Matlacha residents protest Cape Coral’s annexation plans
Matlacha and supporter protestors took it to the Matlacha Bridge once again, in an attempt to let the city of Cape Coral know that they aren’t taking to the idea of annexation.
Cape Coral is planning to again pursue annexation of six lots the city owns along Pine Island Road in Matlacha. The city purchased the six parcels located on the eastern edge of Matlacha in unincorporated Lee County in 2012 as part of a then-controversial $13 million land buy of foreclosed properties that includes multiple parcels, including the Seven Islands site in the north Cape.
On Sept. 10, Lee Circuit Court Judge Keith Kyle “quashed” an annexation ordinance passed by the Cape City Council in 2016. The judges decision came after the Matlacha Civic Association asking for a legal review.
Karl Diegert, president of the Matlacha Civic Association, who came out to the bridge on Sunday to protest Cape Coral’s planned annexation of Matlacha, said the Matlacha Civic Association tries to be as sociable as they can, but will step up when they need to.
“Obviously, we’ve learned how to litigate,” said Diegert, against a backdrop of horns honking in unity, as drivers crossed the bridge in both directions, claiming that it’s the only language the city of Cape Coral seems to understand.
“In addition to the annexation, we’re also in the process of preventing (removal of) the Chiquita boat lock in southwest Cape Coral, which will devastate waterways, much like the Ceitus barrier in northwest Cape,” said Diegert. “We’re not going to let that happen.”
Many of the protesters wore matching T-shirts reading “Don’t Annex Matlacha,” while others held up signs with sayings such as “Just Say No,” “Stop Cape Coral” and “Just Leave Us Alone.”
People coming out to lend support to Matlacha residents in their desire to be “left alone” seem to be crossing bridges, to stand with them on theirs.