In previous issues of the Marco Eagle, we have discussed the results of some questions on MICA’s annual membership survey, which is mailed to the members each spring.

Last week the complete results were mailed to Residents’ Beach and MICA members. What is significant is that the membership survey results represent one strong, usually unified, voice on issues that impact our island community. It’s an opportunity for the residents to speak up and let themselves be heard. Because a good bit of the questions relate to infrastructure and our city government, the survey results are always shared with Marco Island City Council members and city staff.

There are certain questions that are asked every year, such as questions regarding density, medical facilities, and Tract K. When it comes to increased density, it’s very clear that the members do not favor increased density.

When asked, “Do you favor granting variances that could have the result of increasing population density?” members have consistently voted against increased density. As a matter of fact, the percentage of votes opposed to granting such variances has actually increased since 2004, when 84 percent were against increased density. In 2005, 88 percent were against these variances and now in 2007, 92.8 percent of the respondents were opposed to increased density.

Over the years what has the membership’s position been with regard to more medical facilities on Marco Island? In 2003, 59 percent were in favor of increased medical facilities. This percentage increased to 72 percent in 2006, and in response to the question on this year’s survey, 69 percent were in favor of more medical facilities on Marco.

In 2004 questions were added to the survey after the residents of Marco Island voted to acquire what is now known as Veterans Park on Elkcam Circle. The 2004 survey asked if the city should determine a use for the park and complete it now, to which 40.6 percent answered positively. Also asked on the same survey, “should the city develop the property in five years or longer?” 40.8 percent answered “yes” to this question as well!

We thought we’d get a little smarter in our questioning and in 2006 and 2007 asked “When should Veterans Park be developed?” The members were still split in their response, however. In 2006, “immediately” received 523 votes; “two years” earned 518 votes; 616 voted for “five years;” and 328 chose “10 years or longer.” In response to the same question this year, “immediately” received 564 votes; “two years” earned 536 votes; “five years” received 551 votes; and 508 chose “10 years or longer.” No clear winner with that question!

At any rate, the MICA Board of Directors sincerely appreciates the support of the membership and thanks all the members who participated in the annual survey. The survey results are extremely important and guide the Board during the year.

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