Address Cape Coral’s problems
To the editor:
“Houston, we have a problem”, the phrase Apollo 13 brought into the lexicon of the American people, can be restated: “Cape Coral, we have a problem.” In an approach similar to NASA’s, we must assess, understand, plan, and accomplish a solution. Let’s put aside, for the present time, that an error was made. The north Reverse Osmosis plant was built too large and/or too soon. Inaccurate data caused those prior decisions. Casting blame will not cure the problem. Nor will pitting the north (well and septic users) against the south (rate payers). We must work together.
Assess: Identify the problem. See what the total UEP debt really is and separate that number out to be understandable. Do not lump that figure into the rate structure. Rates should be governed by usage and their associated system(s) cost.
Understand: Identify the total financial burden associated with the north RO plant. It appears to be $140 to $180 million for the plant, plus $35 million for equipment to transform solid waste into a product (the p__p to pellets project). We MUST clearly identify the total debt and its components – maybe some pork in there?
Plan: Use available revenue sources such as grants, stimulus funds, Build America Bonds, even a referendum for a special city-wide sales tax. Please note, it is not the delay in the UEP causing the rates to drastically increase. It is the secondary and hidden debt lumped into the rate calculations. Even the city’s bond rating organizations such as Moody’s, Reuters-Fitch, etc state “The start-up of the UEP would exacerbate the problem…” By establishing a plan with the objectives clearly and totally understood, the city can pull through this debacle. I, as a citizen, do not want to further burden the folks facing foreclosure and other financial hardships by heaping on additional cost to their budgets. We must use all other revenue sources available to return to fiscal health and responsibility.
Accomplish: Again, the old “KISS” formula comes to mind. Plan your work, work your plan.
Yes, it will be tough. Anything worth doing takes hard work. Our city is fantastic. We can get back to the Paradise it is by working together. Now is the time for the entire population to come together. Volunteer. Get involved. Offer other ideas. Help your neighbor, and above all else, vote your candidates into office this fall. It is your right and your duty. We can and we will get through this. Again, as stated by the flight director of Apollo 13, “Failure is not an option.”
Jim Martin
Cape Coral
(Editor’s note: Jim Martin is a candidate for city council, District 1.)