Cape Coral 2022 Candidate Questionnaire Calusa Waterkeeper (CWK) acknowledges Cape Coral's unique relationship with water, possessing hundreds of miles of man-made canals which connect to the tidal Caloosahatchee River and Matlacha Pass. The City has also regularly experienced multiple cyanobacteria blooms within its closed canal systems, and it is clear they were not caused by septic tanks or Lake Okeechobee. CWK recognizes that some candidates have enunciated environmental positions and criticized federal and state management of water resources upstream of Cape Coral. However, many water quality impairments are unquestionably “homegrown” and the city should focus on stemming any pollution originating within its own jurisdiction. As a candidate for City of Cape Coral Council, we would like to hear your views on these issues and any comments and proposals that you may have. Because CWK is a 501(c)(3) organization, we do not make candidate endorsements, but we intend to share your position with our members and supporters throughout Lee County, including the City of Cape Coral, and publish them publicly. We would be most appreciative if you would please respond by ???, 2022 in order for us to let people know your position prior to the general election. Name* First Last Email* 1. How has the Cape Coral government, over the past several years, balanced growth with the needs of water resources?* Needs more balance Has provided the right balance Not an issue Additional Comments2. What should be the single most important goal of the Cape Coral City Council with respect to waters within the City and impacts to receiving waters such at the Caloosahatchee River and Matlacha Pass?*3. Interbasin transfers of surface waters were prohibited in the past. Should Cape Coral continue pumping water from a Charlotte County mine reservoir to meet Cape Coral's increasing demand for lawn irrigation?* Yes No Additional Comments4a. With regard to the City’s continuing efforts to remove the Chiquita Lock, is boaters' convenience more important than reducing pollution to the Caloosahatchee River, Matlacha Pass and associated wildlife habitat?* Yes No Additional Comments4b. Would you support a compromise position by replacing the Chiquita Lock with an improved and higher capacity lock?* Yes No Additional Comments5. How important is it to regulate lawn fertilizer within the City’s jurisdiction?* Very important Moderately important Not a priority Additional Comments6. What causes the algae blooms in Cape Coral's freshwater canals? What can be done about reducing the sources?*7. Is using treated wastewater as part of the City’s dual water system, a source of nutrients in the City’s canal system?* Yes No Maybe Additional Comments8. Would you be willing to meet with Calusa Waterkeeper representatives to discuss Cape Coral water quality issues and priorities?* Yes No Additional CommentsThis completes our questionnaire. Calusa Waterkeeper thanks you for your response as well as your commitment to serving the citizens of Cape Coral. Δ
