Spring Lake Golf Course

A government of the people, for the people and by the people. We are no longer a democratic government. Somewhere along the line, we have a dictator type of rule, where those we have elected, "our employees," have taken control.

The purchase of the Spring Lake Golf Course, without the voice and will of the Spring Lake home and property owners, is an example. Our employees plan on purchasing this property of the golf course without our voice.

At a recent Spring Lake Improvement District (S.L.I.D.) meeting, I asked if there would be a democratic vote by the homeowners and property owners.

S.L.I.D. responded with their lawyer present that they had the power to complete this purchase without our voice, the homeowners and property owners.

This purchase, if allowed, will cost every person in Highlands County. The privately owned golf course taxes of $91,671.52 would come off the tax rolls, leaving all county taxpayers to pick up the loss to the county.

What are the tax assessment implications to S.L.I.D. and Highlands County if the purchase of the course is completed? If there is a loss, how much and to which agency?

How will that loss of revenue be recovered or made up? Will S.L.I.D. be liable for any taxes, assessments, fees or any other government body cost? If so, how much? What is the legal authority that S.L.I.D. is claiming it has to complete this purchase? What will be the exact cost to the property owners for the purchase of the golf course? This should include all ancillary expenses incurred prior to, during and after sale.

Considering the current state of both the local and national economies, how does the S.L.I.D. board justify this proposed purchase?

There are hundreds of unanswered questions and the entire Highlands County, which will surely be affected, is watching with great interest.

Carefully watch those who would steal "your" tax dollars. Our right to being a "free" people is being questioned.

Billie E. Jewett
Sebring