Lely Golf Estates residents worry over potential sewage station odor issues

A neighborhood in Lely Golf Estates is facing uncertainty over a potential sewage lift station in their area.

Collier County bought a lot in 2012, which could be used for water or sewer infrastructure as the neighborhood expands.

Residents are concerned about the possibility of a sewage lift station, which they believe would bring unpleasant odors and large trucks into their community.

Lisa McGarity, a resident and former president of the Homeowner's Association, brought the issue to WINK News, hoping for some answers.

"Sewage stations really don't belong in the middle of subdivisions because... obvious reasons... they smell.. and big trucks.. and this is a subdivision. They belong in outparcels," said McGarity.

She has been advocating against the lift station since WINK News first covered the story in 2019.

"We think we can convince people that this is a bad idea this belongs on inappropriate piece of land on an out parcel or commercial," said McGarity.

Years ago, McGarity believed she reached a verbal agreement with Collier County to sell the lot.

"They've made two attempts..." said McGarity.

However, the county spokesperson confirmed there are no plans to sell the property. The spokesperson also mentioned that the lot is deeded to the Collier County Water-Sewer District, and the county's public utility director indicated it might be used for a sewage lift station to modernize the area's infrastructure.

"So really, in the time since we first talked to now, nothing has changed, except the county saying we're not selling," said McGarity.

Commissioner Rick LoCastro, who represents the district, said the issue predates his time in office. He expressed that he and county staff would share McGarity's concerns if a lift station were proposed for the lot.

"I hope that their water treatment sewage department will realize that there are better options," said McGarity.