Raise the Flag campaign passes $60,000 mark
The city of Cape Coral has raised $60,000 towards its $500,000 goal for its Raise the Flag campaign.
City Manager Michael Ilczyszyn provided the update late into Wednesday’s Cape Coral City Council meeting following questions from a council member and some members of the public, including one who said the project he had proposed was something nice to have but not a need and a waste of taxpayer’s money.
“God Bless America,” Ilczyszyn said. “Let me start off with this. I served this country as well as many others to give people the freedom to speak for and against,” the flag, he said. “I applaud everyone that has donated or show concerns for the flagpole. People are exercising their right.”
Mayor John Gunter said Council has directed the city manager not to use any type of general fund money or other funding from the city for the flagpole project which can only be accomplished through donations.
“We have already been good stewards of the tax dollars. We would not pay for the flag, but support him to get public donations,” he said.
Ilczyszyn said Raise the Flag campaign began to raise money for a 250-foot flagpole near the Cape Coral Bridge to celebrate the country’s 250th birthday next July 4.
“We are seeking to try to raise funds for the 250-foot flagpole to honor our country, ideals and freedoms it represents,” he said.
Donations are being accepted at the counter in the city cashier’s office, as well as on the city’s website. Ilczyszyn said he has also partnered with 92.5 for airtime to make the project happen.
“We are over $60,000,” he said. “We have other people that have pledged and are writing checks.”
The goal is to raise $500,000, as the city has received unofficial quotes ranging from $380,000 to $400,000. Without knowing what kind of in-kind services will be donated, the goal to reach is $500,000.
Ilczyszyn said they have had several contractors that wish to donate electric work, lighting and concrete pads.
“We are focusing all of our efforts through July 4 to have the flagpole,” he said.
Councilmember Laurie Lehmann asked if the goal is not met, would the flagpole then become a city purchase order.
The answer was no.
“I’m not prepared to assume what is going to happen,” Ilczyszyn said, adding that at some point down the road he will make a determination of what to do with the donations.
Donations can be made at givebutter.com/raisetheflag.
To reach MEGHAN BRADBURY, please email news@breezenewspapers.com