Cape Coral wants to annex 12 parts of Lee County

Cape Coral wants to swallow up 12 parts of Lee County and make them part of the city. But with new land comes a new set of rules and more bills to pay.

So, how do those that live in these 12 parts of Lee County feel about this? Some property owners see the advantages of becoming part of Cape Coral. But, many fear stricter ordinances and higher taxes.

Cape Coral is already the largest city in Southwest Florida, but city leaders want to increase its size. Cape Coral City Manager Roberto Hernandez said this week that the city should try to annex 12 different land parcels called enclaves.

They are part of Lee County, even though they surround Cape Coral. “And that makes it extremely challenging and inefficient for the city to plan appropriately,” Hernandez said.

For example, when the city wants to extend its water and sewer services, it must work around these enclaves. Or, when someone calls 911, who responds? – Lee County or Cape Coral?