Happy 100 years to Collier County! I am honored to celebrate this huge milestone while serving as your Clerk and Comptroller.
This week, the City of Everglades started off on Saturday with the 95th Anniversary of the opening of the Tamiami Trail. The County had two special recognitions of the Centennial including a ceremony at the site of the original Courthouse at the current Everglades City Hall on Monday May 8th (the date we officially became Collier County), and a proclamation by the Collier County Board of County Commissioners at their regular Tuesday meeting, marking the 100th year anniversary.
Many thanks to our Deputy Clerks who joined the Centennial Committee and compiled stories, biographies, and even infamous court cases from our 100-year history for our display. Families, friends, and students can visit the Collier County Courthouse Atrium from May 8th through July 10th to view the display. The atrium is open Monday to Friday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm at no charge, but you will be required to go through security. If you want to gain a better understanding of our county and how we grew to the Collier County of today, then please visit our display and learn about our rich and fascinating history. An extra special THANK YOU, to Ms. Lila Zuck for her support of our historical project and her incredible preservation of history in her book, “Naples, A Second Paradise – The History of Naples, Florida”.
While we pause to celebrate the Centennial, there is still much work to be done. We continue to monitor county projects that will impact our community. One issue that arose was the $30 million escrow, which was recently transferred to the State for the development of a veterans nursing home. I support our veterans and want them to have the best care available. l had concerns regarding the contract language and in placing $30 million in a state managed escrow. On page four of our newsletter, I’ve outlined some of the concerns that I sent to the Commissioners.
Also discussed recently was a proposal for $788,878 for development of a class A mixed-use building at the Golden Gate City Economic Development Zone. The project proposal consists of plans to promote economic development within the city. It is uncertain the return of investment as it is the first project to be funded. In addition, an update about the City Gate Commerce Park, specifically the development of the Paradise Coast Sports Complex, is included in this newsletter. I raised some concerns about the increasing production costs and hopes for improved return on investment.
I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to Florida Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, for my recent appointment to the Florida Clerks of Court Operations Corp. Executive Council. I am excited to take on this new responsibility, working with my fellow council members to improve fiscal responsibility around the state.
Once again, a happy 100 years to our beloved Collier County and to our growing community! I’d love to meet more of our community members to share the joy and excitement for this occasion as well as present an informative discussion about the past and future of our county. If you are interested in having me speak to your group, please email cyndee.woolley@collierclerk.com to schedule.
