Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lee County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in water utilities
Lee County Utilities Rate Increase
Water and sewer customers will see a rate increase under the newly adopted LCU rate schedule, which passed 4-1. Staff says rates remain among the lowest in the region and the money funds capital projects.
Water and sewer bond sale up to $256 million
The county is borrowing up to $256 million to upgrade the South County and Fort Myers Beach water reclamation facilities. Bonds sell next month with a 6.5% maximum interest rate — costs flow through utility rates over time.
Wellfield backup generators with FEMA funds
$2.57 million in FEMA money will install 10 backup diesel generators at Green Meadows and Corkscrew wellfields so drinking water keeps flowing during hurricane power outages.
Water and sewer bonds for utility projects
The county set up to sell up to $375 million in tax-exempt bonds to pay off a line of credit and fund water and sewer projects, including major treatment plant upgrades.
Southeast county sewer capacity expansion
A $4.9 million force main along Alico Road will connect two treatment plants to the new Southeast Advanced Water Reclamation Facility, boosting reliability and treatment capacity.