WINK is Listening today in Port Charlotte

Concerns vary from community to community, but many are also similar. 

Several WINK Listens attendees have expressed concerns over excessive building projects, inadequate road maintenance, and issues with code enforcement. 

"Too much construction. They're building too many homes and not enough roads, not enough infrastructure for that," said a concerned resident.

Ivia Garcia, a WINK Listens attendee, highlighted the road conditions.

"There's at least 30 potholes in a stretch of maybe less than a mile," said Garcia.

Jerry Campo, a crossing guard, shared his worries about safety at our event in Lehigh Acres. 

"Sooner or later, some kid's going to get hurt, God willing, it doesn't happen," said Campo.

John Ammons, another participant, explained his motivation for attending the event.

"I keep seeing the sound bite every time I watch the news, and there's that one part where Russ McCaskey says, let us know what's bothering and so there's something that just bothers me almost daily," said Ammons.

Ammons further emphasized the importance of bringing issues to light.

"I think about the stories that I've seen, and I go, if somebody had not brought that to your attention, through these listening, nobody would know. That's why I know I enjoy them. And again, it goes back to Russ saying, 'What bothers you?'" said Ammons.

The WINK News team is committed to listening and striving to get answers for the community, even if we can't promise a resolution to every issue. We want you to show up, sign up, and speak up.

"Can't hurt," said WINK News Anchor Chris Cifatte.

"That's why I came to you guys," said another attendee.

The one-on-one interactions with WINK News’ anchors and reporters provide a platform for residents to voice their concerns, even if not every question can be answered.

Mark Jackson humorously questioned, "Why didn't I win the lottery?"

Gary, another community member, remained hopeful for solutions.

The event underscores the importance of listening.

"I know you're here for us.. The weather, the concerns, and I appreciate it," said a grateful attendee.

WINK is Listening on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at the Event Center at Holy Trinity, 24411 Rampart Blvd., Port Charlotte. Our team is on location from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

On Friday, January 30, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Marco Island Center for the Arts will host WINK Listens. The address is 1010 Winterberry Drive, Marco Island.