To the editor:

Litter is a problem, especially on our main roads like Pine Island Road and Veterans Parkway.

My husband and I first came to Cape Coral in 2014 as snow birds. Within 18 months we made this our permanent home. One thing we always remarked about was how clean the city was. I know our area is growing and assume one of the attractions to new residents has to be the same as it was for us.

Unfortunately, roads are no longer clean like they were when we first came down. Litter is all over the place, but especially on main roads. And it seems to get worse each year.

There are Adopt A Road signs on some roads, but I remember hearing on TV several years ago that most of the companies mentioned are no longer participating, even though the signs are still up. What a shame! Maybe the city can once again organize companies to take up this cause, or make it a project for people charged with doing community service work.

I’m hoping the local media can do something to highlight this problem. Citizens need to take responsibility first. Trash doesn’t just happen. We should all know better, but reminders are helpful. People are less likely to litter when they don’t already see it around them.

I also don’t see road signs indicating a fine for littering. Is there such an ordinance in Cape Coral? If not, why not?

If I can be of any help in calling attention to this problem, just let me know. But, you guys are the big guns! I can only keep from littering myself and complain to my friends. Loud as I can be, my voice doesn’t go out to the whole city.

Thanks for your consideration.

Wendy Walsh

Cape Coral

Editor’s note: The city of Cape Coral does have an ordinance that prohibits littering. Civil penalties range from $100 for a first offense to $500 for a third offense. A fourth and subsequent offense would constitute criminal littering with penalties including a $500 fine and/or up to 10 days in jail.