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Guest opinion: Commissioner Judah confident in Bay Oaks transfer

By Staff | Jun 30, 2009

I would like to extend my appreciation to Fort Myers Beach Mayor Larry Kiker and Town Council for the opportunity to participate in their recent town hall meeting to discuss the transition of the Bay Oaks Recreation Center from Lee County to Fort Myers Beach.

It was gratifying to see so many people in attendance, particularly supporters of the senior program and Little League Baseball.

The Bay Oaks Recreation Center is an important asset to the Fort Myers Beach community and I pledged my commitment that the Lee County Commission will ensure a smooth transition with sufficient capital dollars for future refurbishment and maintenance and operation funds to augment the Town’s budget in support of critical programs and activities.

Unfortunately, one individual in attendance attempted to create a rift between the Town Council and me with allegations that the Bay Oaks Recreation Center would be closed down if the County and Town could not reach agreement on the transfer of the facility.

In fact, the individual made reference to remarks attributed to Councilwoman Jo List and Town Manager Scott Janke that I stated Bay Oaks would be closed if the Town did not accept the transfer.

I have the utmost regard for Councilwoman Joe List and Town Manager Scott Janke and would never threaten the Town of Fort Myers Beach.

Let me be abundantly clear that remarks alleged to have been made by Councilwoman List and Town Manager Janke were in response to County Administration staff’s concerns pertaining to a transfer agreement.

However, the Lee County Commission is the final decision making authority, and I remain confident that the great working relationship between the Fort Myers Beach Council and the Lee County Commission will ultimately result in a smooth transition wherein which the Town will be able to assume responsibility to manage and operate the Bay Oaks Recreation Center for the full enjoyment of residents from the Town and unincorporated Lee County.

Commissioner Ray Judah – District 3

Lee County Board of County Commissioners