Oct 19, 2001

Dear Member:

Our October 18, 2001 your Board of Directors of the PBPOA requested Norman Feder, Transportation Administrator for Collier County, and Pelican Bay resident Jim Carter, Chairman of the Commissioners, to explore the "Half-Penny for Roads" referendum. They gave the Board a full explanation of the need for the half-cent sales tax increase, the history of why it is needed at this time and its impact on the taxpayers of the County.

Numerous questions were asked and answered and a vote of the Board of Directors recommending all eligible voters of Pelican Bay support the referendum on Tuesday, November 6. The issues are outlined below:
  1. The road building in Collier County has fallen behind the population growth in Collier County.
  2. Several projects to alleviate the congestion problem are in process but they are Currently under-funded.
  3. New projects for road expansion in the planning stage and will need funding
  4. The half-cent sales tax increase will allow for present and future road planning and construction by providing bonding funds for approximately 22+ years in the future.
  5. After 22+ years voters may vote for the tax to expire or continue at that time if needed.
  6. If the referendum fails to gain voter support on November 6, 2001 we face a property tax increase due to the above- mentioned short fall for present projects. The increase will result in a 47% raise in the County portion of our tax bill - whereas the Half Penny Road referendum would have tourists pay 26% of the cost.
We urge all members eligible to vote on November 6th, support the referendum and encourage your neighbors for their support. We do not need any additional increase in property taxes for owners in Pelican Bay.

Thank your for your continuing support of the PBPOA.

Sincerely,

Raymond J. O'Connor, President

On behalf of the Board of Directors of PBPOA