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I'm part of the "Boomer" generation. We’re in our middle to late 50's and purchased a house here in 2009 at auction to live here full time until we can no longer manage because of our age or finances. Our purchase was part of a long range phased plan for retirement which we implemented in 2004 having saved our entire lives in preparation for this time. Our means are modest compared to some on the island. I must admit that Marco was a destination by chance but, in being here, our love for it has grown.
To try to compare values to the insanity period of the mid 2000's is unrealistic. Better to take the values from 1995 and add to that the modest growth one would normally experience in a "non-fad" community. I think saying the values dropped 50% is not accurate given the circumstances of the market in the past 10 years.
I believe there is a wonderful lifestyle here that we all would wish to enhance. Some like it just the way it is and some would support building a resort casino here. I believe that our city would benefit from an increase in resort related "boutique" services with a few modest and well planned developments that would attract home buyers to our Island without diminishing its’ fundamental character.
Boomers have many, many choices on were to spend their retirement. I don't like seeing so many vacant houses and vacant land. Amenities suitable for a full time population must be planned to attract the boomers implemented as they arrive. This would be as simple (or as complex) as trying to get together and develop a plan that Realtors could use to attract new owners. It’s done all the time and has led to what some feel to be wonderful communities.
I would hate to see Marco wither from neglect. You must remember that many boomers have internet based occupations and will not be living a traditional retirement. We are an example of that. We continue to work not so much that we have to but because we love to. Our office is an easy chair, a laptop, a cell phone and an internet connection. We have any number of choices on where to live. With that freedom we can positively benefit a community that would seek to enhance that lifestyle by offering a modest variety of amenities suitable in size to a population in residence who seek an active lifestyle and to support a modest tourism trade. We feel this is of benefit to our community. Currently our opinion is that Marco, as beautiful as she is, is a little lacking in that area.
How else can we get our kids to visit us! Thanks to all for your attention!