To the editor:

The so-called “in-fill assessment” is the first sensible idea proposed. Two additional items should be added.

First, any properties outside of the in-fill areas could not be developed without paying the so called “capital reservation” fee. With this fee the cost to build would be the same throughout the city. (Actually, the cost to build outside of the utility areas would be higher when the cost of a well and septic system is added. Even more incentive to build on an in-fill lot.) Second, allow a 1-year grace period, prior to adding the fee, so lot owners would be enticed to build. (jobs)

The major problem all along has been these 16,000 in-fill lots. The wild growth that was allowed to happen in areas not served by utilities was fueled by the cost to build on the in-fill lots. With no incentives or penalties in place, the builders bought cheap lots in the NW & NE, the city played along collecting hefty permit, and impact fees and the future be damned! So here we are…

It is common sense to direct the growth into the areas served by utilities. Forcing additional expansion without utilizing the areas currently served is madness. “If you’re looking for gold, you gotta dig where it is.”

Tom Gamso

Cape Coral