there also. Great news for our kids.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 20th CAPE TO LOOK AT PARKLANDS PURCHASE City Council is still struggling with a way to pay for park sites. The increase in property value has cost them over 2 million dollars, because prior Councils decided to wait. An increase in impact fees has been suggested. Comment: The CAPE is growing quickly, tax receipts are up, why don't they simply "bit the bullet" and buy the sites now. There will be plenty of residents to pay for the parks with their property taxes. The City must start "giving" to it's resident.
MONDAY, AUGUST 19th PROJECTIONS OF 401,000 BY 2080 A renowned expert in population growth made this prediction today at a Naples meeting. Comment: I believe this expert is wrong, the CAPE will build out long before 2080. The construction of new roads and the "Baby Boomers" retiring guarantee a quicker build out. GROWTH MODEL PREDICTS BOOM DECADE A recent study is being reviewed by City Council this week. The study predicts that CAPE CORAL will see rapid growth over the next ten years. Now planning for this growth is most important.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 17th CAPE CORAL HOME BUILDING Although new home sales declined in the US last month, CAPE CORAL bucked the trend and increased 17% over last years sales. 10.7% POPULATION GROWTH Cape Coral's population increased from 102,286 to 113,253 over the last 2 years. Will it ever end, I don't think so, we have too much to offer. COUNTY PLANS PURCHASE The County planners have agreed to purchase a strip of land 100 ft on each side of Burnt Store Road all the way to the Charlotte County line. They need the land so that secondary roads can be built, eliminating the need for access directly on to the widened road. LEE COUNTY UNEMPLOYMENT Our unemployment rate has held steady and is just under 4%. Pretty good when the national rate is 6%.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 10th. LEE COUNTY TO REVIEW CAPE BURNT STORE ROAD Commissioners are looking at moving the widening of Burnt Store Road up to a priority status. This may make the City eligible for a $2.7 million road disbursement from toll proceeds. Are we excited, you bet! Combine this with the Veterans Parkway Extension opening and the Pine Island Road plans and you'll really see this City grow in leaps and bounds.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 8th MAJOR DEVELOPER REVEALS PLANS FOR NORTHEAST CAPE Will Stout, our major successful mastermind, presented his plans for 670 acres in the Northeast Cape. The plan includes 1500-1700 homes priced from $149,000-$449,000. Parks, shopping and all services are on the drawing board. On the same day ZONING approved the rezoning for this project. Wow, what happened to the "sleepy, slow SUMMERS"?
SATURDAY, AUGUST 3rd TROY UNIVERSITY TO OPEN IN CAPE CORAL CITY HALL It's not reported in the papers today, but last night the Cape Coral and Troy University agreed on offering Masters Degree classes in our new City Hall. I believe this will be the first step in bringing the university into town. They have been looking at the Northeast Section for a permanent location. I knew something was up, lots in the NORTHEAST doubled in one day. Somebody knew what was going on. There aren't any particulars yet, I'll have to report at a later date. I can say that this will cap off a great Summer of positive news.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 2nd GOVERNOR BUSH VISITS CITY Governor Deb Bush spent a day meeting with local politicians and civic leaders. Living up to his promise to visit us, the Governor spoke about his support of the widening of Pine Island Road and expressed his disappointment over recent Manatee rulings. SUN SLASH PARK OPENS NATURE WALK The park will allow residents get back to nature to watch all of Florida critters and enjoy a peaceful setting. The park features a 1000 ft boardwalk.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 31st VETERAN"S EXTENSION PROJECT WELL AHEAD OF SCHEDULE It looks like OCTOBER 1st, will be the date of opening. That's 130 days ahead of schedule. If you thought the Northwest was booming, wait 'til this road opens. DAN ALEXANDER NAMED AS POLICE CHIEF The former assistant chief of Bacon Baton is our new chief. At 34, he will be the youngest chief the city has had. His youth may provide the voltage the position requires. Good Luck to him!
SATURDAY, JULY 27th CAPE WANTS I-75 PRESENCE City Government is upset that CAPE CORAL is not listed on signs along the Super Highway. They are pushing the DOT to give the City more respect, instead of tiny Naples. MANUFACTURING COMPANY TO OPEN IN CAPE A Canadian based company will be coming in the Fall. Panel Form Industries has selected a location on Pine Island Road. Yeah Baby! We are really moving!
THURSDAY, JULY 25th PARKWAY MOVES FORWARD The finishing touches are being put on CAPE CORAL PARKWAY, between Corned and Palm Tree. Residents are reminded not to get too comfortable, the next section of this 6 lane expansion will start soon. MAYOR CAMP CALLS FOR PARK IMPACT FEE BOOST The Mayor believes that impact fees must increase to stay ahead of our growth. He is proposing an increase in the impact fee. COMMENT: Although I do NOT agree with the Mayor on many issues, I'll back him on this one. Our City is far behind in parks. For example: We have 100,000+ people and 5 tennis courts.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 24th YOUTH CENTER CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT AWARDED Groundbreaking and construction on a much needed YOUTH CENTER. Bids came in much lower than thought. The building will cost 1.1 million. CAPE TAX RECEIPTS TO JUMP Cape Coral will collect 25% more in taxes, even if City Council approves a reduce tax rate. Residents are asking that more money be spent to develop other services. The goal is to make our City first rate.
TUESDAY, JULY 23rd GOV. BUSH TO VISIT CAPE CORAL It's been two years since his last visit. City Representatives want to convince him to put funding for PINE ISLAND ROAD on FAST TRACK status. It's amazing how our "little city" is getting "big time" attention.
MONDAY, JULY 15th "NOT IN MY BACK YARDER'S" ARE AT IT ONCE AGAIN Three projects have brought residents out to protest. #1 A group of residents are suing the City for approving the SAIL PORT project. #2. Lee County Cooperative is suing to appeal the City turning down a sub station that is needed in the fast growing SW section. Residents protests influenced their decision. Of course, if the residents had black outs, they'd sue the power company. #3. Zoning changes that are being considered by the City caused protests. Think about this, who would want to live on Chiquitta Boulevard? COMMENT: As the City grows, large parcels of land will be developed, power needs will increase and major roads have to be rezoned so that services can be brought in. Lawsuits are expensive, developers watch this kind of protest and will have second thoughts if they are successful. The protesters are NOT protesting that their property values have increased 40-90% in the last 2 years! MAJOR CHAINS EYE PINE ISLAND ROAD With the news of accelerated plans to widen Pine Island Road, national department store and restaurant chains are expressing a very high interest in locations along the road. Names such as Public, Al Mart and Carraba's Italian Grill are reported to be ready to build when the road is completed.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 10th SALES TAX PROPOSAL GOES TO VOTERS In November, Lee County voters will decide whether to pay an additional 1/2% to fund the count's emergency center network. Voters will be asked to approve this increase to fund our trauma center. If it should close, Tampa and Miami would be the closest cities with centers.
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