Letters to the Editors

Realtors' conduct applauded

© St. Petersburg Times, published July 16, 2000

Editor: Re: Parkway's path exacts toll from homeowner, July 10 Citrus Times:

I read with special interest, but also much sadness, the story of Sally Lieb losing her home and property. This was the result, in great part, of the proposed toll road's path (Suncoast Parkway II) coming right through her house. Prospective buyers did not want to purchase into that situation, so she was unable to sell it.

While I was so sorry about her loss, I was very glad to read that her real estate agent had been revealing to potential buyers the exact path of the toll road. I also took heart to read that "Linda Cridland, president of the Realtors Association of Citrus County, said Realtors have a moral and legal obligation to disclose the parkway plans to clients."

I have many times been contacted by property owners who have purchased lots near the toll road, but who have not been told of its path.

I recall one such owner who, in the recent past, had been sold his lot by a large developer's employee; he later learned the lot was right in the path of the toll road.

I want to thank the Citrus Times for printing this important story.

I also want to commend Times staff writer Jim Ross for his excellent article. His explanation of the plight of this homeowner, plus the graphics and the photo, made very clear the seriousness of this issue, which was been holding hostage many residents' decision-making for 51/2 years.

I would be happy to show anyone or any group the information (including maps and aerial maps), which we in COST (Citizens Opposed to the Suncoast Tollway Inc.) have gathered. If I can be of help, please call me at 527-1289.
-- Janet Masaoy, chairwoman, Citizens Opposed to the Suncoast Tollway

Impact fees should be raised

Editor: We all pray and hope the dry spell is over, but no one knows for sure. So perhaps this is a good time to think of the future and plan ahead.

Our county commissioners now have the opportunity to rethink and set new impact fees. Why not set the fee at $5,000: $2,500 to be used for immediate improvements, $2,500 to be set aside for a desalination plant in the near future.

Most of the developers in Citrus County have their offices in faraway states and once they have their money could care less what happens to the residents who have purchased the houses they built. They will just jack up their price to the next thousands and laugh on the way to the bank.

As for the toll road through Citrus County, it is not necessary. I doubt if it will help the local business people. How many of you pull off a toll road or super highway to stop in a small town, unless it is your destination? Very few, I think.

Why not take U.S. 98 from the point where the toll road ends, to U.S. 19? There is very little traffic on U.S. 19 from the U.S. 98 intersection to Interstate 10 in northern Florida. It would save many acres of land, residents' homes, and the watershed, plus help the Crystal River and Homosassa Springs businesses.

Citizens, call your commissioners. Awaken them to what you think is best. They are just a telephone call away.
-- Philip W. Haag, Beverly Hills

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