To the editor:

We have the opportunity now to move forward with UEPs in an orderly fashion.

1. Stop the current UEPs.

2. Provide a two-year window for all un-developed properties in areas not currently served by utilities to apply for building permits.

3. Upon receipt of permits provide a three-year window to commence construction.

4. After the five-year period place a moratorium on building in areas without utilities.

5. After the five-year period, begin the expansion in an area-to-area process filling-in before moving on to the next.

This will give current property owners time to recover from the economic mess.

It will direct growth to the areas currently served by utilities. It will increase home and land values in those areas. Fees will be collected from the permit and building process. Landowners outside of the utility area will need to wait if they do not participate in the five-year plan. The expansion areas could be re-drawn to facilitate commercial activity areas.

Let’s face it, there is currently no rush of people applying for permits to build. And if you’ve been sitting on some lots waiting for the prices to go up…well boys, that ship has sailed.

Tom Gamso

Cape Coral