“What Gives Collier County?!”

The theory or reality of Collier County’s decision making may result in implications of injustice brought on by the community of District 5.  All because of one man and a vision.

And the simple question is, why?

I think we all have an idea of what this blog is all about.  Yeah, that’s right, it’s the idea of the county taking the decision into their own hands to make damn sure a soccer complex comes forward as the citizens in District 5, after numerous meetings, have come to the conclusion that we have no desire for such a concept, and will stand by the fact that we deserve our Big Corkscrew  Island Regional Park.

Not only do we deserve a park, but District 5 earned it years ago as park impact fees came in at the amount of $23 million dollars over a 13 year time span. Then we all know the history of that.  That $23 million ended up in every other district but here!

Then over the past several years with the enlightenment that this park is next in line to be built, we get hit with yet another blow.  They now have changed their tune considering one mans idea, Jeff Butzke, which to this day has given no financial transparency, yet wants to build a soccer empire on the land ready and chosen for our park. Mind you, he knowing that the land is already zoned for parks and rec, he would be able to slide right in without any worries of rezoning.  Bypassing a growth management plan, community input, and more.

On top of that, there is yet another Parks and Rec site nearby totaling 47 acres that could be targeted for this as well.  That piece is there on the corner of 4th and Immokalee Road.  Or kiddie corner of the Mobil gas station on Randall and Immokalee.  Imagine his idea there?  That would be one hell of an eyesore as you enter the central area of the Estates.  The concept itself is great, but not on county land slated for the park in which we have worked so hard to keep moving along.  Sometimes I wonder if the western side of Collier County even gives a crap about how we feel?

Well, now ya know!

Clearly, Butzke can look elsewhere for his vision.  Simple as that.  The numbers are off the charts as to us accepting his idea.We don’t want it.  Just look at the page 5 on the template provided from public workshop that was held.

http://www.colliergov.net/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=56028

I ask now, of all of the county staff reading this, especially those at Parks and Recreation, our County Manager, and County Commission;  Let it go and give us our vision back.  A big and better vision. We need to get on track and think outside the box as to what could be the most beautiful thought out park in Collier County.

Look at North Collier Regional, the size, and how well thought out that park that has become.  With growth headed our way and the potential of our area to possibly bust at the seams down the road, we need a park as big as that and we have the land to do it.  If not more.

I will also be straight forward as to the feelings of our area. You all know more than anyone, I’m everywhere!  At the parks themselves with sports, schools with my kids, Student Advisory Councils, Civic, Fire Department, the future of our road network, land futures, and whatever else you can think of.  I hear it.  We don’t want what YOU want for this park.  We want what WE want.

So what do WE want as for our future park?  Some of these ideas come from the the website that County Staff put out for us.  They are all great ideas.

http://www.bcirp.ideascale.com

I want read and listen to what our community wants as far as this park goes.  Envision that large piece of land, more of a outdoors park, but still having the community center that hosts Pre-K programs, fitness center, a small gymnasium, and all kinds of sports.

Encourage outside vendors to contract out engagements such a reunions, weddings, graduations and more!  On top of all of that, picture in your mind, walking out of the community center, and be able to walk over to a nature trail leading to a path of beauty.  Paths you can stop at in certain locations and do an exercise station at certain points.  Paths that have you wandering around  corners, yet to see a small wedding going on with a beautiful gazebo all decorated so nicely, knowing their reception will be held right there at the community center, close to home.

After enjoying true amenities of this park, like the sports fields, the basketball, tennis,  the lake now becomes the the center of attention.  You see people soaking up the sun at the small beach, kayaking, fishing, canoeing, as a zip line soars thru the air above, similar to the TreeUmph! in Bradenton.  All in which can be rented at the Snack Shack on the lake.

Hmmm…..we need to name that lake?  That would be a fun to have everyone submit ideas to and pick.  I still call it the Honey Hole because it’s so sweet with bass.  Lol!

Across the lake, I see Kamp Kniola. ;)  A contracted out small campground located right next door to the stables.  All the cabins have been rented out, tents around, rock climbing, kids playing everywhere.  More than likely a graduation from the night before.  Beyond I see horses coming back in from a nice trail ride, getting ready to unsaddle as movie night by the campfire will soon begin.

Take a look at this concept our of Punta Gorda, it’s pretty neat.
http://www.weddingwire.com/biz/cypress-m-ranch-punta-gorda/55ec9c78353dcc3c.html

Moving toward Palmetto Ridge High, I see a swimming pool similar to the Norris Pool in Naples.   Can you imagine if both the school and the county came together  in a 50/50 split to provide this idea?  Or for the school itself to build it on county contracted land and have their own competitions from Immokalee, to Ave Maria, to Naples?  This is a huge door of opportunity for everyone!  Here is their site below.

www.t2aquatics.com

I could go on and on and on, but I think you see my point.  Actually it’s everyone’s point out here in District 5 that has brought this together.  A clear indication that is what we want, not what our government wants.  I do believe the community input should take precedence over government wants and needs.  Protocol, correct?

My Thoughts Exactly!

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