Whiskey Creek homeowners question dredging project results

LEE COUNTY, Fla. —

Homeowners along Whiskey Creek are questioning the effectiveness of a dredging project approved in 2017, as they face fees and uncertain boating conditions.

Robert Moro, who has owned his home along Whiskey Creek for more than 15 years, said, "If I leave here, it's about a foot and a half on a good day."

Moro and other neighbors initially supported the dredging to make the creek deeper and easier to navigate with their boats.

Some residents disagreed with the project, but many believed it would enhance property values and provide other benefits. The idea was taken to commissioners and approved with a one-time assessment fee.

However, years later, boaters are unsure if they are receiving what they were promised.

Moro expressed his concerns, saying, "But it's still a little unnerving after the dredging and knowing I got a kind of check for 2100 and a chunk of change. I'm still having a little heebie jeebies as I get to that area. You know?"

Homeowners are puzzled as their boat monitors show only 2 feet of water during low tide, despite commissioners stating that the dredging was completed properly. The fee of $2,190 is being charged to over 350 property owners along Whiskey Creek.

These property owners have two options for payment: they can pay the fee in full within 30 days with no interest or finance the payments over seven years.

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