Island time is slipping away
To the editor:
On March 17, at a Board of County Commissioners meeting attended by a overflow house of Pine Island residents, the board voted to grant authority to the County Attorney to hire a Tampa-based law firm to rewrite the long standing Pine Island Plan; a plan that, for 27 years, has protected our quality of life, our safety and the flora and fauna native to our island.
Many of the Pine Islanders addressed the commissioners about their concerns over safety and quality of life and about the infrastructure costs associated with large development. Curiously, except for a King Ranch attorney, no property owners/developers spoke to present their views.
In opposition to the majority of Pine Island property owners, the commissioners sided with a minority of property owners and a rewrite of the plan was approved. This was apparently out of fear of eight Bert Harris claims and the “intentions” of 51 other property owners (developers). Commissioner (Frank)Mann tried to make a motion that all the Bert Harris claims/intentions be evaluated for merit and potential award value prior to any decision to rewrite the plan (a sound business-sense approach as financial settlement of the claims may be cheaper than infrastructure changes). He also wanted Pine Island to have representation in the plan’s drafting, review and approval. Commissioner (Larry) Kiker also expressed his concerns and suggestions for additional study. It appears none of these actions will be taken.
So, as the BOCC and county staff begin to unwind the “Island Time” clock, get ready for increased residential development activity accompanied by the requisite infrastructure changes and commercial development. “The times they are a changin’.”
Contact the Commissioners and express your thoughts. Visit www.leegov.com/gov/Boardof-CountyCommissioners/Pages/default.aspx for contact information.
Ronald Lueth
Bokeelia