The cost of the utilities expansion project in Cape Coral continues to climb, with a new $45 million wastewater assessment directly impacting families in the North One East area. Some homeowners are reconsidering whether they can afford to stay in the city.
Carolyn Gates, a resident of Cape Coral, expressed her frustration over the rising costs.
“We will leave. I… We will not pay those prices,” said Gates.
Gates enjoys her peaceful front yard on Northeast Sixth Avenue, but she knows the bulldozers and heavy machinery for the utilities expansion project will soon transform it into a construction zone.
“I do feel it’s borderline criminal about how much it’s costing. I do understand materials are going up. So by the time it gets to us, I think it’s gonna be astronomical,” said Gates.
The city plans to begin construction in 2026, adding new water, sewer, and irrigation lines.
Alejandra Mantilla, a single mother, also feels the strain of the rising costs.
“I’m stuck between a rock and a hard place because I don’t know what to do. As a single mom, all the payments fall on me,” said Mantilla.
Despite these concerns, city leaders could move forward with new assessments soon.
Gates shared her thoughts on the impact of these costs.
“I’d rather move into somewhere that’s more established. To be honest with you, we’ll just get out of Cape Coral altogether. Gone,” said Gates.
The Cape Coral City Council is expected to vote on the assessments, decisions that could reshape the community.