Collier County commissioners are set to approve a settlement this coming Tuesday that would resolve two lawsuits over the redevelopment of The Links golf course just beyond East Naples.
The agreement, shared on the upcoming Collier County Commission agenda , would allow the construction of 369 homes on the property along US-41 at a density of about 4.5 units per acre. The homes would include a mix of single-family and multi-family units.
The lawsuits, filed last year, accused the county of trying to take control of the property and Commissioner Bill McDaniel (District 5) of withholding public records. The settlement would also require the county to pay $250,000 in legal fees to the property owners.
The item is included on the commission’s consent agenda, meaning it will pass without discussion unless a commissioner pulls it for debate.
Golfer Reaction
The golf course has been a favorite spot for locals, due to its affordability, and public access. Many tell NBC2 News its closure will leave them scrambling to find affordable options.
“It’s very sad ... We come here twice a week with people from our condo. It’s reasonably priced, and we have a lot of fun. There are too many golfers for the courses here, and they’re very expensive in the wintertime,” said Bill Bley, a regular at the Links.
The next Collier County Commission meeting is on Tuesday, December 10th.