Democracy Watch

Lee County commissioners discussed the $8.5 million Sanibel Causeway Islands Improvements Project at a recent workshop.The project will enhance both Island A and Island B using tourist development tax dollars and state funds. Enhancements include designated parking spots.

The City of Punta Gorda's controversial sign ordinance is being challenged in court. The ordinance bans indecent language on clothes and signs in public spaces, something that many residents believe infringes on their rights. Others just want vulgar signage kept off their streets and away from their children.

The island’s Beautification Advisory Committee (BAC) is starting a project to bring more trees on the island - 10,000 Trees in 10 Years.

Hispanics/Latinos make up the leading demographic for COVID-19 cases in Florida, According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC says Hispanics account for 24% of COVID cases, yet only 18% of the total population.

Port Charlotte used to be one of the more affordable gulf-facing communities in Southwest Florida, but these days the area is facing a shortage of affordable housing that is pushing people out.

In 2019, the Village of Estero bought the 62-acre quadrant of land on the northeast corner of Corkscrew Road and U.S. 41. This $24.5 million purchase is a way to protect the property along the Estero River and the river itself from commercial encroachment.

Collier County’s Supervisor of Elections Office publicly tested voting machines in preparation for the Naples city election Feb. 1.

A new business is set to join the Downtown Bonita Springs community in late 2022 — Rooftop at Riverside, a food truck park.

Dr. Joseph Mercola, the namesake of Mercola Market in Cape Coral, has been spreading misinformation online. What is the Cape Coral government doing about it?

Lee County Commissioners are looking to turn the tide on the county’s historically high manatee mortality rates and boating accidents through a new year-round speed-zone ordinance. 2021 manatee mortality rates in Lee County are projected to reach unprecedented levels according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).