Proposed Kayak Landing

---- On 7-01-03 Randell Research Center and the Fort Myers Beach Mound House requested that the Lee County Board of County Commissioners approve a resolution to the West Coast Inland Navigation District (WCIND), for funding in the Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District in the amount for $8,431 and to authorize the Chairman to sign corresponding agreements for this project once funding is finalized by WCIND. This formalizes the request to WCIND for Fiscal Year 2004 project funding. This project is priority number 8 on the list of similar projects.
---- Referring to his memorandum to the Commissioners dated June 27, Commissioner Judah described the request from the Randell Research Center and the Fort Myers Beach Mound House; asserting that the proposed kayak landing would improve public access as part of the Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail; and noted that the project was consistent with WCIND by-laws. He added that the required permit from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will be received within 60-90 days, and asked that the Board consider approval of the funding request. Commissioner  Albion asked whether the possibility of outsourcing the kayak rental to a vendor had been considered instead of purchasing the kayaks, and whether $1,000.00 was a reasonable price for a kayak. Natural Resources Engineer Chris Koepfer explained that the kayak purchase would fall within WCIND guidelines, and that staff was not familiar with the details of the project because it was received after the March 15 deadline and did not go through the normal review process. Randell Research Center Site Archeologist Corbett Torrence clarified that there would be no commercial activity at the property; that organized kayak tours would be available only as part of specific educational programs; and that the $1,000.00 price for a used kayak, with all required safety equipment, was about half the cost of a new one. In response to Commissioner Coy's question, Commissioner Judah confirmed that the $14,000.00 funding request would come from the WCIND Navigation Improvement account; that there would be no effect on funding for the existing projects; and that the funding would be subject to receipt of the DEP permit. Commissioner Coy moved to approve the Mound House funding request, seconded by Commissioner Albion, called and carried.

     In recent years, people throughout the United States have organized watershed-based partnerships to address important water resource issues. These partnerships have evolved due to a number of factors –  administrative directives from regulatory agencies, citizen interest in the health of local economies and environments, and the enactment of state and federal laws.  Many of these partnerships have achieved high levels of success in their efforts to develop and implement watershed management plans.
(Continued on next page)

     Attention! Are you looking for something meaningful to do with your time? Would you like to earn a little extra money? Do you enjoy helping people? Join AmeriCorps, the Domestic Peace Corps!
     AmeriCorps ElderServe is seeking caring people to offer their time to help fulfill the wish of elderly individuals to remain in their own homes throughout their lives. Members of AmerCorps spend approximately four hours per visit, providing companionship to a frail, homebound elder. Activities may include conversation, reading together, playing games, or perhaps fixing a light snack. Members are not asked to provide personal care, such as bathing or grooming, or home chore service. 
Both full-time and part-time positions are available. Experience is not necessary. All you need is reliable transportation, a compassionate heart, and a positive attitude.