Leaders meet to weigh sales tax increase for Lee County road projects

LEE COUNTY, Fla. —

Leaders met to discuss the logistics of a proposed sales tax increase to fund 27 Lee County road projects, but are seeking more information before asking voters to approve the measure.

Three neighbors came out to the Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization to hear the discussion.

"It's outrageous for them and others to minimize this as only $0.01," said Dave Jaye from Bonita Springs.

Not everyone feels the same. Derek Felder from Lehigh Acres highlighted the limited major roads in his area, saying, "I'm in Lehigh, and there's very limited major roads to get in and out of Lehigh."

The Metropolitan Planning Organization discussed the potential surtax to fund projects like widening Burnt Store Road, Sunshine Boulevard, and Corkscrew Road. Leaders looked at options for a 0.5% and 1% increase.

"I don't think there's anything wrong with asking the voters if this is something they'd approve because we are constantly behind making these road improvements," Fort Myers Councilman Fred Burson said.

Leaders noted that impact fees and gas taxes are insufficient to cover the costs of these projects. They decided to request more information and delay further discussion until state leaders decide on possibly eliminating property taxes.

"We just want to be able to present something with confidence that we are making a good business decision with taxpayer dollars," said Lee County Commissioner David Mulicka.

For people against the proposal, like David Jaye, the discussion being tabled was a win.

"Well, hooray! A delay is better than a vote for a tax increase," Jaye said.

However, Derek Felder emphasized the ongoing need for the tax, stating, "There's still a need for this 1% to move forward. The need is still going to be there regardless of what happens in Tallahassee with the ad valorem and all that."

Further discussions on the proposal are expected in the future.

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