Residents of Suncoast Estates are facing an unwelcome sight outside their windows: multiple campers, broken fences, and unpermitted construction. The neighborhood, located in North Fort Myers, has turned to WINK News for help in resolving these ongoing issues.
Shelly, a resident of Suncoast Estates, expressed her surprise at the persistence of the situation.
“I’m surprised it’s gone on this long where he’s able to do this still,” said Shelly.
The neighborhood resembles a “mini little trailer park,” according to Shelly, on a lot where such a setup shouldn’t be.
Neighbors have been fighting for years to bring about change, reaching out to various agencies in the hope of finding a solution.
Kathy Manning, who lives next to the problematic property, shared her frustrations.Â
“I went to every agency that I could go to, even if I didn’t think they could help me,” said Manning. “And as you see, out of, you know, a year and a half worth of emails, it’s still in the same disarray as it was.”
Manning also mentioned the impact on her lifestyle and property values.Â
“I just shelter in the house anymore. I don’t even go outside. And it’s disheartening, because I’ve always been the one who plans the parties. I’ve always been the one who had everything at my house, and I haven’t been able to do that,” said Manning.
Shelly shared similar concerns about the community’s safety and quality of life.
“My child barely goes outside, just to be safe,” said Shelly. “We should be able to enjoy our living area and be able to do things freely, without worry, especially worrying that somebody is just going to walk up.”
WINK News learned that the property on Case Lane has accrued about a dozen violations over the past two years—these range from lacking proper permits for electrical work to maintenance issues and nuisance accumulation. Code enforcement is actively working on a case.
The property owner declined to comment when approached by WINK News.
Lee County says the violation continues to exist and the site has begun accruing daily fines.