Cape Coral was
built about 40 years ago by two land speculators who believed that
the property's location on the Gulf Coast provided abundant sunshine
and almost endless opportunities for waterfront living. The Rosen
brothers purchased the property, platted the community and created
more than 400 miles of canals.The Census Bureau reports Cape Coral
is the 3rd largest city by land mass, with an area of 115 square
miles." The brothers began a massive marketing campaign that
resulted in the sale of nearly all of the 350,000 residential building
sites, the majority to people who lived in other states.
One of the fastest growing areas in Florida
The City incorporated in August 1970, and its population continues to grow rapidly.
With nearly 150,000 residents, Cape Coral is one of the fastest growing areas
in Florida. With nearly 160,000 residents, Cape Coral is one of the fastest growing
areas in Florida. Cape Coral is the 3rd largest city geographically in
the state of Florida and is the 11th largest city in population. The supply and
affordability of these waterfront sites makes Cape Coral one of the most attractive
communities on the Gulf Coast. |
 |
The city is a large
peninsula bordered by the Caloosahatchee River on the east and Matlacha
Pass on the west. It is located between Sarasota and Marco Island.
 |
CLIMATE
One of the most attractive features of Cape Coral and Southwest Florida is its
terrific year-round weather. The area averages 335 days of bright sunshine
each year (the other 30 days are just moderate sunshine). While the summers
are very warm, humid and rainy, the winters in Cape Coral are absolutely beautiful.
Southwest Florida receives about 53 inches of rain each year, the majority
of which falls from May through September. During the summer months, afternoon
rains regularly roll in with heavy downpours and stormy conditions that may
last only a couple of hours before subsiding. Then the sun reappears, heat
and humidity return, and all is well until the next day when the cycle begins
again.
|
GOVERNMENT
The City of Cape Coral operates under the Council-City Manager form of
government. City council members are elected at large from seven districts.
The mayor also is elected at large and is the eighth member of council.
The mayor presides over council meetings.
The City Council enacts ordinances and resolutions, adopts the budget,
comprehensive plan and land-use regulations. The Council appoints the
City Manager and City Attorney, as well as the members of all boards
and commissions. The City Manager hires all department directors and
oversees the day-to-day operations of the city.
TAXES
The City of Cape Coral (as with all of Florida) has no personal income
tax. Sales tax is 6 percent, and there are no taxes on personal services.
The corporate income tax rate is 5.5 percent and is assessed on gross receipts
and not on existing inventory.
The city has a total real estate property tax, which includes county,
school, miscellaneous taxes, that averages 22.1330 per $1,000 of assessed
value (the City of Cape Coral portion is 6.1049). Florida has a Homestead
Exemption law that allows eligible homeowners to deduct $25,000 from
the assessed value prior to computation of taxes due.
Cape Coral also is one of only three cities in Florida that does not
have public services taxes. This results in considerable savings for
residents. The public service tax charged by other cities can range up
to 10 percent and is based on consumption of electricity, water, telecommunications,
and bottled or metered gas.
Cape Coral Events
Throughout the year, the Special Events Division of the Cape
Coral Parks & Recreation
Department produces a variety of programs, classes and events for the
citizens of Cape Coral and surrounding communities. From smooth jazz by
nationally known artists to boat-a-longs and bike rides, we offer great
fun, food and entertainment the whole family can enjoy.
Cape Coral Parks
Wagging Tails Dog Park - off leash dog
park - enclosed small dog area - located at Pelican & El Dorado
- recently refurbished with sod and seating - open
daylight hours
Sun Splash Family Water Park
400 Santa Barbara Boulevard, Cape Coral 33991
239-574-0557
Relaxing rides & big-thrill
water slides; Tot spot; snacks at Calypso Cafe.
Centennial Park
First & Heitman Streets, Fort Myers
239-332-6638
On the Caloosahatchee, it
has an 8-acre playground, picnic areas, & fishing pier. Also
a setting for concerts and community events.
Caloosahatchee Regional Park
State Road 78 (North River Road), North Fort Myers
239-338-3146
The county's newest regional
park features a variety of amenities, including hiking, biking, & horseback
riding trails. Picnic pavilions & primitive campsites available.
Accessible parking for the disabled.
Lakes Park
7330 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers
239-432-2000
277-acre park offers swimming,
nature trails, bike and boat rentals, picnic area with barbecue
grills & shower facilities. Visit the Fragrance Garden; exotic
native plants for the visually impaired to smell & touch.
Palm Tree Park
Corner Edwards Dr. & Lee Streets, Fort Myers
239-334-0839
Features palm trees from
all over the world.
Lynn Hall Memorial Park
Fort Myers Beach
239-432-2002
A beach front park providing
recreational opportunities including a playground, picnic shelters,
bathhouse, and a fishing pier in the heart of Fort Myers Beach.
Yacht Club Community Park
5819 Driftwood Parkway, Cape Coral
239-432-2000
Features wide, sugar-sand
beach, pavillion for picnics/gatherings, concession with snacks & sandwiches,
beverages, libations & live music. Also has a long fishing
pier and boat ramp.
|
|
|
