Contact: Pete Winton, Lee County Administration
              (239) 335-2777

COMMISSION KEEPS IDALIA PROPERTY/APPEALS IMPACT FEE DECISION

FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 14, 2003) - The Board of Lee County Commissioners today approved the following items during its regular weekly meeting. They are:

Surplus Property - Rejected a $1.1 million bid from a buyer to purchase the "Idalia" property off of Palm Beach Boulevard (SR80) near Brown Road and Pine Avenue (Olga area). Also removed the property from the county's surplus list. A portion of the 12 acres fronts the Caloosahatchee River and the Fort Myers Rowing Club has expressed interest in using it for access purposes. Commissioners also discussed the possibility of other paddling (kayak/canoeing) access at the site. Lee Parks & Recreation will meet with the surrounding community to discuss possibilities for recreational uses at the site.

School Impact Fees - Supported the County Attorneys in requesting the Second District Court of Appeals review the ruling of Judge James Seals not to disqualify himself from the lawsuit over school impact fees. The county is seeking the recusal because of potential impartiality issues that have been raised. The trial date for the suit has been moved from November to March and an appeals ruling is expected within that timeframe.

FPL Transmission Line - Voted to oppose the two alternative corridor options that have been filed by Collier Enterprises for the Collier-Orange River #3 electric power transmission line. The line would run from the Orange River substation east of Fort Myers to Collier substation east of Naples. The County's opposition to the proposed alternatives is they would impact Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed (CREW) lands.

Twins Resolution - Adopted a resolution congratulating the Minnesota Twins on its 2003 season. The resolution reads as follows:

Whereas: For the second straight year, Major League Baseball's Minnesota Twins were the American League Central Division Champions, making it to the divisional playoffs against the New York Yankees; and

Whereas: Since 1991, Lee County has been fortunate and proud to host Twins Spring Training at the Lee County Sports Complex and William H. Hammond Stadium; and

Whereas: This wonderful and continuing partnership is very important. The Twins' commitment to our area has never wavered and, from the front office to the players, they give so much back to our community and we appreciate it; and

Whereas: On behalf of your many fans in Southwest Florida and those who travel here during Spring Training, the Board of Lee County Commissioners wishes to express its pride and appreciation of the Twins' achievements.

Now, therefore be it resolved that the Board of Lee County Commissioners congratulates the Minnesota Twins on their success in 2003 and eagerly looks forward to another Twins Spring Training just four short months away.