To the editor:

I am writing this letter hoping we can find some information about the why the gas pumps were removed from the Center Citgo.The general store is still opened for business, but no gas. I believe that property is owned by Edison Oil. Are they going to be putting in new pumps?

I am concerned over the lack of availability of gas during the evacuation of hurricane season. As we all remember (or try to forget) the summer of ’04, there were lines at both the Citgo and the Circle K. Yes, the island is growing with new residents, visitors, and especially the recreational boating population.

Also, we have Pine Island’s commercial fishing industry trying to get gas. If you have been to the Circle K lately, there are lines to get to the pumps and if you want some entertainment just go and watch all the impatient people trying to be first. I have nothing against the Circle K, but I have to admit it is like a three-ring circus. I have heard of some people going late at night to get their gas so they can get to the pumps without a headache.

Don’t get me wrong, I am not advocating new development, but would like to see the property that has been traditionally a gas station servicing Pine Island (as far as I can remember over 36 years) doing just that. There is nothing wrong with a little competition and there is certainly enough business to go around.

In the ’70s there was Fred and Mary’s Texaco in Matlacha. In the ’80s there was the Center Exxon. In the ’90s there was the Center Citgo and the Grab Bag in Bokeelia. Now, we have one gas station on the island trying to service how many? Are we to lay awake at night during hurricane season worrying if there will be enough gas to get us all out of here.

I am asking our local newspaper to please keep us aware of what is going on.

Rhonda Dooley

Bokeelia